Alas Purwo National Park

Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia

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Alas Purwo National Park, located on the Blambangan Peninsula at the southeastern tip of East Java, Indonesia, is a realm where myth, wilderness, and biodiversity converge. Its name, meaning “First Forest,” stems from a Javanese legend that claims the earth first emerged from the ocean at this very spot. Spanning over 43,000 hectares, the park is a mosaic of ecosystems—coastal mangroves, bamboo groves, lowland monsoon forests, savannas, and coral-fringed beaches—making it one of the most ecologically diverse areas on the island of Java.

The park is perhaps best known for its population of wild banteng, a species of wild cattle that roam the Sadengan savanna, often visible in the early morning or late afternoon. Other rare and endangered species such as the Javan langur, green peafowl, dhole, and several species of sea turtles—including the olive ridley and hawksbill—also find sanctuary here.

The park’s marine and coastal zones are equally rich, with Plengkung Beach, or G-Land, drawing surfers from around the world for its world-class waves that can reach up to five meters high. Beyond its natural wonders, Alas Purwo is steeped in spiritual significance. It is considered a sacred place by many Javanese, believed to be a gateway to a mystical realm inhabited by spirits.

Dozens of caves, such as Goa Istana and Goa Mayangkoro, are used for meditation and spiritual retreats, especially during the Javanese New Year. The park also houses Hindu temples like Pura Luhur Giri Salaka, which are still active sites of worship.