Bandung locals swear that Patenggang Lake in Ciwidey is the most beautiful lake in the entire Sundanese region. Lies at 1.600 m above sea level. The lake is surrounded by vast green tea plantations like a perfectly laid green carpet.
The lake’s beauty was first revealed in 1856 by a Dutch botanist and geologist, Franz Wilhelm Junghuhn. But for locals, the lake was known long before that from the myths and folklore. The story of a long-lost love centuries ago that must be remembered.
The tale of two lovers who got separated during a war in the Majapahit era. In the long run, after the war ended, they were looking for each other. After a long search and going back and forth just to discover the partner has left that place. The lovers were finally able to reunite in one spot which is now known as Patenggang lake.
Batu Cinta, the large rock near the lake’s edge is believed to be the spot where the lovers finally reunite. Folklore aside, while it may be true, Patenggang Lake’s landscape is also charming on its own.
As far as the eye can see. Visitors could enjoy a beautiful stretch of tea and strawberry plantations, a mountain landscape, and a nature reserve forest. The lake possesses pleasant weather. On most days, it’s cold and foggy composing a serene and soothing atmosphere.
Situ Patenggang, The Lakeside
Even without any fancy attractions, Patenggang lake is perfect on its own. It’s an excellent place to simply have a picnic surrounded by nature. Lay a picnic mat, and eat the warm meal bought from the local vendor nearby. The chilly weather makes it perfect to try Bandrek.
A local Bandung specialty drink made from milk and ginger. Sip the warm beverage along with some roasted sweet corn. Swimming is not a popular activity here, but tourists can take a dip in the shallow part of the lake.
Close to midday the clouds and mists start to hang lower. The calm atmosphere will make the eyes sleepy. Take a nap at one of the wooden pavilions before getting waked gently by the chilly wind. Only a short nap though, because there are still a lot of things to do on this lake.
Boats, Water-Bikes & The Romance Island
The myth says that couples visiting Patenggang lake will be blessed with eternal love. In the same way as lovers that reunite in this exact spot. All they have to do is circle the love rock. If visitors are interested to do this, rent the swan-like boat.
At Rp40.000 for an hour, it’s a cheap price to have fun. Pedaling the water bikes and figuring out how to navigate this manual boat. There are also regular boats to rent. The price is slightly higher though, at Rp150.000 for a trip. But visitors will not need to worry about pedaling and just leave it to the oarsman.
Moreover, the boat will sail further to the island of romance in the middle of the lake. An interesting fact, the island looks heart-shaped if viewed from above, hence the name.
Pinisi Resto
It’s hard to not notice this strange structure across Patenggang lake. A half-cut wooden ship stands at the lakeside. Its brown paintwork is really in stark contrast with the lush green surrounding.
For anyone wondering why a strange ship is stranded here up in the mountain. In short, the structure is actually a restaurant called Pinisi resto. Cross the wooden bridge to reach the restaurant from Patenggang lake. The dock on this ship is a popular spot for taking pictures.
From here, visitors will get the best view of the lake and Asmara island. The restaurant is also the best place to dine while waiting for the sunset. There are a variety of Indonesian or western dishes to choose from on the menu.
Prices range from Rp40.000 to Rp90.000, a bit expensive, but considering the ambiance this restaurant offers, it’s worth it.
Glamping
Recently Patenggang lake gets more famous for its “glamping” activity. Glamping is a made-up term combining the word glamour and camping. It means that people go camping, only with more luxury. There are resorts on the lakeside, offering a camping experience with 5-star hotel facilities.
The tent is not an actual tent, but rather a fully furnished room designed to look like a tent. The rate is quite expensive starting at Rp2.000.000 per night, but the comfort is worth the price. Enjoy a million stars at night without worrying about building a fire, or finding a bathroom.
In the morning, get a nice view of the misty lake while still curled up comfortably on the bed. There are more cool amenities too, such as a swimming pool, breakfast, and water heater.
Patenggang Lake Opening Hours
The lake is open every day including on national holidays. It is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, tourists who stay overnight at one of the glamping resorts could enjoy the view longer.
| Situ Patenggang Lake Opening Hours | |
| Monday – Sunday | 09:00 – 17:00 |
Nearby: Guide To Explore Tangkuban Perahu Volcano & Crater.
Patenggang Lake Entrance Fee
Situ Patenggang lake management charge tourists Rp25.000 for the entrance ticket. To get to the other side of the lake rent a boat. It cost Rp30.000/person. On the other hand, tourists could also drive to Phinisi restaurant. It is best to avoid the weekend, as it will be flooded by the locals. Season-wise, the best time to visit is at the beginning of the wet season. The lake will have enough water volume but is still not that rainy.
| Patenggang Lake Entrance Fee | |
| Entrance ticket | Rp25.000 |
| Boat | Rp30.000/person |
| Swan boat | Rp20.000/person |
Nearby: Dipping in Natural Hot Spring, Ciater Hot Spring.
Facilities
Situ Patenggang lake has a spacious parking space. The parking fee for motorcycles is Rp3.500 and Rp11.000 for cars. There are public toilets and gazebos along the lakeshore. What’s more, there’s even rent for picnic mats. And it’s affordable at Rp10.000 per mat.
There’s a small market row shortly after the entrance. Here vendors sell food, beverages, and various tourist knickknacks.
See: Jakarta To Bandung Public Transportation Guide.
How To Get To Patenggang Lake
From Bandung city, the route is Buah Batu- Bojong Soang – Banjaran – Soreang – Ciwidey – Situ Patenggang. The distance is around 50 kilometers and the journey will take 1,5 hours.
Tourists can also go by public transportation. From Leuwi Panjang Terminal in Bandung, take the bus to Ciwidey Terminal. From Ciwidey Terminal, take a public car “angkot” to Situ Patenggang.
See: Prepaid SIM Card for Tourists, Price & Providers.
Address & Location
Situ Patenggang lake located in Jl. Situ Patenggang, Rancabali, Bandung, West Java 40973.
