Pangkep, South Sulawesi — Hidden behind the majestic karst hills of Pangkep Regency lies a captivating natural destination that remains largely unknown to the public: Bulu Nyarang, known locally in the native language and translated into Bahasa as Gunung Kuda or in English as "Horse Mountain." Located in Barabatu Village, this area showcases dramatic limestone landscapes, unexplored natural caves, and folk tales that surround every curve of its rocky terrain.

Though not yet developed as a public tourist destination, Bulu Nyarang holds significant potential as a site of geotourism and geological heritage. At its peak stands a naturally formed rock structure resembling a horse—serving as both a stunning visual landmark and a mystical symbol for the surrounding community.

Situated at coordinates 4°45'17"S 119°37'36"E, the area was once accessed via a path leading to the summit, not for tourism purposes but for marble mining exploration managed by PT Anugrah Batu Alam Industri (ABI). The company is mostly owned by a retired high-ranking military officer and current presidential advisor on political and security affairs, Mr. Wiranto. The mining activities continued until the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the permanent cessation of all operations. Since then, Bulu Nyarang has been left in its natural state, particularly the northern part of the mountain, which remains untouched due to its extremely rugged and solid rocky terrain.

But beyond its geological charm, Bulu Nyarang also harbors a legend passed down through generations of local residents. The story tells of a deer hunter who once ventured into the area, riding his horse and accompanied by a dog. While hunting, the hunter's hat fell to the ground. He ordered the dog to retrieve it, and, miraculously, the dog responded to the command like a human. In an instant, the hunter, the horse, and the dog were turned to stone.

Locals believe that if an animal speaks like a human, a curse will immediately take place. At the summit of Bulu Nyarang, it is said there are rock formations resembling a man, a dog, and a horse. However, due to the extremely challenging terrain, only the horse-shaped rock is clearly visible from a distance. The other shapes can only be seen from specific angles at the top—and only with considerable effort.

This unique landscape and its accompanying folklore make Bulu Nyarang a location that is not only visually stunning but also rich in cultural and spiritual value. If managed sustainably and inclusively, this mountain has the potential to become one of South Sulawesi’s top destinations, combining geotourism, ecotourism, and cultural heritage into one holistic experience.

Now, with industrial activity halted, the door is wide open for conservation-based tourism development. Bulu Nyarang is simply waiting—to be discovered, protected, and appreciated as it truly deserves: an extraordinary legacy of nature and culture.