Komodo Island, located in eastern Indonesia, isn’t just known for its stunning nature but also for its legendary endemic creature—the Komodo dragon. Behind the existence of this giant lizard, there lies a folk tale that has been passed down through generations, reflecting the deep connection between humans and nature. One of the most well-known stories is the Legend of the Komodo Princess, which takes us on a legendary journey full of meaning, love, courage, and respect for living creatures. Let’s explore this story and see how it shapes the lives of the people living around Komodo Island.
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The Legend of Komodo Dragon
Putri Naga and Her Child | IndonesiaJuara Trip
The existence of Komodos on Komodo Island is not only supported by a unique ecosystem but also protected by various legends handed down from generation to generation. One of these is the Legend of the Komodo Princess, which is widely believed by the locals. This legend tells of the strong bond between humans and Komodo dragons, symbolizing harmony between mankind and nature.
Like many folk tales, this legend has different versions shared by word of mouth across Indonesia. Komodo dragons, which are part of the lizard family, are believed by the people of Komodo Island to be related to humans. Long ago, there was a princess named Putri Naga. People described her as a beautiful woman with a kind heart. Thanks to her beauty, she married a man named Moja from a nearby island.
Not long after, Putri Naga became pregnant with twins. After months of waiting, the time for her to give birth finally arrived. However, she and Moja were shocked to see that one of the twins was human, while the other was a scaly lizard with a tail. The human baby boy was named Gerong, and the lizard baby was named Orah. Putri Naga and Moja raised Gerong at their home, while Orah was left to roam free in the jungle.
As the legend goes, Gerong and Orah never knew of each other until they grew up. One day, while Gerong and his parents were hunting in the forest, they encountered Orah, now a giant creature, 3 meters in size, walking toward them. Thinking Orah was a threat, Gerong raised his sword to attack, but was stopped by Putri Naga, who intervened.
Putri Naga then revealed to Gerong that Orah, now known as the Komodo dragon, was his sibling. Putri Naga told Gerong that no matter what, he and his descendants must always protect, respect, and care for Orah and her kind. This bond continues to this day, as the people of Komodo Island treat the Komodo dragons as their own family, reflecting the deep-rooted message in the legend.
Read more: Komodo Myths and Facts You Must Know!
Science Discovers the Komodo Dragon
Beyond the Komodo legend, you might wonder how this animal became famous worldwide. Back in 1910, during the Dutch colonial era, a lieutenant named Jacques Karel Henri van Steyn van Hensbroek heard rumors of a strange “land crocodile” unique to Indonesia.
Curious, he sailed to the area and spent months observing and studying the creature up close. After his research, Lieutenant Jacques returned to Europe, bringing photos and Komodo skin to share with Peter Ouwens.
At the time, Peter Ouwens was the director of the Java Zoological Museum and Botanical Gardens Buitenzorg (now called Bogor Botanical Gardens). When he saw the skin and photos, he realized this wasn’t a crocodile but a giant lizard—way bigger than any regular lizard. He noted that science hadn’t studied this creature before; it was like discovering a brand-new animal, the Komodo Island monitor!
Excited, Peter Ouwens quickly published the first official scientific description of the Komodo dragon, naming it Varanus Komodoensis. After this, Europeans grew curious and flocked to Komodo Island to see the giant lizard for themselves.
How The Komodo Legend Helps Conservation
The Legend of Princess Komodo | IndonesiaJuara Trip
This legend isn’t just about the Komodo dragon’s origins—it also teaches the importance of living in harmony with nature. The people of Komodo Island hold this story close to their hearts. They see Komodo dragons as family, which shows in how they protect and care for them.
Locals believe Komodo dragons are more than just animals—they’re symbols of bravery and balance between humans and nature. The legend of Putri Naga the Dragon’s big message is to respect and look after the environment and its creatures, especially the Komodo dragons that are so central to their lives. This belief has helped conservation efforts, making Komodo National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Read more: Are Komodo Dragons Venomous? Discover the Truth Behind Their Bite!
Komodo Dragons, a Creature Found Only in Indonesia
That’s the short version of the Komodo legend according to local beliefs and how the Komodo dragon became known worldwide. These animals are heavily protected by the Indonesian government because they’re endemic—meaning you can only find them in Indonesia.
The Komodo legend, with its story of humans and dragons, carries deep cultural value and teaches us to keep nature and human life in balance. Princess Naga and her twins, Gerong and Orah (the Komodo dragon), stand for peace and unity with the natural world. The Ora lived among the villagers, symbolizing the unique bond and respect between humans and nature. Today, the people of Komodo Island still care for these dragons with love, just as the legend instructs. Komodo dragons aren’t just special animals—they’re a key part of the island’s cultural identity.
Visit Komodo National Park with IndonesiaJuara Trip
Komodo Island is now welcoming visitors, offering an amazing chance to see these legendary creatures. Honoring local traditions, including the Princess Naga legend, is key to any trip here. The people of Komodo Island keep a peaceful relationship with the dragons, which helps both nature and their cultural heritage thrive.
So, want to see Komodo dragons in their real habitat? Join IndonesiaJuara Trip for a Labuan Bajo and Komodo National Park tour package! On this adventure, you won’t just spot these famous dragons—you’ll also enjoy sailing on a comfy phinisi boat. What are you waiting for? Pick an open trip or private trip to Labuan Bajo with IndonesiaJuara Trip, and enjoy a vacation packed with thrilling adventures and rich cultural experiences!
