If you have searched for Rote Island online, you have probably seen images of this bright blue lake, connected to the ocean by an incredibly picturesque narrow strip of water with people kayaking or paddle boarding along.
Surrounded by dense green jungle, towering limestone cliffs and mangroves teaming with wildlife, this postcard perfect location is Telaga Nirwana, and it 100% needs to be on your list of places to visit in Rote Island.
Here is everything you need to know about visiting Telaga Nirwana.
Where is Telaga Nirwana?
Telaga Nirwana is on the South West Corner or Rote Island, Indonesia, near the village of Oeseli.
How to get to Telaga Nirwana
Option 1) Resort Boat Trip
If you are staying at one of the resorts in Nemberala, it is likely that they will offer a boat trip to Telaga Nirwana (especially if there are a few days with small waves). From Nemberala it takes between 30 minutes and 60 minutes by boat which based on the sea conditions and the size of the boat and engine you are on. Nihi Rotes new boat can probably get you there in about 3 minutes if they put the hammer down.
Water depth and the width of the inlet heavily restricts the size of boats that can gain access to the lake, so la
Option 2) Drive to Oeseli and take a local boat
Local drivers can drive you to Oeseli village, or if you have a scooter or motorbike and prefer to go yourself, you can do no worries. Road access is pretty good from most routes, but it is worth noting that there are several sections of steep unpaved road between Boa and Oeseli, which can be challenging, especially after periods of rain.
However the Boa to Oeseli stretch is incredibly beautiful so if you like to take it slow, and have some adventure on the way, this is a great route.
From Nemberala it is about a 30 minute ride via the inland route. Or 45 minutes to one hour along the coastal route via Boa taking it slowly on the rough sections.
From Oeseli you will find local boats that can take you across the small bay to Telaga Nirwana, only a 5 -10 minute boat ride away.
Use the new electric boats
There is an amazing new initiative getting underway in Oeseli and one that everyone should be getting behind. Telaga Nirwana, is now home to an exciting eco-friendly innovation: electric-powered (PV) boats. This initiative, led by the German International Cooperation Agency (GIZ) with support from the German and Indonesian governments, marks a significant step towards sustainable tourism in the area.
The PV boats operate on solar energy, stored in batteries charged through solar panels with a charging station in Oeseli. This initiative contributes to environmental conservation by reducing pollution and supporting the region’s renewable energy goals. The project also brings economic opportunities to the local community, with PV boat operations managed by the Oeseli Village-Owned Enterprise. Part of the revenue generated directly benefits the village, creating a sustainable economic model.
Local operator Daniel Mooy highlights the simplicity of recharging the boat batteries and the convenience of operating these vessels. Each trip around Telaga Nirwana takes approximately 30 minutes and consumes minimal battery power.
