Jatijajar Cave, Limestone cave in Kebumen, Indonesia
Jatijajar is a limestone cave in Ayah, Kebumen Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, that extends about 250 meters through several chambers. The passages wind through natural rock formations, and artificial lighting highlights the walls and ceiling throughout.
A farmer discovered the cave in 1802 when he fell through a vent into the underground system while collecting grass on the hillside above. The entrance was later enlarged and paths were added over the following decades to allow visitors inside.
The name comes from the Javanese word for teak and refers to the trees that surrounded the entrance when it was first opened to visitors. Local guides lead groups through the chambers today, pointing out formations and explaining the story of Kamandaka as they walk.
Visitors should wear sturdy shoes, as some sections of the walkway can be slippery, especially near the underground rivers. Guided tours usually last between 30 and 45 minutes and cover the main areas of the system.
A dinosaur statue at the entrance releases spring water that flows down to rice fields below. Villagers have used the springs for irrigation for over a century.
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