Kaliurang is tourism area which is situated at the southern foot of Mount Merapi, about 25 kilometers north of Yogyakarta City, Kaliurang has long been a favorite highland retreat for both locals and tourists. With its cool mountain air, lush greenery, and sweeping views of the volcano, Kaliurang offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat of the city.
Historically, these area served as a colonial-era resort, where Dutch officials built villas to enjoy the serene environment. Today, Kaliurang has grown into a diverse tourist destination, blending natural landscapes, adventure activities, educational attractions and cultural experiences. Here are some of the must-visit spots and experiences you can enjoy when visiting this scenic highland according to Yogyakarta Tour.
Agrowisata Bhumi Merapi
Agrowisata Bhumi Merapi is an agro-tourism park that blends farming, animal interaction, and Instagram-worthy photo spots. Visitors can try activities such as milking goats, feeding rabbits, planting vegetables, or picking strawberries, making it a favorite for families with children. The park is designed to provide hands-on agricultural education while also offering fun.
What makes Bhumi Merapi especially popular are its themed areas inspired by international destinations. For instance, you can pose in front of Santorini-style white-and-blue houses, wander through miniature European streets, or relax in cozy cafes that mirror Alpine settings. This combination of educational farming and lifestyle tourism makes Agrowisata Bhumi Merapi one of the most versatile attractions in Kaliurang.
Ledhok Sambi
If you’re looking for a place where relaxation meets adventure, Ledhok Sambi is the answer. This riverside area is set along the Sambi River, offering open green fields where visitors can enjoy picnics, flying kites, or simply playing in the shallow water. The calm and open landscape makes it a popular destination for outbound activities, team-building programs, and community gatherings.
During weekends, families flock to Ledhok Sambi with picnic mats and baskets of food. Children can play freely in the cool stream, while adults enjoy the fresh air and the dramatic view of Mount Merapi in the distance. Occasionally, traditional games and art performances are organized, adding cultural flavor to the natural charm.
Kaliurang Park Botanical Garden
The Kaliurang Park Botanical Garden is a haven for plant lovers and those who enjoy a tranquil walk through lush greenery. It features a wide variety of plants, from ornamental flowers and rare ferns to fruit trees and medicinal herbs. The garden is not only a place for recreation but also for botanical education and conservation, making it a great spot for students and researchers.
Visitors can stroll along well-maintained paths, enjoy shaded resting areas, and admire the diversity of flora while breathing in the fresh mountain air. The garden’s peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for families, photographers, or anyone seeking a quiet break from busier attractions.
Taman Rekreasi Kaliurang (Tankaman Natural Park)
Known locally as Tankaman Natural Park, this recreational area has been a classic family destination for decades. Located right at the heart of Kaliurang, the park offers a forest-like setting with tall trees, wide playgrounds, and natural streams. Children can enjoy swings, slides, and small rides, while adults appreciate the fresh air and cool temperatures.
The park also has walking trails that allow visitors to explore deeper into the forested area. It’s a great place for leisurely strolls, morning exercise, or even small group gatherings. For many Yogyakarta locals, Tankaman is full of nostalgia—it has been a weekend getaway for generations.
HeHa Forest
For travelers looking for a modern blend of nature and lifestyle, HeHa Forest is a must-visit. This relatively new attraction combines the beauty of a pine forest with Instagram-worthy installations such as sky bridges, hanging nets, and themed photo spots. The venue also includes cafes where you can sip coffee while enjoying panoramic views of the forest canopy and Mount Merapi in the distance.
HeHa Forest is designed to appeal to younger travelers and families who love taking creative photos. With its mix of natural beauty and modern aesthetics, it has quickly become one of the most talked-about destinations in Kaliurang.
The Lost World Castle
Perhaps one of the most unique attractions in the region, The Lost World Castle is a massive theme park built with stone structures resembling a European-style castle. It was constructed on land heavily affected by the 2010 Merapi eruption, symbolizing resilience and transformation after disaster.
Inside, visitors find a variety of thematic zones: a giant dinosaur park, a photo area with cherry blossom trees, and even a sky bridge where you can take panoramic pictures with Merapi in the background. The castle also features playgrounds and performance areas, making it both an entertainment park and a symbol of local creativity.
Museum Gunung Api Merapi (MGM)
For those interested in the science and history of volcanoes, the Museum Gunung Api Merapi is a must-stop. Opened in 2010, this modern museum provides educational exhibits about volcanic activity, tectonic movements, and disaster mitigation. The highlights include:
A simulation room that recreates the experience of a volcanic eruption.
Exhibits showcasing rocks, minerals, and geological samples.
Interactive displays explaining how scientists monitor Mount Merapi.
The museum is not only informative but also engaging for children, making it a perfect educational stop for school trips or families.
Suraloka Interactive Zoo
Unlike traditional zoos, Suraloka Interactive Zoo focuses on close-up, safe interactions with animals. Children can feed rabbits, pet goats, or observe exotic birds at close range. The zoo also offers educational shows, pony rides, and an adventure playground, ensuring that kids remain engaged throughout their visit.
Designed as both a recreational and educational destination, Suraloka Zoo teaches young visitors about animal care and conservation while keeping the atmosphere playful and fun.
Air Terjun Kedung Kayang (Kedung Kayang Waterfall)
The last trip is to visit Kedung Kayang Waterfall. It is among the most beautiful in the area. Located in Kaliurang, between Merapi and Merbabu mountains, this waterfall cascades gracefully into a cool pool surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery.
Visitors can enjoy the waterfall from two perspectives. Above the waterfall, where a viewing deck offers a dramatic panorama of the falls and Mount Merapi in the distance and at the base, after a short trek down, where you can feel the refreshing spray of the water and soak in the natural atmosphere. Kedung Kayang is ideal for photography, light trekking, and simply enjoying nature at its purest.
