Lake Tamblingan
Lake Tamblingan
UNESCO DESIGNATION
Lake Tamblingan is a pristine natural lake at the foot of Mount Lesung, one of Bali’s inactive volcanoes. It is is surrounded by dense jungle foliage, a huge variety of native wildlife, ancient Balinese temples and the archeological remains of a 10th-century civilization. The lake has long had significant spiritual meaning to the local community, who share a belief in maintaining its sanctity. Recognizing the lake as holding cultural importance in Bali, it is now a designated spiritual tourism area and protected from modern development.
SURFACE AREA
1.6 kilometers squared
MAXIMUM DEPTH
90 meters
LAKE TYPE
Volcanic Cadera
Lake Tamblingan is one of three lakes formed around Mount Lesung by an ancient caldera – a depression in the ground created when a volcanic eruption empties a magma chamber beneath the earth’s surface. There are also several dormant volcanoes lying within the caldera.
The Balinese temples, or “puras”, found around Lake Tamblingan are relics of ancient local communities, though only one village – Gubug – still remains on the lakeside. Trekking in this area takes you to one of Bali’s most rural regions, immersing you in Balinese culture away from overcrowded tourist spots.