Lake Segara Anak, Volcanic crater lake in Rinjani National Park, Indonesia
Lake Segara Anak sits within Mount Rinjani's crater at about 2000 meters elevation and covers a substantial water surface. The water is clear and displays different shades of blue depending on the light.
The lake was created by the massive eruption of Mount Samalas in 1257, which carved out an enormous crater. This event was one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history.
The name means 'child of the sea' in Indonesian, referring to the deep blue waters that resemble the ocean. Local people connect this place to their spiritual relationship with nature and the volcano.
You reach the lake through multi-day trekking tours starting from villages at the mountain's base. It is important to bring proper hiking equipment and have good physical endurance.
The water feels noticeably warmer than other lakes at this elevation because of geothermal activity beneath the surface. This heat source from below makes swimming possible even at this altitude.
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