TIMES MALAYSIA, LUMAJANG – As dawn breaks over the hills of Lumajang, a soft mist glides across the surface of Ranu Regulo. The air is cool and crisp, filled with the faint scent of pine and damp earth.

Birds begin to sing from the surrounding forest, and the first rays of sunlight touch the still water, turning the lake into a shimmering mirror. It is a quiet, almost magical moment—the kind that makes you breathe a little slower and linger a little longer.

Nestled in Ranu Pane Village, on the edge of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Ranu Regulo is one of East Java’s lesser-known natural gems. While many travelers set their sights on the iconic Ranu Kumbolo, this smaller volcanic lake offers a similarly tranquil atmosphere without the heavy foot traffic.

Located at approximately 2,000 meters above sea level, Ranu Regulo greets visitors with refreshing mountain air and a calmness that feels untouched by time.

Simplicity and Serenity by the Lake

As the morning mist slowly fades, the lake reveals its clear reflection of pine trees and open sky, gently rippling with the breeze. Local visitors often describe the atmosphere as deeply restorative. “Every time I come here, I feel grounded again. It’s quiet, but it’s the kind of quiet that heals," says Hilza, a traveler from Malang.

What makes Ranu Regulo special is not luxury or grandeur, but its simplicity. There are no bustling cafés or loud attractions—only wooden huts, grassy slopes, and the soothing presence of water.

Many visitors arrive early, bringing simple breakfasts and thermoses of hot coffee. They spread out mats by the lakeside, sharing stories and laughter as sunlight filters through the trees. It is happiness in its most unpretentious form.

A leisurely walk around the lake reveals small trails leading to elevated viewpoints, perfect for photography or quiet reflection. The surrounding area is home to birds, wildflowers, and native plants, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a gentle adventure. Early morning remains the best time to visit, when the mist still lingers and the lake feels almost dreamlike.

Journey, Reflection, and Lasting Peace

Reaching Ranu Regulo is part of the experience itself. From Malang or Lumajang, travelers typically head toward Tumpang or Senduro before continuing to Ranu Pane Village, the main gateway to the Semeru area.

The final stretch of the journey winds through mountain roads and forested paths, offering scenic views along the way. From the Ranu Pane parking area, Ranu Regulo is only a short walk—around 10 to 15 minutes—making it accessible even for casual visitors. However, due to the altitude, warm clothing is highly recommended, especially for early-morning visits.

Beyond its natural beauty, Ranu Regulo offers an important reminder: to slow down. In a world dominated by schedules and screens, the lake follows a different rhythm—one shaped by stillness, soft sounds, and simple moments.

It invites visitors to pause, breathe deeply, and listen to nature’s subtle symphony. As the sun climbs higher, the mist disappears and daily life slowly resumes. Yet something remains—a lingering sense of peace, carried home as a memory of a morning when everything felt beautifully still.

In the heart of East Java, Ranu Regulo is more than just a destination. It is a quiet refuge, waiting patiently among the hills, where the sky meets the water and the soul finds rest. (*)

Journalist: Daffa Nafisah Zahirah