Lombok: The untouched beauty Page of

With its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush green landscapes, Lombok is often considered the more untouched and natural alternative to its bustling neighbor, Bali. Here, visitors can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature, from the majestic Mount Rinjani to the hidden waterfalls and traditional villages.

Beach and beyond: Lombok’s natural wonders

Mount Rinjani: This majestic volcano is Indonesia’s second-highest peak and a popular trekking destination. The summit offers breathtaking views of the crater lake and beyond.

Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are three small coral islands off the coast of Lombok. Known for their white sandy beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving spots, they offer a laid-back alternative to Bali’s bustling beach resorts.

Senggigi Beach: Lombok’s main beach resort area, Senggigi offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. The beach itself is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars along the waterfront.

Selong Belanak Beach: This stunning white sandy beach is perfect for swimming and beginner surfing. The horseshoe-shaped bay is surrounded by hills, making it a picturesque spot for a day at the beach.

Kuta Beach: Not to be confused with its Bali namesake, Lombok’s Kuta Beach is a laid-back surfing and beach destination. Nearby, you can explore beautiful beaches like Tanjung Aan and Mawun.

Experience local culture

Sasak Villages: Visit traditional Sasak villages such as Sade and Rambitan, where you can learn about the local culture and see traditional weaving and pottery making.

Segara Anak Lake: Located in the crater of Mount Rinjani, this stunning lake is a popular stop for trekkers. Legend has it that the lake is connected to the sea by an underground tunnel.

Sindang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls: Located near Mount Rinjani, these two waterfalls are a refreshing stop for trekkers and nature lovers. Tiu Kelep is particularly impressive, with its cascade of water and natural pool for swimming.

Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls: These twin waterfalls are located in central Lombok and are surrounded by lush forests. Benang Kelambu is known for its curtain-like cascade of water.

Surfing, Diving, and Snorkelling

Lombok’s southern coast, particularly Kuta and Gerupuk, is a popular surfing destination. Beginners can learn to surf on the gentle waves of Selong Belanak Beach.

The Gili Islands offer excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life, including turtles, reef sharks, and manta rays.

Trekking and Adventure

Mount Rinjani: This active volcano is Indonesia’s second-highest peak and a challenging trek for experienced hikers. The trek takes you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and up to the crater rim, where you can enjoy stunning views of the crater lake and beyond.

Senaru: This traditional village is the starting point for Mount Rinjani treks and is a great place to learn about Sasak culture and traditions.

Snorkeling at the Gili Islands: With its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, the Gili Islands are perfect for snorkeling. You can see a variety of marine life, including turtles, tropical fish, and colorful coral.

Cultural tours and cooking classes

Lombok has a rich cultural heritage, with strong influences from both Balinese and Sasak traditions. Visitors can visit traditional Sasak villages, such as Sade and Rambitan, to learn about local customs and crafts. Cooking classes are also popular, where you can learn to make traditional Sasak dishes using local ingredients.