Senaru Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Senaru with this comprehensive travel guide that covers top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, local culture, and safety tips.


Introduction to Senaru

Located in North Lombok, Indonesia, Senaru is a charming village surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning panoramic views of Mount Rinjani. This picturesque village is filled with many opportunities for outdoor exploration and cultural immersion. Senaru is also known as the gateway to Mount Rinjani, and as a result, it attracts adventure enthusiasts from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Senaru

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Senaru is home to a rich cultural heritage, and a visit to some of its museums and historical sites is a must. Some of the top culturally important attractions in Senaru are:

  1. Pusuk Sembalun Park is a beautiful mountain pass that offers magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and rice fields. Visitors can also spot monkeys along the way.
  2. Bayan Lombok is an ancient mosque that is said to have been built in the 16th century. It is a sacred site for the Sasak people, who live in Lombok. The mosque is well-preserved, and visitors can see the intricate carvings and decorations on its wall.
  3. Taman Narmada is a water palace that was built in the 18th century. It was used as a Hindu temple for the royal family and now serves as a public park.

Natural Attractions of Senaru: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Senaru is blessed with natural beauty, and there are many scenic views and outdoor adventures to explore. These are some of the best natural attractions of Senaru:

  1. Sendang Gile waterfall is a stunning waterfall that cascades down from Mount Rinjani. It is located in the middle of the forest, and visitors can reach it by taking a hike through the forest.
  2. Tetebatu rice fields are a must-visit if you want to experience the stunning terraced rice fields of Lombok. The greenery is breathtaking, and visitors can even take part in traditional rice harvesting activities.
  3. Mount Rinjani trek is a must-do activity for adventure enthusiasts visiting Senaru. It is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery that is perfect for trekking and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Senaru

Senaru is exceptional for hiking and biking routes, and it is famous for being the starting point for treks up Mount Rinjani. Some of the best hiking and biking routes of Senaru are:

  1. Mount Rinjani trek is the most popular hiking route of Senaru. This trek takes visitors up to the summit of Mount Rinjani and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  2. Tete Batu trek is another excellent option for visitors exploring Senaru. The trek takes visitors to some of the highest points of the village, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding rice fields.
  3. Biking through the Sembalun Valley is an excellent option for adventure enthusiasts who want to explore the scenic beauty of Senaru. Visitors can cycle through the valley and experience the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Senaru: Activities and Tours

Senaru has something to offer for everyone, from natural wonders to cultural activities. Some of the best things to do in Senaru are:

  1. Rinjani Eco Walking Tour is a guided tour through the forest and village area surrounding Mount Rinjani. Visitors can witness the daily life of the locals, learn about the history and culture of the region, and appreciate its natural beauty.
  2. Ayu Saraswati is a healing center that offers traditional Sasak massages and other alternative therapies. Visitors can relax, rejuvenate, and ease muscle tension and stress.
  3. Senaru Sunset Tour is a perfect way to end the day by experiencing the scenic beauty of Lombok through the lens of the sunset.

Week-Long Itinerary for Senaru

Senaru is an excellent destination for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty of Lombok and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the region. This is a week-long itinerary for Senaru that includes the best activities and attractions in the area:

Day 1: Arrive in Senaru and take a guided walking tour of the village.

Day 2: Take a hike to Sendang Gile waterfall and explore the lush forest surrounding it.

Day 3: Take a guided tour of Mount Rinjani and explore the breathtaking views of the majestic volcano.

Day 4: Visit the ancient Bayan mosque and take part in traditional Sasak pottery-making activities.

Day 5: Take a bike tour of the surrounding rice fields and explore the countryside of Lombok.

Day 6: Relax and unwind at Ayu Saraswati healing center and nourish your body with traditional Sasak massages.

Day 7: Experience the scenic beauty of Senaru through the lens of the sunset and take a sunset tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Senaru

Senaru food is a reflection of the Sasak tradition and culture. The food in Senaru is known to be authentic, delicious, and healthy. These are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Senaru:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Ayam Taliwang is a spicy chicken dish that is a traditional Sasak recipe and is considered a delicacy in Lombok.
  2. Sate Bulayak is a skewered meat dish that is marinated in a local spice mix and barbecued.
  3. Plecing Kangkung is a traditional Sasak salad that is made with fresh kangkung, tomato, and shrimp paste.

Local Beverages

  1. Tuak is a palm wine that is made from the sap of a palm tree. It is a popular local beverage and is known for its sweet taste.
  2. Jeruk is fresh fruit juice that is popular in Senaru. Visitors can enjoy this refreshing beverage made from a variety of local fruits like orange, lemon, and passionfruit.

