The classic climbing route in Sumberwringin Village, Bondowoso Regency, East Java, has now become a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. During this holiday period, a threefold surge in the number of hikers was recorded, with visitor numbers that usually only ranged in the dozens now soaring to hundreds of hikers every week.
Mount Raung, standing at 3,332 meters above sea level (masl), indeed holds its own unique appeal. As one of the Seven Summits of Java Island, this destination attracts not only local hikers but also tourists from various corners of the country, such as Papua and Sulawesi, and even from abroad. The sunrise panorama and the grandeur of the Raung Crater Caldera are the main backdrops most sought after by visitors.
Kurniawan, a local climbing manager, mentioned that the hiking patterns chosen by tourists are quite varied, ranging from those who choose to spend the night camping to the 'tek-tok' system, or a direct round-trip hike in a single day. To ensure safety, the management strictly implements Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including mandatory briefing sessions, health checks, and the obligation to bring personal medication for hikers with specific medical histories.
This increase in activity brings fresh air to the economy of the residents of Sumberwringin Village. The Head of Sumberwringin Subdistrict, Probo Nugroho, revealed that the circulation of money in this sector is directly felt by motorcycle taxi (ojek) providers, tour guides, and lodging owners. The turnover of motorcycle taxi services to the Pondok Motor post can even exceed IDR 500,000 per driver on weekends.
Alongside the excitement over the increase in visits, the authorities continue to emphasize the importance of environmental conservation through routine mountain clean-up activities conducted by Bumdes Raung Asri. Lastly, hikers are reminded to always monitor the fluctuating volcanic status of Mount Raung and to comply with all instructions from the volcanic observatory officers for mutual safety.
