Yogyakarta, especially Gunungkidul, is known for its large karst area which used to be associated with barren and rocky landscape. However, due to the massive promotion in tourism, that barren image is slowly replaced by wonderful spots.
One of the beautiful spots that you can find in this karst area is the Sri Gethuk Waterfall. This is an intricate waterfall with many unique characteristics that you can’t probably find anywhere else. Here is what you need to know about Sri Gethuk Waterfall.
Location
This waterfall is officially located in Jl. Air Terjun Sri Gethuk, Mungguran II, Bleberan, Playen, Kabupaten Gunungkidul. It is about 30 kilometers away to the southeast of downtown Yogyakarta and you can reach its parking lot in roughly an hour.
From the parking lot, you will have to options to reach the waterfall. The first option is to walk half kilometer through rice fields and climb a flight of roughly 96 stairs. The other option is to get there through Oyo River. You can charter a raft made of used barrels that will get you to the waterfall in seven minutes.
The Waterfall
Sri Gethuk is unique because there are actually three waterfalls on the same cliff. However, each waterfall looks like facing a different direction. The cliff is also unique because there are many trees that grow on it, giving an illusion as if the water comes out of nowhere.
The water doesn’t drop directly into the pond, but it flows slowly into Oyo River via several cascading small waterfalls. The river below the waterfall is deep enough it is actually great for swimming since the current is very slow. If you are not confident enough with your swimming skill, you can rent a life jacket or float.
Ticketing
The entrance fee to the waterfall area is only IDR10,000 per person. That ticket includes the entrance fee to the nearby Rancang Kencono Cave. The management also offers some tour packages for you to enjoy the area with an experienced guide. This spot is open from 08.00 a.m. to 04.00 p.m.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Sri Gethuk Waterfall is during the dry season. The water flow in this waterfall is relatively stable throughout the year. You can come at any time and the waterfall will look just as wonderful. However, during the rainy season, the water can be murky. Dry season offers bluish clear water that is so inviting.
Myth
As with many places in Yogyakarta, Sri Gethuk Waterfall is also shrouded in myth and legend. The story is that long time ago, people would borrow gamelan (Javanese traditional music instruments) that magically float in the river by the waterfall. One day, they forget to return the kethuk so the whole gamelan never to be seen again. Over time, kethuk changes into gethuk.
Sri Gethuk Waterfall offers a refreshing destination in Gunungkidul. You can enjoy the wonderful waterfall, swim in the river, explore the river on a raft, and exploring a small cave. This is truly a wonderful affordable family destination.
