In Indonesia there is the mountain Kelimutu, which, in fact, is a dormant volcano . The last time the volcano erupted in 1968, and after - did not show signs of activity. But the mountain is not famous for this, but thanks to the three lakes with waters of different colors available on its peaks, or rather - in its craters.
Lake Tears, Indonesia
This name of the lake on Mount Kelimutu in Indonesia was due to its unique multi-colored waters, as well as related legends. Perhaps this is the only place in the world where you can simultaneously see at such a relatively short distance three such different shades of water: turquoise-green, red and brown-black. Moreover, the lakes periodically change colors in the specified color range.
Lakes appeared after the last eruption of the volcano. At atmospheric precipitations formed at the tops of the basins. As explained by scientists, the causes of this unusual coloring of the lakes were chemical reactions between the gas and various minerals.
For example, a red tint is the result of the reaction of iron and hydrogen sulphide. And such deep green color has turned out owing to high concentration of sulfuric and hydrochloric acids.
Tears for the departed souls
Local residents explain the change of shades of water in lakes more romantic. In their opinion, the change of colors is connected with the state and mood of the souls of their deceased ancestors, who after death go to these lakes.
Each lake on Mount Kelimutu in Indonesia has a separate name, as well as its legend. The farthest lake, located one and a half kilometers from the other two, is called Tivu-Ata-Mbupu or Lake of the Old. Here, according to legend, the souls of the righteously lived their lives, people who died of old age. The lake symbolizes the wisdom that comes with age.
In the middle, between the two lakes is a lake with the long name of Tivu-Nua-Muri-Koh-Tai. In translation, it means Lake of boys and girls. Here the souls of innocent young people go. For 26 years, the lake water has changed its color 12 times.
The third lake is called Tivu-Ata-Polo - Enchanted Lake, Lake of Evil Souls. Here come the souls of villains, evil people. The thin isthmus between the two lakes symbolizes the fragile borderline between good and evil.
To meet impressions
Mount Kelimutu is located in the National Park on the island of Florence. The park is relatively small, and the nearest city is located in sixty kilometers. But almost at the foot of the volcano is a small village - Moli. It is she who enjoys a lot of love among tourists who want to relax on the way to the top of the famous mountain.
Climbing the mountain of Kelimutu, that in Indonesia, takes place on specially built ladders, and for viewing the Lakes of Tears there are observation platforms. It offers a magnificent view. For the safety of tourists here there are fencing fences, climbing through which is strictly prohibited.
After the tragic event in 1995, when a young Dane fell into the lake from a steep slope to the Lake of Young, wishing to violate this law was noticeably diminished. The body of the tourist was never found, although they searched it for a long time and carefully. It remains only to hope that his soul is united with the other souls of the young
Tips for beginners
It is better to ascend to the top of the ridge at dawn, because at that time visibility is the best. Later, the fog clouded everything around and the lake can never be seen.
By noon, the fog will most likely dissipate, but you need to hurry to get down from the mountain before dusk. And it is better not to walk better than singly, but in groups. Lakes are rather insidious - from outgoing evaporation some lose consciousness and can fall from slippery stones. Choose the safest paths, away from the edge of the cliff.