Tes Lake

Geographical Landscape and Natural Beauty

Tes Lake stretches along a valley surrounded by the Barisan Mountains. Visually, the lake presents a calming panorama; its calm water surface reflects the green of the tropical rainforest that blankets the surrounding hills. This area is located at an altitude of approximately 500 meters above sea level, providing a relatively cool and fresh air temperature compared to Bengkulu's coastal areas.

The unique geography of Tes Lake lies in its position, flanked by two historic villages, namely Tes Village and Kotadonok Village. In the distance, the silhouette of the mountain range creates a dramatic backdrop, especially when the morning mist descends to touch the water's surface, creating a mystical and poetic atmosphere that is often sought after by landscape photographers.

Rich Ecosystem and Biodiversity

As an important part of Bengkulu's ecosystem, Tes Lake is more than just a giant body of water. This lake is a habitat for various endemic flora and fauna species. Around the lake's edges, secondary forest vegetation is still well-preserved, providing a home for various types of water birds and eagles that are often seen diving sharply to catch prey.

Its underwater biodiversity is also extraordinary. Tes Lake is known as a producer of freshwater fish such as carp, tilapia, and the most iconic is Semah Fish (Tor douronensis). Semah Fish holds high economic and cultural value for the local community, due to its distinctive meat texture and its rarity, which is preserved through local wisdom. Furthermore, this area also directly borders the Kerinci Seblat National Park (TNKS), so the presence of wildlife in the forests around the lake is still often detected, adding educational value for visitors interested in nature conservation.

Outdoor Activities and Tourist Experience

Visitors to Tes Lake can enjoy various activities that bring them closer to nature:

1. Cruising the Lake by Traditional Boat: Tourists can rent motorboats or wooden sampans from local residents to explore the lake. Exploring the lake's nooks and crannies offers a different perspective on the beauty of the Barisan Mountains that frame the area.

2. Lakeside Culinary Tourism: One experience not to be missed is tasting fresh fish dishes caught by local fishermen. Enjoying grilled fish with typical Lebong sambal at floating restaurants or gazebos on the lake's edge provides an authentic culinary sensation.

3. Fishing: For fishing enthusiasts, Tes Lake is a paradise. Several spots on the lake's edge are favorite locations for residents to spend their afternoons waiting for a bite.

4. Nature Photography: With the changing natural light from dawn to dusk, Tes Lake offers perfect visual compositions. The old bridge crossing the river around the lake also becomes an interesting photo object due to its historical value.

Best Time to Visit

To get the maximum experience, the best time to visit Tes Lake is during the dry season (May to September). During this period, the sky is usually clear, so the reflection of the blue sky on the lake's surface looks very clear. Additionally, the water discharge tends to be stable, and road access to the location is safer from landslide risks that sometimes occur on mountain routes during the rainy season.

If you visit in the morning (around 06:00 - 08:00), you will be greeted by the phenomenon of a "smoking lake," where water vapor rises from the cool lake surface meeting the morning air, creating a very exotic view.

Conservation Status and Environmental Protection

Tes Lake has a dual role that is very crucial. Besides being a tourist destination, this lake functions as the main energy source for the Tes Hydropower Plant (PLTA), which is one of the oldest hydropower plants in Indonesia. Therefore, the sustainability of water discharge and the cleanliness of the lake are priorities for the local government.

This area is also under environmental protection radar because it borders the buffer zone of TNKS. Conservation efforts are carried out through restrictions on the use of destructive fishing gear and reforestation programs in the upstream rivers that flow into the lake. Visitor awareness not to litter in the lake is strongly emphasized to maintain a sustainable ecosystem for future generations.

Accessibility and Facilities

Reaching Tes Lake requires a challenging but very memorable overland journey. From Bengkulu City, the journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, passing through winding mountain roads that offer views of forests and coffee plantations. The road access is well-paved, although drivers must remain vigilant at some sharp turns.

Around the tourist area, supporting facilities are available, although still in a stage of continuous development, including:

• Ample parking space.
• Gazebos or huts for resting.
• Food stalls serving local menus.
• Tourist boat rentals.
• Lodging/homestays in the surrounding villages for tourists who want to stay and experience the hospitality of the Rejang ethnic group.

Tes Lake is a perfect representation of Bengkulu's pure natural wealth. This destination offers tranquility for those tired of the urban hustle and bustle, while also providing valuable lessons about the importance of maintaining harmony between human energy needs and natural preservation. A visit to Tes Lake is not just a tourist trip, but an appreciation of nature's masterpiece in the heart of the Swarna Dwipa land.