Situ Gunung Suspension Bridge

History and Development Evolution

Situ Gunung is part of the Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park (TNGGP). Its history as a tourist area began during the Dutch colonial era, primarily focusing on the beauty of its natural lake (situ). However, a major transformation occurred in mid-2017 with the commencement of the suspension bridge construction.

The construction process was carried out with extreme care to preserve the tropical rainforest ecosystem below. Without the use of heavy machinery that could damage vegetation, the bridge was built manually by local experts under strict supervision. Officially opened to the public in 2019, the bridge measures 243 meters in length, 1.8 meters in width, and stands at an altitude of approximately 121 meters from the ground. This evolution transformed Situ Gunung from a mere local destination into an international tourism magnet.

Recreational and Adrenaline-Pumping Experience

The main activity, of course, is walking along the wooden deck of the bridge, made from Ulin wood originating from Kalimantan. While in the middle of the bridge, visitors will feel a gentle sway triggered by footsteps and the mountain breeze. From this point, you will be treated to views of the dense green forest canopy and the deep valley, offering a rare "bird-eye view" perspective.

Safety is the top priority. Every visitor is required to wear a safety belt, which is attached to the support cables along the bridge. This provides a sense of security for those with a fear of heights, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery without excessive anxiety.

Available Facilities and Entertainment

The management of Situ Gunung has developed comprehensive facilities to support visitor comfort. There is a Glamping (Glamorous Camping) area for those who wish to experience staying in the middle of the forest with five-star hotel amenities. For art lovers, there is a cultural performance stage that often features traditional West Javanese dances.

In addition, other supporting facilities include:

• De' Balcone Restaurant: A dining spot with a direct view of the suspension bridge.
• Shuttle Transportation: Special vehicles are available to transport visitors from the parking area to the bridge entrance.
• Well-Maintained Trekking Trails: Walking paths are made using neat arrangements of natural stones, making them easy to traverse even after rain.

Family-Friendly and Nature Education Destination

Situ Gunung is designed as an inclusive family destination. Besides the main bridge, there is Curug Sawer, a majestic 35-meter-high waterfall accessible after crossing the bridge. In the waterfall area, children can play in the clear river or simply enjoy the refreshing water spray.

There is also the Keranjang Sultan area, a basket-shaped hanging chair ride that glides over the river. This attraction offers a unique experience for family members to see the beauty of the forest from a different perspective. For children, this place serves as a vast natural laboratory to learn about various endemic flora and fauna of West Java.

Cultural Significance and Local Community Role

The existence of the Situ Gunung Suspension Bridge has had a significant socio-economic impact on the people of Sukabumi, especially the residents of Kadudampit District. Most of the staff, tour guides, and small and medium-sized enterprise (UMKM) players in the culinary sector are local residents. This strengthens the community's role in preserving the forest while also benefiting economically from the tourism sector.

Culturally, this place serves as a hub for preserving Sundanese arts. On weekends or national holidays, visitors are often greeted by the sounds of degung music or Jaipong dance performances in the open-air theater. This creates a harmonious relationship between modern tourism infrastructure and local wisdom.

Unique Recreational Experience: Exploring the Ancient Valley

One of the latest additions that makes this attraction unique is access to the Lembah Purba (Ancient Valley). This is a special interest tour package that takes visitors to explore deeper, more natural forest areas. Visitors will be guided through several smaller suspension bridges before reaching the location of hidden twin waterfalls. This experience offers silence and a more intense connection with nature, far from the crowds of general tourists.

Visitor Information and Best Time to Visit

For the best experience, visitors are advised to come in the morning between 07:00 and 10:00 WIB. During this time, the air is still very fresh, and a thin mist often still blankets the bridge, creating a mystical and highly photogenic atmosphere. Additionally, arriving early helps avoid the long queues that typically occur in the afternoon.

Situ Gunung operates daily, but it is highly recommended to check the weather forecast before departing, as this location is in a mountainous area with high rainfall. Make sure to wear sports shoes or hiking boots with a strong grip, as the trails leading to the waterfall can be slippery when damp.

Conclusion

The Situ Gunung Suspension Bridge is a testament to how infrastructure innovation can coexist with nature conservation. From the thrill of crossing the suspension bridge, the roar of the Curug Sawer waterfall, to the tranquility of Situ Gunung Lake, this destination offers a complete recreational package. It is not just a tourist spot, but a symbol of pride for the people of Sukabumi and a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the grandeur of West Java's nature in an extraordinary way.