10 CULTURAL THINGS TO DO IN LOMBOK, INDONESIA

Lombok, located in the island archipelago of Indonesian, forms one of some 18,000 islands and is habituated by around three million people. It is located on the East of the better known island of Balikpapan (Bali). In comparison to Bali, Lombok is a quiet, peaceful haven with incredible stretches of deserted beaches, less tourism with some of the world’s best surf. This article showcases the cultural things to do in Lombok, from taking a day trip into the Northern forest to spending a day discovering the city sights and partaking in activities with a local women’s collaborative.

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Where is Lombok Located?

Lombok is located in an 18,000 archipelago of islands that make up Indonesia in Asia. It is around an hours flight from it’s Big sister counterpart Bali. Although Lombok is not a million miles away from Bali, it’s lies around 176 Km East of Bali, this palm-fringed golden sand, cultural hot spot is filled with the most beautiful forests, and exudes a more exclusive yet personable island escape. Although you will see tourists, they are concentrated in certain parts of the island like Kuta, not the same as Kuta in Bali may I add. Lombok’s location makes it perfect to explore many of the surrounding archipelago including the famous Gili Islands.

Why Should You Visit Lombok?

It’s an altogether laid back vibe compared to Bali with less crowds and a lot of emphasis put on nature. The hotel options are more affordable yet more luxurious, the food is just as delicious and the locals are very friendly and hospitable. Lombok has a wonderful host of lush green forests in the North which are known for the their stunning waterfalls. Then there’s Indonesia’s second highest volcano, Mount Tinjani with Segara Anak Lake to marvel.

The islamd is steeped in cultural practices followed by the Sasak people who inhabited the land and are proud to share their culture.

How Long to Spend in Lombok?

We would recommend any thing from three days, if it’s part of a longer Indonesia Itinerary, to two weeks. We spent nine nights there during the Christmas season and unlike many other destination, it never appeared to be crowded. Three days will allow you to see the capital, Martaram, spend a day on each of the Gili islands and another travelling to the North to see the waterfalls for a contrast in vistas. Nine days was perfect as we managed to get lots of rest days in, and could take day trips such as a city tour to Mataram for a day, a day in the North as well as a day exploring the Gili islands.

When is The Best Time to Visit Lombok?

The best time to visit Lombok is from May to June. The days are sunny, and temperatures are moderate at around 26^°C– 30^°C, with fewer crowds. Lombok’s high season falls over July and August, corresponding with school holidays. Many people do visit over Christmas time but this also depends on where you’ll be staying and your accommodation type and location. If you’re staying in private beach front couples boutique villas, it will be a lot quieter and calmer than a family-friendly resort in a busier part of the island. In December the weather was quite humid with sunny days and the odd rain shower, with a few heavier bursts in the North of the island. This did help with filling the waters and making them look rather dramatic.

10 Cultural Things to Do in Lombok

#1 Explore The Capital of Lombok, Mataram

Mataram is the capital of Lombok, it’s the largest town on the island and is most definitely worth a visit and a huge contrast from the sleep beachside location where we were staying. Open markets, bustling street stores, small open green spaces and locals taking street food breaks at the side of the road, it’s definitely a colourful and cultural site of the island’s business capital. Visit the many temples, mosques, shopping districts and food outlets but be aware of the scooters!!

#2 Explore The Pura Lingsar Temple

10 Km Northeast of the capital city of Mataram, lies the single most important Hindu temple in Lombok,  Pura Lingsar. represents a blending of the Hindu tradition with Wektu Telu, a religion practiced by the Sasak people, Lombok’s natives. Wektu Telu’s adherents consider themselves Muslims, but do not follow many of the religious commandments that more orthodox Muslims do.

Pura Lingsar Temple Map Location

Pura Lingsar was built in 1714 by the Balinese King Anak Agung Ngurah who had a Hindu and a Muslim wife. It is considered a symbol of harmony and unity between the Balinese Hindus and the Islamic Sasak. If you visit the temple, a donation is expected.

We had a thread tied around our wrist by the priest for good wishes and we also bathed in the holy spring water at Lingsar.

#3 Wander Around Ampenan Market

We visited many markets on Lombok but the market in the old city of Ampenan is definitely one not to be missed. Think fruit, veg, the freshest fish and meats.

Ampenan Market Map Location

It’s lively, full of colour and there’s not a tourist in sight as you walk along bargaining with the market traders and take in the smell of spices and numerous dried fish stalls. Dry fish plays a huge part in cooking in Indonesia and you can buy it in many different varieties from the local markets.

#4 Narmada Park

In 1727, King Anuk  Agung  Ngrah built Narmada Park as a summer resting place for the Royal Family, when they visited Lombok in the summer months, essentially it was the King’s summer residence.

Narmada Park Map Location

The park is located about 10 Km from the capital city of Mataram and also features a waterpark and beautiful lush gardens featuring lakes and pagodas. It’s a great family space with areas for picnics and swimming scattered throughout.  There is also one of the six oldest temples in Lombok here called the Pura Narmada. Unfortunately it was closed on our visit but we were able to admire the views from here.

