Pangrango

Pangrango, or Gunung Pangrango, is a stratovolcano in West Java, Indonesia, forming part of the Gede Pangrango volcanic complex together with Mount Gede. The peak rises to 3,019 meters above sea level, making it one of the higher mountains in Java. It lies on the boundary between Bogor and Sukabumi regencies and is located within Gunung Gede Pangrango National Park, a protected area established to preserve montane forests and regional biodiversity.

Geography and environment within the park feature tropical montane forest that transitions to mossy and cloud forests at higher elevations. The upper slopes host a mix of forest communities, grassy balds, and epiphytic flora, contributing to a humid, misty climate characteristic of Java’s highlands. The area supports diverse wildlife, including numerous bird species, small mammals, and plant communities adapted to cooler, wetter conditions.

Climbing and access: Pangrango is a popular trekking destination with several established routes. Common starting points include trailheads near Cibodas and other entrances in the national park. Climbs typically span multiple days and involve overnight camping in designated areas, with climbers traversing forested ridges to reach the summit and then returning via the same or an alternate route.

Conservation and threats: As part of a protected landscape, Pangrango faces pressures from deforestation, illegal logging, and tourism-related impacts. The national park administers trail management, camping regulations, and biodiversity monitoring to mitigate these threats and preserve the mountain’s ecosystems for research and recreation.