Wana Wisata Sumber Biru

Exploring the Charm of Wana Wisata Sumber Biru: A Culinary Destination Above the Jombang River

Jombang Regency, East Java, is not only known as the "City of Scholars" but also holds a hidden gem in its natural tourism sector. One of the most striking destinations offering a unique concept is Wana Wisata Sumber Biru. Located in Dusun Wonotirto, Desa Wonomerto, Wonosalam District, this destination presents a harmony between the preservation of mountain slope forests and creative tourism innovations rarely found elsewhere.

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Philosophy and Uniqueness of the Anjasmoro Slope Ecosystem

Wana Wisata Sumber Biru is situated at the height of the Anjasmoro Mountain slopes, providing cool air and a pristine environment. The name "Sumber Biru" itself originates from the local community's belief in the existence of clear spring sources that were said to appear bluish in the past.

Ecologically, this area is dominated by highland tropical rainforest vegetation. Large trees such as banyan, mahogany, and dense bamboo groves create a natural canopy that shields visitors from the scorching sun. The presence of a river flowing through the center of the area is the heart of this destination. Its water flow comes directly from mountain springs, which remain clear even during the dry season, sustaining the local flora and fauna around it.

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Unique Experience: The Sensation of Dining in the Middle of the River

The most iconic feature that distinguishes Wana Wisata Sumber Biru from other natural destinations is the "Dining on the River" concept. Local management has arranged wooden tables and chairs precisely above the shallow river flow. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes while dipping their feet in the cool, clear river water.

The sensation of the gurgling water flowing beneath your feet, coupled with the chirping of birds and forest insects, creates a calming sensory experience. The river flow is intentionally kept shallow and calm, making it safe for families with young children. The natural pebbles at the riverbed also serve as a natural foot reflexology therapy for visitors walking in it.

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Variety of Outdoor Activities and Recreation

Besides dining in the middle of the river, Wana Wisata Sumber Biru offers various outdoor activities that are both adrenaline-pumping and mind-refreshing:

1. Forest Trail Exploration (Light Hiking): Visitors can walk along the paths in the forest to get a closer look at the biodiversity of the Anjasmoro slopes.

2. Thematic Selfie Spots: Management has built various photo platforms utilizing natural backgrounds, such as bamboo bridges, treehouses, and artistic decorations integrated with the trees.

3. Agricultural Education Tour: Given that Wonosalam is famous for its durian and coffee potential, visitors can often learn about the cultivation of local plants that thrive in the surrounding tourist area.

4. Children's Play Area: There are traditional and educational play facilities designed to bring children closer to nature.

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Appetizing Traditional Cuisine

The experience at Sumber Biru would not be complete without tasting its local dishes. The menu is deeply rooted in rural nuances, such as Sego Tiwul (cassava rice), Sego Jagung (corn rice), salted fish, shrimp paste chili sauce, and fresh vegetable urap-urap. All ingredients are sourced from the produce of Desa Wonomerto. Additionally, Wonosalam coffee, with its distinctive taste (robusta and excelsa), is a must-try drink for coffee lovers visiting here.

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Best Time to Visit

To get the maximum experience, the best time to visit Wana Wisata Sumber Biru is in the morning between 08:00 and 11:00 WIB. During these hours, sunlight filtering through the gaps in the trees creates an exotic view, and the air is still very clean.

Seasonally, visits at the end of the rainy season or the beginning of the dry season are highly recommended. During this period, the river's water level is ideal—abundant enough to create beautiful gurgling sounds, yet still clear and not murky. If you visit between January and March, you also have the chance to enjoy the renowned Wonosalam durian season along the road leading to the location.

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Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Access to Wana Wisata Sumber Biru can be reached in about 1 hour from the center of Jombang City or about 2 hours from Surabaya and Malang. Although the terrain is uphill and winding, typical of mountainous areas, the roads are well-paved and can be traversed by two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles.

The available facilities are quite complete to support tourist comfort, including:

• Spacious parking area.
• Clean prayer room (Mushola).
• Toilets and changing rooms (important after playing in the river).
• Gazebos for resting.
• Culinary stalls with very affordable prices.

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Commitment to Conservation and Environmental Protection

Wana Wisata Sumber Biru is managed with the principle of empowering local communities through LMDH (Forest Village Community Institution). Awareness of the importance of keeping the river clean is very high here. Visitors are strictly prohibited from throwing trash into the river flow or damaging forest vegetation.

Management regularly cleans the river of plastic waste and maintains the upstream area to prevent water sources from being polluted. These conservation efforts aim to ensure that the economic benefits of tourism go hand-in-hand with environmental sustainability, ensuring that future generations can still enjoy the clarity of the water source that gives this place its name.

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Conclusion

Wana Wisata Sumber Biru is more than just a dining spot or a photo object. It is a representation of how human creativity can synergize with nature without destroying it. By offering a unique combination of refreshing river water, the pristine nature of the Anjasmoro slopes, and the local wisdom of Wonosalam's cuisine, this destination becomes a top choice for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life for a moment and return to the embrace of East Java's enchanting nature.