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| A significant number of visitors come to Timang Beach for an adrenaline rush by riding a wooden gondola in the middle of the ocean with sizable waves. (Photo: visitingjogja.jogjaprov.go.id) |
While most tourists visit the beaches in Gunung Kidul to enjoy the water or relax on the white sandy shores, Timang Beach offers a completely different experience. A significant number of visitors come to Timang Beach for an adrenaline rush by riding a wooden gondola in the middle of the ocean with sizable waves. Are you up for the challenge?
Timang Beach, located in Pedukuhan Danggolo, Purwodadi Village, Tepus District, Gunung Kidul Regency, Yogyakarta, has gained fame in recent years. After being featured in a South Korean reality show, Timang Beach has become a popular destination for tourists. However, reaching Timang Beach is not an easy journey. Travelers must navigate rocky roads, sharp turns, and steep inclines. The distance from Yogyakarta city is approximately 80 km, with a travel time of 2 to 3 hours. But the fatigue of the journey is rewarded with the breathtaking beauty of Timang Beach.
Timang Beach has two sides. On the east side, you'll find a typical beach with soft white sand and crystal-clear blue water. In contrast, the west side of the beach is characterized by rocky hills that border the sea directly. While you can swim on the east side, it's not recommended on the west side due to strong winds and large waves.
The name "Timang" comes from a large rock formation that breaks the waves in the middle of the ocean. This rock formation is called Timang Island. Timang Island is the main attraction for tourists because there's a wooden gondola that can be used to cross to the island. The gondola, or cable car, was initially built in 1997 to help fishermen reach the island to catch lobsters. Traditional boats were not feasible due to the strong waves and currents. Thus, the gondola was created to facilitate lobster hunting for the fishermen.
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| Photo: tripadvisor.co.id |
Due to the high interest of tourists, the wooden gondola has become a major attraction at Timang Beach. It's constructed from acacia wood, strong ropes, and pulleys. Ropes are used because they withstand seawater better than iron or steel. The gondola can carry only one person at a time to cross to Timang Island. The thrill of crossing to the island is what challenges your adrenaline. Travelers will glide along a 98-meter cable at a height of 9 to 11 meters above sea level. If the sea breeze or waves hit, the gondola will sway, making your heart race.
Since its inauguration in 2012, the Timang Beach gondola has become a sensation. Many people want to test their adrenaline by crossing to Timang Island. Interestingly, the gondola is operated manually using ropes and pulleys. Rest assured, it's a safe experience. Once you reach Timang Island, you'll be amazed by the stunning sea views. Don't forget to capture these moments.
If you're not keen on trying the gondola, you can walk on the Suspension Bridge next to it. Completed in March 2017, this wooden bridge spans 120 meters and is supported by ropes. It is also used to access Timang Island. Similar to the gondola, you can challenge your adrenaline by walking on this bridge. When hit by the sea breeze, the bridge will sway.
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| Photo: tripadvisor.co.id |
As of January 2023, the entrance fee to Timang Beach is Rp10,000 per person. Parking fees are Rp2,000 for motorcycles and Rp5,000 for cars. To ride the gondola or cross the bridge, you'll need to dig a little deeper into your pocket. To try the gondola, tourists must pay Rp200,000 per person for a round trip. Meanwhile, crossing the bridge costs Rp100,000 per person for a round trip.
If you'd rather not try the gondola or the bridge, you can enjoy taking selfies around Timang Beach. The beautiful beach scenery and the sound of the waves crashing can be soothing to the eyes and soul. Alternatively, you can savor delicious seafood here, especially the lobsters. Are you interested in visiting Timang Beach?
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| Photo: tripadvisor.co.id |
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| Photo: tripadvisor.co.id |
How to Get to Timang Beach from Jakarta:
To reach Timang Beach from Jakarta, you can take a flight to Yogyakarta's Adisutjipto International Airport (JOG). From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to drive to Timang Beach. The distance is approximately 80 km, and the journey may take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. It's advisable to plan your trip in advance and check the flight and transportation options available for a smooth journey from Jakarta to Timang Beach. Enjoy your adventure!.