Nglanggeran Village offers a breathtaking view, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Indonesia is known for its significant village tourism potential, making it a unique and attractive tourist destination. One of the standout spots is the picturesque Nglanggeran Tourism Village in the Patuk District of Gunungkidul, Yogyakarta.
The village’s uniqueness as a tourist destination is enhanced by the presence of Nglanggeran. This ancient volcano is one of the remarkable geosites in the Mount Sewu area and has been a UNESCO Global Geopark since 2015. Six years later, in 2021, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) recognized the village as the best tourism village due to its natural beauty, local wisdom, and innovative and sustainable management practices.
This award highlights the significant impact that community-based tourism can have on boosting the village economy and contributing to environmental preservation.
The ancient mountain in Nglanggeran Village stands 700 meters above sea level and covers 48 hectares. It offers spectacular views, particularly at sunrise and sunset, making it an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists.
Nglanggeran Village is notable for more than just its natural beauty. Since 2007, the village has offered educational tour packages that allow visitors to explore and learn about local traditions, engage in sustainable agriculture practices, and interact with the hospitable and innovative community.
With this significant breakthrough in tourism, Nglanggeran has successfully integrated tourism with educational activities, providing visitors with meaningful experiences.
Honorable Award
On Dec. 2, 2021, at the “Thematic Session” during the 24th UNWTO General Assembly in Madrid, Spain, Nglanggeran Tourism Village received the Best Tourism Village 2021 award. The village outperformed 44 villages from 32 countries.
Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, then serving as Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the accomplishment. “Nglanggeran Tourism Village is a world-class destination. This award reflects the harmony between the community, management, and local government in promoting tourism as a driver of village development,” stated Sandiaga.
This recognition adds to Nglanggeran Village’s impressive list of accolades and accomplishments. Previously, the village was named ASEAN’s Best Tourism Village in 2017. With these accolades, Nglanggeran Village demonstrates its potential as one of the world’s leading sustainable tourist destinations.
Sustainable Village
Nglanggeran Tourism Village thrives on a strong commitment to sustainability in its governance. According to data from the Ministry of Tourism, nine criteria are considered for the prestigious UNWTO Best Tourism Village award. These criteria highlight various aspects, including natural and cultural resources; their preservation and promotion; economic, social, and environmental; tourism potential and growth; infrastructure; connectivity; as well as health and safety measures.
Nglanggeran Tourism Village has successfully met these criteria thanks to the community’s active involvement in village management, the innovation of new educational tour packages, and a commitment to environmental and cultural preservation. A sustainable approach ensures that the economic advantage of tourism is dispersed evenly throughout the village community.
Nonetheless, the UNWTO award brings a refreshing perspective on the challenging post-pandemic economic recovery. This recognition offers hope that tourist villages like Nglanggeran can inspire other villages across Indonesia.
Community-based tourism has proved its ability to create jobs, improve well-being, and reduce economic disparities in rural regions. With multiple international awards and recognitions, Nglanggeran Tourism Village now stands as an inspiration for the advancement of tourism villages throughout Indonesia.
In the future, village administrators are expected to keep innovating and prioritizing environmental sustainability, ensuring that this village remains a top-tier global destination. Nglanggeran Village, with its natural beauty, local wisdom, and sustainable practices, has demonstrated that village-based tourism encompasses not only economic benefits but also the preservation of culture, environment, and community welfare.
This success illustrates that a small village in Yogyakarta is capable of competing and obtaining global reputation, providing significant hope for the future of Indonesian tourism.
Foto cover: The stunning sunset view over the beach in the Mount Sewu Global Park. IST
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