Angel's Pool

Exploring the Hidden Charm of Kolam Bidadari: A Turquoise Gem in the Heart of Alor's Forest

Alor Regency in East Nusa Tenggara has long been known as a diver's paradise thanks to its world-renowned underwater beauty. However, far beyond its exotic coastlines, Alor holds terrestrial natural secrets that are no less stunning. One destination that is beginning to capture the attention of adventure lovers is Kolam Bidadari. Hidden within lush tropical vegetation, this destination offers a perfect harmony between the clarity of freshwater and the tranquility of untouched forest.

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Geological Wonders and Water Characteristics

The name "Kolam Bidadari" is not just a poetic nickname. This destination is a natural pool formed from a unique karst rock structure. The most striking feature of this pool is its extraordinary color gradation. Depending on the intensity of sunlight filtering through the canopy, the water color can shift from a bright turquoise blue to a deep emerald green.

The clarity of the water in Kolam Bidadari is exceptionally high, allowing visitors to clearly see the rock formations at the bottom of the pool and submerged tree branches, creating an underwater scene resembling a giant aquascape garden. The water originates from mountain springs that flow through limestone crevices, imparting natural mineral effects and a refreshingly cool temperature, a stark contrast to Alor's typically hot coastal weather.

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Preserved Ecosystem and Biodiversity

Located in a pristine forest area, Kolam Bidadari is surrounded by the typical dry tropical rainforest ecosystem of Nusa Tenggara. Giant walnut trees and banyan trees with hanging roots provide natural shade around the pool. These roots not only function to prevent soil erosion but also serve as habitats for various aquatic microorganisms.

For birdwatchers, the area around the pool is a small paradise. If lucky, visitors can hear the chirping of endemic birds of NTT or see the flapping wings of a yellow-crested cockatoo passing through the trees. The presence of brightly colored butterflies often perched on the edge of the pool adds to the magical impression, as if confirming local legends that this place is indeed a bathing spot for celestial beings.

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Tourist Experience and Outdoor Activities

Kolam Bidadari offers an experience far from commercial hustle and bustle. The main activities here are swimming and relaxation. The varying depths of the pool offer choices for visitors; shallow edges for those who just want to soak, to deeper central areas for those who want to try cliff jumping from the surrounding karst rocks.

For photography enthusiasts, every corner of Kolam Bidadari is a perfect backdrop. The reflection of trees on the calm water surface creates a highly aesthetic mirroring effect. Additionally, trekking to the location is also part of the experience. The journey through forest trails offers tourists the opportunity for "forest bathing," inhaling the rich scent of soil and plants abundant in phytoncides, substances known to reduce stress levels.

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Accessibility and Journey to the Location

Reaching Kolam Bidadari requires an adventurous spirit. This destination is located in the Northwest Alor region, accessible from Kalabahi (the capital of Alor Regency) by two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles. The land journey will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, passing through winding roads with views of hills and occasional beautiful coastlines.

Upon reaching the final stopping point, visitors must continue on foot (trekking). The path may be quite challenging as it is a dirt road that can become slippery after rain. However, it is precisely this isolation that keeps Kolam Bidadari authentic and prevents damage from overtourism.

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Best Time to Visit

To get the best visual experience, it is recommended to visit Kolam Bidadari during the dry season, which is between May and September. During this period, the pool's water is at its maximum clarity, and its turquoise blue color will be very striking under the bright sun.

The ideal visiting time is between 10 AM and 2 PM. During these hours, the sun is directly above the pool, allowing its light to penetrate the foliage and create spectacular "ray of light" effects in the water. Conversely, during the rainy season, the trekking path becomes more difficult, and the pool water can sometimes become slightly murky due to runoff from the surrounding hills.

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Conservation and Environmental Protection

As a destination that is still very natural, the conservation status of Kolam Bidadari heavily relies on the local wisdom of the community and the awareness of visitors. There are not many permanent facilities at this location, which is actually a hidden blessing as it minimizes carbon footprint and plastic waste.

The local government and community strongly emphasize the importance of maintaining water cleanliness. Visitors are strictly prohibited from using soaps or shampoos containing chemicals while bathing in the pool, as they can damage the sensitive freshwater ecosystem and kill the existing microfauna. The "Leave No Trace" principle is highly upheld here.

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Facilities and Travel Tips

Given its remote location, facilities at Kolam Bidadari are still very limited. There are no food stalls or permanent toilets on the edge of the pool. Therefore, visitors are advised to:

1. Bring Your Own Supplies: Prepare drinking water and snacks, but make sure to bring all plastic waste back to town.

2. Wear Appropriate Footwear: Hiking shoes or trekking sandals are highly recommended due to the rocky and sometimes slippery terrain.

3. Respect Local Customs: Alor is a region rich in traditions. Always behave politely and, if possible, use local guides as a form of economic support for the surrounding community.

4. Safety: For those who are not proficient swimmers, it is best to stay in the shallow areas as there are parts of the pool with significant depth and calm but strong undertows.

Kolam Bidadari is more than just a tourist destination; it is a reminder of the pure majesty of East Nusa Tenggara's nature. For those seeking tranquility and wishing to absorb the essence of Alor's true natural beauty, the journey to Kolam Bidadari is an unforgettable nature pilgrimage. Its clear waters will wash away fatigue, while its lush forest will refresh souls weary from urban routines.