Note This! Alternative Routes for Mudik in Gunungkidul

The Transportation Office (Dishub) of Gunungkidul Regency has prepared four alternative routes into the area during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming period. Additionally, the traffic police of Gunungkidul Police Precinct have mapped out accident-prone traffic routes, including the Jogja-Wonosari Road.

Bayu Susilo Aji, Secretary of Gunungkidul’s Transportation Office, stated that the Jogja-Wonosari Road remains the primary mudik route, particularly for entry into Gunungkidul. However, to anticipate congestion, the office has prepared alternative routes.

“For alternative routes, drivers can use the new connecting road between Gunungkidul-Sleman via Nglanggeran, Patuk,” he said when contacted by journalists on Monday, 16 March 2026.

The Transportation Office has also prepared an alternative route from Panggang leading to the southern cross route (JJLS). For travel from Bantul to Gunungkidul, drivers can access the Dlingo-Playen road.

“However, the Dlingo-Playen route is recommended only for smaller vehicles as there are steep inclines,” he stated.

For the northern alternative route, Bayu mentioned drivers can use the Sambeng route in Ngawen, Gunungkidul, which connects Gunungkidul with Klaten, Central Java.

“There is also the new Clongop road in Gedangsari. However, drivers using the Clongop route should be cautious as there is potential for landslides, so those heading to Klaten can use the Serut route instead,” he said.

Bayu added that personnel will be stationed at mudik posts during the Lebaran period, and the Transportation Office will conduct patrols.

Accident-Prone Routes in Gunungkidul

Meanwhile, Traffic Police Chief of Gunungkidul Police Precinct, AKP Priya Tri Handaya, revealed several accident-prone routes, including the Jogja-Wonosari road, with frequent accidents occurring in Playen District.

“The Jogja-Wonosari Road from Patuk to Playen is prone to accidents, with frequent incidents occurring at Gading III, Playen,” he stated.

Additionally, the Bundelan incline in Jurangrejo, Ngawen is also considered accident-prone due to extremely steep gradients.

Therefore, Priya urged drivers to exercise caution when travelling on such routes and ensure their vehicles are in good condition.

“Drivers are urged to be careful, always follow traffic signs and ensure their vehicles are functioning properly during mudik,” he said.