Hidden within the stunning Kerinci Seblat National Park (TNKS) in Jambi, Mount Tujuh is home to a true natural wonder — a breathtaking crater lake, the highest lake in Southeast Asia. More than just a natural beauty, Mount Tujuh Lake is also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
With well-marked trails and a moderate hiking duration, Mount Tujuh quickly became a favorite among trekkers, campers, and adventure seekers, not just from Indonesia but from around the world. Here’s a firsthand story of what it’s like to reach the famous summit and experience the magic of Mount Tujuh Lake.
A Family Adventure to the Summit
Originally, the plan was simple: a three-person trek with just Zaki, Raihan, and me. But as soon as we arrived in the enchanting Kerinci region, more family members jumped in — Sasha, my young niece, her mom Ine, and my cousin Dinda.
Thinking that having friends the same age would make the hike more fun for Raihan, I agreed to bring the whole crew along. Since we planned to complete the hike within a day, we kept our backpacks light — packed with just rice meals for lunch, a few snacks, chocolates, and water.
By 10:00 AM, we reached the checkpoint near the trailhead. After signing the guest book and paying a small entrance fee of IDR 5,000 (USD 0.3) per person, we gathered in a circle to pray for a safe and successful climb. A few quick photos later, we officially kicked off our journey.
No Flat Trails, Just Pure Ascent
The hike started easily, following a wide dirt road lined with vegetable farms, mostly potatoes. However, the trail soon turned into a narrow, rocky path through lush, green vegetation. After passing a few abandoned villas once used for monitoring the mountain, we entered the dense forest.
The real climb began here. The trail kept climbing steeply with no flat breaks — just relentless uphill through tangled roots and damp soil. Every few meters, we paused to catch our breath, hydrate, and snack before pushing forward.
As they say, “the mountain isn’t going anywhere,” so we took our time.
Altitude Struggles Near the Summit
The constant elevation gain started to wear on us. Zaki, in particular, felt nauseous just a few hundred meters from the summit. We quickly took a break, gave him some warming oil, and monitored him for signs of altitude sickness.
Thankfully, after a short rest and some TLC, he felt better and was ready to continue.
The Summit Is a Bonus — The Lake Is the Real Prize
Ten minutes after our last break, we finally hit the summit at 2,100 meters above sea level. We snapped some victory photos and let our legs relax a bit. The kids’ faces lit up when we told them that from here on, it was all downhill to the lake.
The descent toward Mount Tujuh Lake was steep and slippery with loose rocks, but tree roots provided helpful handholds. After just a short hike down, we reached the lake’s edge at 1,950 meters above sea level — just as rain started pouring down.
Throwing on our raincoats, we celebrated with a simple lunch under a flysheet, protecting our rice meals from getting soaked. Although the hike normally takes about 2–2.5 hours, it took us around 4 hours, but the journey was worth it.
What to Know About Mount Tujuh Lake
Covering about 960 hectares, Mount Tujuh Lake stretches 4.5 km long and 3 km wide. Due to its altitude, the lake is often shrouded in mist and low clouds, creating a mystical atmosphere.
This crater lake formed from a volcanic eruption that left a massive basin, later filled by rainwater. Its waters feed several rivers in Jambi, including the famous Batanghari River.
Mount Tujuh Lake gets its name from the seven peaks that surround it, including Mount Hulu Tebo, Mount Hulu Sangir, Mount Madura Besi, Mount Lumut, Mount Selasih, Mount Jar Panggang, and Mount Tujuh itself.
Around the lake, you’ll find a patch of white sandy beach where many hikers like to set up camp. The area is rich in wildlife — you might spot Siamangs, Malayan sun bears, tapirs, wild boars, butterflies, and even the elusive Sumatran tiger. The flora is equally impressive, with orchids and the iconic pitcher plants thriving here.
How to Get to Mount Tujuh Lake
Feeling inspired to explore the highest lake in Southeast Asia? Here’s how you can get there:
- From Jambi:
You can either fly with Susi Air (one flight per day, approximately IDR 525,000 or around USD30) or take a 12-hour overland trip by travel van (approximately IDR 160,000 or around USD10). Upon reaching Sungai Penuh, hop on a local “oplet” (shared taxi) heading to Kayuaro, then continue to Pelompek Village, the trailhead for Mount Tujuh. Be prepared for some walking or arrange a ride to the checkpoint. - From Padang (West Sumatra):
No flights are available yet, so you’ll need to take a travel van (8–9 hours). Fares range from IDR 100,000 (approximately USD 7) to IDR 130,000 (approximately USD 8.50), depending on the vehicle type. Ask the driver to drop you off at Pelompek and, if possible, negotiate for a direct drop-off at the park entrance.
Once you arrive at Pelompek, it’s time to lace up your boots and start the adventure to the highest lake in Southeast Asia!
Bams @2019
