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Location
LOMBOK ISLAND
Batu Bolong Beach - Located 9 km from downtown Mataram, this beach has a huge rock with a hole in it. It is an ideal place which to see the majestic sunset from Lombok Strait. After sunbathing, relaxing and frolicking on this beautiful beach-front, try to stay till the end of the day to watch one of the most stunning sunsets you have ever seen when the sun slowly begins to disappear behind Mount Agung with incredibly flaming colors. A Hindu temple lies on top facing the Lombok Strait and beyond is the contour of majestic Mount Agung of Bali. Colorful and musical religious ceremonies are often held in this beautiful temple.
Batu Nampar The Traditional Villages - From Kuta we can go to Batu Nampar via Sengkol, Mujur and Ganti. Shortly after the turn of Ganti to Batu Nampar we will find the big village of Batu Rintang. Here are only traditional houses and rice sheds. Only few tourists come here; the residents are very interested in the habits of foreigners. The village across the road has the little friendly name Mata Mailing, 'thieves eye'. In several parts of Central- and South-Lombok thieves are admired as long as they steal from other villages (often cattle) and share the profit. Stealing dates back from the time that there often was hunger. Smart cattle thieves were proud of their title 'master thief'. Outside of Batu Nampar are big salt planes and in the bay are the familiar seaweed platforms. Buginese and Mandarese migrants, who rather use the pillar-houses from their homeland, are more usual than the traditional Sasak housing. Some of these houses have beautiful colored, geometrical motives on the walls. In Batu Nampar we can rend a boat to the other side of the bay, to Ekas village. The trip takes about one hour. 
Bayan: Center of the Wetu Telu - Bayan is located five km southeast of Anyar. Just before the village a road to the south runs to Batu Koq and Senari, starting points for the ascend of Mount Rinjani. The area has several lodges. From here it's less than one hour walking to the high fall of Sendang Gile, from which the vast fields east of the village get their water. Bayan is one of the centers of the Wetu Telu; the local penghulu (religious leader) lives besides a pension north of the main road. The Wetu Telu supporters live along the northern side of the road and the orthodox Moslems across the road. It is assumed that Islam was introduced on Lombok through Bayan. The 300-year-old mosque of the village is said to be the oldest of the island. East of Bayan a road runs across steep hills to Kali Putih about 10 km. The distance to Mataram is measured at 90 km, or 126 km through Lombok Port along the eastern coast and the road, which runs across the island towards the west. Beleka: Art and Tobacco - From Batu Nampar we can also return to the east-west main road via the art- Beleka village (market on Wednesday). In the center of Gadin Mas, rattan and bamboo baskets are made, objects with pottery with decorations and shells. You can buy lots of things. A big part of the production is shipped to Bali, where people pay much more. The arid soil around Beleka is brand for South- and Eastern-Lombok. Tobacco is the most important crop, which needs little water. There are several dams, which don't seem to have more to do than offering people a place for bathing and washing. Late in the afternoon the road is not very fast, because water buffalo's are taken home. After Besun (market on Thursdays) you will arrive in Kopang. Both villages, as well as Ganti in the south, are good starting points for a visit to East-Lombok.
BIMA REGENCY - The former palace in the town of Bima is about all that is left of the Bima sultanate. The building is now being turned into a museum. Dara, a village two kilometers from the town of Bima in eastern Sumbawa, is believed to have been the seat of the ancient Bima kingdom.
