Today, we’re diving into a mysterious tale from the heart of East Java, where the stunning Ijen Crater hides more than just its famous blue fire. Have you ever heard of the deadly slopes of Ijen and the eerie gamelan music that resonates through the forest? Buckle up as we explore this fascinating story.
The Treacherous Roads of Ijen
Ijen Crater, located in Banyuwangi, is known for its breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails. However, it also has its share of perilous roads, particularly the infamous Sengkan Gandrung slope. This area has gained a notorious reputation for accidents, often attributed to the treacherous terrain and, intriguingly, to mysterious sounds emanating from the surrounding forest.
A String of Unfortunate Incidents
The dangers of Sengkan Gandrung are not just tales; they are backed by grim statistics. On December 8, 2021, a tragic single-vehicle accident claimed two lives when a vehicle crashed into a cliff at Sengkan Gandrung. This was not an isolated incident. In 2018, three motorcyclists, all students returning from a visit to the Ijen Crater, met a similar fate not far from this very spot. According to police records, the accidents on this treacherous road are predominantly single-vehicle incidents.
“Most accidents here are single-vehicle crashes, involving both motorcycles and travel cars. Many drivers are simply not familiar with the terrain,” explained a local authority.
The Gamelan Mystery
While the hazardous road conditions provide a logical explanation for these accidents, there’s another layer to this story that adds a touch of the supernatural. Local lore speaks of the haunting sounds of gamelan music drifting through the forest at Sengkan Gandrung. Gamelan, a traditional Javanese musical ensemble, is not something you expect to hear in the middle of an uninhabited forest.
Yahya, a resident of Licin Subdistrict, recounted his eerie encounter while descending from Pos Paltuding at Ijen Crater in 2017. After celebrating New Year’s Eve, he had to head back alone at 1:00 AM due to an urgent matter, leaving his friends to continue their hike to the crater’s summit. As he reached Sengkan Gandrung, he was startled by the sound of gamelan music.
“I was clearly spooked. Who wouldn’t be? In the middle of a silent forest, suddenly you hear the sound of gamelan music. It was so clear,” he recalled.
The Legend of the Gamelan Ensemble
Adding to the eerie atmosphere, there’s a local legend about why this slope is named Sengkan Gandrung. According to Sukisman, a resident living on the slopes of Mount Ijen, the name dates back to the Dutch colonial era. A group of gandrung performers, on their way to a performance in Sempol Bondowoso, reportedly met with disaster on this very slope. Their horse-drawn carriage broke down, and the horses died suddenly.
“This is a story passed down through generations. Believe it or not, this place has been dangerous since the Dutch era. Even though the slope has been leveled a bit now, it’s still treacherous,” he said.
Though Sukisman himself has never experienced anything supernatural on the slope, he advises caution and respect for nature and spiritual practices when traversing these areas.
“Don’t be afraid, but also don’t challenge the spirits. Pray for safety when you’re in the forest or mountains. In Islam, we believe in the supernatural, and it coexists with us,” he added.
Exploring Java with Java Private Tour
If this story has piqued your curiosity about exploring the mystical and beautiful island of Java, there’s no better way to do it than with Java Private Tour. Our guides are not only fluent in English but also incredibly friendly and knowledgeable about local lore and history. We offer flexible schedules that cater to your needs, whether you’re on vacation, a business trip, or a content-creating adventure.
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Get the Best Guide in Java with Java Private Tour
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With Java Private Tour, you’re not just getting a guide; you’re gaining a friend who will ensure your trip is extraordinary. See you in Java!
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