Gumuk Pasir Barchan (Sand Dunes) Parangkusumo : don't ignore this desert when you visit Parangtritis Beach


These unique Barchan sand dunes are only exist in three countries in Southeast Asia: Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia. The type of sand dunes in Parangtritis are commonly formed in the dry region not in a wet tropical region like Indonesia.

The natural phenomenon of moving sand which look like a desert is now popular as a selfie and even pre-wedding photo spot in Yogyakarta.
This extraordinary phenomenon first began when there was an eruption of a volcano that produce a lot of sand material then it was carried away to the sea by Opak River, Progo River and other rivers, afterwards it was brought to the beach by powerful sea waves then it was blown away by strong wind and deposited to become Barchan Sand Dunes.

I think you should visit this "Gumuk Pasir Barchan" at least once in your life time when you are already in Parangtritis beach or Depok beach for its location is very close and you can experience to do sandboarding which tool you can rent there.

After visiting Parangtritis Beach and Parangkusumo Beach, verily i was heading to Depok Beach for its distance was merely 4.7 km, it was't far, when i accidentally discovered a natural wonder of "Gumuk Pasir Barchan" (Barchan Sand Dunes). So i decided to stop and explore this miracle. It was indeed hot at that time, particularly during the dry season. When i felt so hot, fortunately i could have a rest and cool down my body in a gazebo while gazing an amazing vast "desert".

When i continued roaming the sand dunes, in the other side where there were some trees, definitely as the nicest spot to stay longer for it was shady, i saw a small group of teenagers playing instrumental music. I liked their music. It's very entertaining.
In my opinion, this "Gumuk Pasir" can be an interesting place for those who really fond of doing adventure in this mini desert.




Gumuk Pasir Parangkusumo

Location

Jalan Pantai Parangkusumo, Parangtritis, Bantul Regency, Yogyakarta Special Region, Indonesia.

Getting there

From Parangtritis Beach, head toward Depok Beach and your destination will be on the right side (1.8 km).

From Depok Beach, head toward Parangtritis Beach and your destination will be on the left side (2.9 km).

Entrance Fee

Free

Parking Fee

Motorcycle           IDR 3k (USD 0.25)
Car                         IDR 10k (USD 0.75)