Mount Papandayan hiking trails reopen after blue fire subsides

Hiking trails at Mount Papandayan in Garut Regency have reopened following the subsidence of a “blue fire” natural phenomenon in the crater area. The West Java Major Nature Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) announced the reopening after the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) determined the volcano's activity is at Level I (normal).

The blue fire phenomenon, which was observed on September 24, 2026, is caused by the combustion of sulfur gases, such as hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide, as they escape through volcanic fissures at high temperatures. Experts from IPB University note that this phenomenon has occurred at the site since 2002 following an eruption that opened new fumarole paths.

While tourism activities have resumed, authorities are monitoring the crater area closely. Visitors are advised not to linger in the crater or camp at Pondok Saladah, as camping restrictions remain in place to prevent forest fires.