A. Overview
If Sleman Regency has Dewi Peri or Pentingsari Tourism Village, then Kulon Progo Regency has Banjaroya Tourism Village also known as Dewa Bara. As the names signify, dewa (god) and dewi (goddess) usually refer to beautiful character, this is also true for the two tourism villages. Both are located at Manoreh Hills which has scenic view and fresh air. Dewa Bara is ready to spoil tourists with its tourism potentials.
Banjaroya is located in Kalibawang Subdistrict, Kulon Progo Regency, and is divided into several hamlets. The village has scenic natural view and strong village atmosphere. Some traditional arts and rituals are often held here. Thus, Banjaroya develops into a tourism village worth visiting.
Some of the tourism attractions are Sendangsono and the Grave of Kyai Krapyak Sani, Ancol Bligo, Durian Agrotourism. There are also Kampong Banjaran and Kampong Duren Sawit, the former sets out the daily activities of the local residents, while the later puts forward its traditional arts.
Tourists can choose which of the many hamlets to visit. If looking for spiritual peace, tourists can go to Sendangsono, but if looking for the village atmosphere tourists should go to Kampong Banjaran or Kampong Duren Sawit.
B. Features
There is the so-called Pranan Hamlet where tourists can enjoy eating durians. This hamlet is popular for its durians with distinguished taste and aroma. Even, they are of the superior variety. Tourists can enjoy them while relaxing at the bank of Progo River.
After enjoying the durians, move on to Ancol Dam which is the upper course of Mataram Drain. From here you can see Progo River flow, Mataram Drain, rice field, and the dam built in ancient architecture. People would usually take pictures here. This is also the place to hold Labuhan-like ritual by the village people as the expression of their gratitude to God.
Tourists can also perform devotional visit to the Grave of Simbah Kyai Krapyak Sani located in Pantog Wetan Hamlet. Christians can go to Maria Sendangsono Grotto for a devotional visit which is at its busiest on May and October.
After tired of walking around, stay at Kampong Banjaran or Kampong Duren Sawit. In either village you can get acquinted with the local people, learn how to make brown sugar, chocolate, traditional cuisines, and also herbal drink. You will get many lessons here. If you are art and cultural devotees, visit Kampong Duren Sawit where you can enjoy traditional art performances.
C. Location
Banjaroya Tourism Village is located at Sentolo – Muntilan Street, Kalibawang Subdistrict, Kulon Progo Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta.
D. Access
Located at the side of Wates – Purworejo main road makes Banjaroya accessible. You can reach this place by either private or public transportation. From Yogyakarta, Banjaroya is accessible through Godean Street – Dekso – Kalibawang. Or, you can also take the other route namely Yogyakarta – Muntilan – Watu Congol – Kalibawang. If taking a public transportation then you should begin your trip by taking the Yogyakarta – Dekso public vehicle. After that you must continue your trip by another public vehicle heading for Borobudur. Banjaroya Tourism Village is a few minutes from Kalibawang Subdistrict.
E. Ticket
Visiting Banjaroya is free of charge. But if tourists wish to stay overnight at Kampong Banjaran then they are required to pay Rp 70,000 per person. The tarrif include three time meals and snacks.
F. Accommodations and Other Facilities
As an integrated tourism village, Banjaroya is equipped with guest houses. In addition, tourists can observe the cocoa processing and the making of brown sugar, herbal drink and other traditional cuisines. Other supporting facilities such as small mosque, convenience, souvenir kiosks, agrotourism, are all provided for tourist enjoyment.
Text: Elisabeth Murni
Photo(s): Collection of Jogjatrip.com
Translation: Apri Widiastuti
(Primary data and various sources)