LOMBOK

Not far from Bali, encircled by majestic fuming cones in the north and unspoiled beaches in the south, there sits the astounding island of Lombok. It considerably differs from its Buddhist-Hindu neighbour Bali, with Islamic culture, lots of wide-open spaces, untamed nature, less traffic and still relatively undeveloped tourism infrastructure.

Lombok`s northern territory is dominated by the eerie bulk Mount Rinjani (3726 m) – the second highest volcano of Indonesia. Climbing the summit of this giant, that is almost always wrapped in clouds, is one of the main reasons why visitors come to the island. The second most popular destination is the southern area, called Kuta and it is the surfer`s and beach lover`s paradise.

A very important part of eco-tourism in Lombok is the culture itself. The native people of Lombok, Sasaks, are a very distinctive ethnic group with ancient traditions. Vibrant markets, fisherman villages, lovely food, the worldwide reputed Lombok pottery and other handcraft have had significant importance for the Sasak people for centuries.

6 THINGS TO DO IN SOUTHERN LOMBOK

While the northern regions boast, rice fields, mountains, forests and waterfalls, Southern Lombok is the place to be if you fancy beach and surf. For fewer crowds, lower prices and striking coastline, Lombok`s southern coast is a serious rival to Bali. These are the TOP beach locations and things to do in Southern Lombok.

RINJANI NATIONAL PARK

From a distance, Gunung Rinjani (3726 m) appears to rise in solitary glory from the plains, but in fact, the entire area is a throng of bare summits, wreathed in dense forest. Dubbed as "Ring of Fire" Mount Rinjani is situated at the heart of Rinjani National Park, and it is the second highest volcano in Indonesia. Hikers and climbers are attracted by both the magnificent crater-lake Danau Segara Anak, and the actual cone summit of Gunung Baru. Gunung Rinjani offers one of the TOP 5 volcano hikes in Indonesia.

TOP ATTRACTIONS OF NORTHERN LOMBOK

Dominated by the majestic Gunung Rinjani, North Lombok takes pride in being home to one of the most spectacular volcanoes in Indonesia but also some of the oldest cultures. The slopes of Rinjani are dotted with the Sasak villages that have been living their traditions for years and cultivating the highlands. The scenery here will take every visitor`s breath away; picturesque rice fields and coconut plantations are spreading wide under the forested volcanoes and the fertile soils support a good deal of soybeans, coffee, tobacco, cotton, cinnamon, cacao, cloves, cassava, copra, bananas and vanilla. The sparkling coast only amplifies the images. If travelling to Lombok a good camera is a must!