A white lake
Turquoise water in a crater.
Crisco 1492 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Abdurrozaqf — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Iban.sakuragi — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Dicka Ma'arif Alyatalatthof — CC BY-SA 4.0
A volcanic lake in the crater of Mount Patuha, some twenty-four hundred metres up south of Bandung, whose name means white crater. Its acidic water is a pale green shading to white or turquoise depending on light and weather, ringed by white ground, dead trees and thick mist, so the place seems from another world; it is one of West Java's most famous sights. Visitors drive to a car park below the summit, then small shuttle buses take them to the rim, where paths and a wooden jetty run over the water. The smell of sulphur is strong, so do not linger too long by the water; masks are sold at the entrance, and swimming is not allowed. Entry is about sixty-three thousand rupiah at the local rate including the shuttle, possibly more for foreigners. It is very cold compared with the city, especially in the morning, so bring a warm jacket. It takes about two hours from Bandung on mountain roads, so set off in the morning before the mist thickens. Combine it with nearby Lake Patenggang and the tea and strawberry farms of Ciwidey in one day.
Turquoise water in a crater.
Dead trees and thick mist.
Tea and strawberry farms around.
Ciwidey, about 50 km south of Bandung
It is strong but a short visit is safe for most people. Anyone with asthma or breathing problems should take care and keep the visit brief; wear a mask and do not get too close to the water.