Lembar Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gem of West Lombok with this comprehensive travel guide to Lembar. Learn about the must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, local food and drink scene, where to stay, safety, and much more!


Introduction to Lembar

Lembar is a charming town situated in West Lombok, in Lombok, in Nusa Tenggara, in Indonesia. This scenic town offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean and mountains. With its impressive landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Lembar is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience.

List of Places to Visit in Lembar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lembar is a melting pot for the culture of West Lombok and is home to various museums and historical sites. Some of them are:

  1. Armada Monument - This monument is dedicated to the heroes who fought against the Dutch during the Battle of Bali in 1906
  2. Traditional Market - Visitors can explore the traditional market of Lembar and experience the hustle and bustle of locals trading fresh produce and other items.
  3. Pura Lingsar Temple - This temple is a sacred place of worship for both Hindus and Muslims and dates back to the 18th century. Visitors can witness a unique blend of Hindu and Islamic traditions in this temple.

Natural Attractions of Lembar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lembar is blessed with natural beauty and has several outdoor adventure activities that visitors can indulge in to soak up the beauty of this scenic town. Here are some of the noteworthy natural attractions:

  1. Mount Rinjani - This active volcano is surrounded by lush greenery and is a fantastic trekking destination.
  2. Gili Islands - These picturesque small islands are ideal for a day trip from Lembar. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters around the islands.
  3. Benang Kelambu Waterfall - This mesmerizing waterfall boasts a unique view of water splashing down through a series of thin curtains, giving it an otherworldly feel.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lembar

Lembar has plenty of opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to explore the great outdoors. Here are some hiking/biking routes:

  1. Mount Rinjani Trek - This multi-day trek has breathtaking views of the volcano’s caldera, which will leave visitors awestruck.
  2. Gili Kondo Trek - This easy trek offers stunning views of the surrounding islands, mountains, and the ocean.
  3. Badak Mountain Biking Trail - Visitors can take a bike tour on this challenging trail that offers spectacular views of the coastline and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Lembar: Activities and Tours

Lembar has plenty of activities and tours for visitors to indulge in to make the most of their time on the island. Some of them are:

  1. Lombok Sasak Tour - This tour lets visitors experience the cultural diversity of Lombok and includes a visit to the Sasak tribe village, where they can learn about the locals’ customs and traditions.
  2. Sunset Cruise - Visitors can set sail on a boat to see one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.
  3. Snorkeling Tour - Visitors can explore the underwater world off the coast of Lombok and witness the stunning marine life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lembar

Here is a week-long itinerary that visitors can enjoy to experience all that Lembar has to offer:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check-in
Day 2 Mount Rinjani Trek
Day 3 Gili Kondo Trek
Day 4 Sasak Tour
Day 5 Sunset Cruise
Day 6 Snorkeling Tour
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Lembar

The food in Lembar is a fusion of Indonesian, Chinese, and Indian cuisines and provides a unique culinary experience. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Ayam Taliwang - a spicy grilled chicken dish that is famous throughout Lombok.
  2. Sate Tanjung - skewered beef served with a peanut sauce and rice cake.
  3. Bebalung - a spicy soup made with beef rib, vegetables, and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Brem - a fermented rice wine
  2. Es Kelapa - coconut ice drink
  3. Jamu - a traditional herbal drink

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

Lembar has several accommodation options that cater to all budgets. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, budget guesthouses, and homestays.

  1. The Seven Havens Luar Gili Resort - a luxury resort that is ideal for visitors looking for a lavish stay experience.
  2. Bale Semilir - a budget-friendly guesthouse with comfortable and spacious rooms.
  3. Villa Umbrella - a beautiful homestay with a tropical garden and a swimming pool.

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

Lembar is known for its woven products, pottery, and handcrafted items. Visitors can find a wide variety of souvenirs and local products at the local markets, including:

  1. Kain Sasirangan - a traditional woven cloth with colorful motifs and patterns.
  2. Pottery - handcrafted pottery in various shapes and sizes
  3. Sasak Weaving - woven baskets, mats, and bags

Local Culture and Customs of Lembar

The local culture of Lembar is deeply rooted in tradition and hospitality. Visitors can experience the locals’ customs by attending cultural events, such as weddings and festivals, and by visiting local villages and museums.

Best Time to Visit Lembar

The best time to visit Lembar is between May and September when the weather is dry and sunny, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lembar

Do:

  1. Respect the locals’ customs and traditions.
  2. Bargain at local markets and shops.
  3. Keep the environment clean.

Don’t:

  1. Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  2. Disrespect religious customs.
  3. Litter or damage the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lembar

Lembar is a relatively safe destination for visitors. However, visitors should be aware of petty theft and keep an eye on their belongings.

Health in Lembar

Visitors should take precautions to stay healthy, such as drinking bottled water and using mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.

Getting to Lembar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lembar

Lombok International Airport is the closest airport to Lembar, located about an hour’s drive from the town.

Bus Stations Near Lembar

Lembar Bus Station is the main bus terminal connecting the town to other parts of Lombok.

Other Options

Visitors can hire a private car or taxi to travel to Lembar from other parts of Lombok.

How to Get Around in Lembar

Visitors can hire a motorbike or a car to get around the town. Alternatively, they can use local transport like the bemo or horse-drawn carts.

Where to Go Next from Lembar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the surrounding areas of West Lombok, including:

  1. Senggigi - a popular beach destination.
  2. Mataram - the capital city of Lombok.
  3. Kuta - a laid-back town famous for its beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Lembar is a hidden gem of West Lombok that offers visitors a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the town’s natural attractions, indulge in local food, and immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions. With its warm hospitality, Lembar is an ideal vacation destination for travelers looking to escape the busy city life.