West Lombok

PLACES OF INTEREST

	Bangko-Bangko [WA9] Located the south-west tip of Lombok, Bangko-Bangko is host a stunning natural forest reserve and home to a large number of Lombok's flora and fauna. The edge of the forest which has white sandy beach is an internationally renowned surfing location. Bangsal [WE4] Bangsal is the public port connecting to Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan, the snorkeling and diving islands off the north-west coast of Lombok. Banyumulek [WE8] Banyumulek is one of the principal pottery centers on the island. Located about 10 km south of Mataram, it has become known throughout the international art world for the enormous, elaborately decorated post which is produced hare.
	Batu Bolong [WD6] Batu Bolong (literally meaning hole in rock) is an ideal place from which to view the majestic sunset over the Lombok Straits. An impressive Hindu temple built on a black outcrop of rock was constructed here so that it could face sacred Mount Agung in Bali, easily seen across the Lombok Strait. Colorful and musical religious ceremonies are often held here.
	Gili Air, Meno and Trawangan [WD3] The Gilis, as they are known collectively, are located some 20 km north of Senggigi. Each island boasts excellent beaches and diving thanks to extensive coral reefs that encircle island. It is these coral reefs that are home to the blue coral, a coral said to grow in only two places in the world the Caribbean and here, off the coast of Lombok. Traditional boats (perahu) departing from Bangsal or Senggigi ferry passengers out any of the islands (15-30 minutes / Senggigi 1 hour). Gili Trawangan offers some deluxe and lots of relatively cheap accommodation. Gili Meno, which has a bird park, is the least developed or crowded of the island and therefore is perfect for relaxing. Gili Nanggu, Genting, Gede, Poh, etc [WC9] There are several small islands outside the south-west coast around Sekotong. Some of the islands are sparsely inhabited, and all have bungalows where you can stay. They are great places to swim, snorkel and relax. You reach the island by boat from Lembar or from nearby Tawun to Gili Nanggu, and from Pelangan to Gili Gede. There is a beautiful coastal route and some beach resorts.
	Lembar [WE9] The main harbor of west Nusa Tenggara is for ferries connecting Lombok and Bali, at Padangbai and Pelni ships. Ferries leave every hour and the trip takes about 6 hours. Nearby, Gerung is the center of traditional puppet production on the island and is the Regency capital.
	Lingsar [WF6] Lingsar is situated to the north of Narmada and has a Hindu temple which is widely regarded as the most sacred Hindu temple in Lombok. This temple, built in1714, is situated next to the worshiping area, belonging to a sect practicing indigenous Animism, the Wetu Telu. The two differing religious groups combine their animistic belies once a year as they join together for a ceremony to welcome the beginning of the rainy season. The 'Topat War' ceremony begins with each party worshipping in their respective temples. They then congregate outside and start throwing small package of cooked rice wrapped in coconut leaves, call "ketupat" at each other.
	Kerandangan, Mangsit and Malimbu [WD5] Just north from Senggigi are Kerandangan and Mangsit Beaches. Supported by a number of good hotels, their clean white beaches make this area and ideal place to swim, sail or simply to relax. Further north along the panoramic coast road is Malimbu. It's an ideal place for such activities too.
	Senaru [WJ2] The starting point for a trek up Mt.Rinjani can begin at Senaru in the North. This two or three day trek attacks Rinjani from the West with a descent to the awesome Crater Lake before again climbing up and out and on the summit. Alternatively, a more direct route to the summit can be reached from Sembalun. A trek Information Center is located here, where porters and packages can be arranged.
	Mount Rinjani [WJ4] Standing at a majestic 3726 m, Mt.Rinjani is the second highest peak in Indonesia. For the people of Lombok, Sasak and Balinese alike, this mountain is a sacred place where, at the summit, the holy gods live. To climb such an impressive mountain is an unforgettable experience. Many also start their climb from Senaru and finish in Sembalun or vice versa. There is a beautiful scenic route down to the trek center.
	Mount Pengsong [WE7] Strictly speaking Mt.Pengsong is actually a hill but the 360o panorama from there is spectacular, and it is also a monkey habitat. It is of historical interest and has a temple. Mt.Pengsong is located 9 km south of Mataram.
	Narmada Park [WF7] This magnificent park is situated 10 km east of Cakranegara on the east to west Lombok's main road. The small hill and lake within this park replicate the land and Crater Lake at the top of Mt.Rinjani, Lombok's highest and most scared mountain. It is said that when King Anak Agung Gede Karang Asem, former ruler of Mataram, became too old to make the arduous pilgrimage to the top of Mt.Rinjani each year, in order to put offering into the sacred Segara Anak crater lake, he decided to build a replica on the lower ground.
	Pusuk [WE5] Situated in the hiils to the east of Malimbu and on the alternative road to Bangsal, Pusuk has fantastic views, small hotels and restaurants as well as fascinating wildlife. The forest here is home to two species of monkey, most of whom are not afraid to come close to visitors. This area is great for short walks in the hills and valleys with crystal clear cool streams.
	Sekotong [WD10] Located about 45 km south of Mataram, the area has pristine white sand beaches which make it an ideal place to relax. The surrounding sea is full of colorful marine life. Just across from this beautiful shore are islands of Gili Nanggu and Gili Tangkong.
	Sesaot [WG6] North of Suranadi, Sesaot is a wonderful protected forest for walks. It is a popular meeting place for people and is a place to relax and swim in crystal clear cool waters. From here you can stroll through the village nearby and local coffee plantations
	Sire Beach [WE3] Sire is a captivating beach with a sloping shore, clear water and expansive white sand. Its gentle tide affords perfect conditions for water sports. The Lombok Golf Kosaido Country Club golf course, located here, offers views of Mt.Rinjani to the east and the Gilis across the bay to the west. The 18 holes championship course offers a unique, challenging and world-class experience for golfers of all levels. Another 18 holes golf course in at Golong, Suranadi and a driving range is at Ampenan on the road to the airport
	Suranadi [WG6] Situated to the north-east of Narmada, Suranadi has one of the most holy Hindu temples in Lombok. The temple's relaxing surroundings include several springs and pond full of fish. Suranadi itself boasts a natural-park forest area, which is home to monkeys and a variety of birds.
	Senggigi [WD5] Situated 10 km north of Mataram, Senggigi is Lombok's oldest and most famous resort area. A perfect place to relax, Senggigi boasts a series of white sandy beaches and safe swimming areas. Central Senggigi has good waves for surfers. This place has a colorful reef which provides shelter to a variety of marine life and exquisitely shaped coral a perfect place to dive or snorkel. Senggigi caters to all budgets. Exclusive restaurants and small cafes line the main street. Many club, bar and café catering for tourists are located here. Accommodation is available ranging from luxury hotels to small, comfortable bungalow
	Tiu Pupas and Tiu Teja Waterfalls [WH3] Situated in north-west Lombok, Tiu Pupas and Tiu Teja Waterfalls are found inland of the main road. They offer very beautiful natural scenery and cool water for swimming.
	Sindang Gila and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls [WJ3] Sindang Gila waterfall is well known since it is at Senaru, the northern starting point for Mt.Rinjani trek. The short walk down to the waterfall offers very beautiful natural scenery. Lesser known Tiu Kelep waterfall is a short distance further on. The water is refreshingly cool for swimming. Trained local guides are available for hire to accompany visitors. Accommodation and restaurants are located near the entrance to the area.