via Times Indonesia, 21 March 2024: Goa Jegles, a captivating cave in Kediri, East Java, is drawing tourists with its natural beauty and historical allure. The cave, believed to be formed by underground rivers or volcanic activity, features stunning crevices and a sunlit lake, offering a swimming experience amidst nature. With a history tied to the 16th-century figure Trunojoyo and the Majapahit era, Goa Jegles holds stories of meditation, rituals, and ancient relics.
Goa Jegles not only boasts natural beauty but also holds many stories. In the 1980s, the cave was a favorite spot for people to meditate, perform rituals, and even seek ancient relics.
“There are many stories from the 1980s when it was used for meditation and various rituals,” explained Didin.
The history of Goa Jegles is believed to be closely linked to Trunojoyo, a figure from the 16th century. According to local folklore, Trunojoyo sought refuge in a region near Mount Kelud with numerous passages to evade his pursuers.
“The area with numerous passages is believed to be associated with this place,” added Didin.
One piece of evidence supporting this claim is the presence of Sumber Gemuling (Tipped Well), located 1.5 km from the Jegles area, believed to be a well that was tipped over during Trunojoyo’s war. Additionally, some of Trunojoyo’s deputies are said to be buried in the Ngantang area of Malang Regency, approximately 28 km from Goa Jegles.
Source: Goa Jegles: The Enchanting Cave of Kediri East Java – TIMES Indonesia