Kolam Susuk

The Miracle of Milk-White Water and Geological Landscapes

The name "Kolam Susuk" has a unique and descriptive origin. In the local language, this place is referred to as a pond whose water resembles milk. This phenomenon is not caused by pollution, but by the pond's underlying geological characteristics, which consist of white soil or fine chalk. When the pond bed is stirred by currents or activity within it, these chalk particles rise to the surface, creating an exotic milky white cloudy effect, contrasting with the surrounding green vegetation.

Visually, Kolam Susuk appears like a giant natural lake surrounded by green hills. Its landscape provides natural protection from the strong winds of the Savu Sea, so the water surface in this pond tends to be calm and reflective. The presence of limestone hills in the background adds a dramatic dimension to the landscape of Kolam Susuk, especially when sunlight touches the cliff walls in the afternoon.

Rich Mangrove Ecosystem and Biodiversity

The main attraction of Kolam Susuk lies in the mangrove forest ecosystem that encircles it. This forest is not just a scenic embellishment, but the heart of local biodiversity. The aerial roots emerging from the mud serve as a shelter for various aquatic life. Here, visitors can observe a healthy brackish water ecosystem, where milkfish and shrimp breed naturally.

In addition to aquatic life, the dense mangrove trees are a habitat for various species of migratory and local birds. The chirping of birds in the morning creates a peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. This ecosystem also plays an important role as a natural barrier against coastal abrasion, given Kolam Susuk's geographical proximity to the northern coastline of Belu.

Outdoor Experiences and Activities

Kolam Susuk is more than just a destination to be admired. There are various outdoor experiences designed to bring visitors closer to nature:

1. Exploring with Traditional Sampans: Visitors can rent small sampans from local fishermen to navigate the pond's edges. Paddling slowly through the gaps in the mangrove trees provides an authentic sense of adventure.

2. Fishing in Brackish Water: For fishing enthusiasts, Kolam Susuk is a tranquil paradise. Milkfish are the main commodity here. Fishing activities here often become moments of social interaction with local residents who also make a living from the pond.

3. Nature and Landscape Photography: With the backdrop of hills, unique water, and a wooden pier extending into the middle of the pond, this place is a favorite spot for photographers. The sunset moments at Kolam Susuk are legendary, where the orange sky colors are perfectly reflected on the whitish water surface.

4. Local Culinary Tourism: Around the pond area, there are lopo-lopo (traditional Timor huts) that serve fresh fish dishes caught from the pond, usually grilled with simple seasonings and enjoyed with spicy NTT-style sambal lu'at.

Best Time to Visit

The characteristics of Kolam Susuk change with the seasons. The best time to visit is at the end of the rainy season towards the beginning of the dry season (April to June). During this period, the hills around the pond are still lush green, providing the most aesthetic color contrast.

If you visit during the peak of the dry season (August - September), the scenery will change to a more arid and dramatic landscape, typical of the golden-brown Timor savanna. However, it should be noted that during the long dry season, the water level may decrease slightly, but the "milk" color of the water often appears more concentrated.

Conservation and Environmental Protection Efforts

As a natural tourist destination, the sustainability of Kolam Susuk depends heavily on the health of its mangrove forest and the cleanliness of its water. The local government and the community of Dualaus Village are continuously striving to preserve the beauty of this location by limiting the use of fossil-fuel-powered outboard motors in the pond area to prevent oil pollution.

Awareness of the importance of mangroves as carbon sinks and abrasion barriers is being increased through replanting programs. Visitors are strongly encouraged to maintain cleanliness by not throwing plastic waste into the pond, as this semi-closed brackish water system is very sensitive to inorganic pollutants.

Accessibility and Supporting Facilities

Reaching Kolam Susuk is now much easier thanks to road infrastructure development along the red-belt border route. From the center of Atambua City, the journey by motorized vehicle takes about 30 to 45 minutes. The route to the location offers stunning views of the northern coastline.

Facilities at this tourist attraction have been improved. There is a representative wooden pier for walking or taking photos, a spacious parking area, and a row of lopo for resting. Although large-scale accommodation facilities are not yet available right on the pond's edge, tourists can easily find comfortable hotels and lodgings in the center of Atambua City.

Kolam Susuk is a perfect representation of the harmony between humans and nature in the land of Belu. It offers more than just a view; it offers tranquility, lessons about ecosystems, and the warmth of local culture blended into one expanse of milk-white water. For anyone setting foot in East Nusa Tenggara, missing Kolam Susuk means missing one of the most unique natural wonders in the easternmost part of Indonesia.