Senaru and Batu Koq

These picturesque villages merge into one along a ridge with sweeping Rinjani and sea views. They are also way stations for would-be climbers who have Rinjani in their sights.

But even without a peak-bagging itch, the beautiful walking trails and spectacular waterfalls are worth a day or so.

Rinjani Trek Center at the southern end of the village, has good information on Rinjani and the surrounding area. The two villages are spread out along a single steep road which heads south to Rinjani.

Batu Koq is about 3km south from Bayan, but Senaru is about 3km uphill further.

Do not miss Air Terjun Sindang Gila, a spectacular set of falls 20 minutes walk from Senaru. You will stroll through forest and alongside an irrigation canal that follows the contour of the hill, occasionally disappearing into tunnels where the cliffs are too steep.

A further 50 minutes or so uphill is Air Terjun Tiu Kelep, another waterfall with a swimming hole. The track is steep and tough at times. Six kilometres south of Bayan is the traditional village of Dusun Senaru, where locals will invite you to chew betel nut (or tobacco) and show you around.

If you are a fan of soft trekking, we provide daily activities in Senaru called RICE TERRACE AND WATERFALL WALK and also SENARU PANORAMA WALK, which has stunning views and insights into local tradition.

Sembalun Village

High on the more arid but still agrarian eastern side of Gunung Rinjani is the beautiful Sembalun Valley, surrounded by farmland and golden foothills that turn green in the wet season. When the high clouds part, Rinjani goes full frontal from all angles. The valley has two main settlements, Sembalun Lawang and Sembalun Bumbung.

Bumbung is wealthier but has no tourist facilities. Lawang is the best launch pad for Rinjani summit attempts, but that doesn’t mean it’s a tourist magnet. Most trekkers sleep and hike from Senaru.

For more info about Rinjani Trekking, you can visit the page Rinjani Trekking.

Sapit is located on the southeastern slopes of Gunung Rinjani. It is a tiny, very relaxed village with views across to Sumbawa. Tobacco drying open loom above the beautifully lush landscape, and thick blocks of the local cash crop can be found in the market.

Between Swela and Sapit, a side road leads to Taman Lemor, a park with a refreshing spring-fed swimming pool and some pesky monkeys. Further towards Pringgabaya, Makam Selaparang is the burial place of ancient Selaparang kings.

The best way to visit these areas is by rental car and driver. Please contact Erwin 0817363979 for the best service.

Source: Lonely Planet Bali and Lombok