Kumala Island in Kutai Kartanegara offers a blend of natural charm, history and mystery, making it a unique tourist destination in East Kalimantan.
Kumala Island is located in the western part of Tenggarong City, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, East Kalimantan.
This island is a natural delta of the Mahakam River which was originally uninhabited and overgrown with bushes.
However, in 2002, Kumala Island was transformed into a tourist area that combines natural beauty and local cultural attractions.
This island is a unique destination because it presents a modern tourism concept in the middle of a river rich in history and legend.
Its strategic location makes Kumala Island easily accessible from various major cities in East Kalimantan, such as Samarinda and Balikpapan.
The Legend of Kumala Island
Kumala Island not only offers natural beauty, but also legendary stories that are attached to the local community.
The name “Kumala” comes from the word meaning mustika or sparkling gemstone. According to the story, Kumala Island is believed to be the place where Princess Kumala or Princess Karang Melanu appeared, a mythological figure who is considered to be the ancestor of the kings of the Kutai Kartanegara Kingdom.
Princess Karang Melanu is depicted riding a mythological creature called Lembuswana, accompanied by a pair of Erau Dragons.
Until now, the statues of Lembuswana and Naga Erau stand majestically on Kumala Island, symbolizing the protection of this island from all kinds of disturbances, both physical and supernatural.
Mystery of the Dimension Cave and the Sunken British Ship
Kumala Island is also known for its mystical story about a dimensional cave which is said to be connected to a British ship that sank in the Mahakam River. In the past, England had tried to open a trading post in the Kutai Kartanegara region.
However, the local king rejected the request, which eventually sparked a battle. The British warships were defeated and sank in this river.
According to local stories, there is a cave that can take someone to another dimension. Some residents who accidentally found it claimed to have found themselves inside a British warship.
This phenomenon is referred to as an energy portal which is believed to be directly connected to the shipwreck site and the Kutai Palace which is now the Mulawarman Museum.
Location and Access to Kumala Island
Kumala Island is located in the middle of the Mahakam River delta, precisely in Tenggarong City, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, East Kalimantan. To reach this location, you have several transportation options:
- From Samarinda: Approximately 27 km away, the journey to Kumala Island can be reached in 30 minutes via the Kutai Kartanegara Bridge.
- From Balikpapan: The journey takes about 3 hours by land for 130 km. You can also use air transportation from Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman Airport or sea transportation from Semayang Port.
- Getting to the Island: From the banks of the Mahakam River, you can use a small motorboat (ketinting) or cable car to cross to Kumala Island.
History of Kumala Island
Initially, Kumala Island was just a mud flat formed from deposits of the Mahakam River. With an area of around 85 hectares, this island is slowly being covered with typical Kalimantan vegetation such as shrubs and tropical trees.
Seeing the great potential as a tourist attraction, in 2000 the construction of various modern tourist facilities began.
Two years later, in 2002, Kumala Island was inaugurated as a tourist destination that combines natural beauty with man-made attractions.
The Attraction of Kumala Island
Kumala Island has various attractions that make it one of the favorite destinations in East Kalimantan. Here are some things you can enjoy:
1. Captivating Natural Panorama
Kumala Island is surrounded by the magnificent view of the Mahakam River. The calm atmosphere and fresh air on this island are perfect for relaxing or walking around. You can rent a bicycle or motorbike to get around and enjoy the natural beauty.
2. Mystical and Haunted Nuance
Although known for its beauty, Kumala Island also has a haunted impression because some of its rides are no longer functioning and are abandoned.
However, areas such as Pura Pasak with its stairs flanked by dragon heads remain a unique cultural attraction.
As long as visitors do not intend to do anything negative, this area remains safe and comfortable.
3. Educational Tourism
another attraction that has educational value. Visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of the Dayak tribe which are rich in historical value.
4. Lembuswana Statue
The main icon of Kumala Island is a large statue of Lembuswana, a mythological creature that is the symbol of the Kutai Kingdom.
This statue is not only a tourist attraction, but also symbolizes the historical greatness of the kingdom in the past.
Activities on Kumala Island
There are many activities that can be done on Kumala Island, both for individual tourists and families. Here are some activities that you can try:
- Walking or Cycling: Enjoy the cool atmosphere by walking or renting a bicycle to explore the island.
- Visiting Mythological Statues: Admire the magnificent Lembuswana and Naga Erau statues.
- Enjoying the Mahakam River View: The view from the edge of the island is stunning, especially at sunset.
- Learn Dayak Culture: Visit a traditional house to learn the history and traditions of the Dayak tribe.
- Take Photos at Unique Spots: Kumala Island has many interesting spots to capture, including statues and Pasak Temple.
Facilities on Kumala Island
Kumala Island has various facilities that support visitor comfort, including:
- Cable Car: One unique way to reach the island is by cable car which offers views of the Mahakam River from above.
- Playgrounds (Inactive): While most of the rides are no longer operational, some areas are still interesting to explore.
- Food Stalls: There are several simple eateries around the island serving local food.
- Toilets and Parking Area: Basic facilities such as toilets and parking areas are available to meet the needs of visitors.
Tips for Visiting Kumala Island
To enjoy your visit to Kumala Island, here are some tips you can follow:
- Come During Sunny Weather: Avoid visiting during the rainy season to avoid access difficulties.
- Bring Personal Equipment: Don’t forget to bring drinking water, a camera, and other necessary equipment.
- Respect Local Customs and Culture: Do not do things that are considered impolite in this place, especially in the Pasak Temple area.
Kumala Island is a unique tourist destination in East Kalimantan. With a blend of natural beauty, historical value, and mystical nuances, this island offers a different experience from other tourist attractions.
Whether for relaxation, learning about culture, or exploring local legends, Kumala Island has it all. Make sure you include Lemukutan Island on your travel list when visiting Kutai Kartanegara.
