For you hikers, Lake Ranu Kumbolo is no stranger. The lake is located in the mountainous area of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park (TNBTS). We will pass this lake when climbing Mount Semeru. Visitors do not always have to climb Mahameru to visit this beautiful lake. Visitors can hike from Ranu Pani to Lake Ranu Kumbolo.
This lake offers extraordinary natural panoramas, cool mountain air, and a calm atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the city. More than just a camping spot, Ranu Kumbolo is a natural tourist attraction rich in history and myths. How was my experience staying at the exotic Ranu Kumbolo Semeru lake? Keep reading.
About Ranu Kumbolo Lake, The Exotic Lake of Hikers' Dreams
Ranu Kumbolo Lake comes from the Javanese language, where Ranu means lake, and Kumbolo comes from the word kumbul or gather. Literally, the name Ranu Kumbolo Lake means a lake where people gather. Historically, this lake was used as a gathering or resting place for climbers and local communities before continuing their journey to the summit of Mount Semeru.
For the local Tengger Semeru community, this lake also has a very high spiritual value. They believe that Ranu Kumbolo Lake is a sacred place with strong natural energy. This is why there are various traditional prohibitions, such as not bathing or washing in the lake, and maintaining proper behavior and speech in this beautiful lake area.
Ranu Kumbolo Lake is located in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, specifically in Lumajang Regency, East Java. It is about 2,400 meters above sea level (masl), making it one of the highest lakes in Indonesia.
To visit Lake Ranu Kumbolo, you must start your journey from Ranu Pani Village, the last village before the climbing trail to Semeru. Ranu Pani can be reached from two major cities, Malang or Lumajang.
The general route to Ranu Kumbolo is Malang - Tumpang - Ranu Pani. From Malang, climbers usually take a rented jeep or public transportation to Tumpang, then continue to Ranu Pani via the mountain route.
The second route is from Lumajang - Senduro - Ranu Pani. This route is another alternative when heading to Ranu Kumbolo. The direction is via Lumajang towards Senduro District, then continue up to Ranu Pani. After arriving at Ranu Pani, hikers must continue the hike, which normally takes 4-6 hours, depending on physical condition and weather.
Hiking to Ranu Kumbolo Lake or Mount Semeru, including Ranu Kumbolo, is subject to the regulations of the TNBTS Grand Office. Hiking is usually open from early morning, around 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and can only be done if the weather conditions and volcanic activity of Mount Semeru are safe.
All guests entering this area must comply with several regulations:
- Register online on the official TNBTS website.
- Bring a doctor's certificate of good health.
- You must pay the entrance fee, which is usually between Rp 20,000 and Rp 35,000 daily (prices may vary depending on the season and policy).
These requirements must be met for the safety of the visitors themselves. So, remember to obey all the rules TNBTS has requested.
Exciting Activities and Experiences at Ranu Kumbolo Lake
I first visited Mount Semeru in 2013, one of the Seven Summits of Indonesia, which I wanted to conquer. I visited around May during the dry season, so I was lucky to have obvious and good weather.
My friends and I were aiming for Mount Semeru, so we stayed at Lake Ranu Kumbolo Lake after summiting Mount Semeru. The lake was quiet when we arrived, and few hikers were around. However, when we descended, it was very crowded with other visitors.
It turned out that many guests had only intended to camp at Ranu Kumbolo Lake from the start, not to climb Mount Semeru. So, for friends who want to camp at this lake, you do not always have to climb Mount Mahameru. We will pass this lake when climbing Mount Semeru. Generally, climbers will camp at this lake after descending from Mount Semeru.
Luckily, when we descended from Mount Semeru, there was still space left for our camp, which faced the lake directly and was right in front of the lake without being blocked by other tents.
Moreover, here are some exciting activities you can do while camping at Lake Ranu Kumbolo Lake.
1. Camping by the Lake
One of the most popular activities among visitors is camping. Many climbers spend the night at this lake before continuing to Kalimati or Mahameru, or vice versa, after descending from Mahameru and Kalimati.
Bring proper camping equipment and supplies because the nighttime temperature can drop to 0°C. Choose a safe and comfortable camping location. At that time, my friends and I chose a camping spot by the lake to get water for cooking easily and enjoy the lake without being blocked by other tents.
