Tumpak Sewu vs Madakaripura: Which is More Stunning?

Compare two of East Java's most iconic waterfalls, Tumpak Sewu and Madakaripura, in this article, as we explore their unique beauty, accessibility, and experiences to help you decide which one is truly more stunning.

Arum

5/18/20252 min read

person wearing black watch
person wearing black watch

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Location and Accessibility

Tumpak Sewu, also known as Coban Sewu, is situated in Sidomulyo, Pronojiwo, Lumajang Regency, East Java. The name "Tumpak Sewu" translates to "a thousand waterfalls" in Javanese, a nod to its semi-circular formation of numerous waterfalls cascading down a 120-meter cliff. The waterfall is fed by the Glidik River, which originates from Mount Semeru, the highest volcano in Java .

To reach Tumpak Sewu, visitors typically travel from Lumajang city, approximately 47 kilometers away. The journey involves a combination of public transportation and a short hike. The path to the waterfall includes steep descents and bamboo ladders, making it suitable for adventurous travelers .

Natural Beauty

Tumpak Sewu's allure lies in its dramatic tiered structure. The waterfall's semi-circular formation creates a mesmerizing curtain of water, especially during the rainy season when the flow is at its peak. The surrounding lush greenery and the mist rising from the base add to the ethereal beauty of the site .

Activities and Experience

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the top or embark on a more challenging descent to the base. The journey to the bottom offers a close-up experience of the waterfall, where the sound of cascading water fills the air, and the mist cools the skin. However, the descent and ascent require physical endurance due to the steep and slippery terrain .

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Madakaripura Waterfall

Location and Accessibility

Madakaripura Waterfall is located in Branggah, Sapih, Lumbang District, Probolinggo Regency, East Java. It is approximately a three-hour drive from Surabaya, the capital of East Java. The waterfall is nestled within the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forest .

Reaching Madakaripura involves a short trek through a forested path, crossing rivers and navigating rocky terrain. The trail is well-maintained, making it accessible to most visitors. Upon arrival, a statue of Gajah Mada, the legendary commander of the Majapahit Empire, greets visitors, adding a cultural touch to the natural beauty .

Natural Beauty

Madakaripura is renowned for its towering 200-meter waterfall, which is the tallest in Java and the second tallest in Indonesia. The waterfall is unique in that it cascades from multiple points along the cliff, creating a curtain of water that envelops visitors as they approach. The surrounding moss-covered rocks and the cool mist contribute to the mystical atmosphere of the site .

Activities and Experience

Visitors can walk behind the waterfall, experiencing the sensation of being enveloped by water. The area is sacred, believed to be the meditation site of Gajah Mada, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit. The serene environment and the sound of cascading water create a tranquil experience

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