A new wave of archaeological research at Mount Tangkil is reshaping understanding of West Java’s ancient landscapes. Recent investigations by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), in collaboration with the Prabu Siliwangi Museum and local researchers, suggest that the forested mountain may contain one of the region’s most significant megalithic sites.
The discovery began earlier this year when a fragment of stone sculpture was identified on the densely vegetated slopes of Mount Tangkil. Preliminary analysis showed that the artifact’s lithic composition closely matches megalithic objects stored in the Prabu Siliwangi Museum. Cultural heritage experts note that the similarities point to a likely shared origin.
Although Mount Tangkil has not yet been designated an official cultural site, scattered discoveries in nearby locations—including a menhir in Tugu Village and similar stone remnants on Mount Karang—support the idea that the area was once part of a broader megalithic network in West Java.
LiDAR Technology Provides Breakthrough Evidence
From 16–20 September 2025, BRIN conducted a LiDAR survey (Light Detection and Ranging) over parts of Mount Tangkil, representing the most advanced investigation of the site to date. The laser-based method, which can penetrate dense forest canopy, revealed previously hidden stone arrangements and surface anomalies.
The newly detected formations strongly suggest deliberate human design. Concentrated stone structures in elevated zones indicate that the area was intentionally organized, likely following environmental patterns suitable for ancient human activity.
The LiDAR data points to four main terrace clusters:
First terrace: fragments of stones, menhirs, a potential statue, and remnants of a stone pathway.
Second terrace: structured stone arrangements resembling traditional dakon layouts.
Third terrace: mounded stones, possible ritual features, and vertical marker stones.
Fourth terrace: elongated stone formations and additional upright stones.
Researchers also detected anomalies believed to be remnants of ancient pathways and terraced platforms, indicating sophisticated land modification.
Researchers also detected anomalies believed to be remnants of ancient pathways and terraced platforms, indicating sophisticated land modification.
BRIN archaeologists conducting research at Mount Tangkil, Cikakak District, Sukabumi Regency, Indonesia
Ceramic Findings Reveal Long-Term Trade Connections
Alongside the stone structures, BRIN’s earlier field surveys uncovered hundreds of ceramic fragments dating from the 10th to 20th centuries. Experts note that these pieces reflect centuries of interaction between the Indonesian archipelago and Chinese maritime traders, suggesting that Mount Tangkil’s surroundings may once have been linked to regional trade routes. This expands the site’s significance beyond purely ritual or ceremonial functions.
“These ceramics provide evidence of extensive economic interaction,” one researcher explained. “They are crucial not only for archaeology but also for understanding the history of regional trade.”
Challenges in a Protected Conservation Area
Further research faces environmental and regulatory limits, as Mount Tangkil lies within the protected Sukawayana nature reserve. Excavation is restricted, and even minor vegetation trimming requires special permission.
“The challenge is that we cannot yet excavate key areas,” said a BRIN researcher. “For now, we are limited to surface analysis and aerial surveys. More coordination with forestry authorities is needed before deeper exploration can proceed.”
Despite these limitations, the site’s preservation offers a unique advantage. “The conservation area means the data has remained largely undisturbed. For archaeological integrity, this is ideal,” the researcher noted.
Academic Interest and Cultural Importance Growing
Scholars are increasingly focused on Mount Tangkil. Some suggest it may be linked to other megalithic centers across West Java, which could make it essential for understanding prehistoric cultural networks in the region.
The mountain also holds ongoing cultural significance for local communities, who maintain ancestral rituals at several points in the area. Researchers argue that these living traditions further support the case for the site’s official recognition.
Recent investigations by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), supported by the Prabu Siliwangi Museum and local researchers, suggest that the forested mountain may hold one of the region’s most significant megalithic sites.
Calls for Cultural Heritage Status Intensify
Given the growing evidence, researchers from BRIN and cultural leaders have formally urged regional and national authorities to recognize Mount Tangkil as a cultural heritage site. “What began as a routine museum verification effort has revealed strong indications of a major archaeological site,” said KH Fajar. “We call on the government to protect Mount Tangkil as cultural heritage.”
BRIN is planning another research phase in early September, which will include drone mapping and expanded LiDAR scanning to refine interpretations of the stone structures and identify potential buried features.
If officially validated and protected, Mount Tangkil could become one of Indonesia’s most significant newly identified megalithic sites, providing valuable insights into ancient engineering, trade networks, and cultural practices that have remained hidden for centuries beneath the dense Sukabumi forest.
