Sembalun Village Day Tour

It is not a secret, but many Southeast Asian travellers may have never heard of Sembalun. In fact, during our visit to this town, I did not see any other foreign tourists. But let me answer your first significant question: Where is Sembalun?

Sembalun is located on the steep slope of Mount Rinjani in the northeastern region of Lombok Island, Indonesia. It is one of the gateway towns to trekking Rinjani. Sembalun is actually divided into two villages, Sembalun Lawang and Sembalun Bumbung. They are only two kilometres apart, and neither one is massive.

Sembalun Village Lombok is a quiet mountain town located in the northern mountain regions of Lombok Island, Indonesia. While not many tourists tend to visit Sembalun, it is surprisingly one of the best adventure destinations in Lombok.

From epic waterfall missions to incredible day hikes, this is why you should visit Sembalun, which will convince you to skip the Kuta crowds.

Snuggled between striking mountains, Sembalun Village sits in a valley and at the base of Mount Rinjani. The village is three hours by car from Mataram, making it a picturesque drive. The drive, however, can be a little bit challenging due to the steep climb.

The fertile soil from the volcano helps agriculture thrive, which is the lifeblood of the community. On your journey to reach the village, you will pass by lush green rice fields and tropical gardens. Here you will find cabbage, carrots, chilli, rice and onions growing, with farmers playing a vital role in the village. Spices are also in abundance here. On your visit, you will have the chance to experience harvesting them on a traditional farm.

Popular instruments used include flutes, traditional Indonesian instruments like the Gamelan, and percussive instruments. Learning to play the Gamelan is a skill passed down through the family.

A visit to Sembalun Village is a chance to learn about daily life as a local. Whether you join in on the local communities’ harvesting, explore the original homes still standing or listen to the music of the local people, a visit will bring you further insight into Lombok’s cultural identity.

Bukit Selong (Selong Hill) is a vantage point where you can enjoy the stunning view of one side of Sembalun. Located at the feet of the magnificent Mount Rinjani, Selong Hill overlooks a plateau that functions as the northern part of Sembalun’s farming field.

Taman Wisata Pusuk Viewpoint is another incredible mountain viewpoint at the top of Sembalun. Unlike Pergasingan Hill, you won’t need to hike to the top since the viewpoint is located on the side of the road atop the mountain pass.

This is an excellent viewpoint to get expansive views of the Sembalun valley and the massive volcanic hills. You’ll also see the tiny porcelain houses below Pergasinghan Hill and Rinjani’s crater.

A small bamboo viewing platform stretches out over the edge, making for some incredible, corny little photos.

Traditionally, of the 24 000 hectares belonging to the customary Sembalun land, only about 4000 are converted for fruit and vegetable agriculture, pasture land for livestock, rice fields, settlement and harvest stocks. For the most prominent part, the remaining area remains intact, consisting mainly of forests.

Sembalun is divided into two villages; Sembalun Lawang and Sembalun Bumbung which only 2 km apart. The area looks like a dry lake, transformed into fertile land.

Sembalun Lawang is set in an ancient and fertile caldera to the east of Mt. Rinjani, the preferred access route for summiteers. The rich soil produces high quality market garden crops, including the famous garlic and rice, a staple of local farmers. Seismic activity is monitored daily at the government Rinjani Volcanology Centre.

The beautiful valley of Sembalun is also known for its hill walks recently restored traditional village, active cultural performers and local weavers. Some homestay accommodation is available, and trek services are based at the Park’s Rinjani Information Centre.

What to Bring / Travel Tips:

• You can wear strapped sandals or shoes
• You may wear a comfortable T-shirt and shorts
  Backpack for your belongings
• Towel, insect repellent, sunblock lotion, and camera (at your own risk)
• Cash for personal expenses

Prohibitions & Limitations:

• If you are prone to seasickness, please do ensure you have your medication with you

Additional Information:

• Attraction / activity is subjected to weather conditions
• Rest assured that experienced facilitators and guides will accompany you throughout the way in case you need any assistance