Is Watu Giring (Indonesia) Worth Visiting?
Watu Giring, located near Yogyakarta, is all about its unique landscape. This former limestone quarry has been transformed into a captivating series of stepped terraces and rocky outcrops, making it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a different kind of natural beauty.
Its popularity stems from its photogenic qualities and the opportunity to experience a landscape sculpted by both nature and human activity. Watu Giring offers a unique perspective and a memorable visual experience, drawing tourists seeking something beyond the typical Indonesian beach or temple.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Watu Giring (Indonesia)
Planning your trip to Watu Giring? Knowing the best time to visit will ensure you make the most of this unique location. Here's what you need to know about the opening hours and the best time to see Watu Giring in all its glory.
- Opening Hours: Generally open from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM). It's always a good idea to double-check locally, as hours can sometimes vary.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Watu Giring is during the dry season, which typically runs from April to October. The weather is more predictable, and you're less likely to encounter rain that could make the stone steps slippery.
- Best Time to See: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, with the sun casting dramatic shadows across the landscape.
- Busy vs. Less Busy: Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim to visit on a weekday.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow approximately 2-3 hours to explore the site at a comfortable pace, take photos, and soak in the scenery.
Location Details about Watu Giring (Indonesia)
If you're wondering where is Watu Giring, it's nestled in the Gunungkidul Regency, not far from Yogyakarta. Here are the essential location details to help you find your way.
- Address: Jl. Nglipar - Pengkol, Dhuwet, Pengkol, Kec. Nglipar, Kabupaten Gunung Kidul, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55852, Indonesia
- Parking Availability: There is parking available near the entrance to Watu Giring, though it can get crowded during peak times.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Due to the uneven terrain and stepped landscape, Watu Giring is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.
How Much to Enter / Visit Watu Giring (Indonesia)
Before you head to Watu Giring, it's helpful to know about any entrance fees or tour prices. Here's the lowdown on tickets and how to get them.
- Entrance Fee: The entrance fee to Watu Giring is generally very affordable, often just a few thousand Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Prices can fluctuate slightly.
- Pricing Variations: There are typically no pricing variations between weekends and weekdays, or between adults and children.
- Where to Buy: You can usually purchase your ticket directly at the entrance to Watu Giring.
How To Go to Watu Giring (Indonesia)
Planning your journey and wondering how to go to Watu Giring? As it's located outside of major city centres, here's a guide to getting there.
- From Yogyakarta: The most common way to reach Watu Giring is by car or motorbike from Yogyakarta. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
- Ride Hailing: Ride hailing services like Traveloka are available in Yogyakarta and can be used to get to Watu Giring, but be aware that finding a return ride from Watu Giring might be more challenging.
- Public Transport: Public transport options are limited. You could take a bus from Yogyakarta to Wonosari, the capital of Gunungkidul Regency, and then hire a local driver or "ojek" (motorbike taxi) to take you to Watu Giring. This option is more time-consuming.
- Car Rental: Renting a car in Yogyakarta offers the most flexibility for exploring Watu Giring and the surrounding area.
Things To Do in or near the Watu Giring
Looking for things to do nearby Watu Giring? While Watu Giring itself is the main attraction, there are plenty of nearby attractions and activities to make your trip even more memorable. Here's a list of things to see nearby.
- Activities in Watu Giring:
- Photography: Capture the unique beauty of the stepped limestone terraces.
- Hiking/Walking: Explore the different levels and viewpoints within the quarry.
- Enjoying the Scenery: Simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
- Picnicking: Find a scenic spot to enjoy a packed lunch.
- Sunrise/Sunset Viewing: Witness the stunning colours of the sky over the landscape.
- Activities Nearby Watu Giring:
- Explore Goa Pindul (Pindul Cave): Go cave tubing through an underground river.
- Visit Pantai Indrayanti (Indrayanti Beach): Relax on the sandy shores of this beautiful beach.
- Discover Pantai Timang (Timang Beach): Ride a thrilling gondola or cross a suspension bridge to a rocky islet.
- Hike to Air Terjun Sri Gethuk (Sri Gethuk Waterfall): Admire the cascading waters of this scenic waterfall.
- Explore Embung Nglanggeran (Nglanggeran Reservoir): Enjoy panoramic views from this hilltop reservoir.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Watu Giring Indonesia
Given its rural location, finding an MRT nearby or even a nearby bus station to Watu Giring directly is not possible. Public transport options are limited in this area of Gunungkidul. The nearest transport hubs are located in Yogyakarta.
- Nearest Bus Terminal (Yogyakarta): Giwangan Bus Terminal in Yogyakarta is the main terminal for long-distance buses. From here, you can catch a bus to Wonosari, the capital of Gunungkidul Regency, and then continue to Watu Giring by other means.
- Distance from Yogyakarta to Wonosari: Approximately 40-50 km.
- Local Transport: Once in Wonosari, you'll need to rely on local transport options like "ojek" (motorbike taxi) or hiring a car with a driver to reach Watu Giring.
