Jalaswatu Village in Brebes Regency, Central Java Province
It is true Brebes Regency is known for its beautiful highlands and mountains. Still, other interesting vacation destinations reside there including traditional villages like Jalaswatu. This one is located in Ciseureuh, Ketanggungan Sub-District actually. Due to its popularity and interesting culture, the local government considers it as one of their “Kampung Adat”. No wonder, tourists keep coming from other regions to get close to villagers and explore the village to their heart’s content. Plus, visiting Jalaswatu gives them the opportunity to relax in its pristine environment.
The Nuance
Jalaswatu Village is located on the slope of a mountain, so it features refreshing air and unspoiled environment. Not to the mention villagers have a significant appreciation to nature, so they take a good care of the environment. Moreover, they retain and apply the Sunda culture for generations. This explains why many tourists are interested in their culture. The only disappointment is related to the route, which is considered challenging and difficult. In order to get to the village, tourists should pass through rocky lands and steep hills in fact. Thus, everyone should come with a good stamina and enough supply.
Exploring Jalaswatu Village
The first allure in Jalaswatu Village is the trip itself. It is because tourists need to pass through different landscapes in order to get to the village. Even though the route is accessible by vehicles, it requires a short trekking latter. Thus, tourists must come with a good stamina and ample supplies. Instead of being a tiring trip, it would be both fun and interesting especially for those who love adventure. After all, the route is surrounded by a beautiful panorama and various types of trees as well.
Once arriving at the village, tourists should approach the villagers right away. The purpose is to get information regarding the culture, foods, and any heritages of the region. For those who are lucky enough, they can even join the most famous tradition in Jalaswatu which is called Ngasa Ceremony. At the specific time (during Tuesday Kliwon), the locals gather some foods and offerings to the nearby mountain. The purpose is to give gratitude to the god! The nuance is both sacred and festive, actually.
A unique way of living of Jalaswatu People is, somehow, quite interesting. It is said the locals avoid eating rice, fish, and meat. Their ample food is corn and vegetables, instead. No one knows the reason, though. Also, these people only eat herbs and foods that they find nearby especially from the mountain. For further information related to such unique culture, tourists can ask either the villagers or tour guide.
Nearby Attractions
- Ciseureuh Village
- Tonjong Waterfall
- Cipicung Waterfall
How to Get There
From Semarang City, a trip to Jalaswatu Village takes approximately 5 hours and 53 minutes. It is because the distance is 232 km. Have no worries. The trip becomes faster if tourists take Raya Pantura Street. The first destination is Ketanggungan Sub-District. Lastly, they can simply head to Ciseureuh and visit Jalaswatu right away.
Where to Stay
- Nagita Villa
- Agung Jaya Hotel
- Anggraeni Hotel
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