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Jakarta to Dieng Plateau Central Java
Dieng plateau on Central Java to Bali

INDONESIA

Mar
2004-09-14 16:42:50

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Steep mountain ridges from the volcano create the steep roads we climb, it's almost like cycling on the roots of an enormous tree. The views are getting more and more scenic from above. After another kilometre of climbing we turn right, descending steep this time, heading back to our coastal road. Then the road suddenly stops. The asphalt ends, decorated with a wooden gate, rice is drying on large plaited rattan mats.

Raymond asks a farmer where the road is to Bandarwaru since the previous people we've asked all pointed that we are heading in the right direction. After the man has overcome the surprise of seeing cyclists in this region, his second surprise is that we want to go to Bandarwaru at the coast. The man points to a dirt road next to his house where, in the meanwhile, several motorcyclists climb up with three large bags of rice on each motor (two on the back and one between the legs). The bags of rice are about 30 kilo's each and the motors slip their way up to the asphalt. Now we have to overcome a surprise. We go down, of course. At the end of the first slope we find a rope bridge where motorcycles are queuing to cross.
Some need help by pushing the ropes of the bridge sideways to create more space for the enormous rice bags. On the other side the dirt road climbs up again. The clay has become slippery because of all the motorcycles. Tired after this ascent we reach a small village where children are just leaving for school after their midday break. Because we were certain that we would reach Bandarwaru in 15 minutes (descending on asphalt), we haven't bought any water and are now stuck, thirsty. We stop at the village and take a break on the steps of a small mosque. A man just across the dirt track is chopping a coconut, drinks the contents and drops the empty coconut on the ground. I walk over to the man and point out that we would like one as well. Three coconuts later we are mountain biking again on the dirt track. ...