TIMES AUSTRALIA, PASURUAN – A soft morning mist covers Tambakwatu Village in Pasuruan as the first steps begin. The air is cold enough to make your breath visible, and the small beam of a flashlight guides the way between tall pine trees of Putuk Lesung.

The view escalated when a faint orange hue starts to appear in the east. This is why many hikers set out before dawn to catch the magical sunrise from Putuk Lesung, a beautiful hill on the slope of Mount Arjuno that’s perfect for beginners.

Located in Tambaksari Village, Pasuruan, Putuk Lesung rises about 1,470 meters above sea level. The hiking route is short and friendly, taking around two hours from the basecamp in Tambakwatu.

The Hiking Starts

The trail up to Post 1 (Gua Ontobego) is paved with stones, making it easy to walk on even in the dim light. The climb is gentle, surrounded by the scent of pine and fresh earth. Though the stones can get slippery with moss, the trail feels safe and inviting ideal for those who want to experience hiking without facing steep, exhausting slopes.

After about an hour, hikers usually reach Post 1, where a small stall sells hot coffee and snacks a simple comfort in the middle of nature. The forest feels quieter here, as if it’s pausing to listen to the early footsteps of visitors. From this point, the journey continues toward Post 2 (Tampuono).

The paving ends, replaced by soft soil and tree roots that twist across the path. The climb becomes slightly steeper, but the fresh air and peaceful surroundings make it surprisingly enjoyable.

As you move higher, a thin layer of fog often rolls in, wrapping the trail in a cool, calm atmosphere. Sunlight slowly breaks through between the branches, giving a hint that the summit is near.

Summit

When you finally reach the top, every step feels worth it. Mount Arjuno and Mount Welirang stand tall in the distance, glowing under the golden rays of sunrise.

At the summit, a small prayer hut (mushola) and a large rock shaped like a traditional rice mortar (lesung) mark the area symbols that give Putuk Lesung its name. Many hikers choose to sit quietly here, letting the morning light warm their faces while the world below remains wrapped in fog.

One of the hikers, Qarina Vitri, shared her impression after reaching the top. “The trail was easy, and the whole experience was so satisfying, completely worth it,” she said with a big smile, still catching her breath after the climb.

The entrance fee is only about Rp10,000, making it an affordable escape for anyone who wants a light adventure without long or technical climbs. Hiking to see the sunrise at Putuk Lesung isn’t just about chasing sunlight, it’s about finding peace in the quiet rhythm of nature, one step at a time. (*)