Flores Island, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia, is a destination that captivates visitors with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique wildlife. While it may not be as famous as Bali or Jakarta, Flores offers a variety of fascinating experiences that make it a must-visit Island. Here’s a look at some of the fun facts about Flores Island that highlight its extraordinary charm.
Diverse and Vibrant Culture
Flores boasts a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. The island is home to several ethnic groups, each with its unique customs, languages, and rituals. The Manggarai people, for instance, are known for their distinctive spider-web rice fields, unique traditional houses, and traditional whip fights known as Caci. The Ngada people, who reside in the central part of the island, are recognized for their impressive megalithic structures and vibrant ceremonies. This cultural diversity makes Flores a fascinating place for anthropological and cultural studies.
Kelimutu National Park and Its Tricolor Lakes
Kelimutu National Park, located in central Flores, is renowned for its stunning tricolor lakes, which are situated atop the Kelimutu volcano. Each of these crater lakes displays a different color, which can change over time due to volcanic activity and chemical reactions. The lakes are traditionally known as Tiwu Ata Bupu (Lake of Old People), Tiwu Ko’o Fai Nuwa Muri (Lake of Young Men and Maidens), and Tiwu Ata Polo (Enchanted Lake). The ever-changing colors of these lakes create a surreal and mesmerizing landscape, making Kelimutu a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Spectacular Diving and Marine Life
The waters surrounding Flores Island are part of the Coral Triangle, known for having the highest marine biodiversity in the world. The island offers some of the best diving and snorkeling spots, with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. Divers and snorkelers can encounter a variety of sea creatures, including manta rays, sea turtles, and numerous species of colorful fish. Sites like the Komodo National Park and Riung 17 Isles Marine Park are particularly popular for underwater exploration.
Majestic Rice Terraces and Scenic Landscapes
Flores is characterized by its lush, green landscapes, rolling hills, and terraced rice fields. The rice terraces, especially those in Ruteng and Bajawa, offer breathtaking views and are a testament to the island’s agricultural heritage. The picturesque scenery, coupled with the island’s volcanic backdrop, makes Flores a photographer’s paradise. Additionally, There is a unique rice field near Ruteng called “Lingko Cara”, with a unique patterns with its barrier is like a giant spider web.
The Enigmatic Hobbit of Flores
Flores is also famous for a remarkable archaeological discovery: the remains of a tiny human species known as Homo floresiensis, nicknamed “the Hobbit” due to their small stature. Discovered in the Liang Bua cave in 2003, these fossils have provided significant insights into human evolution. The “hobbits” stood about 3.5 feet tall and lived around 50,000 years ago. This discovery has sparked widespread interest and debates in the scientific community.