Sea of Sand

What is Sea of Sand?

The Sea of Sand, also known as the Pasir Berbisik, is a vast expanse of volcanic sand located at the foot of Mount Batok and the active volcano Mount Bromo, in East Java, near Bali, Indonesia. Despite its name, the Sea of Sand isn't a beach; rather, it is a surreal desert-like landscape that has become iconic for its otherworldly ambiance. It is within the Tengger Caldera, encircled by towering volcanic peaks, which adds to its dramatic and stark beauty.

As if the sand sea was an ocean wave frozen in time, visitors often find themselves mesmerized by its lunar-like surface. This area is particularly famous for its stunning sunrises when hues of purple, pink, and gold light up the sky, illuminating the sands and the silhouettes of the surrounding mountains in a breathtaking display.

History of Sea of Sand

The Sea of Sand has a rich history tied to the Tenggerese people, a community of Hindu culture residing in the region who believe that the area is sacred ground. According to legend, the Tengger Caldera is the last remaining piece of the ancient Mount Tengger, which was sacrificed by the gods to protect the people from a devastating eruption. The sand, as locals would often recount, is thought to originate from the eruption of Mount Tengger, which collapsed many millennia ago and formed the caldera.

This area is also associated with the Yadnya Kasada or Kasodo festival, a religious festival where the Tenggerese come to the Sea of Sand to throw offerings into the crater of Mount Bromo. They offer fruits, vegetables, flowers, and even livestock to the mountain gods by throwing them into the volcanic crater, asking for blessings in the ultimate act of devotion and gratitude towards the deities guarding the volcano.

Why is Sea of Sand Important?

The importance of the Sea of Sand extends beyond its natural beauty and into the realms of cultural significance and spirituality for the local Tenggerese people. It serves as a canvas for local mythology and religious practices, and it's a place where the earth's raw power can be seen and felt up close. The stark landscape of the Sea of Sand is also an important ecological system, featuring unique adaptations of plant and animal life to the harsh, dry conditions.

Moreover, the Sea of Sand draws tourists from around the world, all eager to witness this unique geological spectacle. This tourism has stimulated the local economy, providing income through guided tours, hiking, horseback riding, and other activities. Scientifically, it presents a fascinating area of study for geologists and vulcanologists who wish to understand the mechanics of calderas and their impact on the surrounding environment.

Things to Do & See at Sea of Sand

Visitors to the Sea of Sand have the chance to immerse themselves in a variety of activities that are as unique as the landscape itself. Before dawn, you can embark on a trek to the viewpoint to observe a breathtaking sunrise over Mount Bromo, which turns the sandy plains into a canvas of colors and shadows. The adventurous can continue on foot or horseback across the sands to the base of Mount Bromo, where a set of stairs leads to the rim of the active volcano's crater.

For photography enthusiasts, the Sea of Sand offers unparalleled scenery, especially during the early morning and late afternoon, when the sunlight plays across the undulating dunes and the volcanic peaks. Cultural experiences are also available, like visiting nearby Tenggerese villages and witnessing the annual Kasodo festival if you time your visit correctly.

In addition, there are opportunities for mountain biking across the volcanic terrain, taking a jeep tour across the Sea of Sand, or simply sitting and absorbing the vast and mystic panorama that unfolds before you. While you're here, don't miss the chance to interact with locals, who often share their personal stories and insights about this extraordinary place they hold dear.