CENTRAL LOMBOK - Central Lombok is the tourist heart of the Island. The area concludes the traditional villages which are visited in most daytrips - and which are not far from the 'big three' cities - and the southern coast: Kuta beach, where the festivities around the sea worms (nyale) takes place and Tanjung Aan, with beautiful beaches for surfing. Many travel agencies organize daytrips to these easy to reach destinations. For those who are more than just a little bit interested in Sasak culture certainly has to bring a visit to Batu Kumbung village, northeast of Mataram. It's a traditional Sasak-village, 3.5 km north of the Narmada Water palace. Some women still weave traditional fabrics, decorated by the ikat-technique. There is a creek, which is said to be healing. The village has a certain degree of fame because of it's music- and dance-groups. They perform in the region at weddings. The environment is very good for a walk. You can learn the local dances or learn to play an instrument. It's possible to spend the night in a home stay. DOMPU REGENCY - Dompu is the capital city of Central Sumbawa. It is situated on the main road between the district of Sumbawa and Bima district. Mada Prama - It is located about 4 km from Dompu. Natural spring water for swimming and bathing set in lush tropical forest surrounding. Dermaga Kempo Beach - It is located in Saleh Bay. It is a port that connects Dompu to Nisa Pudu and Nisa Rate Islands. Nisa Pudu and Nisa Rate Island - Nisa Pudu and Nisa Rate Islands have beautiful panorama. People can enjoy the sun from either island. They are located 45 km from Dompu and they can be reached by public transportation. Hodo Beach - is about 45 km from Dompu. Located on Salch beach, the beach is an excellent stop over before ascending Mount Rinjani. Fresh water is available. Calabay - It is about 100 km from Dompu. It has a port called "Tiga Bangun", a port through which timber are exported. Mount Tambora - Mount Tambora is about 100 km from Dompu. It is the highest mountain in Sumbawa. Its eruption in 1815 was one of the most destructive and powerful volcanic explosions in human history, caused a huge catastrophic all over the island. The explosion could be heard as far as Ternate (1400 km), and tremors were felt in Surabaya (800 km). The volcanic dust, ejected into stratosphere acted as a giant filter, creating a spectacular orange sunsets around the world, the eject which circled the world caused temperature to drop almost 2 F degrees below normal for the whole year, resulting in the famous 'year without summer' of 1816._Nowadays, the vicinity of this mountain has become a game and conversation area. Mount Tambora has a dense forest and various kinds of wood. There is a vast meadow, which extends on the slope of the mountain. The hunting area that faces the sea makes the panorama more beautiful. The port here connects to Kempo district. Doro Bata - It is about 1 km from Dompu. Here can be found the remains of the Dompu palace, which was covered with volcanic dust during Mount Tambora's explotion in 1815. Woja Beach - Woja Beach is located in the western part of Cempi Bay. The folktales that describe the origin of Dompu are very famous. The beach has white sand and a beautiful panorama. It is an interesting place. Lapadi - Lapadi is located about 5 km South of Dompu. Lapadi is an area for traditional horse race with little jockeys - children of 8 years of age. The traditional horse race is exclusive. There is also a livestock "Koteka" (cattle breeding and sheep herding). Hu'u Beach - This beach location is about 40 km from Dompu and about 100 km from Bima airport. The largest stretch of beach in the West Nusa Tenggara. Its long and uncompromising curling waves, which have 8 levels gives the area. It has reputation as one of the hottest spots for surfing in Indonesia. Nangga Doro - It is about 45 km from Dompu. Nangga Doro has a mountainous resort with a very hot water spring. The temperature ranges between 80.5 to 81 degrees Celsius. EAST LOMBOK - East Lombok is lush and less developed than the western part of the island, allowing you to peek into a rural part of Indonesia. Inhabited by the indigenous Sasak people, who keep their culture very much in live. Wide Area - The wide area of East Lombok regency is about 3.498.5 Km2 that consist of 1.605,5 Km2 land area and 1.654,15 Km2 sea areas that surround by coastal lines with 220 km length. Garlic and Shallot -From Kali Putih a road runs towards the south to the Rinjani foothills, which finished in Sembalun Lawang after 18 km. It is possible to climb Rinjani from Sembalun Lawang, but it's more easy and friendly to do this from Bayan. About five km before the village we can see the steep, bald slopes, which ascend from the hills. Access of this village is marked by a big monument of garlic, not a sub tile hint to the most important product of export. Sembalun Lawang is located along the northern side of a steel valley, which is planted with garlic. Sembalun Bumbung village is at the southern end of the valley.The two villages are seen as the wealthiest of Lombok. The rich volcanic soil is producing more than enough garlic and shallots. The residents in Sembalun area believe that King Majapahit's brother is buried in the neighborhood. Whether it's true or not, the area has a remarkable Javanese influence on language, music and dances.
The two Sembalungs are connected by a not so good 2,5 km long road. From Sembalun Bumbung you can walk to Pesugulan in four to five hours. This is the place where public transport leaves for the area of Mataram.
While the island is busiest from May through August, the quieter off-season from January to April provides a better opportunity to enjoy the entire islet has to offer, with accommodation prices at their lowest level. To get around the isle, the only means of transport are Cidomos, horse drawn carriages. Bicycle rentals are available too. Expect higher prices for most things there since all food and goods must be brought over from the mainland. Gili Island - Gili Island is a popular destination in Indonesia. Gili Islands located in the north west of Lombok, featuring three small, coral fringed islands; Gili Air, Gili Meno & Gili Trawangan, each with superb, white sandy beaches, clear water, coral reefs, brilliantly colored fish and the best snorkeling on Lombok. Visitors, especially young European is attracted to the simple pleasures of sun, snorkeling, beautiful beaches, and socializing. The absence of cars, motorcycles, and hawkers adds greatly to the leasure of staying on the Gilis. "Gili islands" is not the local name. Gili actually means Small Island and there are lots of other gili's around Lombok. There are many options for an enjoyable holiday on the islands. We can rent snorkeling equipment, join a diving course, rent a kayak, go fishing, or take a glass bottom boat to see the magnificent coral reefs and fishes. There are lots of quality scuba diving operations on all the islands. The coral around the islands is good for snorkeling, which can be reach from the shore. See rays and giant clams. A must see: Turtles Point, Meno Wall. Dive Schools available on all the islands with many dive programs to choose, from beginners to advanced technical dives.