Where to Stay in Senaru: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Senaru offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and need, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Senaru are:

  1. Rinjani Lodge: This is a luxurious resort that offers guests close proximity to some of the best natural attractions of Senaru, including Mount Rinjani.
  2. Pondok Senaru Lombok: This guesthouse offers a comfortable and budget-friendly stay for travelers visiting Senaru.
  3. Blue Mountain Cottage: This guesthouse is perfect for travelers who want to experience the breathtaking views of the surrounding area and enjoy home-cooked meals.

What to Buy in Senaru: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Senaru is home to many local products and souvenirs that are unique to the region. Some of the top souvenirs and local products to bring home from Senaru are:

  1. Sasak handicrafts: These handicrafts are made by local artisans and are a unique reflection of the traditional Sasak culture of Lombok.
  2. Traditional spices: These are local spices and herbs that are a unique blend of aromatic flavors, perfect for adding a local touch to your cooking at home.
  3. Handwoven textiles: These are traditional Sasak sarongs that are made from natural fibers and dyed with natural dyes. They are unique and perfect for use as beach wraps, table runners, and shawls.

Local Culture and Customs of Senaru

Senaru is known for its rich cultural heritage, and visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by taking part in traditional ceremonies and experiencing the daily life of the locals. These are some facts about the local culture and customs of Senaru:

  1. Sasak is the dominant ethnic group in Lombok, and they have a unique culture and tradition that is different from the Balinese.
  2. The traditional Sasak house is known as the Sasak Bale and is made of natural materials like wood and mud.
  3. The Sasak are predominantly Muslim, and Islamic traditions and customs influence their way of life.

Best Time to Visit Senaru

The best time to visit Senaru is from April to September, as this period is characterized by dry weather and sunny days, which is perfect for outdoor activities. The rainy season is from October to March, and during this time, access to some of the attractions in Senaru may be limited.

Do’s and Don’ts of Senaru

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions of the Sasak people.
  2. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and mosques.
  3. Try the traditional Sasak food and take part in traditional cultural activities.

Don’t:

  1. Take pictures of locals without their permission.
  2. Disrespect Islamic customs and beliefs.
  3. Litter or damage the natural environment in Senaru.

Safety and Health

Safety in Senaru

Senaru is generally safe for travelers, but it is always essential to take precautions. These are some safety tips for visitors to Senaru:

  1. Be cautious when hiring guides and tour operators in Senaru and ensure that they are licensed and experienced.
  2. Be careful when hiking and trekking, and always follow the instructions of your guide.
  3. Keep your luggage and valuables safe and secure.

Health in Senaru

Senaru is a healthy destination, but visitors should take care of their health by taking some precautions. These are some health tips for visitors to Senaru:

  1. Drink bottled water to avoid waterborne diseases.
  2. Be careful with the food you consume and eat only in reputable restaurants and cafes.
  3. Make sure you have appropriate medical insurance coverage before traveling to Senaru.

Getting to Senaru: Transportation Options and Logistics

Senaru is accessible by air, road, and sea. These are some of the transportation options to reach Senaru:

Airports Near Senaru

  1. Lombok International Airport is the closest airport to Senaru, and it is about 90 km from the village.

Bus Stations Near Senaru

  1. Damri Bus Station in Mataram is the closest bus station to Senaru, and it is about a two-hour drive from the village.

Other Options

  1. Private taxis are widely available in Lombok, and visitors can hire them to reach Senaru.

How to Get Around in Senaru

The best way to explore Senaru is by walking or hiking. Visitors can also rent a bike or hire a car to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Senaru: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Senaru is located in a region that is rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, and there are many places to explore nearby. These are some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Senaru:

  1. Gili Islands: These are three small islands located off the coast of Lombok, and they are known for their stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and water activities like snorkeling and diving.
  2. Kuta, Lombok: This is a beautiful coastal town located in the southern part of Lombok, and it is known for its scenic beaches and surfing spots.
  3. Senggigi: This is a popular tourist destination in Lombok, and it is known for its stunning beaches, night markets, and cultural performances.

Conclusion

Senaru is an excellent destination for travelers who want to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Lombok. This comprehensive guide covers the top things to do, places to visit, where to stay, local culture, and safety tips, making it easier for visitors to plan their trip to Senaru. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family looking for adventure, Senaru has something to offer.

View of Mt Rinjani and waterfall in Senaru. View of Mt Rinjani and waterfall in Senaru. Air Terjun Tiu Kelep. Air Terjun Tiu Kelep.