Apparently, this is the best decision! You see, in addition to traveling more relaxed, I can also explore cool places that I previously only saw on the internet.
The following are 5 recommendations for tourist destinations that you can visit if you go home through the Pantura route.
Taman Sari Gua Sunyaragi, Cirebon
My first stop was in Cirebon, precisely at Taman Sari Gua Sunyaragi. This place is really unique! Just imagine, there is a cave with an aesthetic rock structure, similar to the ruins of a castle in fantasy movies. He said, this cave used to be a place of recluse for the higher-ups of the Cirebon Sultanate. When I first entered, I was immediately greeted with a mystical and calm atmosphere, as if transporting to the past.
In addition to enjoying the view, I also had time to hunt for photo spots among the mossy stone walls, making the photos look very dramatic! Moreover, there are several narrow passages that add to the mysterious impression of this place. I also heard stories from local guards about the legends that surround this cave, one of which is about the myth that anyone who enters without good intentions can get lost. Exciting and gives goosebumps!
Guci Tourism, Tegal
After being satisfied in Cirebon, continue the journey to Tegal. I stopped by the Jar Tourism which is famous for its hot springs. It was really fitting, after a few hours of driving, the body began to ache. As soon as you enter the bathing area, the hot steam is immediately felt, creating a cozy atmosphere. Soaking in the natural hot springs here is really relaxing, especially surrounded by green trees that add a natural and soothing impression.
Not only that, in this area there is also a small waterfall that can be stopped by to simply play in the water or take pictures. One of the main attractions here is the glass bridge that offers a beautiful view from a height. The sensation of walking on it while enjoying the surrounding scenery is really exciting! Before continuing the trip, I also took the time to taste Tegal's typical young goat satay which is tender and rich in spices, making my energy full again for the next trip.
Grand Maerakaca, Semarang
Next stop: Semarang! I stopped by Grand Maerakaca, which is said to be the Central Java version of Taman Mini. As soon as I entered, I was immediately greeted with various replicas of traditional houses from all provinces in Indonesia, complete with distinctive architectural details. It's really exciting for those who like educational tourism or just want to get to know the culture of the archipelago more closely!
In addition to the traditional house area, there is also a mangrove forest that can be explored while riding a boat. It feels very peaceful across the waterway with green trees on the right and left, plus the cool air that makes you relax. But the most interesting thing for me was Lumina's area. Here, I found replicas of houses from various countries such as Japan, Greece, and the United States. It's like traveling around the world in a day! In addition, the atmosphere in the afternoon is even more beautiful with the lights starting to turn on, making the experience here even more memorable.
Djoeang '45 Building, Solo
Continuing to Solo, I stopped by the Djoeang '45 Building. At first I thought this place was just an ordinary old building, but it turned out that the colonial feel actually made the atmosphere magical, especially at night when the lights started to turn on. This building used to be a witness to the struggle of the people of Solo against the colonizers, and now it is one of the favorite spots for vintage-style photos.
While exploring the surrounding area, I noticed the architectural details that are still well preserved, ranging from the tall pillars to the large windows typical of colonial-era buildings. Inside, there are several rooms that now function as small museums that exhibit various historical objects. It feels like going back in time, imagining how this place used to be the center of movement.
After being satisfied with walking around, I sat in one of the corners enjoying a glass of warm wedang ronde. This traditional drink really fits perfectly into the cool atmosphere of the night. While sipping wedang ronde, I talked to several other visitors who were also curious about the history of this place. The conversation was light but full of insight, which was the perfect conclusion for my visit in Solo before continuing to the next destination.
Tikus Temple, Mojokerto
Entering East Java, I took the time to stop by Tikus Temple in Mojokerto. Although the name is a bit unique (and a little amusing), this temple turns out to have interesting historical value. Its red brick structure rises with a green pool of water around it, giving it a majestic and soothing impression. It is said that this place used to be the bathhouse of the Majapahit royal family, which now still retains a mystical aura and thick history.
While walking around the temple area, I could feel how well-maintained this place was. The atmosphere was calm, only the gurgling of water could be heard flowing between the ancient bricks. I had a chance to sit by the pool for a while, enjoying the fresh air while imagining what life was like in the old royal era. This place is perfect for reflection before continuing the journey, while also reminding that behind every historical site, there is a great story that has ever happened.
Submarine Monument, Surabaya
The last destination before arriving at his hometown is the Submarine Monument in Surabaya. It's a very unique experience because I was able to get inside a real submarine! KRI Pasopati 410, which was used in Operation Trikora, is now an interesting museum to explore.
As soon as he entered, the atmosphere immediately changed. The room was cramped, filled with military equipment, control buttons, and bunk beds that made me imagine what it would be like to be a submarine crew in the middle of the ocean. I also had time to enter the control room, where there was a periscope that was still functioning. It's really exciting to be able to see the outside world from inside a submarine!
If you like history or want to feel the sensation of being in a real warship, this place is a must-visit. In addition, there is also an area around the monument that is convenient to relax in, complete with a view of the Kalimas River which adds to the historical impression of this place.
After this long and exciting journey, I finally arrived home satisfied. Apparently, homecoming is not only about traveling to your hometown, but also about enjoying every moment on the road. So, if you go home through the Pantura Line, don't just pass by. Take the time to stop by these interesting places to make the trip even more exciting and full of stories!
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