Wisata dan Kuliner: Ranu Kumbolo - A Hidden Paradise at 2400 M above sea level

The Smoke of Semeru Mt

Ranu Kumbolo

Semeru is the highest mountain in Java Island with the height reaches 3676 M above the sea level. It is not only that Semeru is the highest mountain in Java that attracts hikers to come, but also the beauty of Ranu Kumbolo – a 15-acre-fresh water lake just below the peak of Mahameru.

For hikers, Ranu Kumbolo is very familiar as this is one transit poin for them to build their tents and have some rest, before continuing their journey reaching the Mahameru. Its water discharge that has never been lack is one of the reasons for hikers to stop and build their tents; while its beauty is another main reason.

Ranu Kumbolo

Sitting overlooking the lake will not only rest the legs and the back bone, but also refresh the eyes. Clear fresh water lake surrounded by hills and the green of trees give nutrition to the eyes after walking so many hours through the woods. The surface of the water is very calm and beautiful as it reflects the sun light. As the dawn over, the sun will rise and appear between the two green hills; deliver a gorgeous greeting to your morning. In the late afternoon, the fog starts to down and reach the surface of the water is another lovely picture to have. While at night, laying by the lake under the clear dark sky will give you a ‘wow’ moment picturing hundred stars – clusters of the milky way. Any time you reach Ranu Kumbolo, the view will never fail you.

Welcome, Sunshine!

Welcoming sunrise

Not far from the lake, you can find a hill called “Bukit Cinta”, which is believed that anyone who climbs the hill by imagining the one they love without turning their heads back, will stay together happily. Besides that, near the lake you can also find an inscription from Majapahit Kingdom and also some memorial stones dedicated to those who died while climbing the Semeru Mountain.

Background - Bukit Cinta (The Hill of Love)

Enjoy lovely morning at Ranu Kumbolo

To reach the place, you need to go to Lumajang District in East Java. From Jakarta, you can find a flight to Surabaya and continue to Malang, or you can take a train to Malang that will take 15 – 16 hours journey. As you reach Malang train station, find transportation to Ranu Pani; which will take around 2 hours driving. Ranu Pani is a village where the climb of Semeru begins.

Ranu Pani - Your starting point to hike Semeru

You need to register yourself before climbing the Semeru; copy of identity card and a letter signed by a doctor stating that you are in good condition are required.

From the starting poin to Ranu Kumbolo (2400M asl), you’ll have to walk around 5 – 7 hours. There are 4 posts built by Perhutani for you to take a rest. All of the hikers are suggested to open their tents in Ranu Kumbolo before they continue their 7 - 10 hours walking to the peak of Mahameru.

Prepare your equipment well, as the temperature in Ranu Kumbolo may reach minus 5 degree Celsius at night. And keep yourself from littering the place. What to wait? Go packing!