Dieng Plateau area

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
17/08/2025
The Arjuna Temple complex consists of five temples arranged in two rows, the east row consists of four temple buildings all facing west, namely Arjuna Temple, Srikandi Temple, Puntadewa Temple and Sembadra Temple. The west row faces east, namely Semar Temple.
Uncredited, Wikimedia Commons

The Dieng Plateau offers a refreshing highland escape, where volcanic landscapes, ancient Hindu temples, and vibrant crater lakes converge to create a captivating destination. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunrises, explore active craters, and delve into the rich cultural history of Java.

The Dieng Plateau primarily caters to serene natural and cultural exploration rather than a bustling social scene for tourists or backpackers. While local food stalls are present around popular sites like Sikidang Crater, there are no specific areas or districts noted for extensive social gatherings.

Top 6 Things to do in Dieng Plateau area

Activities in Dieng Plateau predominantly involve exploring volcanic landscapes, ancient temple complexes, and unique crater lakes, often best enjoyed during sunrise or through invigorating walks.

1. Sikunir Hill Sunrise

Witnessing the 'Golden Sunrise' from Sikunir Hill is a highlight of any visit to Dieng Plateau. The climb is relatively short, taking about 20-30 minutes from the parking area, rewarding trekkers with panoramic views of surrounding volcanoes and a vast expanse of clouds resembling a 'sea of clouds' on clear mornings. It is advisable to go on a weekday to avoid crowds for a more peaceful experience.

Cost: Entrance to Sikunir Hill/Sikunir village is approximately IDR 15,000.

Transport: Sikunir Hill is best reached by motorcycle or private car/taxi, typically requiring an early start around 3:00-4:00 AM from your accommodation in Dieng or Wonosobo to reach the trailhead before dawn. From the main Dieng village area, it's a short drive.

2. Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon (Color and Mirror Lakes)

These twin lakes offer a unique spectacle, with Telaga Warna, the 'Colorful Lake,' known for its water that changes hues from green, purple, yellow, to even rainbow colors due to its high sulfur content when sunlight hits the surface. Adjacent to it is Telaga Pengilon, the 'Mirror Lake,' which reflects the sky clearly. The area around the lakes can be explored on foot, and nearby caves offer further intrigue.

Cost: The entrance fee for Telaga Warna Lake ranges from IDR 117,000 on weekdays to IDR 164,000 on weekends.

Transport: These lakes are centrally located within the Dieng Plateau area, often accessible by walking from accommodations in Dieng village, or a short drive if staying further afield.

3. Sikidang Crater (Kawah Sikidang)

Sikidang Crater is an active volcanic area where visitors can witness bubbling mud pits and bellowing sulfurous steam. The unique phenomenon of the crater 'jumping' or moving locations every few years gives it its name, 'Sikidang,' meaning 'deer.' The sulfuric smell is distinct but generally safe. Local vendors often offer eggs boiled in the natural hot springs here, providing a unique culinary experience.

Cost: A combined ticket for Sikidang Crater and Arjuna Temple Complex costs approximately IDR 30,000 - IDR 35,000.

Transport: Sikidang Crater is a short walk (around 30 minutes) from Telaga Warna Lake or easily accessible by scooter, local minivan (angkot), or taxi. Parking is available.

4. Arjuna Temple Complex (Candi Arjuna)

This complex comprises some of the oldest Hindu temples in Indonesia, dating back to the 8th century. Despite their age and smaller scale compared to other major Javanese temples like Borobudur or Prambanan, their historical significance and picturesque setting amidst mist-covered hills and potato fields make them a captivating site. The complex is still used for religious ceremonies, particularly during the Dieng Culture Festival.

Cost: A combined ticket for Arjuna Temple Complex and Sikidang Crater costs approximately IDR 30,000 - IDR 35,000.

Transport: The Arjuna Temple Complex is located centrally in the Dieng Plateau, often within walking distance of local accommodations. It is easily accessible by scooter or car.

5. Batu Ratapan Angin (Stone of Sighs Viewpoint)

Perched on a hill, Batu Ratapan Angin offers exceptional panoramic views of the Dieng Plateau, including the twin lakes, Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon, lush hills, and farmlands. It is also considered an excellent spot for sunset viewing.

Cost: Entrance fee for Batu Ratapan Angin is around IDR 15,000 for locals or IDR 50,000 for foreigners.

Transport: Located a short drive (around 5 minutes) from Sikidang Crater, it is easily reached by scooter or taxi. A short set of stairs leads to the viewpoint from the parking lot.

6. Hiking Mount Prau

For those seeking a more challenging adventure, hiking Mount Prau, the highest mountain in the Dieng area at 2,565 meters above sea level, is a rewarding experience. The sunrise views from its summit over Mount Sumbing and Mount Sindoro are spectacular. It's a popular trek for beginner climbers and offers stunning terraced potato fields and natural beauty along the trails.

Cost: Costs vary depending on guides and specific basecamps, but general entrance fees for hiking trails tend to be reasonable.

Transport: Several basecamps are available, with Dieng and Patakbanteng being popular. Microbuses from Wonosobo can take climbers directly to these basecamps. Hiring a local guide is recommended, especially for less clearly marked trails.

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