Exploring Rowo Jombor, Boats, Sunset, and Floating Warungs

Central Java is renowned for its numerous tourist destinations, including water tourism. This time, we'll discuss one destination in Klaten Regency: Rowo Jombor.

You can consider this tourist attraction as an alternative. This is especially true for water destinations, especially those offering more well-known natural bathing spots.

Rowo Jombor is located in Jombor Hamlet, Krakitan Village, Bayat District. From the center of Klaten, it's approximately 7.8 kilometers, or a 20-minute drive.

But what exactly is Rowo Jombor? Let's explore.

Rowo Jombor ( source image : jatengprov.go.id)

Rowo Jombor is a reservoir covering an area of approximately 198 hectares and reaching a depth of 4.5 meters. Initially, this reservoir was built to store water from surrounding rivers and also to control flooding.

During the dry season, the water was used to irrigate rice fields. Over time, its function has expanded.

Rowo Jombor is not only a source of water and irrigation, but also a center for freshwater fisheries and is now an icon of water tourism in Klaten Regency.

At Rowo Jombor, you can enjoy many exciting activities that will make your travel experience even more memorable.

Eating at a Floating Restaurant

warung apung Rowo Jombor (source image : solopos.com)

This unique experience is a favorite among visitors. Enjoying food while sitting on a floating food stall creates a calm and relaxing atmosphere.

The sound of the water and the gentle breeze provide a natural backdrop to your meal. Visitors can choose to sit on the floor or on wooden chairs outside, directly overlooking the water.

The menu offers a diverse selection, mostly based on freshwater fish caught from local fish cages. Grilled tilapia, sweet and sour gourami, and fried wader are the main dishes.

Prices at the floating food stall are relatively affordable. A portion of grilled fish with rice and fresh vegetables starts at IDR 25,000.

For family meals, there are shared meal packages available, including 3–4 side dishes and vegetables, starting at IDR 100,000 per table. Jumbo iced tea and young coconut ice are refreshing accompaniments.

The dining atmosphere warms up as the evening approaches. The color of the sky and the reflection of the water add a peaceful and serene feel, perfect for families and young couples.

Take a tourist boat

perahu wisata Rowo Jombor (source image : travel.kompas.com)

You can tour the reservoir by rented boat. Cruising along the water while viewing the surrounding hills makes this experience truly special.

Tourist boats are available in two types: motorized wooden boats and traditional bamboo rafts. Fares range from IDR 15,000 to IDR 25,000 per person, depending on the route and length of the trip.

Each boat is piloted by a friendly local who will tell you about the origins of Rowo Jombor along the way. The trip lasts approximately 20–30 minutes around the reservoir, with open views of the Bayat hills.

The sensation of the gentle breeze and splashing water is an experience in itself, especially as the sun begins to set and the sunset reflects off the water's surface.

Enjoying the Landscape and Sunset

Lanskap & senja di Rowo Jombor (source image : foto.espos.id)

Lanskap & senja di Rowo Jombor (source image : foto.espos.id)

The best time to visit Rowo Jombor is in the afternoon. The sunset over the water creates a romantic and peaceful atmosphere.

The orange sky sweeping across the hills and the silhouettes of passing boats make this a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts. Many visitors come just to capture sunset photos while sitting at the edge of a food stall or on the small pier.

Some of the best spots to watch the sunset are on the eastern side of the reservoir or from the small bridge leading to the center. The atmosphere is further enchanted by the sounds of evening insects and the calm ripples of the water.

Visitors often bring their own mats and snacks to relax with their families while waiting for the sunset.

Exploring the Roads Around Rowo Jombor

jalan sekitar Rowo Jombor (source image : solo.suaramerdeka.com)

jalan sekitar Rowo Jombor (source image : radarsolo.jawapos.com)

A pedestrian path surrounds the reservoir. You can jog in the morning or take an evening walk while enjoying the fresh air and natural scenery.

This path is also a favorite spot for local residents to exercise or simply relax. There are several rest areas, such as small gazebos and concrete benches under the shady trees.

In the morning, the air in this area is cool and refreshing. In the afternoon, the breeze from the hills creates a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for light meditation or a leisurely stroll.

For visitors who enjoy cycling, this path can also be used for a leisurely ride around Rowo Jombor while enjoying the beautiful rural atmosphere.

Visit Data

wisatawan di Rowo Jombor (source image : Poskita.co)

kunjungan wisatawan di Rowo Jombor (source image : travel.kompas.com)

According to data from the Klaten Tourism Office, Rowo Jombor will record more than 50,000 tourist visits per year by 2024. This figure makes Rowo Jombor a leading water tourism destination in Klaten Regency.

Rowo Jombor is also included in the Borobudur Temple buffer zone development area by the Borobudur Authority Agency. Other areas included in this development network include Plaosan Temple, Umbul Ponggok, and Sidoguro Hill.

Rowo Jombor's tourism potential continues to be developed through training local managers and revitalizing public facilities. Cross-district promotion is also carried out through the national tourism super priority program.

That's all my post this time, I hope it's useful for all my stemian friends and thank you.

Regards @nazaroel