Colored lakes of Kelimutu volcano. Incredible colorful lakes of kelimutu volcano in indonesia
An example of the unusual design of nature are colorful lakes. They are scattered all over the world and annually attract the attention of millions of tourists. Among all the amazing lakes of this kind, three lakes stand out favorably, which have risen to a height of more than one and a half kilometers above sea level and are kept apart.
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We are talking about the famous multi-colored lakes of Kelimutu, in Indonesia. It's three crater lakes, which are located on top of the now dormant volcano. The volcano is located on the island of Flores, which belongs to Indonesia. The last time the volcano made itself felt back in 1968. Since then, scientists have not observed any alarming signs of seismic activity, so visiting the colorful Kelimutu lakes is an absolutely safe undertaking. At the top of the volcano, these legendary three lakes are located, the water in which is able to change the shade of water during the year from turquoise to red or even black.
On this occasion, it will be interesting to learn about the legends that exist among the natives of the island. The indigenous people of the island firmly believed that these places are sacred and sacred, so it was a grave sin to desecrate them. The natives believed that the souls of dead relatives rest in these colorful lakes. The color of the water in the lake changes when the living have angered the dead with something and they show their dissatisfaction in this way.
This legend, or rather beliefs, explain why reservoirs have such strange names In the original language. The western reservoir has the unpronounceable name Tivu-Ata-Mbupu, which translates as “lake of the old”, and the other two are Tivu-Nua-Muri-Kooh-Tai and Tivu-Ata-Polo. The original titles are translated in different ways. So, for example, the second lake is called both the "lake of the young" and the "lake of boys and girls." And the last reservoir has a slightly ominous and mysterious name: “enchanted lake”.
legends
The first lake became in some way a haven for people who lived to a respectable age and lived their lives with dignity and were respected among those around them. That is why this lake is at some distance from the other two, since real wisdom can only be comprehended over the years.
About the second reservoir, which is called the "lake of boys and girls", we can say the following: in this lake the souls of people who left this world young are buried. It is worth noting that the color of the water in this lake changes especially often, perhaps this indicates that youth is a very changeable time of life. And finally, the third lake, which has such an ominous name, became a haven, according to legend, for the souls of murderers and criminals.
Also curious is the fact that the last two lakes are in close proximity to each other and they are separated only by a narrow crater wall. According to legend, this suggests that sometimes the line between what is right and what is false is very thin and easy to cross. An important reminder hidden in the crater lakes!
Like unusual and unique places? Then I recommend that you familiarize yourself with Lake Powell in the USA. Trust me, you will be impressed.
These legends quite interestingly interpret and explain this amazing natural phenomenon. We can say that such an explanation sounds rather ominous, but in fact, these lakes inspire and inspire everyone who visits them. What do scientists say about this, who have been investigating with interest for a long time the reasons for the unusual color of the water in the lakes?
Water color change
On this moment there is such a completely logical explanation for this phenomenon: chemical reactions that occur in the water of the lake. Through various cracks, volcanic gases enter the water of the lake, which, together with various minerals, form a chemical reaction that affects the color of the water in the lakes. So, for example, when iron elements and hydrogen sulfide react, the water turns red. The high concentration of hydrochloric and sulfuric acids explains the rich green color of the reservoir.
It is worth noting that scientists cannot fully explain this phenomenon, since over the past 20 years the color of the water in the lakes has changed a total of 12 times. If used to be a lake"evil souls" or "enchanted lake" was a rich scarlet color, then over time it became darker and now it is almost black.
observation decks
Most beautiful view to these amazing picturesque lakes open from special viewing platforms, which are located at the very top of the Kelimutu volcano. Such sites have a favorable location so that they offer a truly unforgettable view from the most successful angles. In addition, the sites are specially equipped to prevent various incidents and accidents. The most advantageous multi-colored lakes look against the background rising sun early in the morning or during beautiful sunset In the evening. Later in the morning, the lakes are enveloped in fog, which gives these places some mystery and mystery. At such moments, it becomes clear why the locals consider these places sacred.
Walking and viewing lakes from places not intended for this is not always safe, since the volcanic stone is quite slippery. In addition, evaporation that comes from the surface of water bodies can cause general weakness and fainting.
