Are you enthusiastic about mountain climbing? Or are you a beginner eager to try it? Mount Prau could be an excellent choice for those looking to start climbing. It's also ideal for those who want to explore mountains and enjoy captivating panoramas.
Mount Prau, located in the Dieng Plateau, Central Java, Indonesia, is a popular climbing destination for tourists, especially nature enthusiasts. While not among the tallest mountains in Indonesia, Prau's elevation of approximately 2,590 meters above sea level makes it a relatively accessible mountain to climb, especially for beginner climbers or those seeking a moderate trek.
Given its moderate height, combined with its stunning natural scenery, Prau offers you a relatively easy yet interesting climbing experience. Prau has become a popular climbing destination for both local and international climbers who want to explore the natural beauty of Indonesia without facing overly strenuous physical challenges and burdens.
A Brief History
According to local historical accounts, as reported by mainoutdoor.com, the history of Mount Prau is closely related to the history of the Dieng Plateau, where the mountain is located. The Dieng Plateau is a highland region rich in the culture and historical heritage of Central Java, Indonesia. Prau itself is one of the many mountains that form the breathtaking natural panorama of Dieng.
Historically, the Dieng Plateau has been an important place for the Javanese Hindu community since ancient times. Archaeological sites and Hindu temples scattered throughout the area stand as silent witnesses to the glory of past civilizations. Dieng is also believed to be a place of meditation for Hindu sages and ascetics in the past.
While Prau itself lacks a well-documented specific historical record, it has been an integral part of the life and culture of the surrounding community. Local residents view this mountain with admiration and respect, considering it a symbol of courage and the majesty of nature.
The Enchanting Beauty
Despite its moderate height, the summit of Mount Prau offers a natural panorama that will amaze you. The forest on the slopes of Prau leading to Kendal and Batang has a unique wealth of flora. In this area, according to tempo.co, dense forests grow with plants such as the Javanese endemic pitcher plant (Nepenthes gymnamphora), often found alongside the resam fern (Gleichenia linearis).
Furthermore, around the summit of Prau, climbers can encounter Javanese edelweiss flowers (Anaphalis maxima and Anaphalis longifolia), which are a special attraction. Daisy flowers are also commonly found on the summit of Mount Prau, leading to Prau often being known as the 'Peak with a Flower Garden'.
Mount Prau is also a habitat for typical Javanese fauna, including the Javanese leopard (Panthera pardus melas), the Javanese skunk (Mydaus javanensis), and the Javanese hawk-eagle (Nisaetus bartelsi). The presence of this diverse flora and fauna adds to the uniqueness and beauty of the Prau.
The natural charm of Mount Prau is further enhanced by the beautiful panorama presented from its peak. The summit of this mountain consists of a vast and elongated meadow. Mount Prau's peak will also give you a view of the Golden Sunrise, which is proven to be spectacular.
In addition, you can also enjoy the views of Mount Sumbing and Sindoro from the summit of Prau. On a clear day, five majestic mountains—Sindoro, Sumbing, Merapi, Merbabu, and Lawu—are clearly visible to the east, while the beauty of Mount Slamet can be perfectly enjoyed to the west.
If you climb Prau during the dry season, you will witness a unique phenomenon of ice crystals forming on the ground in the morning when the air temperature reaches its lowest point. Although this phenomenon also occurs on other mountains in Indonesia, the ice crystals on Mount Prau, which can almost always be found every year, make it a special attraction for climbers.
Entrance Fee, Trails, and Basecamps
Credit: Rizky Ade Jonathan © iStock
The ascent to the summit of Mount Prau can generally be completed in a relatively short time, around 4-6 hours, depending on the climber's speed and physical condition, as well as the chosen route.
There are six official base camps or starting points for Mount Prau trails as stated by visitjawatengah.jatengprov.go.id, that you can choose from: Dieng, Patakbanteng, Kalilembu, Dwarawati, Wates, and Igirmranak. Among these six base camps, Dieng and Patakbanteng are favorites among climbers. Their locations are relatively close to the main highway.
To reach the Prau base camps in Dieng or Patakbanteng, you can use public transportation. At the Mendolo Bus Terminal in Wonosobo, many mikrolets (small public vans) take climbers directly to these two base camps without transiting in several places. However, you need to be patient for a while at the terminal, because the bus conductors usually wait until the bus is full first before departing for the destination.
For the registration ticket for climbing, each climber of Mount Prau will be charged a fee of IDR 15,000 (USD 0.89). In addition to the ticket, climbers usually receive a map as a guide and a trash bag.
Meanwhile, to enjoy basecamp facilities such as toilets and others, climbers are only charged a fee of IDR 10,000 (USD 0.59). You can also rest at the basecamp before or after the climb, and overnight stays are possible if you planning to summit the following day.
Interested in climbing Mount Prau? This mountain offers a stunning panorama and a relatively easy yet interesting climbing experience, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers who enjoy exploring mountains.
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