Lombok : To Do

Lombok : To Do

Challenge yourself with a slog up to the heights of Mount Rinjani. At over 3,700 meters above sea level, the trek up this magnificent volcano will take you at least three days and is not for the faint hearted. At the peak you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of some of Indonesia’s most breathtaking landscape.

Feel the sand between your toes and swim in the glistening waters of Kuta Beach in South Lombok. The white sand and spectacular ocean views here make this a magnificent destination. Visit Kuta during the annual Nyale Fishing Festival – usually held in February or March – and enjoy the festivities and a colorful procession.

Explore the near deserted coves on the beaches north of Senggigi where your only company will be the odd fisherman.

Soak up some sun and surf with a visit to the gorgeous Batu Bolong Beach. The beach takes its name from an enormous rock with a hole in it. Make sure you stay for sunset to see a stunning view as the sun lowers behind Mount Agung on Bali with incredible flaming colors.

Learn about the local history and visit the Maruya Water Palace in Mataram, capital city of Lombok. The palace was built in 1744 and was the site of bloody battles between the Dutch and Balinese in the late 19th century.

Appreciate the serenity at the largest temple in Lombok, Pura Meru, located opposite the water palace. This centuries old temple is dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Visit the unique Pura Lingsar, a temple compound that combines the Bali Hindu and Wektu Telu religions in one complex.

Stroll around and shop in the charming market town of Surandi. There are some scenic picnic spots to stop and take a break. Or you can cool down with a swim in the river. The water here is considered sacred as it comes straight from Gunung Rinjani.

Absorb local Sasak culture with a visit to Batu Kumbung village, northeast of Mataram. At this traditional village you’ll find women weaving fabrics as their ancestors did centuries ago. This village is famous for its music. Try your hand at learning a local dance or musical instrument.

Test your luck and take in the sights of horse racing or pacuan kuda at the Salakalas field. Races are held every Sunday. Watch the young jockeys in tough competition battle it out till the finish line where the winner will give a triumphant smile. The race is taken seriously and the night before competition villagers massage their horse, sometimes playing traditional gamelan music to relax them.

Posted in: Lombok