Lake Buyan is closely related to Lake Tamblingan in terms of location and ecosystem, and therefore both lakes are generally referred to as Bali Twin Lake. An interesting fact is that Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan used to be one whole lake until a landslide separated them in around the year 1800. Now they are separated by almost 2 kilometers wide of narrow ridges.
Lake Tamblingan seems to exude a mystical appeal and charm, with some regarding it as having the most unspoiled natural scenery as compared to Lake Bratan or Lake Buyan. The lake is located in the heart of Bali’s farming area and the slopes are covered with coffee plantations, vegetable fields and rice paddies. Its official location is on the north slope of Mount Lesung, Munduk Village area, District of Banjar, Buleleng Regency, about 3 hours from Denpasar. You will have the best experience while driving to this place with the cool wind blowing on your face and the feeling of pure, clean air all around you. It is advisable to pull over for a few photographs or have a small picnic on the roadside.
The entire lake area is a protected land within the 4356-acre Batukaru Nature Reserve, which is a major reason that both Lake Buyan and Lake Tamblingan have become increasingly popular with mountain trekkers, adventure seekers, bird watchers and Eco-tourists. And since the lake is located at such great heights, you will find that it is mostly covered in fog to cast a beautiful spell on the tourists. The depth of the water and reflection of the surrounding trees makes you witness some of the best shades of blue, green and grey all at the same time. The scenic beauty is just like a palette of colors.
Though motorized boating is not available on this lake, you can rent row boats or bring along your kayaks for exploring the water. Fishing is also permitted. You can opt for a jungle tour, which involves crossing the sacred Tamblingan Lake by old-style hollow canoes. Near Lake Tamblingan, visitors can perform activities, like trekking in the tropical forest with a variety of distances, ranging from 2 to 8 hours of trip. The idea is to spend quality time in and around the lake, and absorb its breathtaking beauty.
There are a few sights worth visiting in the vicinity of the lake. Numerous temples can be found on the outskirts of Lake Tamblingan, and the most popular one is Gubug Temple. This water temple, that use the traditional ‘Subak’ irrigation system at the edge of the lake, is a must visit place if you are around the neighborhood. It retains much of the architectural design, as Ulun Danu Temple, but is less crowded, offering you good photo-taking opportunities.
If you plan to explore the real Bali a bit more, these four lakes offer you some interesting stories behind it. Alternatively, you can always nourish your soul in the stunning scenery, relax at the lakeside hot springs, stroll in the beautiful local villages, take a tour of the exotic plantations, or camp in the mountains and dense jungles. Very rightly said, that Bali is a true treasure trove of natural beauty.
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