TIMES MALAYSIA, MALANG – Candi Gito, located in Malang, East Java, is a captivating man-made sanctuary that rests gracefully within a tranquil fish pond. Found in the Lembah Tumpang tourist complex on Jalan Slamet, Gang Gumuk Agung, in Tumpang District, this cultural attraction reflects a refined blend of Majapahit and Singhasari influences, making it a unique destination for visitors.

The concept of Lembah Tumpang began to take shape around 2014 under the vision of Prof. Dr. Ir. Yogi Sugito, former rector of Brawijaya University. What was once a swampy landscape has since been transformed into a historical-themed retreat, created to pay homage to Indonesia’s rich cultural legacy.

According to staff member Budi Santoso, this project reflects Yogi Sugito’s deep love for the civilizations of Indonesia’s ancestors. Beyond being a leisure destination, the site serves as an educational gateway that connects visitors to various historical eras.

Architecture, Artifacts, and Personal Stories

Architecturally, Candi Gito is made from black andesite stone and rises prominently in the middle of the pond. The structure is adorned with small statues and highlighted by a Harihara relief, a symbol of King Raden Wijaya, the first ruler of the Majapahit Kingdom.

Surrounding the candi are replicas of legendary figures such as Dwarapala, Ganesha, Ken Dedes, and Gajah Mada, as well as a crowned princess statue. These features collectively create a strong atmosphere reminiscent of Nusantara’s golden age.

Candi Gito is not only a replica but also a personal canvas filled with meaning. The reliefs carved into its walls tell the life story of its founder, Yogi Sugito, from childhood through adulthood.

In addition, visitors can find his collection of antique furniture, including chairs, cabinets, four-poster beds, and other household items, carefully displayed on site. As Budi Santoso explained, each wall of the candi carries a part of Yogi Sugito’s journey, making the site deeply personal as well as cultural.

Facilities and Visitor Experience

The Lembah Tumpang complex itself spans around eight hectares and offers a wide range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience. These include gazebos, a prayer room, cafés, and photogenic spots for social media.

Families can enjoy adventure attractions such as Dino Park, Flying Fox, and River Tubing, which are especially popular on weekends. The entrance fee is Rp 60,000 per person, and the site is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00 local time, offering an ideal blend of heritage and recreation.

Beyond Candi Gito, the wider complex offers miniature replicas of other well-known temples, including Borobudur and Sewu, providing an educational element for children and adults alike.

The resort also features several spring-fed pools such as Aurelia Pool, Aryadita Pool, and The Hidden Paradise Pools, each carrying unique designs inspired by royal or natural themes. These pools add a relaxing atmosphere to the cultural experience and make the destination even more versatile.

Javanese Kingdom Theme-park

Lembah Tumpang is often described as a Javanese kingdom–themed park, offering a mix of cultural immersion and leisure. It is sometimes referred to as “The Land of Joy” because of its playful yet meaningful design.

Conveniently located just about 10 kilometers east of Malang city center, it is both accessible and enjoyable for families, students, and tourists seeking a deeper connection with Javanese culture.

Candi Gito at Lembah Tumpang stands as a heartfelt tribute to Java’s historical kingdoms, enriched by artistic craftsmanship, personal storytelling, and recreational facilities. Whether drawn by heritage, architecture, or natural surroundings, this unique destination offers an unforgettable experience for all who come. (*)