Lombok is an island is blessed with an abundance of beautiful waterfalls, thanks largely to the rugged, rainforested terrain descending from Indonesia’s second highest mountain, Mt Rinjani. Described below are a small number of the more popular and more accessible waterfalls.
Things to know before you go: Access to some of these areas involves a simple short walk along a paved pathway, whereas access to others are far more challenging, though always well worth the effort. For this reason it is important to come prepared to each place you visit. Good footwear is essential as is carrying your own water. (It is possible to buy bottled water as well as food at many but not all of these waterfalls. While it’s a good idea to wear swimwear under your clothes, a change of clothes and even a light raincoat is also recommended as is sunscreen and insect repellent. If possible, carry any litter out with you as none of the locations have rubbish facilities. Also be sure to check the depth of swimming holes before attempting to jump in from any height.
Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls
Situated in Central Lombok, an hour’s drive from Mataram, the waterfalls Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu are two of the most incredible waterfalls in all of Indonesia. The unique must-see quality of these falls is that instead of water simply pouring from a cliff and over boulders or jagged rocks, you will see views of water flowing down amongst lush tropical plants.
The pathway to Benang Stokel is paved and is an easy 10-15 minute walk from the entrance.
The name Benang Stokel means a bundle of thread. This waterfall is actually a collection of three, each around 20 meters high. The water comes straight from a river further upstream on Mount Rinjani but the pool at the bottom of this waterfall is quite shallow and so not really suitable for swimming.
Further on, and after a more challenging 30 minute walk, the stunning Benang Kelambu waterfall cascades over two levels and into a man made pool that is suitable for swimming. The word “Kelambu” means curtain and refers to the water that spills over and through a curtain of rainforest plants. Since the water flows directly from a water spring on Mount Rinjani, it is said to be safe to drink.
Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls
Located at the foot of the majestic Mount Rinjani, in the village of Senaru, a 2 ½ hour drive from Mataram, are two of Lombok’s finest and most popular cascades, Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep.
The name Tiu Kelep is taken from the Sasak language. “Tiu” meaning pool, and “Kelep” means flying. Meanwhile, Sendang Gile’s name is taken from the story of a prince who was chased by a crazy lion (sedang gile). He ran into the woods and hid behind a waterfall, hence the name Sendang Gile.
It only takes 15 minutes to walk from the entrance to Sendang Gile waterfall. On this path you will pass through a protected rain forest area filled with towering tropical trees. Once you get there, you can enjoy the sight and sound of the water crashing onto the rocks or swim in its cool, crisp pool.
The onward trek to Tiu Kelep waterfall is a little more adventurous. The journey to the takes around 45 minutes trekking through a lush jungle forest. There is a bridge at one point used to cross the river which could be a little intimidating for those who are scared of heights but the trip is totally worth it as you come upon the majestic rush of water rushing around 45 meters down the cliff before crashing against the rocks on the bottom.
Mayang Putek Waterfall
Of all the amazing waterfalls in Lombok, the Mayang Putek waterfall is the most unique one of them all. The reason being it’s waters contain sulphur that locals believe to have healing properties because the water comes directly from Mount Rinjani. This 60 metre high waterfall is located in Bilok Petung village in the Sembalun district of Lombok Timur.
The journey to the waterfall is a relatively simple trek of around 30 minutes, mostly down-hill and across one river. Walking back is the hard part! However, it is worth it to feel the benefits of the supposedly health-giving properties of the sulphur bath.
Jukut / Jeruk Manis (Sweet Orange) Waterfall
Another of Lombok’s waterfalls, located to the south of the Mount Rinjani National Park which is believed to have healing properties. Locals believe Jeruk Manis waterfall can heal various types of diseases and nourish the hair. Indeed, it is said that washing your hair in its waters will cure you from baldness and help you maintain your full lustrous locks!
A haven for nature lovers, the waterfall stands some 30 meters tall and flows down to a narrow rocky ravine. After buying a ticket to enter the waterfall at the entrance gate, you will need to walk around 15 minutes for some 1.5 kilometers in order to get to the location.
On the way to the waterfall, you will travel across a path made from flat stones and about 180 stairs. You will also come across many types of interesting plants and an animal or two, such as monkeys and/or deer.
There are gazebos located along the path for those who need to rest and one located as a lookout to the waterfall where you will be able to take in a magnificent view of the forest spread out before you.
Tiu Teja Waterfall
Often known as theTiu Teja Twins Waterfall, Tiu Teja is a spectacular sight, with its twin 50 metre cascades and pristine forest location.
The walk into Tiu Teja is a short drive from the village of Santong in Lombok Utara (Northern Lombok) and a little over an hour’s drive from Mataram. “Teja” means “rainbow” in local Sasak language and the lucky ones who come here on cloudless afternoons may well be rewarded with the unique sight of a rainbow linking the two waterfalls. Even without the rainbow it is a special location and well worth the visit.