Information for tourists
It is worth noting that if you decide to visit these amazing places, you will be able to see not only the famous colorful lakes. Kelimutu volcano with its lakes is only a small part nature reserve which is under the protection of UNESCO. The volcano is located in the middle of the picturesque jungle, which covers an area of about 5 hectares. On the territory of this reserve, in the middle of the jungle, there are also caves with stalactites and waterfalls. So you can enjoy not only the contemplation of lakes of an unusual color, but also see beautiful landscapes tropical forest.
The nearest major city to the volcano is 60 km away. This is the city of Ende, small in size, but quite complete, where tourists can find everything they need. Here tourists can find shelter, food, and necessary medicines. In close proximity to the volcano with its lakes, there is a small farming village of Moli, which tourists often use as a transit point and a place to relax.
Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world come to see these amazing places. And although there are colorful lakes in other places, here nature really did its best. Three lakes with completely different water colors are relatively apart from each other. There is no need to dream of such a thing. But you should hurry, because this unique natural monument can disappear at one moment and no longer surprises and excites the inhabitants of the planet. If the Kelimutu volcano starts to act again, then as a result of the eruption, the lakes will disappear without a trace.
Indonesians are in awe of this amazing place and do their best to keep this place safe and sound for future generations. The image of these three lakes was on the banknote of 5 thousand rupees at one time and was in some way a symbol of the whole country. These lakes deserve to be seen with your own eyes. Photos of lakes posted on the Internet cannot convey even a small fraction of the unimaginable beauty and splendor that you can see with your own eyes. It is also impossible to feel the whole gamut of feelings at the sight of these unique reservoirs personally. Photos will not convey the atmosphere of mystery that evokes reflections on something sublime and eternal.
The Kelimutu volcano is mystical place located on the island of Flores, lost in the ocean, which is rarely visited by tourists due to its remoteness and underdeveloped tourism infrastructure. Even in the sky, flying over Flores, you can see a bright turquoise spot that stands out sharply against the dark green that covers the island. This is one of the three Kelimutu crater lakes, with which legends and beliefs are closely intertwined. local residents.
The Kelimutu lakes are located in a volcano on the island of Flores (altitude 1639 m.), which belongs to the Indonesian Eastern Lesser Sunda Islands. Volcano in last time erupted in 1968, after which it does not show signs of activity. After the eruption, depressions-calders were formed in the magma, in which water from atmospheric precipitation forms three lakes.
Why are Kelimutu lakes famous? Not even because they are multi-colored, but because the lakes are constantly changing color. For example, black lake after a few years it becomes turquoise, then red, and then green. This variability is explained by the presence of dissolved minerals of various nature in the water. Chemical reactions between them lead to the dynamic multicolored Kelimut. Green is sulfuric and hydrochloric acids, red is the result of the reaction of hydrogen sulfide with iron, although in last years the water of the red lake is darkening, and now it has become almost black. As can be seen from the photographs, the two lakes are literally a few meters apart, and yet their depths contain different minerals, respectively, and they themselves are painted in different colors.
Representatives of the local Lio tribe tell the legend of Kelimutu. According to this legend, the souls of the dead go to the lakes. The souls of old people live in the red lake, the souls of those who died young live in the green lake, and the souls of children live in the white one. According to another version, sinners and murderers fall into the red lake, young people into the green one, old people and the righteous into the turquoise one. It is difficult for Europeans to understand the philosophy of the Lio tribe, although they themselves distribute souls without any problems and even claim that the color change indicates that the spirits living in the lakes are angry.
Official names lakes are as follows: in the west of the volcano (at a distance from others) - Tivu-Ata-Mbupu (lake of the elderly), the other two - Tivu-Nua-Muri-Kooh-Tai (lake of boys and girls) and Tivu-Ata-Polo (enchanted lake ).
The inhabitants of Flores believe that the souls of dead people end up in the lakes. The souls of the old people who have lived their lives with dignity go into the lake, which has a calm and deep dark green color, it is called the Lake of the Old People. The souls of innocent young people go into a lake of exciting bright turquoise color, which is called the Lake of Boys and Girls. And the souls of the villains go into the lake of dark brown color, which is called the Lake of Evil Souls. The Lake of Boys and Girls and the Lake of Evil Souls share a crater wall that symbolizes the fine line between innocence and evil. The Lake of the Old Men is somewhat aloof and symbolizes the wisdom that comes with age. Locals claim that if the living anger the souls of the dead, the lakes will change their color. Especially often the lake of Boys and Girls changes color, it is said that in the last twenty-five years the lake has changed its color twelve times.
