The Garumedang Geosite is another remarkable place in Belitong where visitors can discover the story of tektites—rare rocks formed when a meteorite struck Earth about 790,000 years ago. The collision created extreme heat and pressure, melting the surface and flinging molten material into the air. When it cooled, it turned into glass-like stones called tektites.
In Belitong, these tektites are known as Billitonite or Satam Stone, famous worldwide for their unusual shapes and textures. Unlike other tektites found in Asia, Billitonite can be distinguished by having a recognizable “back” and “stomach”, a feature that makes it truly one of a kind. Locally, people call it the “black diamond of Belitong.”
Garumedang is not only a site of geological wonder but also an area rich in cultural and mining history. During the 19th century, Chinese tin miners working in Belitong first uncovered these mysterious black stones while washing tin deposits. Scientists later confirmed their cosmic origin, linking Garumedang to Belitong’s global reputation as a source of world-class tektites.
Today, the geosite is more than a relic of the past—it is also a place of nature conservation. Visitors can explore landscapes shaped by traditional tin mining while appreciating the effort to restore and protect the coastal ecosystem. The area is home to flora such as the sea cypress (Casuarina equisetifolia), wetlands, and bird habitats, creating opportunities for both ecotourism and education.
A visit to Garumedang Geosite allows travelers to connect with Belitong’s deep history—where cosmic events, human culture, and natural heritage come together in one extraordinary destination.