Exploring Situ Lengkong Panjalu: Culture, Traditions, and Tourism
Enjoying West Java’s natural beauty is a never-ending adventure, showcasing lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Among its gems is Situ Lengkong Panjalu, a scenic lake in Ciamis Regency, spanning 57.95 hectares. This picturesque destination attracts tourists and pilgrims alike, seeking tranquility and history.
Nusa Gede Island, located at the lake’s center, is home to the tomb of Mbah Panjalu, an ancestor of the Panjalu Kingdom. The sacred waters are believed to come from Zamzam water brought back by King Sanghyang Borosngora, enhancing its spiritual significance.
Additionally, the annual Nyangku Ceremony celebrates the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. This guide explores the location, facilities, myths, and traditions of Situ Lengkong Panjalu.
Location and Access to Situ Lengkong Panjalu
Set in the picturesque district of Panjalu, Situ Lengkong Panjalu spans an impressive 57.95 hectares. Situated at coordinates 7°7’49.56″ S, 108°16’21.26″ E, it is bordered by the Talaga area in Majalengka and Kuningan to the north. Visitors traveling from Bandung can take the Ciawi, Panumbangan, and Panjalu routes, covering about 100 kilometers. From Ciamis, the lake is closer, accessible via the Buniseuri and Kawali routes over a distance of 35 kilometers.
In the heart of the lake lies Nusa Gede Island, spanning 67.2 hectares and housing the tomb of Mbah Panjalu, considered an ancestor of the Panjalu Kingdom. Combining natural and cultural charm, Situ Lengkong Panjalu sits at an elevation of approximately 70 meters above sea level. With its refreshing mountain air, serene lake views, and pollution-free environment, it’s ideal for a peaceful getaway.
Unique Features and Cultural Significance
The Dutch colonial government designated Nusa Gede as a nature reserve in 1919, recognizing its ecological and cultural significance. Dr. Sijfert Hendrik Koorders, a botanist instrumental in these efforts, led to the island’s colonial name, Koorders Island.
More than its natural appeal, Nusa Gede holds deep historical and cultural importance. The island serves as a pilgrimage site with the tomb of King Sanghyang Borosngora, a Panjalu ruler credited with spreading Islam in the area. According to tradition, King Borosngora journeyed to the Arabian Peninsula, met Sayidina Ali, and brought back the legendary Zulfikar Sword, now preserved in the Bumi Alit Museum in Panjalu.
Myths and Legends
Like many sacred places in Indonesia, Situ Lengkong Panjalu has its own legends. One popular myth describes the lake’s creation from sacred Zamzam water, which King Borosngora brought back from his quest in Arabia. To prove his spiritual learning, his mentor tasked him with transporting the holy water in a basket full of holes. Upon returning to Panjalu, he poured the water into a local valley, which then filled and formed Situ Lengkong.
Locals believe the lake holds blessings, adding to its appeal as a pilgrimage site. Before the pandemic, visitors arrived from across Indonesia and neighboring countries, such as Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore, to experience its spiritual significance.
Traditions and Annual Events: The Nyangku Ceremony
The community in Panjalu takes great pride in preserving the Panjalu Kingdom’s cultural heritage. An annual highlight is the Nyangku Ceremony, which honors sacred royal heirlooms. Held in the Islamic month of Maulud, the ceremony symbolizes spiritual cleansing and enlightenment. During this event, the community gathers to clean and preserve relics, including the revered Zulfikar Sword, a powerful emblem of King Borosngora’s legacy.
The Borosngora Foundation, led by descendants of the Panjalu royal family, oversees the ceremony, which attracts tourists eager to experience authentic Sundanese cultural practices.
Tourism and Facilities at Situ Lengkong Panjalu
Situ Lengkong Panjalu provides a variety of facilities for an enjoyable visit. Visitors can tour the lake by boat, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Available amenities include ample parking, boat services, restrooms, and a mosque. Along the lake, stalls offer bamboo souvenirs, intricately designed embroidery, wooden bracelets, traditional shrimp paste, and Sundanese delicacies.
As of March 1, 2024, entrance fees are IDR 7,500 per person, in line with local government policy. Whether you visit for spiritual reasons or a peaceful retreat, Situ Lengkong Panjalu blends culture, history, and natural beauty into a memorable experience.
Situ Lengkong Panjalu as a Pilgrimage Destination
Beyond its scenic allure, Situ Lengkong Panjalu serves as a significant religious tourism destination. Pilgrims can pay their respects at Mbah Panjalu’s tomb on Nusa Gede Island, learning about the Panjalu Kingdom’s legacy and its role in spreading Islam in West Java. The pilgrimage continues to draw visitors from across Indonesia and neighboring regions, reinforcing Panjalu’s historical and cultural connection to the Islamic faith.
Conclusion
Situ Lengkong Panjalu in Ciamis, West Java, offers more than scenic beauty. It stands as a place of cultural and spiritual importance, with myths and traditions that enrich its legacy. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or spiritual seeker, this destination provides an unforgettable journey into Sundanese heritage, drawing visitors back year after year.
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