In a significant initiative to promote cultural tourism, the Tour & Travel Study Program (Bisnis Perjalanan Wisata) of the Vocational School at Universitas Gadjah Mada has partnered with Grogol Tourism Village in Gunungkidul to develop a culture-based event tourism package called “Kanca Budaya.” This innovative package aims to attract both domestic and international tourists by offering a variety of cultural activities that showcase the region’s rich heritage.
The Kanca Budaya package is designed to immerse tourists in the local culture, providing them with unique experiences that highlight the traditions and customs of Gunungkidul. Tourists will have the opportunity to participate in traditional games, savor local culinary delights, and enjoy artistic performances, especially during the “Gelar Pesona Kalurahan Budaya Kapanewon Paliyan 2024” event.
On September 21, 2024, in collaboration with the Indonesian Language and Culture Learning Service (INCULS), Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Gadjah Mada University, the BPW program invited 15 international students to experience the Kanca Budaya package. These students hail from diverse countries, including Zimbabwe, Thailand, Vietnam, Peru, Tanzania, Colombia, Timor Leste, Malawi, Papua New Guinea, Yemen, Afghanistan, Madagascar, and Jordan.
During their visit, the international students engaged in various traditional activities, such as playing egrang (stilts) and dakon (a traditional board game). They also had the chance to taste local delicacies like teh telang (butterfly pea tea) and sega tambir (a traditional rice dish). These activities not only provided entertainment but also fostered a deeper understanding of the local culture.
The Kanca Budaya package is not just about entertainment; it also aims to strengthen community ties and promote cultural exchange. By involving local residents in the tourism activities, the program encourages the preservation of cultural heritage while providing economic benefits to the community. This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting creativity and innovation in tourism.
The collaboration between Gadjah Mada University and Grogol Tourism Village exemplifies how educational institutions can play a vital role in community development. By leveraging academic resources and expertise, the university is helping to create sustainable tourism practices that benefit both visitors and locals.
As part of the Kanca Budaya initiative, the Gelar Pesona Kalurahan Budaya Kapanewon Paliyan 2024 event features a variety of performances, including ketoprak (a traditional Javanese theater) and reog (a traditional dance). These performances will not only entertain but also educate tourists about the historical and cultural significance of these art forms.
The positive response from the international students highlights the potential of culture-based tourism in attracting visitors to Gunungkidul. By showcasing the region’s unique cultural offerings, the Kanca Budaya package aims to position Grogol Tourism Village as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
In conclusion, the development of the Kanca Budaya tourism package represents a significant step towards promoting cultural tourism in Gunungkidul. By fostering creativity and innovation, this initiative not only enhances the local community’s cultural identity but also contributes to the broader goals of sustainable development.