Lombok Timur – Mount Rinjani and the Sembalun Valley
Lombok Timur Regency lies in the eastern Lombok part of West Nusa Tenggara province. Its capital is Selong. The region is home to the eastern side of Mount Rinjani (3,726 m, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano) – Lombok’s most attractive natural destination.
Attractions and Activities
Mount Rinjani (Gunung Rinjani) is one of Indonesia’s most stunning trekking destinations: from the summit, a panorama of the crater lake (Danau Segara Anak) and Barujari cone opens. Sembalun Valley at Rinjani’s eastern foot is a green mountain valley – the trek’s starting point and beautiful in its own right. Tanjung Ringgit rocky peninsula at the south-eastern tip – Pink Beach (Pantai Pink) with pink-hued sand is one of Indonesia’s rarities. Labuhan Lombok port is the ferry station for Sumbawa.
Culture and Cuisine
Sasak culture and Islamic tradition are defining. Reverence for Tuan Guru religious leaders is strong. Cuisine is Sasak: ayam taliwang, pelecing, beberuk terung, and local kopi Rinjani.
Public Safety
Lombok Timur is a safe region. Rinjani trek requires a registered guide and permit – the volcano is active. Mountain weather can change quickly. Medical care: basic hospital in Selong; Mataram (approx. 1.5 hours) has more advanced facilities.
Practical Information
From Lombok Praya Airport, approximately 1 hour east by car to Selong, approximately 2 hours to Sembalun Valley. The best time to visit is April to October (also for Rinjani trekking). Accommodation: guesthouses in Sembalun; hotels in Selong.