Of course, scientists have their own explanation for the Kelimutu phenomenon, they argue that the lake is rich in special minerals that change their color depending on natural conditions and underground activity. But, the inhabitants of Flores still tend to stick to their point of view and most travelers who come here share the beliefs of the inhabitants. Here, indeed, there is a special mystical atmosphere and a feeling of absolute peace and silence, which makes you lower your voice, slow down and think about the eternal...
The best way to admire the magnificent views of the Kelimutu lakes is from the top of the Kelimutu volcano (1690 meters above sea level). The way to the top is not difficult and takes about 2 hours. The easiest way to get to the foot of Kelimutu is from the village of Moni, which is located just a few kilometers from the volcano. You can also go to Kelimut from Labuanbajo or Maumere. Such a trip will take the whole day and will cost at least $100, including transport, driver, guide and entrance fee to national park Kelimut.
The 1639 meters high Kelimutu volcano, located on the Indonesian island of Flores, is known for its crater lakes that change color from time to time. Natural reservoirs, in which various minerals are dissolved, change color every few years, becoming turquoise, red-brown, green or black. At the same time, color transitions occur independently of each other, which strengthens the belief of local residents in the supernatural origin of the place. According to ancient myth, in the lakes of Kelimutu, the souls of the dead find their rest and shelter.
The source of multi-colored shades and the reason for such geological anomaly Kelimutu crater - minerals deposited at the bottom of each of the lakes. They gradually dissolve in water, coloring it as a result of chemical reactions. Volcanic lakes have their own names: Tiwi Ata Mbupu (translated as "Lake of the Elders and the Wise People"), Tiwu Nua Muri Kooh Tai ("Lake of Young Souls") and Tiwu Ata Polo ("Enchanted Lake of Evil Spirits").
Overnight in the village of Moni, closest to the Kelimutu crater locality, should be booked in advance, especially during peak dates (July and August). Guest houses, as a rule, organize transfers to the lakes for additional fee. To see the sunrise on the volcano, you should leave Moni no later than four in the morning. This best time to visit the reserve, not so much because of the picturesque landscapes bathed in the sun, but because of weather conditions: in the afternoon, the lakes are often hidden by heavy fog. For a walk, you should choose warm and well-protected clothes from the wind, as well as take a lantern, water and snacks with you. However, in the early morning, locals on the trail prepare tea and coffee for tourists.
How to get there
The Kelimutu lakes are located in the central part of the island of Flores, 60 kilometers northeast of the city of Ende and 105 kilometers southwest of the city of Maumere. They have small airports with flights from major cities- Denpasar, Kupanga, Labuan Bayo and Tambolaka.
Travel time from Maumere, the largest of the two cities closest to Kelimut, to the volcano is three to four hours, depending on weather conditions. The road passes through mountainous terrain and is quite exhausting, so most tourists stop in the small village of Moni for an overnight stay before visiting the lakes. a little rest. In addition, it is a convenient transfer point in case you are traveling by scheduled buses; they go to the village from Maumere and Ende several times a day. From Moni, located 15 kilometers from Kelimutu, buses also run to the crater. They are very popular with local population and, as a rule, they drive crowded, so the best option to get to the sights - a taxi, since the locals willingly give tourists a lift.
Location
Kelimutu volcano is located on the territory of the same name national park located on the island of Flores, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands.
In the craters of the Kelimutu volcano (Kelimutu) there are 3 lakes, which are located on the same top of the volcano in Indonesia. However, despite this, each of them differs from the others in color. This is the only place in the world where you can see such a striking difference in colors.
All three lakes have their own names. Local residents have believed for centuries that the lakes are a place of spiritual rest for their ancestors. According to legend, the lakes change color according to the mood of the souls, and in this case, the moods of the souls are constantly changing. 
Lake of the Elderly (Tiwu Ata Mbupu), located in western point volcano, usually blue. It is separated from the other two and it is here, according to legend, that the souls of elderly people who led a decent lifestyle go. 
