Gunung Halimun Salak serves as a crucial habitat for numerous endangered species, including the Javan gibbon (Hylobates moloch), Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas), and Javan hawk-eagle (Nisaetus bartelsi). The park hosts over 244 bird species, making it an important bird area (IBA). Other notable wildlife includes the silvery gibbon, Javan surili, pangolin, and various species of hornbills. The park's intact forest corridors are vital for maintaining viable populations of these rare and endemic species.
The park harbors one of Java's largest remaining primary rainforest ecosystems, with over 1,000 plant species identified. The vegetation varies by altitude, featuring lowland rainforest below 1,000m, submontane forest from 1,000-1,500m, and montane forest above 1,500m. Notable species include the endangered Raflesia rochussenii, numerous orchid species, and valuable timber trees like rasamala (Altingia excelsa). The forest canopy reaches heights of 30-40 meters, creating distinct ecological layers that support diverse plant communities.
The park's landscape is dominated by two volcanic complexes: Mount Halimun (1,929m) and Mount Salak (2,211m). Both are ancient stratovolcanoes formed through successive layers of hardened lava, tephra, and volcanic ash. Mount Salak's last recorded eruption was in 1938, and its volcanic activity continues to fuel several hot springs in the region. The terrain features steep slopes, deep valleys, and numerous waterfalls, with underlying rock compositions primarily consisting of andesitic and basaltic materials typical of the Sunda volcanic arc.
The area was designated as a National Park in 1992, combining the previously separate Halimun and Salak mountain forest reserves. The region has deep cultural significance for the indigenous Kasepuhan community, who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. Historical records indicate the area served as an important natural barrier during colonial times, with Dutch plantations established on its periphery in the 19th century. The park's boundaries were expanded in 2003 to include critical wildlife corridors and better protect its unique ecosystems.
The park's most distinctive features include the Cikaniki Research Station, which serves as a base for scientific studies and wildlife observation, and numerous waterfalls such as Citiis and Cibereum. Traditional villages of the Kasepuhan community offer cultural insights into sustainable forest management practices. The park also contains several hot springs, scenic hiking trails, and excellent birdwatching locations. The Nirmala tea plantation, established during Dutch colonial times, borders the park and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Gunung Halimun Salak experiences a tropical rainforest climate with high annual rainfall averaging 4,000-6,000mm. The park's elevation range of 500-2,211 meters creates distinct temperature zones, with cooler conditions at higher altitudes. Daytime temperatures typically range from 20-30°C (68-86°F) at lower elevations to 15-25°C (59-77°F) near the summits. The wettest period occurs from October to April during the monsoon season, while May to September offers relatively drier conditions, though afternoon showers remain common year-round.
Indonesia
-6.7010°, 106.4380°
1992
1133.57
Gunung Halimun Salak National Park is one of the largest remaining tropical rainforest ecosystems in Java. The park contains two prominent mountains, Mount Halimun and Mount Salak, and protects numerous endangered species including the Javan gibbon and leopard. The area is also home to traditional Kasepuhan communities who maintain sustainable agricultural practices.