Gunungkidul, Administrative region in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Gunungkidul is an administrative region in Yogyakarta, on the island of Java, covering hills and limestone karst formations. Wonosari serves as the administrative center and sits within a landscape known for its cave systems and underground waterways.
People inhabited the caves of this region several hundred thousand years ago, when early settlers moved through the karst areas. Migration routes led from the northern mountains toward the southern coast, leaving traces in many caves.
The preparation of traditional cassava-based foods like thiwul and gathot reflects the agricultural adaptations of local communities to the limestone environment.
From Yogyakarta airport, you can reach the area via well-maintained roads in about an hour of driving. Planning enough time helps you explore the wide landscape and its cave systems without rushing.
In the caves of Jomblang and Pindul, underground rivers flow through the limestone formations, shaping passages and chambers over thousands of years. Visitors can hear the water searching for its path deep below the surface in some of these caves.
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