The other two lakes are separated by a crater wall. The Lake of Youth and Women (Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai) is usually characterized by its green color. The third, Enchanted Lake (Tiwu Ata Polo), often takes on a blood red color, but in these photographs, it appears olive. 
It is in the third lake, according to legend, that the souls of bad people are taken, regardless of gender and age. The very word "Kelimutu" means a boiling lake and people can often observe puffs of steam rising from the surfaces of the lakes. 
Despite the fact that the depths of the lakes have not been thoroughly studied, it is believed that the difference in color is due to underwater fumaroles. Fumaroles are holes on the surface of the planet through which gas and steam escape - sulfur dioxide, hydrogen chloride and sulfide, as well as carbon dioxide. This process causes the deep waters, rich in nutrients and color, to rise to the surface and retract surface water down, which is the reason for the change in the appearance of lakes. 
Mount Kelimutu is located in the national park of the same name on the island of Flores. Despite the fact that the island is 350 kilometers long, the park itself is quite small, and the nearest town (Ende) is 60 kilometers away. However, the small farming village of Moli is located next to the volcano and is often used as a resting place by tourists who decide to rest on the way to the Kelimutu ridge. 
It is impossible to predict what the color of the lakes will be when you go upstairs, because they change significantly. Unlike other crater lakes, the color of which can be predicted, the color of these three lakes cannot be predicted. The colors you see in the photo are usually the dominant colors: blue, green and black, but the lakes can also be white, red and blue, respectively. 
People making the journey to the top of the ridge usually do so at dawn. Often, later in the morning, three lakes are hidden behind patches of fog. However, by noon, the fog dissipates and the people who have reached here are alone here. However, they must remember to start their descent towards the Moli village before evening. 
A few reckless hikers chose the unofficial path along the edge of the lakes. The slippery volcanic rock made this path dangerous, not to mention the fumes coming from the lakes that make people faint. Those who fell into the lakes did not get out alive. 
In 1995, a Danish hiker fell down a steep slope into the Lake of Youth and Women. But, despite the fact that five days were spent searching for him, his body was never found. One can only hope that his spirit has reunited with the souls of the young and women who live here. Since then, people usually do not climb over the fence. 
Despite the fact that this volcano and lakes are not well known outside of Asia, Kelimutu is considered by many to be one of the seven wonders of nature. And it's hard to disagree with that. 
The lakes of the Kelimutu volcano are one of the most beautiful natural wonders. They attract many tourists to Flores Island and Kelimutu National Park. The peculiarity of the reservoirs is that the water in neighboring lakes differs in color. Moreover, the waters of one lake change color over time. Travelers are ready to endure a difficult path to the top of the volcano to admire the beautiful mountain scenery, lush vegetation on the slopes of the mountains and amazing lakes in the crater of a majestic volcano.
Volcano Kelimutu
Kelimutu volcano is part of the fiery Pacific ring of volcanoes. Its height is 1639 m above sea level. Sometimes he is active, although this is not accompanied by severe destruction. The last time the eruption occurred in 1968 in the form of clouds of yellow smoke, ash and a small release of magma. Max Height emissions amounted to 48 m. Since then, the volcano is calm and signs of seismic and volcanic activity not seen nearby.
The National Park, which is located near Kelimutu, impresses with beautiful nature and big amount living creatures. The area of the park exceeds 4.5 hectares, on which there are many flowering lianas, pines, and red trees. There are also casuarinas and edelweiss. Among the mountains you can find the entrance to the picturesque caves. Among the fauna of the park, 19 endemic species were found - animals that live only here.
These places are good for walking and relaxing in the bosom of nature. Although at times, to get through dense thickets, you need good physical fitness. Due to high humidity and constantly warm weather, the slopes up to the very top are covered with greenery.
Description and legends
The upper part of Kelimutu consists of bare rocks formed by solidified lava with three small depressions. Water accumulated in the depressions and lakes formed. Two of them are very close and are separated by a narrow stone bridge. The third lake is 1.4 km away. Water gradually destroys rocky walls and leaches minerals from their thickness. Some scientists believe that there is a crack at the bottom through which volcanic gases penetrate to the surface.
