Gumuk Kancil: A Captivating Blend of Nature, Spirituality, and Romance

TIMESINDONESIA, BANYUWANGI – For nature enthusiasts, religious seekers, or those in love, Pantai Gumuk Kancil is a perfect choice. This enchanting destination, located in the vicinity of Pulau Merah, Dusun Pancer, Desa Sumberagung, Kecamatan Pesanggaran, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia, not only offers pristine natural beauty but also carries with it the mystique of Nyi Roro Kidul, the mythical Queen of the Southern Sea, believed to bestow blessings on romantic relationships. Thus, for couples in love, visiting this beach with its sprawling white sand is a must.

Slamet Haryanto, the manager of Pantai Gumuk Kancil, reveals that the name of the beach is derived from the term "gumuk," which means a small hill in Javanese. The name is inspired by the small hill found on the sandy expanse, hence Gumuk Kancil.

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According to local legend, the hill was once visited by a maharesi (holy figure) from the ancient Tarumanegara Kingdom, which thrived along the Citarum River in West Java during the 4th century AD. During the land's clearing, the ancestors of the local community often encountered the elusive sight of a three-legged deer, known as "kancil" in Indonesian, running towards the hill before mysteriously disappearing. Hence, the hill was named Gumuk Kancil in honor of this mythical occurrence.

Adding to the mystique of Gumuk Kancil, the hill is believed to serve as an effective dimensional portal for communication with the mystical Queen of the Southern Sea, Nyi Roro Kidul. As a result, many spiritual seekers are drawn to this coastal destination.

Another intriguing belief surrounding Gumuk Kancil is its mystical power to bless young couples who are deeply in love. Legend has it that by praying at this site, romantic relationships can be strengthened and endure.

"While these beliefs are part of local myths and may not be universally accepted, they have contributed to Gumuk Kancil's reputation as a destination that combines both natural and religious tourism," Slamet, a local community of Sumberagung said on Monday (24/7/2023).

As tourism in Banyuwangi flourishes, this beach continues to evolve. With support from the Sumberagung Village Government and PT Bumi Suksesindo (PT BSI), the site now offers enhanced facilities and amenities for visitors. Paved roads lead to the entrance, while picturesque pavilions and gazebos dot the area. Local UMKM (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) vendors selling traditional cuisine and beverages are also thoughtfully organized.

The presence of the Tumpang Pitu gold mine has provided significant benefits to the surrounding community. One tangible proof of this is the support from PT Merdeka Copper Gold Tbk, a subsidiary of PT BSI, in enhancing the local tourist site. As a result, the beach is steadily being developed into a destination that combines both natural and spiritual elements.

Adding to its allure, a simple mosque, named Mushola Nur Syafaat, which translates to "the intermediary light that provides blessings," is currently being constructed on-site. This further enhances the spiritual ambiance and offers visitors a serene place to express their prayers and aspirations.

The beach boasts breathtaking natural beauty with its expanse of white sandy beach complemented by the gentle breeze and the harmonious sound of crashing waves. Its spiritual significance makes it an ideal place for heartfelt prayers and blessings, particularly for couples seeking lasting and loving relationships. Come and experience the captivating blend of nature, spirituality, and romance at Pantai Gumuk Kancil!

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