Lombok: The Hidden Gem of Indonesia Revealed
A beautiful evening view in Lombok at Pullman Hotel - Lombok Madilika Beach Resort
Only fifty miles away over the sea from Bali is Lombok, an island which until recently has been in the shadow of its glamorous sister. To a certain extent, however, the figment is gone – majestic nature and stunning landscapes of Lombok are gradually revealing themselves to tourists. Although Bali is still very popular, Lombok suggest a quieter and less crowded place to explore and would suit both first timers as well as the experienced travelers.
Impressive Beaches
Lombok’s impressive beaches, rich forest, and the high mountains enclosed in the mist also have an appeal. Everywhere visitors embark the island, they are immediately enchanted by the gorgeous shorelines, white as any beach and with water so clean as the sea. Away from the coastal strips, fearless explorers of Lombok’s interior territory can be rewarded with hot springs, waterfalls and mountains rising to cloud level.
It is hard to imagine a visit to Lombok island without making a trek to the nearby MT Rinjani, the second highest volcano in Indonesia. Although this mountain forms one of the most exciting multi-day trekking adventures in the country, the experience is also one of the most challenging. The climb up Rinjani is not an easy feat but certainly one of Indonesia’s greatest pay offs. Hikers may spend nights next to a gorgeous crater lake and days in boiling hot springs and, of course, sunrise from the top of the volcano cannot be described but must be seen and felt.
Air terjun benang kelambu, Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls are the iconic waterfalls of the Lombok’s Mt. Rinjani. I visited Air terjun benang kelambu waterfall and will discuss the beauty and its tourism potential in my upcomimg article. These beautiful waterfalls are located on tropical island and accessible by short hike through the jungle paths through the vegetation one reaches these wonderful natural cascades with clear turquoise waters flowing down the rocks overgrown with moss. The above trail itself is a lovely experience to go through, more especially crossing the rivers alongside the green vegetation.
Southern coast of Lombok offers splendid waves for those adventure seekers who love surfing. This harsh coastline is best accessed beginning from the town of Kuta Lombok. Go rent a scooter and go to the more isolated beaches, mainly tucked amongst cliffs or long coves to be explored. Mawi Bay is, therefore, the place to go for those dared for adventure. This is a remote accessible beach that is filled with quality waves for surfers, outlined by the horizon dividing between small islands and cattle-grazing farmers complimenting the road.
Evenings in southern Lombok can be fascinating due to the sky painted with pink and orange stripes that will define the beauty of riding a horse on the coastline. From strolling through the sea pools, walking barefoot on the sand and beasts, observing the sunset over the ocean, the southern coast is best for travelers who want to have an adventure while having their best relaxation.
Lombok: The Emerging Destination
From my observation of the place when I toured there, Lombok is fast establishing it self as major tourists’ friendly destination within Indonesia. It is a package of both convenience and adventure since it has some natural attractions complemented by the growing tourism facilities. From climbing the peaks of Mt. Rinjani, to the surfing strips below the south coast or idling in the Gili Islands, there is the sense of the exotic that puts Lombok a step ahead of Bali.
This particular destination remains relatively unknown for the time being which as the word gets out on all the wonderful things to do in Lombok, the resort will likely see an increased number of visitors—while maintaining the wonderful exploratory feeling that it currently has. This is so because Lombok presents itself as one of the world’s most desirable leisure destinations whether for adventure or relaxation, or as a place for exploring.