While divers are able to regularly swim with black tip, those who prefer to just drifts in the currents with a snorkel, fins and mask are never left disappointed by the more than 6,000 species of marine life living just off-shore. Fishing is one of the highlight activities on the islands. Deep fishing remains the best on north west of Gili Trawangan.
Gili Meno - Gili Meno, the middle island, the smallest of the three Gili's and it is the quietest with fewer tourists. A great escape for honeymooners or someone who wants to get away from it all. A special feature of the island is the salt lake and spectacular dive sites such as, Meno Wall, Sea Turtle Point, and Blue Coral Point. The beach on eastern part of the island is very nice and there's snorkeling just offshore and further north. In the past Meno was known to have lots of mosquitoes but steps have been taken to control it. Still the best time to visit the island is during dry season.
Gili Trawangan - Gili Trawangan, the most popular island of the Gili's. Just kick back and enjoy the sun, nightly beach parties and sea. The main stripe is full of accommodations, restaurants, and dive shops. If you are seeking a quieter place to stay, there are bungalows in the north. This Island is also known as "Party Island", where mostly young European found them "Lost In Paradise". With spectacular sunrises over Lombok's Mount Rinjani volcano and breathtaking sunsets that illuminate Bali's towering Mount Agung volcano, together with warm hospitality of Gili Trawangan residents, it's not surprising that most visitors end up staying longer than originally plan.
Snorkeling off the shore, sunbathing, swimming, or join any dive trips with any dive operators, which colored the lines. There are quality dive schools available to cater the needs of tourists, offering complete range of PADI courses, as well as Fun Dives for those already certified. By night, the waterfront comes to life as various foreign and locally restaurants and bars start to fire up, with fresh snapper, grouper and tuna, cooked over charcoal flames, readily available.
Agung Gunung Sari Purse - This great temple on a hill at Gunung Sari, about four kilometers from Mataram, was witness to the Puputan battle to the last man, fought on November 22, 1894, between Lombok's last Balinese ruler, Anak Agung Nengah and followers, and the Dutch troops under General Van der Vetter's command.
Holy Forest of Bebekeq - In the nearby forest of Bebekeq a periodical ritual is held. Just before Anyer village, near Sukadana village, is Segenter settlement. The inhabitants have maintained to their traditions due to their relatively strong isolation, this goes for their style of building as well as their Wetu Telu habits. They are friendly and open to visitors, however most cannot speak Indonesian. For a good conversation the tourists probably need sign language, unless we can find a Sasak-speaking guide.
Kuta Beach - The best-known place on the south coast is Lombok's Kuta Beach (Sometime spelt 'Kute Beach'), a magnificent stretch of white sand and blue sea with rugged hills rising around it, but not much else. Plenty of good waves break on the reefs around here - many supposedly “Secret”. There are lefts and rights in the bay in front of Kuta, and some more on reefs east of Tanjung Aan. Local boatman will take you out for a few thousands rupiah. Go about seven km east of Kuta to fishing in Gerupuk village, where there are several potential breaks on the reefs at the entrance of Gerupuk Bay. Again access is by local fishing boat. There's more breaks further east and west, from Blongas to Serewi. Also known as Putri Nyale Beach, Kuta on the south coast of central Lombok is one of the most scenic and unspoiled beaches in this part of Indonesia. From Kuta to Tanjung Aan five km away, it is an unbroken stretch of clean white sand on the Indian Ocean. It is safe for bathing and swimming. Further to the west are the surfers and wind surfer's beaches. Each year, on the 19th day of the tenth month of Sasak lunar calendar on February or March when Nyale fish come to the sea's surface, Kuta Beach is the site of great festivities. Fishermen sail out to sea while young men and women gather along the beach to join in the merrymaking, tease each other and perhaps meet to build a more lasting relationship.