2. Relaxing Trekking Around the Lake
Hikers or visitors can explore the area around the lake to enjoy the natural beauty from various angles, including the hill of love and the grasslands on the west side of the lake. You can trek up the hill of love, which is said to have an extraordinary myth, as long as you pass this hill of love, mention your wish, but as long as you pass it, you must not look back, and it is said that your wish will be granted. Believe it or not, give it a try.
3. Nature Photography and Videography
Ranu Kumbolo Lake is a paradise for landscape photographers. The natural beauty, morning mist, calm lake, and starry night sky are objects that will spoil your camera. Everything becomes a fantastic sight to document and capture in a picture.
4. Writing or Meditating
The quiet atmosphere and fresh air make this place perfect for contemplating, writing a journal, or simply being alone while enjoying nature. You can lie down on the brownish grass while writing, stare at the sky to enjoy the beauty of creation, or close your eyes while breathing in the fresh air. Everything is so beautiful.
5. Stargazing
Stargazing at Ranu Kumbolo Lake is one of the most magical experiences for hikers, including me. Located at about 2,400 meters above sea level and far from light pollution, the night sky at Lake Ranu Kumbolo Lake is so clean and clear. The stars appear so close on clear nights, and even the Milky Way galaxy can be seen clearly with the naked eye.
The quiet atmosphere, cool air, and sparkling night sky create a peaceful moment that is genuinely touching. This activity is perfect for self-reflection, night photography, or simply sitting quietly and enjoying the beauty of the universe stretching out above your head. I still remember stargazing with my friends near the tent we built on the grass. It was so much fun and an unforgettable experience.
6. Observing Animals and Plants
The Ranu Kumbolo Lake area is also home to several species of birds, insects, and endemic plants. You can make it an educational experience while exploring the surroundings. You will find some plants you may never have seen before, or discover some rare birds unique to this mountain. However, remember, never damage or disturb the animals and plants in this lake.
7. Painting the natural scenery of Ranu Kumbolo
I saw several people painting the scenery of Lake Ranu Kumbolo. Painting nature at Lake Ranu Kumbolo is an exciting activity for art lovers. The calm lake, beautiful grass and green trees, the lake surrounded by exotic hills, and the vast sky are an extraordinary inspiration to be poured onto canvas.
The peaceful atmosphere and cool mountain air add to the comfort of painting. This activity is not only calming but also deepens one's appreciation for the beauty of nature. For those who love painting, it is best done in the morning or evening for the best results.
8. Enjoying Sunrise and Sunset
One of the most anticipated moments for climbers or visitors staying at this lake is watching the sun rise from behind the hills or set in the afternoon. Imagine that when you open your tent, you are immediately treated to a beautiful view of the sky slowly changing colors and golden rays reflecting on the calm surface of the lake unforgettable sight.
9. Interact with other climbers
Interacting with other climbers at Ranu Kumbolo Lake is a delightful social experience. Amidst the tranquil nature, light conversation around the tents creates camaraderie among climbers from various regions. Sharing stories, food, or climbing tips adds to the warmth of the atmosphere.
This activity not only expands your network of friends but also enriches your trip experience. At Ranu Kumbolo, togetherness and solidarity among climbers are integral to the adventure.
At that time, we also had many conversations with other hikers and exchanged food, and to this day, we are still in good contact with some of those hikers, even going on hikes to other mountains together.
10. Exploring Local Stories and Myths
If you meet some locals or if a guide accompanies your hike, try to interact with them. You can learn stories about the prohibition of washing in the lake, the legend of Bukit Cinta, and the beliefs of the local community. Surely, these local stories will make your visit full of education and knowledge. That's what I did, chatting with the local community.
My Thoughts
That was my experience camping at Lake Ranu Kumbolo. The trip was very enjoyable, exciting, and unforgettable. For me, Ranu Kumbolo is more than just a tourist spot. It is a place that touches the soul, offering beauty and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere.
The beauty of this lake is worth enjoying and preserving together. By maintaining cleanliness and respecting nature, we can ensure that future generations can experience the charm of Ranu Kumbolo as we do today.
When taking a vacation to Lake Ranu Kumbolo, remember a few tips. The challenges are different from exploring other lakes because Lake Ranu Kumbolo Semeru is an educational nature and hiking destination that requires trekking. I will write about the tips in my next article.
Has anyone ever visited and camped at Lake Ranu Kumbolo Semeru? Feel free to share your exciting experiences in the comments section, including the fun activities you did during your camping trip there.
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