Eid al-Adha Prayer Amid Mountain Scenery in Wonosobo’s Garung Offers Free Homestays for Visitors
WONOSOBO — The tradition of welcoming thousands of worshippers from outside the region during Eid al-Adha prayers at Garung Field in Garung Hamlet, Butuh Village, Kalikajar District, Wonosobo Regency extends beyond prepared prayer sites. Locals open their homes as free accommodation for visitors, with attendees able to stay in houses arranged by the organising committee.
Butuh Village Head Dzikroni said the practice of hosting guests for Eid al-Adha prayers has been ongoing for years, embodying community spirit. He noted that the desire to pray with mountain views prompts many visitors to arrive days in advance.
“The arrivals typically start well ahead of the event, including some from outside Java,” Dzikroni said.
The Eid al-Adha prayer at Garung Field is scheduled for Wednesday, 27 May 2026. The location is renowned for its direct views of Mount Sindoro and Mount Sumbing, making it a popular religious tourism destination in recent years.
Dzikroni explained that Garung Hamlet has around 950 homes, most of which can accommodate visitors needing temporary lodging. However, he stressed these are not commercial rentals; worshippers stay free of charge.
“It’s not for rent. When directed by the committee, it’s for resting and no fees are charged. Locals are happy to host guests,” he said.
According to Dzikroni, guest reception is organised voluntarily through coordination between the committee and willing residents. This model addresses the annual influx of worshippers, which far exceeds the field’s capacity of around 7,000 people. Last year’s turnout reached approximately 30,000, prompting many to seek accommodation early.
Besides local homestays, commercial lodging options are available nearby. However, residents’ homes remain popular for offering a closer experience of village life in the mountainous region.
Dzikroni added that many visitors come not only to pray but also to enjoy the village atmosphere before and after Eid al-Adha. Attendees hail from across Indonesia, including Kalimantan and Sulawesi, with some arriving from overseas.
Due to high demand, Dzikroni urged worshippers to arrive early and coordinate with local organisers for accommodation. He also reminded visitors to maintain cleanliness, respect locals, and uphold the local customs that define Butuh Village.
For Garung residents, hosting guests without charge is more than providing shelter—it is a gesture of welcome to fellow worshippers gathering at the slopes of two mountains.