Kuta: The Nyale-ritual - From Sade it's just a small jump to the southern coast near the Kuta village (markets on Sundays). The area is used for the construction of hotels, but still is a reasonably quiet place. We can also find lodges there, as well as restaurants. The nature along the eight-kilometer coastal road from Kuta to Tanjung Aan and Grupuk, which runs close to the beach of the bay, is just splendid.
Lembar: Seaport in the South - Travelers, which go south to Lembar port from Mataram, have the choice between two routes. The main road runs from Cakranegara to the southeast to Kediri, before going to Lembar. The road is in pretty good condition. The alternative is a road full of holes, which takes us through a landscape full of fields. This road also take us along a Balinese temple near Mount Pengsong and passes Rumak, east of it, to enter the main road just northwest of Kediri, near Karang Anyar.
Just west of Rumak is Banyu Mulek, a village that is known about its pottery, made in open fire. Several products are on sale as well.
Lembar port is often houses several big Buginese schooners. Nice boats, equipped with a diesel engine of a modern freighter. They form a sharp contrast with the efficient ferries from Padangbai on Bali.
Just south of the port we can rent a motorized boat for the trip along Gili Nanggu beach. Here we can find nice bungalows built on pillars, besides a nice beach and clear water. Snorkeling however is not good, because the reefs are damaged here as well. A walk around the island only takes twenty minutes.
Lingsar Purse - This may be the only Hindu shrine in the world where both Hindus and Moslems come to worship. About 7 kilometers west of Narmada, it was built in 1714 and rebuilt in 1878 to symbolize harmony and unity between the Hindu Balinese and Moslem Sasak population of the area, especially those who adhere to Lombok's unique Wektu Telu school of Islam.
The Balinese temple is built on higher ground, behind the Moslem section in the compound. In the lower yard is a spring in which pilgrims in the temple yard stage a mock battle between Hindus and Moslems, in which both parties hurl rice cakes at each other.
MATARAM - Mataram is the capital of Lombok. The town actually consists of four different towns Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara (Cakra) and Sweta. Ampenan has most of city sights, including Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat museum, which gives a good overview of the culture of Lombok. Cakra is the best place for eating, sleeping and shopping. It also has the Water Palace, which is worth a visit and the largest temple of Lombok, Meru Purse. Mataram is the administrative centre and Sweta the transport connection of the whole island.
As a center of government administration, Mataram has many large, impressive public buildings and substantial houses. The city also has transportation and shopping facilities. The main square is used for art exhibitions, theater, dance, and wayang kulit (puppet theater) performances. In other parts of Mataram, there are a variety of old-style markets and neighborhoods featuring traditional craftwork like basketware and gold- and silver-threaded sarongs, or wraparound garments.
Ampenan port was once Lombok's main port, but it now relies mostly on fishing vessels. Cakranegara has significant Balinese and Chinese populations; the Chinese have been brought by the Dutch to provide cheap labor.
Although officially 3 separate towns, Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara actually run together, so it's difficult to tell where one stop and the next starts. There are banks, travel agents, mall, interesting shops, traditional markets and few things to see, but the town is not a major attraction.
Cakranegara - The main commercial centre of Lombok, has a thriving Chinese and Balinese Community. Most of the shops and restaurants are run and owned by Chinese.
Ampenan - Once was the main port of Lombok. Old buildings with mix population of Chinese, Arabs, and Melayu. You can find many local restaurants with great Chinese and Sasak foods.
Mayura Park - Mayura Park is what remains of the once existing Karang Asem kingdom of Bali. In the middle of a large pond is a structure called Balai Kambang, which at the time functioned as a legal court of justice as well as a hall for important meetings. Curiously, its architecture shows both Hindu as well as Islamic influences, whereas around the place statues made of stone are found in a Moslem hajji form.
Mayura and Bale Kambang, had built on 1743 by Balinese Hindu's Dynasty; Anak Agung Gede Karangasem. It's now become a recreational park when seasonally used for Music Festivals.
Meno's Bird Park - On Gili Meno island, a new tourist attraction introduced by an Australian businessman who live in Bali, with hundreds of various tropical birds from many different rain forests of Indonesia. Bring over a camera to shoot some spectacular moment. Humidity on Gili Meno is higher than two other Gilis. Equipped you with sun protection and mosquito repellent. There are many options for an enjoyable holiday on the islands. You can rent snorkeling equipment; join a diving course, or just snorkeling off the shore to see the magnificent coral reefs and fishes.
Meru Purse - Another relic remaining from the Karang Asem Kingdom is the Meru Temple at Cakranegara, close to Mataram. The temple was built in 1720 during King A.A. Made's rule as a symbol of Hindu unity on Lombok Island. Several structures are found in this complex, all of them designated to function for particular purposes, including the 33 stalls located next to the main temple.
