More Than Just Gumuk Pasir: Discover the Filming Locations of Sal Priadi’s Gala Bunga Matahari Music Video

Mungkinkah… mungkinkah… (Could it be… could it be…)

If you’re humming this with Sal Priadi’s Gala Bunga Matahari in mind, you’re not alone. This song has struck a chord with many due to its deep, heartfelt meaning, and the music video is equally captivating. With such a unique video, it’s no surprise that fans are eager to know where Gala Bunga Matahari was filmed!

At least three iconic tourist spots in Yogyakarta served as filming locations for the video. The main site is the well-known Gumuk Pasir Parangkusumo, where Gempi (Gempita) had her scenes.

But that’s not all—two other equally stunning locations are worth adding to your travel bucket list when visiting Yogyakarta. Let’s dive into the magical spots featured in Sal Priadi’s Gala Bunga Matahari music video.

3 Locations for Sal Priadi's Gala Bunga Matahari Video Clip in Yogyakarta

Gumuk Pasir Parangkusumo

The first location featured in Sal Priadi’s Gala Bunga Matahari music video is Gumuk Pasir Parangkusumo, with its expansive gray sand that almost feels like you’re walking on the surface of the moon.

Situated along Jalan Pantai Parangkusumo in Kretek District, Bantul Regency, the dunes are just a short distance from the well-known Parangtritis Beach and about a one- to two-hour drive from Malioboro, the lively heart of Yogyakarta.

Gumuk Pasir Parangkusumo is a rare natural phenomenon, with barchan sand dunes formed through a unique process. Sand from Mount Merapi’s eruptions is carried by rivers to the coast, then sculpted by winds from the Indian Ocean.

Even though Yogyakarta has a tropical, wet climate, these dunes continue to form, making them an extraordinary sight.

In fact, this is the only place in Southeast Asia where you can go sandboarding! Equipment rentals are affordable, and you can ride the dunes as much as you like.

Interestingly, Gala Bunga Matahari isn’t the first music video to be filmed here. Yogyakarta’s own band, Letto, and Indonesian pop icon Agnes Monica also chose this stunning location for their music videos long before.

Potrobayan River Camp

Another iconic scene in Gala Bunga Matahari is the one featuring Grandpa by the riverbank. The vibrant green grass and trees set against the blue sky create a stark contrast to the “lunar” landscape seen earlier at Gumuk Pasir.

Located about 20-30 minutes north of Gumuk Pasir, or roughly 12 kilometers away, you’ll find Potrobayan River Camp nestled along the banks of the Opak and Oya Rivers.

This spot offers breathtaking river views and wide-open grasslands, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape. The cool breeze and soothing sounds of the flowing river bring a sense of calm to anyone visiting, whether for camping or simply sightseeing.

To take in the scenery, you only need to pay a small parking fee. While you’re there, it’s a good idea to bring along some extra cash for snacks or donations. If you’re just visiting, the grounds are open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

For those who want to linger longer, camping is a great option. You can pitch a tent for just IDR 10,000 per person, with the camping hours running from 2:00 PM to 11:00 AM the following day.

Jiwa Jawi Resto

The third location is Jiwa Jawi Resto, a restaurant that boasts a traditional Javanese style. Its grand Joglo house architecture, complete with a spacious pendopo and a large yard, creates a welcoming atmosphere that’s both cool and inviting. Wondering which scene featured this charming spot?

Located on Jalan Tugu Gentong in Salakan, Bantul, Yogyakarta, Jiwa Jawi is about a 45- to 60-minute drive from Malioboro, depending on traffic.

The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visiting around 2:00 PM, after lunch or when it just opens, is a great option.

In addition to its stunning ambiance, Jiwa Jawi serves a wide range of delicious dishes, including chicken satay soup, vegan mixed rice, mushroom croquettes with sambal matah, and refreshing drinks like young coconut ice, iced coffee, and iced dawet.

Explore Every Corner of Yogyakarta’s Tourist Gems with TRAC Car Rental

Yogyakarta offers a rich array of must-see destinations, ranging from historic temples and exotic beaches to scenic highlands and renowned culinary spots.

While administratively the region is not extensive, many nearby attractions beyond its borders are often included in travel itineraries, offering even more to explore.

Beyond the Gala Bunga Matahari filming locations, Yogyakarta and its surroundings are home to other filming hotspots worth visiting. Take Studio Alam Gamplong, for example, which has been the backdrop for several films and commercials.

Or head over to Kopi Klotok, featured prominently in the movie AADC 2. If you’re up for a short trip out of town, don’t miss Kota M (Muntilan), made famous by the series Gadis Kretek.

Exploring Yogyakarta’s top tourist destinations is a breeze with TRAC’s car rental services. With TRAC, you can enjoy the flexibility to travel around the city hassle-free.

Choose from two options: rent a car with a driver for a more relaxed experience, or opt for self-drive if you prefer the freedom to explore on your own schedule.

Booking is easy—just head to the TRAC website or download the TRACtoGo app, available on both Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Don’t forget to complete the registration and verification process, especially if you’re choosing the self-drive option.

TRAC isn’t just available in Yogyakarta—it operates in nearly every major city across Indonesia. Save on your travels with the promo code “DiIndonesiaAja” and get IDR 100,000 off your car rental. 

Don't forget to follow TRAC's social media on Instagram @trac_astra, Facebook TRAC-Astra Rent a Car and Twitter (X) @TRACastra to get promo information and attractive offers from TRAC.

Whatever the track, just use TRAC!