When visiting North Maluku, one destination you must not miss is Tolire Lake, a unique tourist spot located at the foot of Mount Gamalama.
This lake not only offers stunning natural beauty but is also steeped in legends and myths that have long been part of the local community’s life.
The beauty and mystery of Tolire Lake have attracted both local and international tourists alike.
The History and Origins of Tolire Lake
Tolire Lake is divided into two parts: Great Tolire Lake and Small Tolire Lake. According to local folklore, the lake was formed due to a tragic event.
It is said that a father committed a forbidden act against his daughter, which led to both of them being banished from the village.
Shortly after, a massive landslide split the land, creating two lakes and submerging the village of Takome.
This story adds to the allure, especially for visitors intrigued by the mystical history behind the natural beauty of Tolire Lake.
Important Information for Visitors
Entrance and Parking Fees
There is no entrance fee to visit Tolire Lake, so you can enjoy its natural beauty for free.
However, if you bring a vehicle, parking fees are Rp 1,500 for motorcycles and Rp 3,000 for cars.
Route and Access
Tolire Lake is about 17.3 kilometers from the center of Ternate City, and the journey to the lake takes about an hour via Jalan Batu Angus.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to beautiful natural scenery, making the journey part of the adventure.
Attractions and Myths Surrounding Tolire Lake
The White-Headed Crocodile Myth
One of the most famous myths surrounding Tolire Lake is the story of a white-headed crocodile believed to be the king and guardian of the lake.
According to local belief, this crocodile maintains peace and balance in the lake area.
Some visitors have even reported seeing the white-headed crocodile, further reinforcing the myth.
Stunning Natural Beauty
Surrounded by mountains and dense forests, Tolire Lake offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The crystal-clear green water of the lake, set against the backdrop of Mount Gamalama, creates a breathtaking scene.
It’s the perfect place to find tranquility and connect with nature.
Strange Gravity Phenomenon
One of Tolire Lake’s unique attractions is its mysterious gravity phenomenon, which has yet to be explained scientifically.
People who throw stones into the lake will find that the stones never reach the water but always fall back to the lake’s edge.
This phenomenon has intrigued many visitors, who are eager to try it themselves.
Facilities at Tolire Lake
Although Tolire Lake is still under development, several basic facilities are already available for visitors’ comfort. Some of these include:
- Adequate Parking Area: The parking area around Tolire Lake is spacious enough to accommodate both two- and four-wheeled vehicles, offering convenience for visitors arriving by private vehicle.
- Clean Toilets: The toilet facilities at Tolire Lake are clean and comfortable, though visitors are advised to bring personal hygiene items such as tissues or hand sanitizer.
- Prayer Room (Mushola): For Muslim visitors, there is a mushola near the lake where they can worship peacefully, allowing tourists to perform prayers without missing their prayer times.
- Local Food and Drink Stalls: If you feel hungry or thirsty after enjoying the lake’s beauty, you can buy food and drinks from stalls run by local small businesses (UKM). Snacks and refreshing drinks are sold at affordable prices, enhancing your tourist experience.
- Information Boards: Around the lake, there are information boards explaining the history, myths, and interesting facts about Tolire Lake, helping visitors to understand and appreciate the place on a deeper level.
Tolire Lake is a destination that combines extraordinary natural beauty with rich folklore filled with history and myths.
From the tragic origin story of the lake’s formation to the legend of the white-headed crocodile and the mysterious gravity phenomenon, this place offers a unique and magical tourism experience.
With continuously improving facilities, Tolire Lake is ready to become a favorite destination for tourists seeking a blend of nature, culture, and legend.
If you plan to visit North Maluku, don’t miss the chance to explore Tolire Lake and experience its mystical charm.
