By Widhibek
Published October 11, 2021 | Adapted for NightSkyIndonesia.com

I never seem to get bored visiting Selo, nestled between Mount Merapi and Merbabu. There’s always something captivating to capture. Fortunately, it’s not far from home—usually just over an hour without heavy traffic. Yesterday, with plans to pick up a lens in Boyolali, I decided to visit Selo too, especially since the sky was clear. Star twinkles were already visible from Simpang Lima Boyolali.

[Milky Way like a bridge connecting Merapi – Merbabu]

Surprisingly, Saturday nights in Selo are quite lively despite ongoing social restrictions (PPKM). One of the camping grounds at Gardu Pandang was fully occupied with tents and parked cars nearby. Initially planning to shoot the Milky Way above Merapi there, I soon moved to find a quieter spot, ultimately settling by the roadside near a closed warung with camera and tripod in hand.

[Shooting next to roadside]

Curious, I ventured up the road towards New Selo, uncertain if it was still closed. If so, a quick turn-around would be necessary. Upon arrival, I found only one open warung and two groups of visitors.

[Shooting Merbabu from New Selo]

I ordered hot tea while setting the camera on a tripod facing Mount Merbabu, which looked bright that night. Flickering lights stretched in one ridge—likely the road leading to Embung Mananjar, a popular camping spot on Saturday nights, according to the caretaker.

[Star trail above Merbabu]

Before I knew it, close to midnight, I polished off a plate of egg fried noodles and bid farewell. Promised to return when time permits. On the way back, I stopped briefly at Irung Petruk to savor the city lights of Boyolali and Solo from the heights.

[Petruk overlooks Boyolali]

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NightSkyIndonesia.com invites you to explore the magic of locations like Selo, connecting nature, night skies, and local culture under Indonesia’s twinkling stars.