Rana Tonjong in East Manggarai Regency
Rana Tonjong. East Manggarai Regency is blessed with abundant natural wealth, including a diverse array of flora and fauna, expansive forest areas, beautiful natural lakes, pristine beaches with white sands, a blue sea filled with diverse ecosystems, towering mountains, fertile and lush agricultural lands, and winding rivers cutting through hills and valleys toward the tranquil ocean.
The region also boasts unique and fascinating cultural diversity, reflecting the heterogeneous society of East Manggarai that values pluralism and upholds a high level of tolerance. The natural attractions in the area, such as its lakes, beaches, forests, rivers, waterfalls, agricultural lands, plantations, and mountainous regions, have long captured the interest of tourists.
Pota is the capital of Sambi Rampas District and is one of the areas with growing agricultural and tourism potential in East Manggarai. Pota has long been known as a producer of rice, corn, mung beans, and onions. Since East Manggarai became autonomous regency, the development of plantations has been further enhanced, with Pota becoming a center for seed production in East Nusa Tenggara and strengthening the capabilities of local fishermen to harness the abundant marine resources. The strategy of diversifying crops and maximizing maritime potential in Pota has contributed to the welfare of the local community.
Rana Tonjong is located in Nanga Mbaling Village, Sambi Rampas District, about 3 km north of Pota. The lake lies in a lowland area surrounded by hills to the west, south, and north, with expansive rice fields to the east. Rana Tonjong is unique because it is covered by giant water lilies (Victoria Amazonica), known locally as Tonjong. These lilies cover the entire surface of the lake, making it appear as if there is no visible water. The water lilies thrive year-round but only bloom once a year, between April and June.
Another unique feature is that inside the fully bloomed flowers, there are seeds the size of peanuts that can be eaten raw or cooked. These seeds taste like peanuts and contain oil. Additionally, this water lily cannot grow anywhere else except in Rana Tonjong Lake.
Rana Tonjong Lake also serves as a habitat for freshwater fish, frogs, and rice field snakes, as well as a feeding ground for various migratory birds. It’s not uncommon to see storks, eagles, and white geese foraging in the lake. Due to these unique features, Rana Tonjong Lake is frequently visited by tourists and has even become one of the iconic natural attractions in East Manggarai.
Accessibility: To reach Rana Tonjong from Ruteng, take the route through Reok to Pota, then continue to Rana Tonjong, covering a distance of approximately 90 km, which takes about 4 hours. From Borong, the route is through Bealaing, Watunggong, Lengko Ajang, then on to Rana Tonjong, covering a distance of 130 km and taking around 4.5 hours. Rana Tonjong also can be reached via Labuan Bajo by renting a car or contact Tour Operator to manage your visit.
