Mount Kawi, spanning the border between Malang and Blitar Regencies in East Java, possesses a unique dual profile. Besides being known as a hiking destination with breathtaking natural panoramas, the mountain has long been shrouded in stigma as a center for pesugihan (wealth-seeking ritual) practices. This phenomenon attracts public attention as it is often linked to the hopes of a few individuals seeking instant wealth through supernatural rituals.
The roots of this belief supposedly stem from the long history attached to the area. Mount Kawi is believed to have been a hermitage site for prominent figures from the Kediri and Ancient Mataram Kingdom eras, such as Mpu Sindok. The presence of the Pesarean (tomb complex) and Keraton (palace) on the mountain slopes further strengthens the sacred narrative believed by locals to be a meeting point between the human dimension and the unseen world.
The geographical condition of the mountain, standing at an altitude of 2,551 meters above sea level with dense forests and perpetual fog, contributes to creating a thick mystical atmosphere. This eerie impression is further heightened by reports of strange experiences among hikers. This perception was later exacerbated by a viral price list for selamatan (blessing feast) packages on social media, which some considered to be part of transactional rituals to gain wealth.
On the other hand, religious leaders and local managers have repeatedly emphasized that the activities taking place there are purely practices of pilgrimage and almsgiving. This view directly contrasts with popular beliefs connecting offerings to occult practices. Although religious figures condemn pesugihan activities as shirk (idolatry) that violates spiritual norms, Mount Kawi's mystical allure seems never to fade in the eyes of the public.
Local governments and tourism managers are now attempting to shift this negative narrative by promoting Mount Kawi as a legitimate religious and educational tourism destination. Although the economic impact of pilgrims' visits is significantly felt by local residents, the greatest challenge remains changing public perception so that people are no longer trapped in myths oriented around economic shortcuts.