Tips To Go to Watu Giring (Indonesia) and Safety Tips
Planning a trip to Watu Giring? Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and safe visit. Consider these tips to go to Watu Giring.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable Shoes: The terrain can be uneven, so wear sturdy walking shoes.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong Indonesian sun.
- Hat: Provide extra shade and protection from the sun.
- Water: Stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months.
- Camera: Capture the stunning scenery.
- Cash: Smaller vendors may not accept card payments.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of potential hazards.
- Stay on Marked Paths: Avoid venturing into unsafe areas.
- Check the Weather Forecast: Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
- Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.
- Learn Basic Indonesian Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful.
Best Hotel Area in Indonesia
Choosing the best area to stay in Indonesia depends on what you're looking for in your trip. Whether you're after vibrant city life, tranquil beaches, or cultural experiences, Indonesia has something for everyone. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to consider.
- Kuta, Bali: Ideal for surfers, budget travellers, and those seeking a lively nightlife scene.
- Ubud, Bali: Perfect for those interested in Balinese culture, yoga retreats, and lush landscapes.
- Seminyak, Bali: A great choice for travellers looking for stylish boutiques, upscale restaurants, and trendy beach clubs.
- Yogyakarta, Java: A cultural hub with historical sites, traditional arts, and delicious street food, suitable for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
- Jakarta, Java: The bustling capital city, offering a mix of modern attractions, historical landmarks, and diverse culinary experiences, best for business travellers and city explorers.
Where to Eat Inside or near Watu Giring (Indonesia)
While Watu Giring itself is quite remote, there are some options for Indonesian food and places to eat in the surrounding area. You might need to travel a short distance to find a wider selection of Indonesian cuisine.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Warung Makan Mbok Berek Wonosari: A popular local restaurant in Wonosari (the nearest town) known for its Javanese cuisine.
- Rumah Makan Bu Tiwi: Another local eatery in Wonosari offering a variety of Indonesian dishes.
- Simple local Warungs (small restaurants): You might find small "warungs" near Watu Giring selling basic Indonesian meals like Nasi Goreng or Mie Goreng.
- Local Street Food:
- Sate: Grilled meat skewers served with peanut sauce.
- Nasi Goreng: Indonesian fried rice.
- Gudeg: A traditional Javanese dish made from young jackfruit stewed in coconut milk and spices (more commonly found in Yogyakarta).
Shopping Places near Watu Giring (Indonesia)
Given the location of Watu Giring in a more rural area, you won't find large shopping malls nearby. For a proper shopping district or shopping mall nearby, you'll need to head towards Yogyakarta.
- Malioboro Street (Yogyakarta): A famous shopping street offering a wide range of souvenirs, batik clothing, and local handicrafts.
- Hartono Mall Yogyakarta: A modern shopping mall with a variety of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Plaza Ambarrukmo (Yogyakarta): Another popular shopping mall in Yogyakarta featuring both local and international brands.
Best Hotels to Stay near Watu Giring (Indonesia)
Finding accommodation directly in Watu Giring might be challenging due to its rural location. The best place to stay would be in Yogyakarta, which offers a wide range of hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay.
- Melia Purosani Yogyakarta: A luxurious hotel in the heart of Yogyakarta, offering excellent amenities and service.
- Grand Aston Yogyakarta: A stylish hotel with a rooftop pool and stunning city views.
- The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta - MGallery Collection: A historic hotel with a charming colonial atmosphere.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Watu Giring
Since Watu Giring is in a rural area, you'll likely need to look to Yogyakarta for hotels with swimming pools. Here are some options for hotels with swimming pools.
- Melia Purosani Yogyakarta: This hotel boasts a large outdoor swimming pool, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
- Grand Aston Yogyakarta: Features a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic city views.
- The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta - MGallery Collection: Offers a beautiful outdoor pool in a serene setting.
Hotels with Parking near Watu Giring
When travelling to Watu Giring, especially if you're renting a car, finding a hotel with parking is essential. As accommodation options are limited in Watu Giring itself, Yogyakarta is your best bet. Here are some hotels with parking.
- Melia Purosani Yogyakarta: Offers ample parking space for guests.
- Grand Aston Yogyakarta: Provides secure parking facilities.
- The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta - MGallery Collection: Has on-site parking available for guests.
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Best Hotels near Airport Indonesia
For travellers seeking convenience, staying at hotels close to the airport can be a great option. Here are some of the best hotels near airports in Indonesia.
- Near Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali):
- Near Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta):
Average Room Rate hotels near Watu Giring
While there aren't hotels directly in Watu Giring, you'll find a range of options in Yogyakarta. The average room rate can vary depending on the hotel's star rating, location, and time of year. It's always best to check Traveloka for the latest prices and availability. Keep an eye out for hotel discount and hotel promo deals to save on your stay.
New Traveloka users can often take advantage of special promotions. Use the promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA to potentially get up to 8% OFF your booking.
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Conclusion
Planning a trip to Indonesia? Traveloka is your one-stop platform for booking flights, hotels, and activities. With a wide selection of options and competitive prices, Traveloka makes it easy to find the perfect accommodation and create unforgettable travel experiences.
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