Bangsal Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bangsal, Indonesia with this comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, accommodations, dining options, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Bangsal

Bangsal is a small village located in West Lombok, in the Nusa Tenggara region of Indonesia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush greenery, and cultural attractions. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to plan your trip to Bangsal, including top things to see, do, eat, and drink, as well as transportation options and logistics.

List of Places to Visit in Bangsal

When visiting Bangsal, there are plenty of tourist attractions to keep you entertained. Below, we have listed the best places to visit in Bangsal.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mayura Water Palace: This historical site was once the royal court of the Balinese Kingdom during the 19th century and now serves as a center for traditional arts and culture.
  • Pura Lingsar Temple: Located 11 km from Bangsal, Pura Lingsar is the holiest temple in Lombok and a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Muslims alike.
  • The Tomb of Lombok’s Princess Mandalika: This historical site honors the legendary Princess Mandalika, who sacrificed herself to prevent a war between two kingdoms and is an important cultural icon in Lombok.

Natural Attractions of Bangsal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gili Islands: Comprising of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, the Gili Islands are a must-visit destination for any traveler to Lombok. These idyllic islands offer crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and diverse marine life.
  • Mount Rinjani: Mount Rinjani is the highest volcano in Lombok and a popular destination for trekking and hiking. It offers breath-taking views of the surrounding landscape and stunning natural scenery.
  • Senaru Waterfall: This natural wonder is nestled deep within the forest of Senaru, and it is an idyllic spot for picnicking, swimming, and relaxing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bangsal

Aside from trekking Mount Rinjani, there are several other hiking and biking trails to enjoy within Bangsal and the surrounding areas. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Pusuk Monkey Forest: This 1 km nature trek takes you through lush forests that are home to macaques and other wildlife.
  • Waterfall Trek: This 5 km trek takes you through the forest to the breathtaking Tiu Kelep waterfall.
  • Bangsal to Lingsar Village Trail: This bike ride takes you through stunning scenery and beautiful rice paddies.

Best Things to Do in Bangsal: Activities and Tours

Here are some top things to do when visiting Bangsal:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: The Gili Islands offer some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in Indonesia.
  • Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddling: Enjoy a peaceful day on the water by renting a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.
  • Take a Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Lombok dishes and spices from locals who will teach you how to cook a variety of dishes such as Ayam Taliwang, ikan bakar, and satay.
  • Visit the Traditional Market: Shopping at a traditional Lombok market where you can buy local fruits, vegetables, spices and handicrafts for incredibly cheap prices.
  • Traditional Massage and Spa Experience: Release tension from your body with a traditional massage and spa treatment that uses natural herbs and oils.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bangsal

Here’s a week-long itinerary for your trip to Bangsal:

Day 1 Visit Mayura Water Palace and walk around the Cakranegara Market
Day 2 Take a road trip to see the Pura Lingsar Temple and museum
Day 3 Explore the Gili Islands, have lunch at a beachside restaurant, and enjoy water sports
Day 4 Hike to the stunning Senaru Waterfall or go trekking on Mount Rinjani
Day 5 Learn to cook traditional Lombok dishes with a local chef
Day 6 Shop at the traditional market and pamper yourself with a traditional massage and spa experience
Day 7 Take a day trip to the nearby Moyo Island, go snorkeling and visit the Wane Bete waterfall

Food and Drink Scene of Bangsal

Lombok cuisine is known for its rich combination of exotic spices and fresh seafood. Here are some top dishes and beverages to try in Bangsal:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ayam Taliwang: A local version of grilled chicken, prepared with a spicy seasoning mix and served with a side of rice and sambal.
  • Ikan Bakar: A grilled fish dish served with rice, vegetables, and sambal.
  • Satay: A skewered meat dish that comes in different varieties such as chicken, beef, or seafood, served with peanut sauce or spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Es Jeruk: A refreshing traditional drink made from fresh-squeezed oranges that has a sweet yet sour taste.
  • Kopi Lombok: A strong and aromatic Lombok coffee that is enjoyed both hot and cold.

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

There are plenty of accommodation options available to visitors in Bangsal, ranging from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious resorts.

Some of the top options include:

  • Jeeva Santai Villas - A luxury villa resort in the heart of Senggigi beach, offering private pools, stylish rooms, and ocean views.
  • Kokomo Resort - A luxurious resort located on Gili Trawangan, featuring deluxe rooms, villas with personalized swimming pools, and a world-class restaurant and spa.
  • Aerotel Mandalika Praya - Located near the airport, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

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

Some unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home from Bangsal include:

  • Sasak Weaving: A traditional Lombok craft made using natural materials such as bamboo and cotton.
  • Indonesian Spices and Herbs: Lombok produces a variety of spices and herbs, including turmeric, cumin, coriander, and ginger.
  • Pearls: Lombok is known for its high-quality pearls, so don’t forget to bring some back as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Bangsal

The culture of Bangsal is heavily influenced by its Sasak inhabitants, who are predominantly Muslims and practice a form of Islam that is unique to Lombok. Visitors are expected to respect these local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Bangsal

The best time to visit Bangsal is between May and September, when the weather is dry and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor activities and water sports. The rainy season is between November and April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bangsal

Do:

  • Dress modestly and wear appropriate clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions of the Sasak people.
  • Haggle when shopping at traditional markets and street vendors.

Don’t:

  • Display public affection towards your partner, which can offend the locals.
  • Drink tap water in Bangsal. Ensure you consume packaged water only.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bangsal

Bangsal is a relatively safe place for visitors, but like anywhere, it’s still important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking in dark areas after dark.

Health in Bangsal

Visitors should make sure they have adequate travel insurance, and take necessary precautions to stay healthy during their trip. This includes wearing sunscreen, using insect repellent, and only drinking packaged water.

Getting to Bangsal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bangsal

  • Lombok International Airport - Located 56 km away from Bangsal. This airport is connected to several cities in Indonesia and offers international flights to Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Bus Stations Near Bangsal

Bangsal has a bus station that connects to other cities in Lombok.

Other Options

There are several other transportation options available, including private drivers, taxis, and public transportation like bemos (a small minivan). Scooters and motorbikes are also available for rent.

How to Get Around in Bangsal

The best way to get around Bangsal is by renting a motorbike or bicycle. You can also hire a car with a driver or use taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Bangsal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to visit:

  • Kuta Lombok: A popular beach destination located 59 km away from Bangsal.
  • Senggigi: A coastal town located 25 km away from Bangsal, known for its sunset beach and variety of dining and shopping options.
  • Moyo Island: A protected nature reserve known for its diverse wildlife, Waterfall, stunning scenery and crystal clear sea waters for snorkeling.

Conclusion

Bangsal is a must-visit destination when exploring the beautiful island of Lombok. With its rich culture, stunning natural scenery, and unique experiences, it has something to offer for every type of traveler. Plan your trip now and enjoy the best that Bangsal has to offer!