Many have proven that Lombok is one of the unique tourist destinations in Indonesia. However, in Central Lombok, there is an area specifically created to improve the economy of the people of West Nusa Tenggara in general. Mandalika, Central Lombok is designated as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) or Kawasan Ekonomi Khusus (KEK) in bahasa. With an area of 1,036 hectares and facing the Indian Ocean, Mandalika is expected to lift the tourism sector in NTB.
The tourism potential in Mandalika is very promising, but not many know its beauty. You are starting from the charm of the beach to stunning underwater scenery, including hosting the MotoGP international motorcycle racing championship in 2021. Below are tourist destinations in Mandalika with exotic and tropical nuances that you must visit.
- Merese Hill is a must-visit in Mandalika, especially if you are interested in enjoying the sunset with the best nuances, Merese Hill is one of the spots that must stay. Not only has a fantastic hill landscape, but the scenery presented is also one of the unique attractions of tourism in Mandalika. Just imagine seeing the sun slowly sinking on the western horizon on a green hill, accompanied by incredible sea views and cool breezes. It’s hard to find a match for sensation like at Meresse Hill. Location: Jalan Kuta Lombok, Pujut, Kuta, Pujut, Central Lombok, NTB.
1. Sade Village
For those interested in seeing Lombok and the Sasak tribe doing daily activities, the Sade Traditional Village is a tourist destination in Mandalika that can be visited.
You can walk around the village, see traditional buildings and witness the customs that are being preserved. In addition, you can also integrate with residents through traditional dances, games, and other exciting activities.
It is highly recommended for those who have more free time to weave a typical Lombok cloth called a songket. You will be taught every process, starting from the spinning process, coloring, to storing the finished fabric. I guarantee you will have a very memorable experience. Location: Rambitan Village, Pujut District, Central Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat.
2. Ende Village
The next exciting village is the Ende Traditional Village. It is inhabited by about 37 heads of families from the Sasak tribe. Here, you can fully see the life of the very traditional Sasak people. You can walk around the village where all the buildings are made of woven reeds and bamboo with floors made of soil mixed with buffalo or cow dung, typical of the Sasak tribe. You can also see the daily activities of residents. If you are lucky, you can witness a unique local wedding process. Location: Sengkol Village, Pujut District, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.
3. Kuta Beach Mandalika
This beach has many attractions. In addition to the coastline that contrasts with the blue ocean, it also has green hills in the distance. Kuta Mandalika Beach has white and soft sand. This beach has also been specially made, making it one of the favorites and popular tourist destinations in Mandalika. Various facilities available are a playground and a place to shop for food. Location: Kuta, Pujut, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.
4. Batu Payung
If you are looking for Mandalika landmarks, then Batu Payung is your destination. The uniqueness of the shape of the rock on the seafront is vast and has worldwide popularity is the reason. This umbrella-shaped reef is located in the Tanjung Aan Beach area. You will not find a sandy beach here, but a beach with rocks. One of the most prominent is the umbrella-shaped coral when viewed from a distance. Many tourists use Batu Payung as a selfie background. Apart from being very iconic, the surrounding scenery is also unique. Are you interested in taking pictures here? Location: Jalan Kuta Lombok, Pujut, Central Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara.
5. Square Cave (Goa Kotak)
As the name implies, this cave has a box-shaped mouth. This uniqueness is what makes it a hit. Not in the form of a long corridor that narrows or widens. Goa Kotak presents a cave with a cube-shaped passage. No stalagmites or stalactites, and at the end, it offers a magnificent view of the open sea. Even more exciting, the location of this cave is on a hill so that anyone can enjoy the beauty of the natural panorama in Mandalika. Location: Mawi Beach Road, Sengkol, Pujut, Central Lombok Regency, Nusa Tenggara Barat.
Vacation is more than just the scenery/food/accommodation, and it’s about making long-lasting memories. Discover more adventures in Mandalika by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.