Lombok, Indonesia

A long weekend trip in a remote island paradise

📌 By Jakub Mikula | October 29, 2019

Over a recent long (Deepavali) weekend, my friend and I visited the island of Lombok. Located east of Bali, one might think this island hides in the shadow of its neighbour, but it actually shines as a hidden gem that offers endless possibilities bound to satisfy everyone: rural, nature, thrill, surf, adventure, and beach seekers. It had been a while since I last set foot in rural areas away from buzzing cities and tourist centres, but Lombok offered far more than I had bargained for. Located right next to Bali, Lombok is much more rural; with its pristine beaches, beautiful coastlines, and hills you can climb, only to be blown away by the views.

• budget connection from Singapore: SG → JB → (bus) KL → (flight) Lombok
• transportation: scooter (~50,000 IDR per day), a bottle of fuel (~10,000 IDR), taxi (~ 150,000 IDR from the airport to Kuta)
• visited: Kuta (my home for the weekend), Gerupuk, Bukit Merese, Seger Beach, and Tanjung Ringgit
• month of visit: October (dry season)

Day 1

Gerupuk

As soon as my friend and I reached Kuta (a popular area with plenty of accommodation options) and had lunch at a nearby restaurant, we rented a scooter (~50,000 IDR) for the rest of the day to explore the surrounding area. Renting a motorbike is probably the best way to see the sights scattered around. After an approximately one-hour ride from Kuta, we first reached Goa Kota, Gerupuk. I decided to climb the steep hill all the way to the top, and I was absolutely stunned by this very first viewpoint overlooking the southern part of the island. From the top, you can appreciate the expansive landscape that gives the scene an otherworldly feel.

You can notice that during the dry season, the landscape takes on golden shades. This season lasts approximately from April to October. Everything then slowly turns green again for the rest of the year.

In the distance, I could see some majestic rock formations jutting out of the water that reminded me of the coastline of Australia.

Immersed in the beauty of this place, I quickly lost track of time. Only when I saw the sun nearing the horizon did I realize we still wanted to visit Bukit Merese.

Bukit Merese

Bukit Merese is one of the popular spots for those who enjoy watching sunsets. Although many people gather here in the evening, worry not; the area is so large that there is space for everyone and more. Not only people, but dogs and monkeys (jumping across the rugged terrain) too.

As the sun sets, the golden rays accentuate the mesmerizing beauty of this picturesque land and seascape, eventually leaving you in darkness broken only by the lights of distant stars.

Day 2

Seger Beach

On the second day, we decided to visit Seger Beach (~ 1h from Kuta) and Tanjung Ringgit (~ 3h from Kuta). Waking up at six in the morning, we arrived at Seger Beach shortly before eight and had a simple breakfast (Mee Goreng - fried instant noodles).

Seger Beach is surrounded by two hills on either side, and both are easily walkable. Both sides offer a magnificent view over the beach and beyond.

Walking up the hill, I was followed by a couple of stray but friendly dogs. It seemed like they were also amazed by the charm of the beach.

Many beautiful white-sand beaches stretch along the coastline, seemingly untouched, waiting to be explored. I loved the contrast between the emerald colours of the sea and the golden colours of the landscape typical of the dry season.

There are so many places like this to see :) It really feels like having a private beach all to yourself ;)

In the early afternoon, we continued to our last destination: Tanjung Ringgit.

Tanjung Ringgit

Tanjung Ringgit is located about a three-hour ride from Kuta. Shortly after leaving Kuta, the asphalt turns into dry, winding roads leading through a desert-like landscape. When we reached the end of the peninsula, we found ourselves standing at the edge of a huge cliff with strong waves crashing below.

Walking along the edge with views like these sent shivers down my spine. I could have sat here all day if only I had more time.

In conclusion, this rural heartland of Indonesia will definitely amaze you from sunup to sundown. I was absolutely stunned by the picturesque scenes of the sprawling sea, but there is much more up Lombok’s sleeve. I hope to visit this place again soon, but next time I want to head north to conquer Mount Rinjani ;)

How long should your trip to Lombok be?

I stayed on this island for only one and a half days. Although I managed to see a lot of beautiful places along the southern coast, it was a rush. One week would be ideal if you also want time to relax ;)

If you also visited Lombok, tell us more in the comments!

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