Whispering Sand Sea of Mount Bromo
Mount Bromo is one of the tourist and conservation areas in East Java that is part of the BTS (Bromo – Tengger – Semeru) area, with an attractive landscape that is interesting to visit. The history of the people and the traditional ceremonies that are held annually also serve as a unique magnet. Moreover, the sea of sand that stretches out creates an atmosphere reminiscent of wandering in the deserts of the Middle East.
The History of Whispering Sands
The history of the whispering sands of Mount Bromo cannot be separated from the Tengger folklore of “Joko Seger and Rara Anteng.” Joko Seger and Rara Anteng, who got married, then built a settlement and ruled in the Tengger area (which is derived from their last names). The couple was childless for a long time, so they meditated at the peak of Bromo. In the midst of their meditation, there was a mystical voice that said they would be granted offspring on the condition that their youngest child must be sacrificed to the Bromo crater.
They agreed to the condition and had 25 children. Unfortunately, their youngest child disappeared, swallowed by fire and fell into the crater. The youngest child left a message that the Tengger people must live peacefully and harmoniously by worshiping Hyang Widhi. Therefore, every month of Kasada on the 14th day, they hold offerings of agricultural products and present them to Hyang Widhi in the poten area of the sea of sand and the Bromo crater.
Meanwhile, the name whispering sands to refer to the sea of sand in the Mount Bromo area is also linked to a film directed by Nan Achnas in 2001 titled “Whispering Sands.” The film tells the story of a young woman named Daya (played by Dian Sastrowardoyo) who lives with her mother named Berlian (played by Christine Hakim).
After being left by her husband, the mother becomes very protective of her child. This leads the child to often lay her body on the sand to hear the sound of the whispering sands. This film is set in the area of the Bromo sea of sand. Additionally, the area is often hit by strong winds that blow sand particles upwards, creating a rustling sound like someone whispering. This background gives rise to the name “Whispering Sands” for the sea of sand area.
The Beauty of Bromo's Whispering Sands
The whispering sands area or sea of sand located near the Bromo crater is quite a vast area with a stretch of sand resembling a desert landscape. Friends can take photos in this area or choose other activities, such as horseback riding or riding a trail bike. This area can also be used to capture special moments with loved ones by doing pre-wedding photos.
Like most desert areas, the whispering sands area also becomes very hot during the day. So don't forget to apply sunscreen to your skin to avoid burns or irritation. To fully enjoy the whispering sands area, it is best to visit in the morning after enjoying the sunrise at the peak of Bromo.
You don't need to worry if you feel thirsty or hungry while in the whispering sands area. Friends can buy food or drinks sold by local vendors in the area. Rest assured, the food and drinks sold are kept covered.
Bromo Tourism indeed offers a variety of beauty that you can enjoy when visiting. In addition to its natural landscapes, Bromo also holds historical and cultural values that deserve to be preserved. Besides the whispering sands area, there are still many interesting places that you should visit when in Bromo.
