CheckPapuaNow.com – Papua, a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty, boasts more than just Lake Sentani in the Jayapura Regency. Nestled behind the mountains of central Papua is a cluster of lakes no less stunning than Lake Sentani, Paniai Lake, Tigi Lake, and Tage Lake. These three lakes, located in the Paniai Regency, offer extraordinary natural charms.
The tale of these lakes begins with a flight undertaken by a Dutch pilot named Frits Wissel. On the last day of 1936, Wissel flew across the mountains of Papua and stumbled upon three beautiful lakes. This moment not only astonished him but also the local indigenous people, the Mee tribe. Having never seen an airplane before, they felt fear and panic as the “iron bird” flew overhead.
Hari Suroto, an archaeologist researcher from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), explained that at that time, the people of Papua lived in isolation from the outside world, maintaining their traditional way of life. The arrival of Wissel and his airplane was indeed a phenomenon that sparked curiosity and fear. “As a sign of respect to Wissel, the Mee tribe gladly named these lakes after him,” said Hari Suroto.
When Indonesia took over this territory from the Netherlands, the name Lake Wissel was automatically changed to Lake Paniai, Lake Tigi, and Lake Tage. However, the name Wisselmeren is still remembered in history as a marker of the discovery of these three lakes.
The beauty of Lake Paniai was internationally recognized at the World Lake Conference held in India on November 30, 2007. Delegates from 157 countries attending the conference were mesmerized by the natural beauty possessed by Lake Paniai and the other two lakes.
Lake Paniai itself covers an area of approximately 14,500 hectares, providing ample space for tourists to enjoy the natural beauty. The presence of rocks and sand on the lake’s edge, as well as the surrounding high cliffs, adds to its allure as a geotourism and ecotourism destination. Located at an altitude of around 1,700 meters above sea level, Lake Paniai offers cool air and breathtaking panoramas.
Aside from its beautiful scenery, Lake Paniai is also rich in freshwater life. Various species of fish such as tilapia, Mozambique tilapia, carp, black catfish, and eels inhabit this lake. Rainbow fish (Melanotaenia ayamaruensis), often sought after by fishermen and aquarium enthusiasts, add to the economic value of this lake. Moreover, lucky tourists might spot the endemic Papua shrimp, the sneaky shrimp (Cherax albertisii), which is becoming rare.
The presence of Paniai Lake, Lake Tigi, and Lake Tage not only offers natural beauty but also great economic potential. The tourism sector in Papua, especially in the Paniai Regency, has the opportunity to develop by utilizing the natural attractions and unique local culture. Tourists can enjoy various activities such as fishing, boating, or simply admiring the scenery.
With proper promotion and management, these lakes can become premier tourist destinations that attract both domestic and international tourists. Local governments and communities are expected to work together to preserve the environment and utilize this potential sustainably.
Papua has many untapped tourism potentials. The presence of Paniai Lake is one example of the natural wealth that could become a major tourist attraction. With adequate infrastructure development and vigorous promotion, this area could become a widely recognized tourist destination, bringing positive impacts to the local economy.
Through environmental preservation efforts and wise management, it is hoped that the beauty of these lakes will remain intact for future generations to enjoy. Papua, with all its natural riches, is ready to welcome tourists who want to explore the hidden beauty in the easternmost part of Indonesia.
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