Central Bengkulu Regency is the youngest regency based on Law No. 24 of 2008 and a division of North Bengkulu Regency. The Central Bengkulu region consists of lowlands, hills, and coastlines which makes Central Bengkulu have a variety of natural appeals, including mountains, beaches, rivers, and waterfalls. These appeals inspire activists of Stube HEMAT in Central Bengkulu by inviting people to visit Central Bengkulu and enjoy its natural beauty. Therefore, the activities in July 2023 chose a topic about Tourism in Central Bengkulu at the Kampung Durian tourist attraction, Taba Penanjung, Central Bengkulu. Ten participants shared their experiences of visiting tourist areas in Central Bengkulu. The following are tourist spots in Central Bengkulu we visited, including photo documentation we have.
1. Datar Lebar Waterfall
Located in Datar Lebar village, Taba Penanjung, Central Bengkulu, the tourist spot presents the beauty of a waterfall that seems to be split into two parts by large rocks. The water is relatively fast with beautiful and calm natural views. To get to this location, visitors must leave their vehicles in the tourist parking area and then walk through the refreshing atmosphere of dense forest on either side. It is very suitable for nature lovers who like adventure.
2. Curug Pesuk Waterfall
It is located in Penembang village, Meriai district. The waterfall is not relatively high but has clean water. It is like a terrace with a large bathing area so it is suitable for a holiday with family and children.
3. Kandis Hill
It is located in Durian Demang village, Karang Tinggi district, Central Bengkulu Regency. This tourist spot is admired by rock climbers. Kandis Hill is an abandoned mining site. It is called Kandis Hill because many Kandis tamarind trees grow in this area. When the climbers/rock climbers are at the top, they will view the coast of Bengkulu City and Mount Bungkuk in Central Bengkulu. Because of its beauty, Kandis Hill was categorized as the most popular tourist appeal, occupying the 3rd place in the Indonesian sports and adventure tourism category in the annual Anugerah Pesona Indonesia (API) awards event, organized by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism.
4. Durian Village
Durian Village, where we carry out activities (July 02, 2023), is located in Taba Penanjung, Central Bengkulu. This place become popular because it offers beautiful views of hills, rivers and large swimming pools for all groups. There are villas for visitors who want to stay overnight and many coffee shops. Because of its beautiful and comfortable place, tourists are interested in bringing their families from various generations. If you do not want to swim in the pond, then you can also swim in the river. The number of security officers is adequate to maintain the safety and comfort of visitors.
Promotion of regional potencies needs to be carried out to increase the number of tourists to Central Bengkulu, increasing regional income for development and community welfare. Let us love our area. ***