Ranu Darungan in Pronojiwo Sub-District, Lumajang

Lumajang City has another beautiful lake located in Pronojiwo Sub-District. The name is Ranu Darungan Lake or local people often call it Linggo Rekisi. Derives from the name is surrounded by lots of Rekisi trees! Apart from its beauty and solemn nature, the lake holds a historical value as it belonged to the Dutch back then. Today, the lake has been chosen as one of the most recommended tourist spots for those who are visiting Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Equipped with other lakes which are also available in that location.

As mentioned before, Ranu Darungan Lake is surrounded by Rekisi Trees. Even though the water is quite soothing, no one is allowed to get or swim in it. Some water plants are also seen floating on the lake, which somehow appears beautiful. The next feature is an ancient lodge located on a particular part of the lake. The fact is that the lodge belonged to the Dutch who managed the site as an orchid natural conservation. The reason is the site was the home of rare wild orchids and the Dutch tried to protect them from extinction and thievery.

It is safe to say Ranu Darungan Lake shares similar functionalities to other lakes in Lumajang. That means it is suitable for camping and other fun activities there. The nuance is both calming and challenging, after all. The next feature that makes it a perfect spot for camping is the presence of exotic animals like eagles, monkeys, insects, etc. They often make some noises which are quite peaceful to hear. For campers, the sound of nature is definitely soothing to hear. Moreover, the atmosphere becomes more comfortable at night! No one can disturb tourists’ camping activity there.

The lake also becomes an important place for the locals (Tengger Tribe). They take advantage of the lake, especially as a tourism potential. One thing that tourists should know, though, Ranu Darungan often gets drought and leaves a small puddle in the middle of it. Despite the bad condition, such phenomenon attracts more tourists due to its uniqueness. Visitors want to see it by their own eyes and take pictures of such puddle using their camera. In this case, the best time to visit the lake is definitely during the dry season.

On the other hand, those who want to enjoy the lush nature and the beauty of Ranu Darungan Lake should come aside from the dry season. According to the locals, the water of the lake comes from the underground river. Some people don’t believe it, though. Apart from such story, the lake features a big tree which becomes the home of numerous animals like turtledoves, eagles, and other Javanese animals.

How to Get There
Ranu Darungan Lake is located in Pronojiwo Sub-District. From Lumajang City, tourists can take Nasional III Street and spend about 1-2 hours. The distance between those regions is 44 km, after all.