87-Tier Waterfall

Exploring the Hidden Charm of the 87-Tier Waterfall: Indragiri Hilir's Green Gem

Indragiri Hilir Regency in Riau Province may have long been known for its vast coconut plantations or its massive mangrove ecosystem on the east coast of Sumatra. However, deep inland, a geological wonder that challenges the imagination is hidden: the 87-Tier Waterfall. Located in the Sanglar area, Reteh District, this destination offers a symphony of nature that combines the roar of water, the lushness of tropical forests, and unique rock formations.

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Geological Marvel: An Endless Tiered Structure

As its name suggests, the main attraction of this destination is the rock formation that creates dozens of waterfall tiers. Although the number "87" is often considered a symbolic representation of the many steps, visitors will indeed be treated to the sight of water falling from one level to the next in a seemingly unbroken sequence.

Unlike a single, towering vertical waterfall, the 87-Tier Waterfall has a cascading characteristic that extends horizontally. Each tier has a varying height, from just one meter to over five meters. The constituent rocks are ancient sedimentary and igneous rocks that have been eroded by water flow over thousands of years, creating clear and refreshing natural pools at each level.

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Tropical Rainforest Ecosystem and Biodiversity

Situated in a relatively pristine forest area, the 87-Tier Waterfall is part of the Bukit Tiga Puluh landscape that spans the Riau and Jambi borders. The surrounding ecosystem is a lowland tropical rainforest that is home to endemic flora and fauna.

As you traverse the path leading to the waterfall, you will encounter giant trees of the Dipterocarpaceae family, such as Meranti and Keruing, which tower high to form a dense canopy. Epiphytic plants like wild orchids and ferns cover the tree trunks, creating a dense green atmosphere. If you are lucky, the screeching of Siamangs (Symphalangus syndactylus) or the flapping of Hornbill wings will accompany your journey. The existence of this waterfall is crucial as a water source for the surrounding wildlife, making it a focal point of life in the Reteh forest.

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Tourism Experience and Outdoor Activities

Visiting the 87-Tier Waterfall is not just a leisurely tour, but a satisfying physical adventure. Some of the main activities that can be done include:

1. River Trekking and Climbing: Because the waterfall consists of many tiers, the main activity is climbing each step. The rocks here tend to be not too slippery due to their rough texture, but caution is still necessary. Feeling the sensation of climbing amidst the flowing water is an adrenaline-pumping experience.

2. Natural Bathing: In some larger tiers, natural plunge pools have formed with depths safe for swimming. The cold, mineral-rich water is believed to refresh the body after a tiring long journey.

3. Nature Photography: The symmetrical tiered structure provides dramatic photographic angles. The thin mist that appears from the water spray when hit by the morning sun creates an extraordinary Tyndall light effect between the gaps in the trees.

4. Camping: For true nature lovers, setting up a tent in a flat area near the waterfall allows them to experience the rhythm of the forest at night. The constant sound of trickling water becomes a calming natural "white noise."

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Accessibility and Travel Challenges

Reaching the 87-Tier Waterfall requires thorough physical and logistical preparation. From the regency center in Tembilahan, the journey continues towards Reteh District. Access to the location is still dominated by footpaths passing through residents' plantations and secondary forests.

Using a trail type two-wheeled vehicle is highly recommended because the terrain can become very muddy during the rainy season. After reaching the last point where vehicles can stop, visitors must walk (trek) through the forest. This journey takes several hours, but the fatigue will be fully rewarded when the faint sound of the waterfall begins to be heard and the cool air starts to touch the skin.

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Best Time to Visit

The choice of visit time greatly determines your experience. The transition season (between dry and rainy seasons) is the best time. At this time, the water flow is large enough to showcase the grandeur of its 87 tiers, but the flow is not too strong, making it safe to climb or swim. At the peak of the dry season, the water flow may decrease, but its clarity will increase dramatically, making the bottom of the pool clearly visible.

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Conservation and Environmental Protection

As a destination located in an environmentally sensitive area, the 87-Tier Waterfall faces conservation challenges. Efforts to protect the forest upstream are crucial to maintain water flow stability. Local communities and the regional government are beginning to recognize the potential of this ecotourism as an economic alternative to plantations.

Visitors are strongly urged to apply the Leave No Trace principle. Bringing back plastic waste, not vandalizing rocks, and not damaging vegetation are absolute obligations for anyone who visits. Its status as a destination that is not yet overly commercialized is actually an advantage, as the authenticity of its ecosystem is still preserved from mass pollution and damage.

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Facilities and Accommodation

Given its remote location, facilities at the 87-Tier Waterfall are still very minimal and self-provided. There are no formal accommodations or restaurants at the location. Visitors are advised to bring sufficient food and drinking water from the nearest village. For those who wish to stay overnight, the options are camping or finding simple homestays in the residential areas of Reteh District. The limitation of these facilities is precisely what attracts "backpacker" tourists and adventurers seeking natural authenticity without modern embellishments.

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Conclusion

The 87-Tier Waterfall is proof that Indragiri Hilir possesses natural wealth far beyond its coastlines and coconut groves. It is a geological monument that offers tranquility and challenge. For those brave enough to penetrate the Riau wilderness, this destination promises an intimate encounter with pure nature, where each water tier tells a story of nature's resilience in maintaining the earth's balance. Preserving its sustainability means ensuring that future generations can still witness the wonder of these 87 tiers flowing eternally.