Coloring minerals differ in color and are found in the rock. Getting to the next mineral, the lake is painted again. That is, reservoirs not only differ in color from each other, periodically the color changes dramatically. The chemical reactions of substances with gases and acids that rise from the depths of the volcano also affect the color. Water samples can contain iron, hydrogen sulfide, sulfuric and hydrochloric acids.
The lakes are fed only during the rainy season, as there are no underground sources. At the same time, their depth is very large, according to scientists, the crater goes down by 1.5 km.
The locals gave it inexplicable phenomenon mystical properties, and the process of changing colors is associated with changes in one's life or in the mood of the spirits. Each lake has got its own name and legend. Not only tourists rise to the top. Here you can also meet local residents who come to talk with their dead ancestors or ask the gods for advice.
Lake of the Elder and Wise Souls (Tiwu Ata Mbupu) is a place where the spirit of people who died in old age moves. They lived a long life and gained the wisdom that comes with age. Therefore, the waters are painted in a deep dark color. The lake was brown, black or dark green. The reservoir is located away from the rest and has an almost round shape with high rocky shores.
Tiwu Ata Mbupu Lake
Lake of Young Souls (Tiwu Nua Muri Kooh Fai) is a haven for the spirits of boys and girls who have left this world prematurely. This is one of the two paired lakes, which is located on the left. Its water is lighter, it acquired milky, light green, turquoise and pinkish hues. The waters in the lake are the most changeable and change every 1-3 years. Near each reservoir there is a plate with the main characteristics and dates of color change. The lake is surrounded high cliffs, they go down almost vertically.
Tiwu Nua Muri Kooh Fai Lake
Across a narrow rocky barrier from Lake Nua Muri Kooh Fai is Tiwu Ata Polo - the enchanted or evil lake. It serves as the last refuge of villains and sinners. The narrow border symbolizes the temptation for young people to step into the wrong path. Tivu-Ata-Polo often takes on a bloody or brown color.
Tiwu Ata Polo Lake
Excursions to the lakes
To admire great views lakes and surrounding areas, you should go on an excursion very early. Most right time- 4 o'clock in the morning. Then, before dawn, you will be able to get to the observation deck and see the landscape in all its glory, as well as admire the unforgettable sunrise. A few hours after dawn, a thick fog rises over the reservoirs and lasts until noon. Of course, you can come to the mountain after lunch, but the heat and high humidity make the hike very tiring. And if you do not have time to return before sunset, then you will have to spend the night right here.
You can get to Kelimutu National Park by car. Also there are big tourist buses. Roads good quality but narrow and curvy. You will have to drive 12 km from the nearest village of Moni to the entrance to the park.
At the entrance you need to buy tickets and permission to shoot ($1-2 per person). The entire territory of the park is available, and not just Kelimutu with lakes. Highway rests on a small area with souvenir shops and parking for cars. The rest of the journey must be done on foot. Among the sparse forest, monkeys constantly scurry about, and flocks of bright birds fly. In 15-20 minutes along a winding path you can reach observation deck. From it opens scenic view all three lakes.
For security reasons, metal fences have been installed, for which tourists are not recommended to go. Cases have been recorded when people stumbled and rolled into the lakes, forever disappearing into the depths of the volcano. Another reason to keep your distance is the poisonous fog. In the immediate vicinity of the lakes, the air is saturated with acid fumes, which can lead to loss of consciousness. However, some decide to extreme travel along the rocks.
To see the third lake closer, you need to go along a special path and a small staircase. There is a wonderful view from the observation deck. Nearby, the funnel surrounded by forests is not so picturesque.
How to get there?
You can get to Flores by water or by air. The island has two small airports serving domestic flights. One of them is on south coast(Ende), and the other - in the north (Maumere).
Transit point between Kelimutu National Park and others major cities Flores is the village of Moli. It is located at the very foot of the mountain. The distance from Moli to Ende is 51 km and to Maumere 102 km. In 2-4 hours, along a winding serpentine of narrow roads, you can get to Moli and relax before the tour.
Where to stay?
It is better to come to Moli for a few days, because you can immediately overcome long way and it will be hard to walk in the park. In heat and high humidity, fatigue sets in more quickly. There are many small restaurants and hotels in the village to comfortably spend a few days. One of the rooms can be rented from local residents. In July and August, there is the largest influx of tourists, so renting a house is harder.
