With the Christmas and New Year holidays fast approaching, tourists, both local and international, are eagerly planning their vacations to popular destinations across Indonesia. Among the country’s most iconic attractions is Mount Bromo, renowned for its stunning landscapes and breathtaking sunrise views. But travelers planning a year-end trip to this East Java gem should be careful not to pick the wrong dates.
Mount Bromo, standing 2,614 meters above sea level, will be temporarily closed for one day at the end of 2024. This closure is in observance of Wulan Kapitu, a sacred tradition upheld by the indigenous Tenggerese people.
Rudijanta Tjahja Nugraha, Head of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS), emphasized the significance of this decision. “The closure is done to honor the cultural and spiritual practices of the Tenggerese community,” he stated in an official release.
The TNBTS Authority confirmed that all tourist access and motorized vehicles would be prohibited in key areas, including the Tengger Caldera, the Sea of Sand, Bromo Crater, and Teletubbies Hill. This restriction begins on Sunday, December 29, 2024, at 3:00 PM WIB and will remain in effect until Monday, December 30, 2024, at 11:59 PM WIB. Visitors can return to explore the area starting Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at 12:01 AM WIB.
Tourist Interest in Mount Bromo Remains Strong Despite Rising Ticket Prices
Mount Bromo has consistently drawn large crowds, even in the face of rising entrance fees. A tariff adjustment, effective October 30, 2024, raised concerns that it might deter visitors. However, the numbers tell a different story.
Endrip Wahyutama, Public Relations Officer for BB TNBTS, revealed that tourist interest remains steady. “In the first six days after the new tariff was implemented—from October 30 to November 4—visitor numbers reached 10,057. Of that total, 9,290 were domestic tourists, while 767 were international visitors,” he explained on Monday (4/11/2024).
This stability highlights Mount Bromo’s enduring appeal as a must-visit destination, regardless of the price adjustments.
Plan Ahead to Avoid Disappointment
The temporary closure due to Wulan Kapitu underscores the deep connection between the natural beauty of Mount Bromo and the cultural traditions of the Tenggerese people. Travelers are urged to plan their itineraries carefully to avoid disappointment.
Read also: Ahead of the Long Holiday, Denpasar-Jakarta Flight Tickets Drop to Around Rp 600,000
If you want to witness Mount Bromo’s unparalleled beauty—whether it’s the majestic sunrise, the Sea of Sand, or the rolling hills—make sure your visit doesn’t coincide with the Wulan Kapitu observance.
With the holiday season approaching, Mount Bromo promises to remain a magnet for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Just mark your calendar and plan ahead to experience one of Indonesia’s most awe-inspiring destinations.
