TIMES AUSTRALIA, MOJOKERTO – Tucked away in Balongwono Village, Trowulan District, Mojokerto Regency, lies a hidden gem for agro-tourism enthusiasts Petik Melon. This unique attraction offers visitors the opportunity to pick their own fresh melons straight from the vine, creating an unforgettable countryside experience.

Managed by BUMDes Balongwono Bina Karya Mandiri, the 3,000-square-meter area has been transformed into a thriving melon field, offering a refreshing escape from the bustling city life.

The Petik Melon event is held seasonally. Visitors can enter the site for just Rp 2,000, making it one of the most affordable family-friendly destinations in the region. Unlike many tourist attractions, there are no parking fees, ensuring a stress-free and budget-friendly day out.

A Melon Paradise for Visitors

Upon entering, guests are greeted by expansive rows of melon plants, their fruits ripening under the sun. The main varieties grown here are the Honeydew Melon and the Golden Melon, both known for their sweet and juicy flesh. The experience is entirely hands-on: visitors can walk through the field, select their own melons, and pay by the kilogram. The prices are remarkably affordable: Rp 12,000 per kilogram for Honeydew Melon and Rp 15,000 for Golden Melon.

For first-time visitors, the experience of picking a melon is both educational and fun. Each plant can yield two to three melons, with an average weight of 2 kilograms. The satisfaction of choosing the ripest, juiciest fruit right from the vine adds to the uniqueness of the experience. The field is home to over 2,300 melon plants, ensuring a plentiful supply for everyone.

A Growing Local Tradition

Petik Melon has become a popular seasonal event, but its origins are deeply rooted in community-driven efforts. The idea was born in 2021 during a meeting between the village administration and BUMDes officials, as they explored ways to capitalize on local resources. Herman, the head of BUMDes Balongwono, explained that the initiative was not only about tourism but also about strengthening the village’s food security.

“The village’s soil is not particularly rich, and we face frequent weather challenges, including flooding. However, we’ve worked hard to make Petik Melon a success, and it has exceeded our expectations,” Herman said during the event.

Despite facing the occasional setback, such as the flood that caused the 2023 event to be canceled, the initiative has thrived. The dedication of local farmers and the support of the community have allowed the melon-picking tourism event to grow year after year.

A Boost for the Local Economy

Petik Melon is more than just a fun activity—it plays a key role in the economic development of Balongwono Village. Each event brings in around 3,000 visitors, generating Rp 20 million in revenue for the village. This income supports local infrastructure and services, while also providing employment for three to four local farmers during each season.

The attraction has also become a source of pride for the village. It showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of the community, which has turned an unremarkable patch of land into a thriving agro-tourism destination. The success of Petik Melon proves that even in areas where nature is not overly generous, ingenuity and hard work can turn challenges into opportunities.

Beyond the Melon Field

In addition to melon-picking, the surrounding area offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. The village of Balongwono itself is steeped in history, being part of the ancient Trowulan region, which was once the heart of the Majapahit Empire. Visitors can explore local historical sites and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Moreover, the village regularly organizes small events alongside the melon-picking attraction, such as local food markets where visitors can sample traditional snacks, or workshops that

teach about sustainable farming techniques. These activities not only enhance the visitor experience but also highlight the village’s commitment to promoting local culture and agricultural knowledge.

For those who wish to fully immerse themselves in rural life, Balongwono Village offers a glimpse into traditional farming practices and the tight-knit community spirit that drives the success of initiatives like Petik Melon. It’s a chance to see how agriculture and tourism can work hand in hand, benefiting both locals and visitors alike.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re looking for a unique and affordable day out in September, Petik Melon in Balongwono Village is the perfect destination. Families, friends, and even solo travelers will enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere, the hands-on experience of picking fresh melons, and the opportunity to support a community-driven initiative.

Whether you’re a fan of sweet Honeydew Melon or prefer the richer flavor of Golden Melon, this agro-tourism attraction is sure to offer something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy the simple pleasure of selecting their own fruit while contributing to the local economy.

With easy access and a welcoming atmosphere, Petik Melon is quickly becoming one of Mojokerto Regency’s most beloved seasonal attractions. Make sure to mark your calendars for this one-of-a-kind event that blends agriculture, tourism, and community empowerment. (*)