Preliminary study: The Birth of Nagaloka

¹ Universitas Pendidikan Ganesha, Singaraja, Indonesia
² Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne University, Paris, France
³ Ikatan Ahli Geologi Indonesia (IAGI), Indonesia
⁴ Institut Bisnis dan Teknologi Indonesia, Denpasar, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Research on dormant and extinct volcanoes remains limited compared to studies on active systems, despite their potential hazards and significance in reconstructing landscape evolution. Dormant volcanoes in Bali, such as Mount Lesung, present both geological risks and cultural importance, particularly where sacred sites are embedded within volcanic landforms. This study investigates the origin of Nagaloka Cave, a vertical lava cave highly revered by local communities, to better understand its geomorphological formation and cultural context. A mixed qualitative and geoscientific approach was applied, combining geomorphological analysis, field documentation, literature review, and interviews with local stakeholders. The findings indicate that Nagaloka Cave did not originate as a volcanic crater, but rather as a vertical lava tube formed during effusive volcanic activity. Beyond its geological significance, the study highlights how local beliefs attribute spiritual meaning to volcanic features, shaping cultural heritage and identity. It concludes that integrating geoscientific knowledge with cultural perspectives not only enriches understanding of volcanic landscapes but also provides a basis for promoting geotourism and community-based conservation. The implications suggest that dormant volcanoes should receive greater research attention as both potential hazard sources and cultural assets within sustainable development frameworks.