#5 Pura Batu Bolong Temple

Situated above the black rock on Seggigi beach, Pura Batu Bolong is known as the temple on the rocks. It’s a sacred site of Hindu worship and also makes for a beautiful backdrop. It’s a very peaceful place of worship with the sea lapping against the rocks in the background and definitely worth a visit to observe how this site is used.

Pura Batu Bolong Temple Map Location

#6 Womens Pottery & Weaving Co-operatives

I’m a great supporter of local arts and crafts and to learn of opportunities of how I can support the local economy. I was therefore keen to visit some local pottery and weaving co-operatives that I had heard of during the planning of my visit. They are situated just outside of Mataram city however there are many of these located all around Lombok. It’s really important for the women to earn an additional living if their partners or the males in the house are farming. You will also be supporting the small tourist industry on the island and neighbouring islands.

The pottery co-operative allowed a group of women to make a variety of pots, some quite ornate as well as ceramics required for daily use with certain designs being sold abroad.

Minna Lombok Pottery Map Location & Panji Saro Womens Weaving Group Map Location.

They had a small workshop in the back, which allows visitors to have a go at making their own ceramic creation for a donation of your choice. I tried my hand at making a small bowl on a potters wheel with some guidance from one of the ladies in the co-operative. The pottery isn’t fired like back home so you can take it back almost straight away and air dry it.

The Women’s Group is a weaving co-operative where girls from the age of 14 are taught the intricate art of weaving. It is said that a girl is not ready to marry until she has mastered the art of weaving. There are many different scarves throws and house weaves that you can purchase should you wish to support the co-operative.

Related Article: Jeeva Santai Villas: A Sustainable Boutique Hotel in Lombok

#7 Tiu Kelep Waterfall & Sendang Gile Waterfall

We booked a trekking tour of North Lombok and hiked the Rinjani Geo Park to scope out both of these waterfalls, which are located in the town of Senaru. In Lombok, I’d say these are two of the must-see waterfalls, especially Tiu Kelep and to make things easier you can reach them via the same hike.

Tiu Kelep Waterfall Map Location.

Sendang Gile Waterfall Map Location.

This trek is not a difficult one however since the earthquake, the route had got somewhat more trickier to navigate but also it rained quite heavily when we visited and we ended up walking through fast-flowing knee-deep rivers, slippery boulders and blocked routes.

I’d advise dressing accordingly. However, once you arrive, both are stunning and you can cross the river to get right under them for a swim. The waterfall drop is around 30 metres with a lot of spray so be prepared with your waterproof essentials!

Tours are available everywhere in Lombok for the waterfalls but if you’d like to visit independently, by hiring some transport or a motorbike.

#8 Monkey Forest

On our drive to North Lombok, the road passes through an area named Monkey Forest. If you’re driving North, there’s a big chance you will also drive through. If you’re particularly into monkeys you may want to stop as there is also a lovely viewpoint up at this elevation but be aware if you have nuts they will not stay in your hand for long. Some of the males are quite aggressive and will grab them off you! It’s a nice spot to take in the lush Northern views though and the baby monkeys are pretty cute!

Monkey Forest Viewpoint Map Location

#9 Sasak Village

Culturally, for me it was quite important to see how the native Sasak people live in Lombok and with the help of the government, who help with overheads, it is now possible to go and visit a small traditional Sasak village, based in Senaru.

Sasak Village Map Location

Learn about the local life of a Sasak community, see the local’s meeting house, how they farm, their houses and the roles of males and females in a family. As Senary is located close to the foot of Mount Rinjani, you can see how the Sasak community make a living by farming around this area, as well as collecting coffee beans. Most Sasak do attend School but go on to work in the family trade. This is a must-do to get a real taste of local traditional life, which is still present in Lombok to this day.

#10 The Gili Islands

This group of three islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno) are located near the North-West coast of Lombok, characterised by their sandy beaches fringed with palms but it’s their coral reefs, which make them a draw to visit especially for diving enthusiasts.

Gili islands Map Location

We spent the day exploring all three islands from Lombok in a local fishing boat. We reached the first island in around 30 minutes from the shoreline near our hotel, Jeeva Santai Villas.

The Gili islands are vehicle free and instead operate a horse and cart system of transportation.

Gili Trawagan (Aka Gili T)

This is the biggest of the islands and is also the busiest. The outer part of the island is surrounded by a ferry port, and a lot of bars and cafes. It most definitely is very touristy filled with all sorts of accommodation, resorts, surf, dive shops and night clubs.

If you venture a little bit more inland, this is where you will see daily local life. The local inhabitants live in the centre of the island and life here is a big contrast from the outer fringes of Gili T. If you’re a party animal Gili T is for you as nights become quite lively into the early hours of the morning. I’d recommend hiring a bike and cycling around the island to get a real feel for it. Oh and Gili T hosts a huge variety of street art if you’re into it like yours truly!

