The highest caldera lake
In Southeast Asia.
A volcanic lake in an ancient crater at about 1,950 metres, counted as the highest caldera lake in Southeast Asia; its name means lake of the seven mountains, for the seven peaks around it. It lies inside Kerinci Seblat National Park, ringed by dense rainforest, its water clear, blue and cold. Visitors reach it on foot from Pelompek village in about three to four hours uphill on a forest path, past giant trees and the calls of monkeys and birds, then drop a little to the shore. Some camp on the bank to see mist on the water at dawn, and some hire a small boat from local people. The foreigners' fee is about IDR 150,000 per day and Indonesians' about ten thousand, cash only. A local guide is advised, especially for those camping. The trail is muddy after rain, so bring good shoes, warm clothes and water. Combine the lake with the Kayu Aro tea estates and Mount Kerinci on a few days in the highlands.
In Southeast Asia.
Around the blue water.
Giant trees and monkeys.
Pelompek, Kerinci regency, Jambi
Yes: many set off from Pelompek at dawn and return before dusk, but it is a long, tiring trip; to enjoy dawn on the water, camp a night.