Dieng Plateau, also known as the “Abode of the Gods,” is a captivating highland area in Central Java, Indonesia.
Ancient Origins
The Dieng Plateau was once an ancient lake formed by damming lava from surrounding volcanic eruptions. Over time, sedimentation transformed the lake into the plains we see today.
Ancient Javanese inscriptions dating back to the 9th century mention Dieng. During this period, the plateau served as a religious center and a place of worship for Hinduism. Inscriptions like the Gunung Wule, Kapuhunan, and Indrakila provide glimpses into Dieng’s significance.
Sacred Space and Temples
Dieng is dotted with ancient Hindu temples dating back to the 8th century. These temples are an archaeological goldmine, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The name “Dieng” itself comes from Old Javanese words: “di” (place) and “hyang” (ancestors or gods). Thus, Dieng translates to “place of the ancestors” or "where the gods reside".
Volcanic Activity and Mystical Beauty.
The plateau is surrounded by volcanic complexes, and its landscape is related to land requirements and sacred space concepts in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
Visitors to Dieng can explore smoking sulfuric springs, multicolored lakes, and active volcanoes. The Dieng Plateau sunrise is a highlight, but the winding mountain roads make the journey challenging yet rewarding.
Cultural Significance
The ancient Javanese believed that ancestors and gods resided in high places, which aligns with Dieng’s mystical allure.
People fondly refer to Dieng as “the land above the clouds” due to its fertile region surrounded by mist and clouds from the mountains.
In summary, Dieng Plateau’s history intertwines ancient inscriptions, sacred temples, volcanic origins, and a sense of wonder that continues to captivate visitors.
Dieng Culture Festival
Dieng Culture Festival is an annual event held in the Dieng Plateau, a highland area in Central Java, Indonesia. This festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Dieng community and showcases various traditional arts, performances, and rituals1. Let me provide more details about this fascinating festival:
Jazz Atas Awan
Jazz, an art form often associated with cafes, takes on a new twist at the Dieng Culture Festival. Known as “Jazz Atas Awan” (Jazz Above the Clouds), this event features jazz performances set against the backdrop of Dieng’s high-altitude landscape. Dieng, situated at over 2,000 meters above sea level, is often referred to as the “heavenly land” due to its breathtaking views. Attendees can enjoy top-notch local and national jazz artists during this unique musical experience.
Sunrise Views from Dieng’s Hills
Dieng Plateau comprises several hills, each offering stunning natural beauty. Visitors can witness mesmerizing sunrises from these vantage points. The friendly terrain makes it accessible even for novice hikers.
Healthy Walk and Purwaceng Drink
As part of the festival, a healthy walk is organized to help participants understand the daily life of the Dieng community. Most locals still walk to their gardens, schools, markets, and other places. After the walk, participants are treated to a special drink called “purwaceng”. Purwaceng, unique to Dieng, has various health benefits and is believed to enhance stamina and vitality.
Traditional Arts Showcase
The Dieng Culture Festival features various traditional arts, including:
Tari Rampak Yakso Pringgondani. A colossal dance performed by over 20 male dancers. Their costumes predominantly feature black and red colors, with faces covered in black makeup. The dancers wear fake fangs and disheveled hair.
Tari Lengger: A free-form dance performed by both men and women. While the attire resembles Javanese customs, the female dancers exhibit graceful movements.
Cultural Processions and Rituals
The festival includes cultural processions and rituals such as:
Kirab Budaya: A cultural parade that bridges heritage and contemporary culture.
Ritual Cukur Rambut Gimbal: The symbolic haircutting ceremony for children with dreadlocks.
Other Exciting Events
Fireworks Display. A spectacular show of fireworks.
Gebyar Damar Kurung. A unique lantern flight event.
Traditional Performances. Showcasing local arts.
Festival Caping Gunung. Celebrating the Dieng region.
Senandung Atas Awan. Musical performances above the clouds.
Dieng Coffee Festival. A celebration of local coffee and creative products.
Be part of this romantic, serene, and sacred event in the Dieng Highlands.
To attend the Dieng Culture Festival, follow these steps:
Ticket Purchase
Visit the official website https://festivaldieng.id
Enter your active email address.
Click the “Beli Paket” (Buy Package) button.
Provide your name (as per identification) and a contact phone number.
Event Details
Venue: Arjuna Temple, Central Java.
Ticket Price: Rp750,000 (includes a free pass to Dieng tourist spots and events).
The festival runs for three days during the dry season in September.
Exciting Activities
Jazz Di Atas Awan (Jazz Above the Clouds) Enjoy a unique jazz concert surrounded by nature, with the stage in front of Dieng’s Arjuna Temple.
Lanterns & Fireworks Festival. Release lanterns with wishes into the night sky.
Kirab Budaya. Cultural procession bridging heritage and contemporary culture.
Festival Kopi Dieng. Celebrate local coffee and creative products.
Enjoy this event.
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