Welcome to Tondano, the capital of Minahasa Regency in Sulawesi, Indonesia. This charming city is located in the highlands on the shores of Lake Tondano near Mount Tondano, offering visitors a cool and refreshing escape from the heat of the lowlands. Getting to Tondano is easy, with routes available from Manado, Tomohon, Kecamatan Tombulu, and Airmadidi. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty to see and do.
One of the highlights of Tondano is the Manado State University (UNIMA) campus in Tonsaru area, South Tondano. This beautiful campus is home to a variety of faculties and departments, and is a great place to explore and learn about the local culture and history.
Tondano is also famous for being the birthplace of Indonesian national hero Doctor Sam Ratulangi, the first governor of Sulawesi. Visitors can learn more about this important figure at the Sam Ratulangi Museum, which is located in the heart of the city.
The name Tondano comes from the Minahasa language, where it is called toulour, which means water people (tou means people, lour means body of water). The largest lake in the province is located here, and is named after the city. Lake Tondano is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities.
When it comes to climate, Tondano enjoys an elevation moderated tropical rainforest climate (Af) with moderate rainfall from July to September and heavy rainfall in the remaining months. This makes it a great destination for those looking to escape the heat and humidity of the lowlands.
In conclusion, Tondano is a hidden gem in Sulawesi that is well worth a visit. With its beautiful natural surroundings, rich history and culture, and friendly locals, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Indonesia. So why not add Tondano to your travel bucket list today?