The name of Dieng comes from Sanskrit word “di” that means "place" and “Hyang” means Creator or God, then it forms the whole meaning as a place of Gods or as locals call it, the "Land above the clouds." True to its namesake, one feels like in heaven as it always gets foggy in the afternoon.

Rustic and simple, Dieng is offering a bucolic experience in this part of Central Java. Traveling to Dieng, Wonosobo Regency in Central Java, Indonesia also reminds me of Natubleng, Benguet in the Philippines not just because of its chilly climate, but also about the gracious people and the vegetable gardens sprawling the plateau as wide and far as your eyes can see. Why not? Dieng is known to be the biggest potato producer in Indonesia.



It is about 26 kilometers from Wonosobo, and sits on a plateau 2,000 meters above sea level and enjoys cool weather that ranges from 12-21°C at noon and a low 5-9°C at night. It gets even colder during the dry season that starts in July until September when the temperature can reach -4°C in the morning.



Dieng is actually a plateau formed on the floor on a caldera complex. Yes, it sits on a volcanic crater, albeit, inactive. It offers many touristy spots like the Arjuna Temples, Sikidang Craters and Telaga Warna which I happen to visit during my short visit.

Arjuna Temples

Home to a few ancient Hindu temples or more popularly known as Arjuna Temples or Dieng Temples are the oldest Hindu temples in Java Island and they were established in the 9th century.

Telaga Warna (Color Lake)

Color lake (Telaga Warna) is known for its changing colors, thus, the namesake. It has high sulfur content that causes the changing of the color of the water of the lake from yellow or green and even more colorful like a rainbow.

It can be best viewed via Dieng Peak where you can also see its twin, Pengilon Lake.

Sikidang Crater

Dieng features two craters of the volcanic complex. Although the volcano has been inactive for centuries now, some of the volcanic craters are active until today. The craters are Sileri Crater and Sikidang Craters.

Visiting Dieng, albeit only for a day, was truly a wondrous experience. It gave me time to commune with the people and at the same time allowed me to experience its culture and nature.

Watch out for more features of these tourist sites in the coming posts.