My Second Journey to Penanggungan: The “Mini Mount Semeru” in East Java
Introduction: My Second Journey to Penanggungan: The “Mini Mount Semeru” in East Java
My name is Alunk, and today I want to share the story of my second adventure to Mount Penanggungan.
For years, many travelers who visit Indonesia dream about climbing Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on the island of Java. Yet, few realize that there is a smaller, humbler, and equally magical peak waiting to be explored—Mount Penanggungan, often called the “Mini Mount Semeru.” Located in East Java, this volcano has become one of the most recommended off-the-beaten-path hiking destinations.
My first trip to this mountain left me amazed, but this second adventure turned out to be even more personal, intense, and transformative. This time, I decided to do things differently—no hotel, no long rest before the hike. Just a late-night drive, a close friend, and the raw spirit of the mountain itself.
If you’re searching for the best volcano in Indonesia that offers not just a hike but also a deep connection to yourself and the environment, Penanggungan should be on your list. In this story, I’ll share every step of my second journey—starting from Surabaya, climbing through the night, reaching Puncak Pawitra for sunrise, and facing the unexpected challenge of an injured knee. This was not just a hike. It was a curated adventure, one that made me realize why some trips are unforgettable.
Leaving Surabaya: The Start of a Midnight Volcano Adventure
Unlike my first trip where I stayed overnight in a nearby hotel, this time I wanted to feel the thrill of a direct volcano adventure. At 9 PM, I left my home in Surabaya with my good friend Ubed. The drive itself was filled with excitement—we joked, we shared stories, and deep inside, we both knew that this would be a journey we would remember.
By midnight, we arrived at the base of Penanggungan. The parking lot was still lively, with groups of hikers preparing their gear, laughing, and sipping coffee before the climb. After sorting out the simple administrative process, we were ready to begin.
Midnight Climb: From Darkness to the “Shadow Peak”
At exactly 12 AM, we started our ascent. Hiking at night feels surreal—your world shrinks to the circle of light from your headlamp, while the forest whispers around you. Step by step, we made our way up the volcano.
By 3 AM, we reached what locals call the “puncak bayangan” or “shadow peak.” It’s not the summit, but a resting point where many hikers stop to catch their breath. The air was crisp, and the silence of the night made the moment feel almost spiritual.
We decided to rest for a while, setting up a small camp. I remember leaning back, staring at the faint stars above, and realizing how different this trip felt compared to the first one. Without the comfort of a hotel or a long rest, my body felt tired—but my spirit felt alive.
Chasing Sunrise: Reaching Puncak Pawitra
At 4:30 AM, we continued our journey toward the true summit—Puncak Pawitra. The climb became steeper, and every step demanded more effort. Yet, as the sky began to brighten, we knew it would all be worth it.
At exactly 5:30 AM, we stood at the top of Penanggungan. The view was breathtaking. From up there, you can see Mount Arjuno, Mount Welirang, and even glimpses of Mount Semeru in the distance. The golden sunrise painted the sky in shades of orange and pink, slowly revealing the beauty of East Java’s volcano landscape.
This was more than just a view—it was a feeling of becoming one with nature. Unlike bigger mountains where crowds dominate the summit, here I felt a sense of intimacy, of being truly connected to the land. For me, this moment confirmed why Penanggungan deserves its title as the “Mini Mount Semeru.”
The Descent: A Challenge of Endurance
By 7 AM, it was time to descend. The way down is often more difficult than going up, and this time, we faced an unexpected challenge. My friend Ubed’s knee began to hurt badly—his right knee, especially around the joint, was in real pain. Every step became slower, every movement required patience.
The descent, which usually takes just a few hours, turned into a long, painful journey. The sun rose higher, the air grew hotter, and fatigue set in. We stopped multiple times, helping each other, adjusting our pace. It was no longer just about the mountain—it was about friendship, endurance, and patience.
By the time we reached the parking lot, it was already maghrib. The place was still busy with other hikers, yet for us, it felt like the end of a marathon. Exhausted, but deeply satisfied, we headed back to Surabaya—a two-hour drive filled with silence and reflection.
Why Penanggungan is the Best Volcano in East Java
Many tourists who come to Indonesia know Bromo, Semeru, or Ijen. But if you are searching for a more personal, curated, and meaningful hiking experience, Penanggungan is unmatched. Here’s why:
- Accessibility – Just a few hours from Surabaya, it’s one of the easiest volcanoes in East Java to reach.
- Unique Atmosphere – Unlike more crowded volcanoes, Penanggungan offers intimacy and calmness.
- Cultural Significance – The mountain is surrounded by ancient temples and relics, giving it a deep spiritual aura.
- Perfect for Beginners – Called the “Mini Mount Semeru,” it gives you a real volcano hiking experience without the extreme difficulty.
- Curated Packages Available – Today, more travel companies offer volcano curated packages that combine hiking, cultural visits, and local food experiences around Penanggungan.
Volcano Curated Packages: A New Way to Experience Penanggungan
One thing I’ve learned from my trips is that travel is not just about reaching the destination, but about how you experience it. If you want to explore Penanggungan without stress, consider joining curated trips.
Some of these volcano curated packages include:
- Night Hike & Sunrise Tours – Exactly like my experience, but guided and well-organized.
- Cultural Trails – Visiting ancient temples around the mountain before or after your hike.
- Wellness & Hiking – Combining the climb with meditation, yoga, and local healing traditions.
- Custom Itineraries – Tailored for those who want a deeper exploration of East Java’s volcano landscape.
With curated packages, you don’t just hike—you immerse yourself in a full cultural and natural experience.
Final Reflection: Becoming Myself on the Mountain
Looking back, this second trip to Penanggungan was more than just another climb. It was a journey into myself. Hiking in the dark, watching the sunrise, helping a friend through injury, and finally reaching the end—it all shaped a memory that I will carry for life.
For me, Penanggungan is proof that the best volcano in Indonesia is not always the tallest or the most famous. Sometimes, it is the mountain that allows you to slow down, to feel, and to discover who you are.
If you ever find yourself in East Java, don’t just follow the usual tourist path. Give yourself the gift of exploring Penanggungan. Whether through a solo hike or one of the many volcano curated packages, you will understand why locals and seasoned travelers alike call it the Mini Mount Semeru.
And when you stand at Puncak Pawitra watching the sunrise, you’ll realize: some journeys don’t just change how you see the world—they change how you see yourself.