Bandung, IndonesiaSentinel.com — Mountain climbing has become a massive trend among Indonesia’s younger generation, with the country’s towering mountain and scenic peaks drawing thousands of eager adventurers. Spurred by social media, these generation seen climbing a mountain isn’t just about reaching the summit, it’s about sharing the journey with the world, often in search of validation through likes, comments, and followers.
Some of the most popular mountains for hiking in Indonesia include Mount Semeru, Mount Rinjani, and Mount Merbabu. These mountains offer stunning panoramic views and a variety of hiking experiences, from beginner-friendly trails to challenging climbs that draw both novice and seasoned hikers.
Mount Semeru, the highest peak in Java and Mount Rinjani in Lombok, known for its crater lake and challenging routes have seen an unprecedented surge in visitors, particularly from young hikers inspired by the allure of conquering these majestic summits.
Mountain climbing has exploded in popularity, as more young Indonesians aim to document their journeys and share them with friends and followers.
Social Media has sparked the Climbing Culture among Indonesian Youngsters
The role of social media in this climbing boom cannot be underestimated. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are flooded with breathtaking photos and videos of Indonesia’s mountainscapes, with content creators capturing every moment of their climbs. These posts often showcase awe-inspiring views from the summits, lush green valleys, and dramatic volcanic craters, igniting a wave of interest from those seeking similar adventures.
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For many, this constant stream of mountain-climbing content triggers a sense of FOMO, pushing more people to join the trend. As people on social media seeing all these amazing photos on Instagram, they felt the urge to experience it them self and the feel of didn’t want to miss out on the adventure that everyone else seemed to be having.
The effect of this social media-driven FOMO was on full display during the long weekend of September 15, when hiking trails across Indonesia were packed with climbers. Mount Semeru and Mount Prau, two of the most popular destinations, were so crowded that hikers reported difficulty finding camping spots, and long lines formed along the trails.
Local park authorities had to remind visitors to respect environmental rules as the sheer volume of hikers began to put a strain on the natural landscapes.
This recent spike in interest follows a prolonged closure of hiking trails during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Indonesia’s national parks were temporarily shut down. As restrictions have eased, pent-up demand for outdoor activities has led to a massive resurgence in hiking, especially among those looking for socially distant, physically rewarding experiences.
Rising Concerns on The Ecosystem
The rapid growth of this trend has led to both excitement and concern. While the increased interest in hiking has encouraged a healthier lifestyle and a renewed appreciation for nature among young people, it has also raised questions about the sustainability of the activity.
Social media continues to fuel the climbing craze, with many young Indonesians hoping to capture and share their mountain adventures online. This overwhelming interest also caused some concerns about the preservation of the natural environment and the safety of climbers
The rise of this trend has prompted park officials to enforce stricter regulations to manage the crowds and protect the fragile ecosystems of these mountains. Park rangers are urging hikers to practice responsible tourism and follow all safety guidelines to ensure both their well-being and the preservation of the environment.
The challenge now is finding a balance between embracing the outdoor adventure movement and preserving Indonesia’s natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
Mountain climbing in Indonesia has become more than just a physical challenge, it has evolved into a cultural phenomenon, tightly intertwined with social media and youth identity. For young Indonesians, scaling a peak is no longer just an individual accomplishment, but an opportunity to join a community and share in the collective experience of conquering the country’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
(Raidi/Agung)
