Kelimutu Volcano Lake in Flores Indonesia
Kelimutu Tricolor Lake is a rare and unique phenomenon in the form of three basins that form three colored lakes as a result of a volcanic eruption. The color of the three Kelimutu lakes is always changing and unpredictable. the time of when the color of Kelimutu triicolor lake changes remains a mystery. This unique natural phenomenon combines geological knowledge with the narrative of local people’s beliefs about Kelimutu.
Stepping your foot close to the mountain, you will find the Kelimutu tricolor lake is one of the best natural phenomena in existence, and the most amazing sight in Flores, Indonesia. Local people believe that the three lakes of Kelimutu represent three different things, and beyond that, Kelimutu is also believed to be a mystical and sacred place for indigenous people.
scientific explanation of Kelimutu Tricolor Lake
The changing colors of Kelimutu’s lakes are ascribed to complex chemical responses including the volcanic gasses transmitted from the mountain’s fumaroles. These gasses, wealthy in minerals like press and manganese, associated with the lake waters, changing their oxidation-reduction states and, thus, their colors. Variables such as precipitation, temperature, and the nearness of microorganisms advance impact these changes, making the lakes’ appearances eccentric.
Local People Beliefs about Kelimutu
The Local indigenous people believe that the lakes of Kelimutu are special and sacred. They think these lakes are where the souls of people who have died go to rest. Each lake is linked to a specific group of people: Every year on August 14, the Lio community holds a ceremony called “Feed the Spirit of the Forefathers. ” They provide food and say prayers to remember their ancestors and keep balance between the physical and spiritual worlds.
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Tiwu Ata Mbupu; This lake is believed by the local community to be the resting place of the spirits of the ancestor’s soul. This lake is generally dark green or brownish in color. but it has been recorded as blue, gray to white.
- Tiwu Ko’o Fai Nuwa Muri; Lake of young males and females. This lake rarely changes color and is usually turquoise.
- Tiwu Ata Polo; lake where evil spirits reside. This lake changes color the most and is generally seen as green. but has been recorded as being black, white and red.
Every year on August 14, the Lio community holds a ceremony called “Feed the Spirit of the Forefathers. ” They provide food and say prayers to remember their ancestors and keep balance between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Visiting Kelimutu: What to Expect?
You can crave the amazing panorama of Mount Kelimutu Tricolor Crater Lake in Flores Island, Indonesia. Enjoying the sunrise while witnessing the extraordinary view from the peak of Kelimutu is another level of enjoying sunrise experiences.
Kelimutu crater lake is one of the favorite tourist destinations in the country for both local and foreign tourists because the place offers both serenity and tranquility packed with exquisite natural beauty and hospitality of local people.
How to Get to Kelimutu Tricolor Lake
Mount Kelimutu is located on Flores Island, about 66 km from Ende Town. The road to Mount Kelimutu is winding, and a bit rough, with sharp curves here and there but all the effort will be worth the price of seeing the beauty of nature.
To get near the lake, you can stay in Moni, the nearest small village at the foot of Mount Kelimutu. Usually, travelers who visit this lake will leave very early in the morning from Moni village towards the entrance or parking area as the starting point for the trekking which needs about 40 minutes driving. it takes about 30 minutes trekking from the parking area to get to the peak along the mountain’s side. Along the trekking route, you will be accompanied by sweet natural sounds such as the sounds of various birds with cool atmosphere.
It is highly recommended for you to wear clothes that can warm your body. to avoid hypothermia, especially for those of you who have cold allergies or what is called “cold urticaria”.