Museum, located on Panji Tilaar Street, Mataram Resdent - Narmada Park, the miniature of Mount Rinjani and Segara Anak Lake. This summer palace has a spot corner where locals believed to have water fountain.
Suranadi, located up in the north east of Mataram, has a preserved forest for recreation and chill out.Karang Bayan Traditional Village, located north of Narmada Park, image of the old tribe of the Sasaks, the major inhabitant who occupied 90% of Lombok's population
MOYO ISLAND - Moyo Island, at the mouth of Saleh Bay, has a nature reserve with wild oxen, deer, wild boars and a great variety bird species. Visits are best made during the dry season from June through August. A few kilometers of the north coast of Sumbawa, the national park island of Moyo Island is probably the most rewarding destination in Sumbawa, surrounded by beautiful coral reefs and home to wild pig, monitor lizards, 21 species of bat, huge herds of native deer and hordes of crab-eating macaques. The best time to visit is in June and July, though the seas are clear and quiet from April. There are basic private rooms at the PHPA post at Tanjung Pasir on the south coast, where most boats from the mainland arrive. Renting a fishing boat from Tanjung Pasir and going fifteen minutes east to Stama reeft is very rewarding, with lots of sharks and turtles. There's nowhere on Moyo to rent masks and snorkels so bring our own; fins are advisable due to the strong currents. To get to Moyo, take a bemo from beside Seketang Market in Sumbawa Besar to Air Bari , a small port settlement to the northeast. From Air Bari, we can charter a boat to Moyo. National Parks of Indonesia: Moyo Island Reserve - Further along Nusa Tenggara to the east of Lombok lies Moyo Island and its Reserve. A fantastic place to visit and is a place of adventure. Moyo Island is an attractive island three kilometres off the north coast of Sumbawa, lying to the east of Lombok. Two thirds of Pulau Moyo is actually a game reserve. The central plateau with its grassy savannah land and intermittent forested areas is ideal for Deer as well as the feral cattle released there.
There are a few inhabitants on the island and this consists of around 21 villages concentrated in the northern end. From Moyo there are splendid views of Mount Tambora (2,821m) to the east, the highest mountain in Sumbawa, which erupted quite violently in 1815 but now has amazingly beautiful forests on its western slopes. Tambora can be climbed from the side in three days and is well worth a visit. It has an enormous crater and within, a two-colored lake. From the crater there are also spectacular views over Saleh Bay and the rest of Sumbawa to the east, and to the west, Moyo Island to Lombok and Mount Rinjani. The wildlife on the reserve has adapted to the fairly dry habitat and these include Deer, feral cattle, and numerous birds such as Orioles, Sunbirds, Coequals, Koels and Drongos. Of course there are several species of shore birds along the coastline. 
Narmada - In 1727, King Anak Agung Gede Ngurah Karang Asem as both a pleasure garden and place to worship Shiva built Narmada Garden, 11 kilometers east of Mataram. Its big pool is said to represent Segara Anakan, the Crater Lake on volcano Rinjani where they used to make offerings by throwing valuables into the water. As he became too old to make the pilgrimage up the 3,726-meter high mountain, he had Narmada made to represent the mountains and the lake. Near the pond is a place of worship and a spring whose water is believed to give dedicated pilgrims eternal youth. The Natives & History - A few years ago, sailors from Bugis, Mandar and Makassar (Sulawesi) occupied Gili Air and establish coconuts plantation and expand the fishing activities.
As visitors started to visit Lombok and some came to the Gilis on day trips and then began to stay for longer periods in local homes. The islands have become enormously popular. Their popularity may be a problem, as numbers sometime exceed the available rooms and put pressure on the island environment, especially the supply of fresh water and the capacity of septic system to cope with waste and there is always pressure to build more and better facilities.Big business interests are trying to cash in on the popularity of the Gilis and the local government is keen to promote up market tourist development.
