Discovering the Mystery Behind Indonesia’s “Magic Mood Ring” Volcanic Lakes, which Alternate Between Turquoise, Black, White, and Even Red
Located atop Mount Kelimutu on the island of Flores, Indonesia, a cluster of lakes resembling balmy lagoons have captivated visitors with their mesmerizing colors. These lakes, despite their tranquil appearance, are actually volcanic in nature, their waters swirling with sulfur. Known as the “Magic Mood Ring” lakes, they consist of three crater lakes, each displaying different and ever-changing hues, creating a spectacle akin to giant magical mood rings.
The names “Keli” and “Mutu” mean “lake” and “boiling” respectively, so swimming in these lakes is definitely out of the question. However, the extraordinary sight of the multicolored craters attracts thousands of tourists. In 1995, when a Dutch visitor accidentally fell into one of the lakes, a five-day rescue effort ensued. During this incident, measurements were taken, revealing a temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, with surface bubbling observed.
Satellite shots captured by NASA Earth Observatory on different days attribute the color changes to volcanic vents that release steam and gases like sulfur dioxide. Similar to blood, the presence of abundant oxygen causes the waters to take on deep red or even black colors. On the other hand, less oxygen results in water that appears turquoise-blue or green.
In addition to sulfur, these lakes contain significant quantities of zinc, lead, and other minerals. The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism noted that, aside from blue, green, red, and black, the waters sometimes appear milky white or even chocolate brown.
Mount Kelimutu, standing at an altitude of 5,544 feet, is surrounded by a great deal of local legend. According to the legends, Ata Polo was a male witch with a penchant for consuming humans, while Ata Mbupu was a kind-hearted and well-respected man. A tremendous battle ensued between the two characters over the fate of two orphans, whom Ata Polo intended to eat and Ata Mbupu wished to protect. Their black and white magical powers clashed, causing a massive earthquake that destroyed both men.
Consequently, Ata Mbupu disappeared into the green-blue lake known as Tiwu Ata Mbupu, while Ata Polo was swallowed up by the earth, forming the red lake known as Tiwu Ata Polo. The third lake, Tiwu Nuwa Muri Koo Fai, is believed to hold the souls of young people.
The local Lio people believe that since one lake is associated with good, another with evil, and a third with innocence, the mythical gatekeepers of the three lakes decide which one spirits will enter based on their life and character. Every year on August 14, offerings such as pork, nuts, and rice are left on rocks next to the lakes, intended to appease spirits that might otherwise use their powers to lure people to their deaths within the waters.
Visitors from around the world unanimously agree that the best time to hike up to the lakes is early in the morning, after the pre-dawn mist lifts, as the waters appear more active, changing colors as the sun rises.
The “Magic Mood Ring” volcanic lakes of Indonesia, with their ever-changing hues, offer a truly enchanting and mystical experience for all who have the opportunity to witness their beauty. Exploring the legends and natural phenomena surrounding these lakes adds an extra layer of fascination to an already extraordinary natural wonder.
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