Telaga Warna

Top choice in Central Java


Ringed by highland forest and steep-sided vegetable terraces, this lake is renowned for its exquisite colour. Ranging from a delicate turquoise to a rich cobalt blue, the hue of the water is determined by the sulphur deposits that bubble up from the depths. A trail circumnavigates both Telaga Warna and neighbouring Telaga Pengilon, paved in concrete for most of the way. The lakeside offers lots of secluded spots for a picnic and opportunities to hike along paths through neighbouring terraces.

Most visitors are content to potter around the selfie stations between the entrance and the exit, leaving the path (which takes about 30 minutes to walk) relatively peaceful except for the the odd generator, pumping water up the steep hillside to the terraces above. Gua Semar, a meditation cave, punctuates the route and there are good viewpoints from several points along the way, including a narrow isthmus that almost separates the two lakes.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Central Java attractions

1. Candi Bima

0.27 MILES

Proudly sitting atop its own processional staircase, Candi Bima is unique in Java, with kudu (sculpted heads) peering from each alcove of this elaborately…

2. Ratapan Angin

0.3 MILES

For a spectacular perspective of Telaga Warna, it's worth climbing the hill above the lake. Called Ratapan Angin (and signposted as Dieng Plateau Theatre)…

3. Candi Gatutkaca

0.68 MILES

Part of the nearby Arjuna Complex, Candi Gatutkaca is a small Shiva temple (a yoni was found inside) with a square base.

4. Kawah Sikidang

0.69 MILES

This volcanic crater with steaming vents and bubbling mud ponds is a major local tourist attraction, marked by rows of warung food stalls and…

5. Museum Kailasa Dieng

0.7 MILES

This museum displays an array of Hindu statues and cultural artifacts in two buildings. It is perhaps of only passing interest but there are a few gems,…

6. Arjuna Complex

0.74 MILES

The five main Shiva temples that form the Arjuna Complex are clustered together in the middle of the Dieng Plateau. In common with other temples in the…

7. Candi Dwarawati

1.11 MILES

The restored Candi Dwarawati is on the northern outskirts of Dieng village.

8. Sembungan

1.51 MILES

South of the geothermal station, the paved road leads to Sembungan, which, at 2300m, is said to be the highest village in Java. Potato farming has made…