Coban Rondo, Fall and Fly

[caption id="attachment_52903" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Kaskus.com"][/caption] Since the Dutch colonial era, Batu has become one of favorite mountain resort in Java. Its cold and fresh weather as well as pleasant environment and plenty historical remnants are among the reasons. Previously an administrative town of Malang, Batu is situated to the west from Malang. Similar to Lembang for Bandung and Kaliurang for Yogyakarta, this mountain resorts is one of the famous places of interest on the region. Among handful of natural objects of interest in Batu is Coban Rondo. Officially opened as tourism destination in 1980, this natural waterfall is situated on Pondesari village of Pujon subdistrict, Batu Regency. Situated 2.5 km from the summit of Mount Banyak, Coban Rondo lies on the altitude of 1,135 m asl with 22 Celsius degree of average temperature. With high level of annual rainfall on the area, this 84 m tall waterfall throws 90-150 litre water per second coming mainly from Cemoro Dudo spring. Beside splendid landscape of waterfall, Coban Rondo are also has plenty other natural attractions. Lush green of mountain forest and garden is great visual company along a 2km pathway into the location of the waterfall. There is an open space for camping ground nearby the garden with pine forest shading along the path. [caption id="attachment_36038" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="lensamatanews.wordpress.com"][/caption] For paraglider, Coban Rondo area offers a field situated on the west summit of Mount Banyak as a great take off area. Even before taking off, one able to witness the amazing sight of mountainous Batu from this summit. From this spot 1.306 m asl in Candisari village of Pujon, one will soar into the blue sky. From sky, the sight of Mount Biru and Welirang to the north will mesmerize everyone. Mount Panderman and Kawi clearly visible on the south while Mount Dworowati and Argowayang will strike your vision when facing west. While enjoying breathtaking view pine forest spreading like a giant green carpet down below, paraglider should maintain his course to the drop zone in Songgokerto village. After 15 minutes to half an hour flight, they will land on appointed field situated about six km from the take off spot. It is very easy to reach Coban Rondo as its entrance lies alongside the main road leading west from Batu. It will cost one less than IDR20,000 for both public transportation and admission ticket. For private vehicle, the management provides a vast parking area nearby the waterfall.