Lahendong Pine Forest in Tomohon City, North Sulawesi Province

For those who love exploration and adventure, they must not miss the chance to visit Tomohon City in the next holiday. It is because they can find many vacation spots to satisfy such hobby. For example, there is Lahendong Pine Forest located in Tomohon Selatan Sub-District. As the name suggests, the exact location is in Lahendong Village. The good thing is that the forest is located near to the downtown, so tourists can access it easily by any transportation service. Aside from enjoying the forest nuance, visitors can also take a bath in the available mud puddles.

The Nuance
Once arriving at Lahendong Pine Forest, tourists may see the lush and beautiful pine trees right away. The locals call them Pinus or Cemara, actually. Aside from those trees, there is also an open field on where tourists use for photography. Another significant feature is the presence of mud puddles located in the midst of the forest. Those ponds even emit sulfuric gas and unpleasant odor. It is said, though, the muds are able to strengthen skin and make it healthier. Have no worries. The density is quite tolerable, so tourists can safely get near to the puddles.

Exploring Lahendong Pine Forest
The most common thing that tourists do in Lahendong Pine Forest is none other than exploration. That means they may explore the forest and enjoy the nuance. This even feels better if they visit the location in the morning. Also, it is recommended to come either with families or friends. The purpose is to get a merrier nuance while exploring the forest. Another important tip is related to the weather. Everyone should only come to the location during a good weather. Otherwise, the rain becomes a big hassle for them.

It is true pine trees become the prime attraction there. However, Lahendong Pine Forest also holds other attractions including the mud puddles (as mentioned earlier). One thing, tourists need to get a local guide if they want to get near the puddles. It is because those ponds contain some sulfuric materials, so everyone should be careful when approaching them. Despite the fact, the density is considered tolerable.

With the instruction given by the guide, tourists can even take advantage of the mud to bathe their skin and face. It is said the materials contained in the mud strengthen and beautify the skin. Still, everyone should apply it in moderation. Excessive mud may cause troubles, without a doubt. Also, it is better not to do it alone. At least, they must come with a local guide.

Nearby Attractions

• Tondano Mountain
• Tondano Lake
• Tumimperas Waterfall

How to Get There
For those coming from Manado City, they can take any local transportation service and head to Lahendong Pine Forest right away. The trip may take around 1 hour and 5 minutes, as the distance is 29.7 km. It can be faster, though, if tourists take Raya Manado Tomohon Street. Once arriving at Tomohon Selatan Sub-District, they can directly head to Lahendong Village where the forest is located.

Where to Stay

• Greenlake Bungalow
• Airy Hotel
• Ceria Hotel