Looking for travel recommendations around Semarang?
Besides visiting Lawang Sewu or Sam Poo Kong Temple, consider exploring Desa Wisata Kandri (Kandri Tourism Village), located about 15 km from Semarang. Nestled in Gunung Pati Subdistrict, Semarang City, Central Java, this village offers stunning natural beauty and cultural authenticity. Coupled with creative innovations by local youth to enhance facilities, a trip to Kandri will surely leave you captivated.
What Makes Desa Wisata Kandri Special?
The local community treasures their traditions and culture, offering visitors an opportunity for cultural enrichment and fun educational tourism. Surrounded by well-preserved natural beauty, Kandri Tourism Village promises a delightful experience!
Here are five exciting activities you can enjoy in Kandri Tourism Village:
1. Learning the Art of Gendongan Lesung
This traditional percussion art, known locally as tabuh lesung, is a form of cultural heritage passed down for generations. The villagers are committed to preserving this art amid modern times. Its uniqueness attracts international tourists eager to learn and experience the art firsthand.
2. Watching Cultural Performances: Wayang and Jathilan
From traditional ketoprak plays to shadow puppetry (wayang kulit and wayang suket), and the lively jathilan dance, the village is alive with cultural festivities. One highlight is the annual Kirab Sesaji Rewanda ceremony.
If no performances are scheduled during your visit, don’t worry! You can still join local arts groups and learn these traditional arts.
3. Thrill Yourself with River Tubing
Try the adrenaline-pumping river tubing experience, locally called Ngintir Kalijogo, along the 3-kilometer Kali Kreo. Despite its short length, the rapid currents and rocky terrain ensure a memorable adventure!
4. Capture Stunning Instagram-Worthy Photos
To keep up with tourism trends, local youth have created picturesque photo spots like a cloud-themed backdrop with views of Bukit and Waduk Jatibarang, a hot-air balloon replica, cherry blossom settings, and even artificial snow spots. These are must-visit spots for memorable snapshots!
5. Relish Local Delights: Sego Kethek
While Yogyakarta boasts sego kucing (cat rice), Kandri’s signature dish is sego kethek (monkey rice). Wrapped in teak leaves, it consists of white rice paired with sides like chicken, anchovies, eel, sautéed papaya leaves, tofu, and tempeh. You’ll also find unique dishes like eel pepes and banana skin chips created by local villagers.
Interested in visiting Kandri? Contact the village management via Mr. Syaeful Ansori at 0858 6567 6755.
Reminder: Always follow health protocols, including wearing a mask, washing hands regularly, maintaining physical distance, avoiding crowds, limiting mobility, and refraining from dining together to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience.
