Many people might already be aware that there are multiple lake colors. Researchers said that around 31% of 85,360 lakes are blue, and the rest are non-blue, such as green, brown, and other rare colors. However, did you know that there are three colored lakes in Flores? People call it Kelimutu Lake.
This lake is located in Indonesia, specifically in the Kelimutu National Park, Mount Kelimutu, Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara. Those curious about this lake can find detailed information about what makes it unique, its legend, the best time to visit, what to expect, and frequently asked questions.
So, make sure to read this article until the end to grasp the uniqueness and significance of Kelimutu Lake fully!
What Makes It Special?
The most fitting description of visiting Kelimutu Lake Flores is buying one and getting three. This is because you will see three lakes in a complex at once. All of them have different colors, and their colors can change at the same time throughout the year.
No one can predict when the lake will change color or how many times it will change. The most changes occurred in 2016 when the lake changed color six times in a year. This became one of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world.
Researchers explain that this color change is related to the volcanic activity and fluid flux of Mount Kelimutu. The colors of Kelimutu Lake are dark blue, light blue, green, red, and black.
The Three Lakes
As suggested before, you can see three lakes at Kelimutu Lake complex, that are:
1. Tiwu Ata Bupu (Lake of Old People)
The local community believes this lake is a peaceful resting place for deceased old people. When people die of old age, their spirit will rest here. The lake usually looks serene in its blue color, but it can unpredictably change to other colors, adding a mysterious contrast to the belief.
2. Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai (Lake of Young Men and Maidens)
When someone dies at a young age, the local community believes that their spirit will rest there. So, it represents a resting place for young men and maidens. Usually, the lake colors diverge from multiple shades of green to lighter shades of blue.
3. Tiwu Ata Polo (Lake of Evil Spirits)
If the person is bad, evil, criminal, or a sinner during their lives, the local community believes that their spirit will end up here. The lake usually looks red or black, so they link it with evil spirits.
The Legend and Mysticism
According to researchers, Mount Kelimutu Lakes change color due to volcanic activity and fluid flux in the mountain. However, the locals believe that there is a legend and mysticism behind their colors. They believe this lake is sacred and represents a resting place for spirits.
There’s a folklore legend about Kelimutu Lake. In ancient times, Konde Ratu and her people lived at Mount Kelimutu, known as Bhua Ria. People in Bhua Ria lived in peace and harmony until a pair of orphans came to Ata Bupu to ask for protection from Ata Polo.
Ata Polo is an evil witch who likes to eat people, while Ata Bupu is a kind and compassionate person who can ward off Ata Polo’s evil. Ata Bupu agrees to protect the orphans, but they cannot go to the fields to avoid getting eaten by Ata Polo.
His worries are getting real when Ata Polo finally finds the orphans. Ata Polo wants to eat them, but Ata Bupu tells him to wait until they’re adults. But, from the deepest of his heart, Ata Bupu didn’t want them to get eaten, so he ran away down the mountain and died. Now, that place is known as the Lake of Old People.
Ata Polo tried to chase Ata Bupu down the mountain, but he also died in the end. Now, that place is known as the Lake of Evil Spirits. Meanwhile, the orphans have died because of earthquakes. Now, that place is known as the Lake of Young Men and Maidens.
Some people still believe that the lake represents a place for spirits. When it changes colors, the spirits change places or try to communicate with them. Therefore, you will often find shrines and offerings in this place.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to this place is from Bali via I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport. Here is how to get to Kelimutu Lake from Bali!
1. From Bali to Flores
You can book a flight from Bali (I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport) to Ende (H. Hasan Aroeboesman Airport). However, there is still no direct flight, so you must take a transit to Labuan Bajo.
Aside from that, you can also book a flight from Bali to Maumere (Frai Seda / Wai Oti Airport). But you also need to make the transit to Labuan Bajo.
2. From Ende to Kelimutu
After arriving at Ende, you need to rent a vehicle to get to the lake. You will spend 2-3 hours to get to Moni Village. Then, you can go hiking or ride a car for around 45 minutes to get to the Kelimutu Mount’s hiking post.
The location of Kelimutu Lake is right on the summit of the mountain. To get the best experience, you can hire a local guide during hiking.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is from April to October. This is the dry season in East Nusa Tenggara, so no rain will disturb you. Make sure you hike before dawn to experience the enchanting Kelimutu sunrise.
What to Expect
There are many things to do in Kelimutu Lake. You can expect:
- Light hiking to the top of the mountain.
- Get to photograph the stunning lake views.
- Hearing the story of the lake and folklore straight from a local guide.
- Witness a rare natural phenomenon.
FAQs
To avoid confusion, here are some frequently asked questions for you!
It changes because of volcanic activity and fluid flux in the mountain.
The distance from the hiking point is only 1.5 km (0.932 miles), so it will not be that difficult. As long as you follow your guide, no significant problems or difficulties will exist.
Yes, on weekdays, it’s around IDR 150.000 (USD 9,63), and on weekends, it’s around IDR 225.000 (USD 14,44). Bring cash; they don’t accept debit or credit cards.
No, because there’s dangerous chemical and volcanic activity there. It is not safe and can lead to death.
To stay safe when visiting Kelimutu Lake, you should know and consider the following: listen to your guide, wear comfortable, thick clothes suitable for hiking, and remember to pack mineral water and snacks. Enjoy your trip!