Gili Air and Gili Meno retained much of their un-spoilt quality, but Gili Trawangan has become more touristy and pricy.The islanders are majority Muslims and visitors should respect their sensibilities. In particular, topless or nude sunbathing is offensive to them, even though they won't say so directly. Away from Beach, it is polite for women to cover their shoulders and thighs. Many visitors are appallingly insensitive to local standards and so many of them walk around in skimpy clothing that it's easy to get impression that the local people don't mind anymore.Nyale Fishing Festival - On the 19th day of October in Sasak Calendar-generally February or march-hundreds of Sasak gather on the beach. When night falls, fires a built and the young people sit around competing with each other in rhyming couplets called 'Pantun'. At dawn the next day, the first Nyale a caught, after which it is time for Sasak teenagers to have fun. In colorful procession boys and girls sail out to sea - in different boats - chase one another with lots of noise and laughter. The worm-like 'nyale fish' are eaten raw or grilled, and are believed to have aphrodisiac properties. A good catch is a sign that the rice harvest will also be good.The Southwestern Peninsula - To reach the southwestern peninsula of Lombok, we have to take the turn just before Lembar. This road runs to the south, around the bay and then goes inland over a number of hills. 9-kilometer long side road stays close to the bay and offers a nice view over the port area and the bay.The water is scattered with bagan, fixed fishing plateaus, which seem to float on the surface with their spider like look. After the sunset the fishermen set out their huge fishing nets. They use lights to attract fish groups. Twice or three times a night the nets are raised and emptied, mostly small fish are caught.
A small road takes us along a shrimp farm and will eventually end at the main road near Jelateng (where there is a Thursday market). A few kilometers ahead are Sekotongdistrict, which concludes the entire peninsula. Near Sekotong Tengah an unpaved road runs to Sepi.
The road to the west, which is paved for the biggest part, runs just along the northern coast of the peninsula. Every now and then there are Side Rivers to the seaside. The water is calm and all beaches are made out of white sand.Most houses along the coast are simple wooden houses with red paned roof. Just of the beach are many small islands. Coconut trees and mangroves are intermixed with white beaches. Open trucks are the only way of public transport as yet. 'Bemo' are available when the road is paved. In the west of Sekatong District (Sekatong Barat) is a Balinese settlement, Batu Liong, with a small shrine and a temple off the coast. Pelangan village has a very nice beach, and just off the beach we can have a nice place for snorkeling. In this area we can also find a pearl-farm, managed by Japanese. The people are very friendly; if we pay, we can stay in their houses and take part in their village life. The villagers are very poor and need all the money for their basic needs like medicine and clothing.Penunjak - Penujak village, in West Praya district, Central Lombok, is less than an hour by car from Mataram. The village is on the main road between Praya, the capital of Central Lombok and Kuta, a tourist resort on the South coast. In Penujak, the potters are using simple kilns to fire their pottery, which often has carved designs or applied decoration such as Lizards and frogs.The thickness of pots from this area is usually more than others, thus why the pots looks stronger and heavier. Generally during the preparing of clay, in Penujak the clay is not soaked in the water to get flour of clay (very fine clay) as other villages, but pounded before mixed it with sand and water. Praya - The tourist route first takes us towards the southeast to Praya (markets are held on Saturdays). Just before this district capital a right turn brings us to the weaving Sukarara village. Along the main road are five weaving factories. These centrums consist of traditional wooden floes, protected by a roof. Each center has a shop, which sells the local fabrics, without being pressured by smart tricks. Negotiating is normal.
Senggigi - The roads which leaves Ampenan towards the north, passes two small mountains before it reaches a long, bow-shaped beach. On the mornings after moonless nights these hills offer the best view over the sea, which is scattered with small fishing boats with colorful sails, which return to the beach north of Ampenan. When the sunsets the fishermen leave the beach in one long line their lights create a nice play of lights, which can be seen from most hotels on Senggigi beach.The first of the two small mountains, which are passed from Ampenan, named Batu Layar, contains the dedicated grave of one of the Islamic saints (wali), which spread Islam on Lombok. The local population prays near a shrine close to the road. It's possible to walk from the summit of the second mountain to the Balinese temple along Batu Bolong beach.
The hotel colony grows with the day and slowly crawls towards the north along the coast. The hotels are built along a road, which runs to Pemenang, twenty km north of Batu Bolong. The road passes several hilla, which offer very nice views over the coconut trees along the beach and the sea. The old road to Pemenang is located more inland. It starts in Mataram, passes Rembiga and Gunung Sari villages, which has a busi day market, and then ascends around the village of Sidemen.Sukarara - This is a village of weavers south of Cakranegara. This traditional village lies 28 km southeast of bustling Mataram that has a bustling weaving industry. Lombok is known for its brightly patterned songket cloth. People have been making it on their handlooms from generation to generation. These traditionally trained villagers produce an exquisite array of fine woven cloths, using cotton, silk or gold and silver to create their original designs, for which Lombok is now famous.
