6 myths behind the beauty of Mount Rinjani, adds to its charm

They could be the attraction for tourists or climbers who come to Mount Rinjani.

Who doesn't recognize Mount Rinjani on the island of Lombok has a stunning charm? Along the way to the top of Mount Rinjani we will be presented by the jaw dropping natural beauties such as lakes, caves, to sources of hot springs.

But do you know that this mountain with a peak altitude of 3,726 meters above sea level also keeps some mysteries that actually make its natural beauty full of magical aura? Not surprisingly, due to that, the myths surrounding Mount Rinjani were born.

One such myth is that Mount Rinjani is believed to be a source of strength and inspiration for the people of Lombok. That's why they always keep Mount Rinjani in order to remain sustainable. This also applies to anyone who climbs the mountain, as a form of respect to the nature and believes of the local community.

Well, what are the myths surrounding Mount Rinjani? As vadjalifehack summarized from some resources, here are six unique myths of this second highest mountain in Indonesia.

1. The myth behind the beauty of Segara Anak Lake.

Not only the scenic beauty at the mountain peak, Mount Rinjani also has the infamous Segara Anak Lake. It is said that this lake holds various unique powers and mysteries.

Segara Anak Lake is believed to be able to provide a warning to you so that you can use your time wisely. Local people believe that after leaving Segara Anak Lake, you can have a new spirit.

Various local customary events are also oftenly held at Segara Anak Lake. It is said that the lake was the living place of the legendary figure of Anjani the Goddess, the mother of the great white monkey Hanoman, with power covering the entire Mount Rinjani.

2. The myth of forbid complaining and thinking negatively.

Along the way to the mountain peak, climbers are forbidden to oftenly complaint and think negatively. That said, the bad luck will happen to climbers if they complaints or think badly too often. As long as they are still in this beautiful nature, climbers are advised to stay positive and don’t complaint too much. Therefore, always take care of yourself and don't think of anything unnecessary when climbing the Mount Rinjani.

3. The figure of Anjani the Goddess, the ruler of Mount Rinjani.

Mount Rinjani turned out to have a beautiful 'ruler' figure, she is Anjani the Goddess. This figure is believed to be the queen of Mount Rinjani guardians. According to the local community, the Goddess of Anjani was a king's daughter who was not allowed by her father to marry a man of her choice. Therefore, the Goddess of Anjani disappeared in the water spring called Mandala. After that, the Goddess of Anjani was known as the ruler of the occult world of Mount Rinjani.

For the Sasak Lombok people, the peak of Mount Rinjani is actually could not be climbed over, because it is the palace of the Goddess of Anjani. Therefore, the place cannot be touched by other creatures like humans.

4. Aik Kalak, the bathing place of the Duke of Surabaya, Raden Mas Jayengrana.

Aik Kalak in the local language can be interpreted as hot water. This hot spring source is well suited as a resting place for climbers. For the people of Gumi Sasak (Lombok) this place is believed to be the bathing place of the Duke of Surabaya, Raden Mas Jayengrana. This figure is one of the main characters in the Lombok wayang.

5. Goa Susu as a place to master spiritual ability.

Not only lakes and springs, Mount Rinjani also has a cave that has a unique myth. In Goa Susu, it is said that only certain people with clean hearts can meditate in this place. If you want to utilize spiritual ability for evil purposes, you could die immediately in this cave. The uniqueness of this cave is that local people hang white fabrics in it to maintain the beauty of Goa Susu.

6. Myth of prohibition to set foot in certain areas.

Mount Rinjani has some famous mystical and mysterious places. It is said that, climbers may not visit these places. The loss and death of climbers was oftenly associated by the local residents because they were trying to visit the restricted areas. Therefore, before climbing, you must first acknowledge the restricted areas set by the local community.

How about it? Are you afraid now to climb Mount Rinjani? The beauty and glory of Mount Rinjani can actually add to your insights regarding the natural and cultural treasures of Indonesia.