Gili Air

Gili Air is much smaller in comparison to Gili T with some lovely cafes and spas dotted around the island. It’s quieter and a little calmer and I’d say a great place to grab some lunch if you’re exploring the Gili islands like us for a day. If you are into your diving and snorkelling there are many dive schools as well as places to hire snorkel equipment if you fancy exploring the reefs. There are also some lovely resorts on the island if you are staying overnight.

Gili Meno

Probably my favourite island of all three, Gili Meno is just what I’d call paradise. Powdery white sand against a never-ending horizon of blue! The island is just stretches of secluded beach with the odd romantic resort, café, dive school. This is the place to come and relax. If you fancy a swim in the sea at Turtle Point you can snorkel with wild turtles, which gather around the reef or you can simply sit back with a book and cocktail and relax.

Be-lavie Top Tips

Here are a few tips that may be useful if you’re planning to visit the island of Lombok…

#1 Observe Modest Dress

Just bear in mind Lombok is 85% Muslim and it’s important to observe modest dress in public areas. Bikinis, shorts and low cut attire is not appropriate when visiting other places apart from the beach.

#2 Respect Local Culture – Read Temple Signs

When visiting Temples, there will be a sign at the entrance saying ladies who are menstruating cannot enter. This is the culture in Indonesia and should be respected. Be prepared to be asked a couple of times by the temple attendants at the entrance. If you’re going on an organised tour, it may be a good idea to find out if you’ll be visiting many temples as you’ll just have to sit them out if you can’t go in.

#3 Wear a Selendang at Temples

Prior to entering a temple, a Selendang will be tied around your waist, knotted  to the left for women and to the right for men. A Selendang is a long narrow cloth, a bit like belt or sash. It is a symbol of controlling the emotions and the five senses. It is believed to act as a reminder of the difference between the upper world and the lower world by acting as a barrier between the upper and lower body. This is to ensure that people will have a pure, clear mind before entering any temple or engaging in holy work.

#4 Tipping Culture

Tipping is not really expecting on Lombok but as salaries are low and if you think you received great service, it’s a nice gesture, which will be received gratefully.

#5 Remove Shoes Indoors

The people of Lombok are very welcoming, hospitable and friendly. If you go into a shop, office or house, remember to take your shoes off outside before you enter as a sign of respect to their culture.

Finally, we booked our experiences on Lombok through our hotel, Jeeva Santai Villas as we knew they worked with small local communities and we were keen to support the community with our business and gain a real personalised authentic experience. You can also get more ideas at Tourism Indonesia

Best Lombok Tours & Attractions

If you prefer not to wait until you arrive in Lombok and want to be more organised with your itinerary then take a look at these recommend tours.

Where to Stay in Lombok

Kuta is a lively hub and where a lot of people stay when visiting however there are lot of boutique style villas and other accommodation types which are great value for money with incredible secluded locations. We stayed at the Jeeva Santai Villas, which are boutique located at the beach front in Senggigi and away from many ofthe tourist spots.

Alternatively, look for your ideal Lombok accommodation here:

// Related Article: Jeeva Santai Villas: A Sustainable Boutique Hotel in Lombok

Things To Do In Lombok FAQ

1 Is Lombok Worth Visiting?

Absolutely Yes, Lombok is pretty authentic, has the most wonderful beaches and is an island that focuses more on local culture. The mountains and waterfalls in the North are spectacular. Lombok is also well placed to take many day trips.

2. Where is the Best Place to Stay in Lombok?

If you are visiting Lombok for the first time, Kuta many be a great location for you, with walkable distances to shops and restaurants. Budget travellers may prefer the capital, Mataram, with many nightlife-lovers would prefer Senggigi. We stayed a little on the outskirts of Senggigi, which was very peaceful in beach-front private boutique pool villas, however did not experience or see any nightlife. Tanjung is said to be a great neighbourhood for families.

4. Where’s The Best Place to Take a Day Trip to Lombok

If you are staying on the Gili Islands, factor in a day for a trip to Lombpk. It’s an easy boast ride away and a great way to see another island in the Indonesian archipelago.

3. What to do on a day trip to Lombok?

We would recommend either taking a day trip around Mataram, the pottery and weaving co-operatives, heading to Narmada and the temples. Alternative spend the time in the North, visiting Tiu Kelep waterfall and spend the day surrounded by nature. Doing both is unrealistic due to distances.

Cultural Things to Do in Lombok Round-Up

Lombok was a truly magical side of Indonesia and Indonesian heritage, culture and hospitality I have never seen previously. It’s a great place to visit and team that with a relaxing, more laid-back kind of holiday. When in Indonesia Lombok is a must visit with its rich heritage and hospitality but also its individuality from the rest of Indonesia.

Related Articles:

• Jeeva Santai Villas: A sustainable Boutique HOtel in Lombok

Resources To Help Plan Your Trip

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