SUMBAWA BESAR REGENCY - Sumbawa is a large island to the east of Bali and Lombok. It is part of West Nusa Tenggara province along with Lombok. There are hundreds of small islands in this area in addition to the two major islands. Sumbawa really belongs more to Eastern Indonesia than to the western part of the archipelago. The effects of Hindu and Buddhist cultures are minimal in Sumbawa (although there is a Balinese presence along the northern coastal area), and although the island is predominantly Muslim, the role of traditional culture is still very strong.The slogan of Sumbawa Regency is: "B E S A R" which stands for BERSIH, ELOK, SEHAT, AMAN DAN, RAPI, (Clean, Beautiful, Healthy, Safe, and Proper). The regional government's official website notes that Sumbawa still lacks sufficient medical facilities to support public health, in particular a lack of doctors and other health professionals. A public health center was recently opened in Sekongkang, but adequate treatment for a serious illness or accident requires a trip to Sumbawa Besar or Mataram, both of which require a journey of at least four hours minimum.The regional government has a six-year plan for improving the lives of the island's residents. This plan includes: Health (improving health service quality including equipment and facilities), Education, Social Welfare (including reaching gender equality), Agriculture (optimizing resources for improving agricultural products), Industry, Trade and Cooperation (developing an economic system that focuses on the fair market mechanism), Regional Finance and Capital Investment, Manpower and Demography, Public Works and Communication (improving transport and the use of water resources), Agrarian Matter and Landscape, Living Environment and Natural Resource (rehabilitating and conserving natural resources), Tourism, Art and Culture (developing tourism based on natural and cultural tours, as well as teaching traditional art and culture), Religious Life Teaching (improving religious life through teaching and providing praying facilities and by making the role of religious institutions and social organizations to be teaching about living in harmony with other religious people), Law and Society's Orderliness (creating safe conditions based on the supremacy of the law and human rights); Politic and the Efficiency of Apparatus (improving the quality of public service through responsibility and the quality of government institutions); Science and Technology (the application of right and useful technology).In many respects Sumbawa can be considered remote. To get to Sumbawa from Bali most people take the ferry from Bali to Lombok, travel overland to the eastern seaport in Lombok and then take another ferry to Sumbawa, ending up in Poto Tano. From there transportation is somewhat problematic. There are buses that will take us on to Sumbawa Besar, the capital, or down the coast road to the south, If traveling from Lombok, it is best to board a bus there that will take us to our final destination in Sumbawa. It is also possible to fly into Sumbawa Besar city on the western side of the island, and Bima on the eastern side of the island. A small airline called Tropical Air existed for a short while which flew directly to Sekongkan where the surfing spots of Yoyo and Scar Reef are located. Sumbawa is known for its great waves and sandy white beaches. Due to the somewhat trying process of getting there and the scarcity of cheap tourist facilities, the island is not visited much by non-surfing tourists which is unfortunate as the parts of the island that have seen are quite beautiful. During the dry season (April to November) a lot of dust is blown up and around. Strong winds blow in off the ocean, and the lush green hills, mountains and valleys turn a dusty brown. When the rainy season begins an amazing transformation takes place and the island becomes a lush jungle once again.The pace of life on Sumbawa is definitely slower than that in Bali. As most of the island is still developing, there is a very rural feel to just about everywhere that you go, including Sumbawa Besar, the capital of the western side of the island. The mining company, New Mont, has a gold and copper mine down in the southwestern corner of the island around the villages of Sekongkang, Maluk and Benete. Their presence has speeded up the development process on this side of the island.West Sumbawa is mostly made up of hollow lefts that are best accessed by boat charter. The charters will pull up and anchor at the best breaks for easy access to the surf. This area has many steep cliffs that offer scenic backdrops to the epic surf. The Lake area can be accessed by charter, as well as by ferry and overland transfers, or flights from Bali. Here there some hotels and surf camps located right in front of the main breaks of Lackey Peak and Lackey Pipe, with other waves within walking distance. Most waves are a long paddle or walk across the reef depending on the tide, reef booties are recommended.Tanjung Aan The Beautiful Bay - From Kuta, the coastal road goes towards the east to Tanjung Aan, a bay that is a kilometer wide. Big waves break on several rocky islands in the mouth of the bay. The wide sand beach catches the blue-green seawater, where seaweed is grown on bamboo rafts. There is a hotel, which was closed even before it was opened, probably because it was built too close to the water.After Tanjung Aan, the road continues for a couple of kilometers to Grupuk village, where the recent introduction of seaweed cultures, for agar-agar, has brought in the very needed rupiah. Close to here, it seems to be a very good surfing spot; the Australians name it 'Desert Point'.Just before Tanjung Aan a 13 km long unpaved road leads to Awang village, located along the shore of a big bay where the settlements are still very traditional. Only a few people take this road. From a hill just before Awang we have a good view over the bay.A big number of bamboo rafts with seaweed float on the sea. The others tie colored flags on it for recognition. In Awang we can charter a canoe with motor or a visit to Batu Nampar, a village more to the east. From Batu Nampar is a good road towards the north. Several times a daily bemo can bring us to Sengkol.It's a good idea to spend the night near Kuta, and to return by another road. For a very nice view over the entire area we can make the short but steep climb to the peak of the hill west of Kuta. There is a paved road straight to the top, where you can find something of a hotel. The view is very beautiful.
