A Glimpse of Purwokerto, A Small Town Where I Was Born




Arisarmu - When it comes to Southwestern of Central Java Province, most people immediately think of Purwokerto, a vibrant small town, which is near the border with West Java Province.

The town where I was born and grew up until I finished my high school has developed rapidly which tends to focus on creating Purwokerto as an enticing shopping city and also for those who seek memorable weekend getaway which offers interesting tourist attractions around Baturraden.

It's also supported by its transportation centres such as Bus Station and Railway Station which connect directly to other cities and provinces as well as sufficient accommodations and as a result of these facilities, Purwokerto becomes a favorite place for spending a holiday in Central Java.


Purwokerto is the capital of Banyumas Regency. The mascot of this region is Bawor. It's derived from one character of Punakawan (the clown servants of Pandawa family) in Banyumas Shadow Puppet that the last son of Semar is Bawor. He represents the authentic character of Banyumas people who are friendly, honest, and speak bluntly. And during a shadow puppet performance which is accompanied by a gamelan orchestra, the existence of Bawor  who speaks in Basa Ngapak, Javanese dialect in this regency, truly represents Banyumas people.

Bawor is the mascot of Banyumas Regency

Baturraden Tourist Resort is a renowned and favourite tourist destination in Purwokerto for holiday makers. It's nestled on the slope of Mount Slamet, the biggest mountain in Java island, which has the elevation of 3.428 m above sea level. It's approximately 17 km north of Purwokerto and it takes less than 30 minutes drive from the downtown. Baturraden has amazing natural wonders and interesting rides in cool air between 18 to 25 degree Celsius is truly worth a visit. For more detail read THIS.

Baturraden Tourist Resort

There are also other interesting tourist attractions around Baturraden, such as Small World, Pancuran Tujuh, Telaga Sunyi, Curug Telu and The Village.

Before leaving Purwokerto, two local foods you should taste are Mendoan and Gethuk Goreng Sokaraja. They are arguably the most popular although some visitors to this town also like to have Soto Sokaraja.
Mendoan is made by fermenting soy bean and then it's coated with seasoned flour before frying and served when it is still warm. While Gethuk Goreng Sokaraja is sweet fried cassava.

Mendoan

Gethuk Goreng Sokaraja


Words in This Story

enticing (adj) - extremely attractive and makes you want to get it or to become involved with it.

getaway  (n) -  a place where one escapes for relaxation, vacation, etc.

bluntly (adv) - used when saying something honest that may offend people.

seasoned (adj) - having had salt, pepper, herbs, or spices added.