Tanjung Luar: Buginese Settlement - From Batu Nampar the journey continues to the north and near Ganti to the east, to two coastal settlements: Ekas and Tanjung Luar. To reach Ekas, we turn south, pass Jerowaru (markets on Thursdays) and follow a good, unpaved road until the village at the eastern shore of the Awang bay. The road runs through a nice landscape along salt panes and low coastal hills. We can probably find a motorized canoe in Ekas for the way back to Batu Nampar of Awang. To reach Tanjung Luar you have to go to the east from Ganti, through Keruak and further to the coast.T anjung Luar is inhabited by Buginese migrans grom South-Sulawesi. Most residents are fishermen; they mainly catch squid, especially in the period October to April. On the long, curvy black sand beach are hundreds of small boats, and right of the pier are several bigger boats. At low tide the village people go on the flat reef to look for shells. Also be careful at the beach, it is often used as public toilet as well. In Tanjung Luar we can rent boats for a daytrip to Tanjung Ringgit on the southeastern most tip of the peninsula. There is not much else to see northeast of Tanjung Luar. On the way back you should stop near Keruak, to see the traditional canoe building. Craftsmen work along the southern side of the road, just before the crossing in the center of the town.
Sade: Traditional Houses - More south, we will arrive old Sade village after we have passed Sengkol the little town. There are many traditional houses and rice sheds here. The building permit doesn't allow the construction of modern houses with red paned roofs here. Small boys, which sometimes speak some English, guide the tourist through the village and explain everything of which they think it's interesting. The government constructed a concrete path through the village in the late 1980's, probably because too many tourists fell here.
The traditional houses have a platform inside which is built one meter above the ground, and is made of a mixture of clay, droppings and straw, which is polished into a shining floor. The roof is made from natural products, the walls are made from bamboo or palm leafs. Sade, a village with just more than 150 farmers families, has a big number of had shaped rice sheds on pillars (lumbung), which have become the symbol of Lombok.
Tuak - Sidemen is famous because of its red palm sugar, which is by boiling the juice of sugar palm tree. The sugar (gula merah) is sold in half circles on the markets. The juice of the palm is, just after it's cut off from the trees, drunken fresh as well. The sweet juice is then named 'tuak manis'. Gusted into foaming, alcoholic palm wine it's simply called 'tuak'. Further north is a nice coffee house nears the mountain pass of Pusuk. When the weather is clear you have a nice view over the Gili Islands from here. From Pusuk the road descends to Pemenang, which passes groups of monkeys, which wait for gifts from passers-by.
WEST LOMBOK - West Lombok has both the lushness of Bali and the starkness of outback Australia. The 3,726m Rinjani volcano dominates the northwest of the island, while the southwest is arid and covered by savannas. Famous for its basket ware, pottery and ikat hand woven textiles, Lombok has exceptional charm and is relatively undiscovered, except for Sengiggi and the Gili islands that have become popular tourism areas. We visit traditional villages and a local market in search for rare pieces of handicraft.
With the three 'big cities', the airport and the biggest concentration of hotels, West-Lombok is the best place to stay for the visitor. Here are the popular Gili Islands, as well as the most important Balinese temples, the center of Wetu Telu and mount Rinjani. The first route takes the tourist north, from Ampenan to Senggigi beach, Gili's, Wetu Telu center Bayan and surrounding, and eventually to the foothills of Moutn Rinjani. The second route goes south to quiet beaches and surfing locations of the southern peninsula.
Wetu Telu - Wetu telu is a unique religion that blends Islam - Animism and is only found in north Lombok. It roots stem from Bayan village in the north. The people who practice this still consider themselves Muslims but they have their own rituals in addition to the normal Muslim ones. One such ceremony is Nyiu, which takes place 1000 days after someone dies. The relatives of the deceased offer material things like clothing, toothbrushes, food, dishes, mattresses, etc. So the deceased will be pleased in heaven.
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