Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun is one of the most amazing natural tourist destinations in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. Located in Sembalun Village, this hill stands at an altitude of around 1,700 meters above sea level and is a favourite among beginner and professional climbers alike due to its challenging yet accessible trails.
The main attraction of Bukit Pergasingan is the spectacular view from the top of the hill. From the summit, visitors can admire the vast expanse of symmetrical, colourful rice fields, resembling a mesmerizing natural carpet. This view becomes even more breathtaking at sunrise, when golden light illuminates the valleys and surrounding mountains, including the majestic Mount Rinjani in the distance.
The Natural Beauty of Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun
In addition to its extraordinary natural scenery, Bukit Pergasingan is also a favourite spot for activities such as camping, photography, and paragliding. Many tourists choose to spend the night at the summit to enjoy the beauty of the starry night sky and the breathtaking sunrise the next morning.
Access to Bukit Pergasingan is pretty straightforward. From the centre of Sembalun Village, the journey to the hiking post can be reached by vehicle, followed by a 1.5 to 2-hour hike. Although the terrain is hilly and steep, the beauty it offers is well worth the effort.
Bukit Pergasingan is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy Lombok’s natural beauty from a height without having to climb a large mountain. This place is ideal for relaxation, light adventure, and recharging your energy away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The charm of Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun Lombok is undeniable. The stunning views from the top of this hill are truly captivating, allowing you to witness the beauty of Mount Rinjani. Additionally, the lush green landscapes of rice fields and traditional houses add to the allure of this hill, which stands at 1,670 meters above sea level.
This place is perfect for camping. Visiting the hill during the summer season, specifically in March 2016, is ideal, as the scenery is absolutely stunning, with a clear blue sky. It only takes 2–3 hours to reach this beautiful hill from Lawang Village, the last village before the hill, and you can walk from there.
The road from Lawang Village to this location is still a rocky path. If you want to save energy, you can hire an ojek or pickup truck to reach the entrance.
When I visited, this place was not yet well-known among hikers, and a local friend accompanied us. We stayed at his house and climbed the hill with a voluntary donation to the village fund. However, it is now reportedly well-managed by the Sembalun Development Community Centre (SDCC).
From the entrance, you will follow a trail to reach Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun Lombok. Along the way, green scenery accompanies you. The path is quite steep and uphill, so prepare your stamina as the slope leading to the peak can reach 60-70 degrees. There are over 100 steps ready to take you to the peak.
Activities to Do at Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun
Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun is not just a place to enjoy the scenery, but also offers various activities to enhance your travel experience.
1. Hiking and trekking
The main activity at Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun is hiking. The hike from the village of Sembalun to the summit takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and physical condition. The hiking trail is relatively challenging due to the steep inclines, but it is not too difficult, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
During the journey, you will pass through traditional villages and rice fields, giving you the opportunity to learn about the life of the Sasak people in this area. Hiking here is very enjoyable because, in addition to being challenging, the scenery along the way is also refreshing to the eyes.
2. Camping at Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun
For those who want to enjoy the night atmosphere in the open air, camping at Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun is the right choice. Camping at the top of the hill allows you to witness a clear and beautiful starry night sky, far from the city's light pollution. The cool mountain air adds to the sensation of spending the night here.
In the morning, you can witness a spectacular sunrise from the camping site, an experience highly recommended for nature lovers and photographers.
3. Nature and landscape photography
Bukit Pergasingan is a paradise for photographers. The neatly terraced rice fields, the majestic Mount Rinjani, and the clear skies during sunrise or sunset create stunning photo compositions. Many tourists capture moments here as memories of their journey in Lombok.
Even professional photographers often come to capture the unique and distinctive natural beauty, especially during the transition of light in the morning and evening.
4. Paragliding
In addition to hiking and camping, Bukit Pergasingan is also a potential spot for paragliding. The hill has sufficient height and wind conditions to support this activity, allowing adrenaline enthusiasts to experience the thrill of flying while enjoying the views of valleys and mountains from the air.
Paragliding activities here are still relatively new and not yet very crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy a more private and exclusive experience.
5. Cultural exploration
While passing through the villages around Bukit Pergasingan, tourists also have the opportunity to meet and interact with the local Sasak tribe. You can learn about their traditions, farming methods, and their simple yet culturally rich daily lives. This interaction enhances your travel experience and supports sustainable tourism that empowers local communities.
6. Enjoying sunrise and sunset
Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun Sembalun Lombok is not very large and is not flat, but at the top of this hill, you can set up a tent and wait for the sun to set or rise, accompanied by a few cows belonging to local residents who graze around the hill.
Can you imagine watching the sunset or sunrise while drinking warm tea and enjoying the breathtaking view of Rinjani from Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun in Sembalun, Lombok?
Some of tips visiting Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun Lombok
Here are some tips to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey:
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the sunrise.
- Bring enough drinking water and light snacks, as there are few shops or facilities along the hiking trail.
- Wear comfortable, slip-resistant hiking shoes.
- Don’t forget to bring a jacket or warm clothing as temperatures at the summit can be quite cold, especially at night.
- Respect local culture and customs by dressing modestly and asking permission before photographing residents.
My thought
Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun is a destination that offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural experiences. The beauty of the terraced rice fields against the backdrop of Mount Rinjani, the cool mountain atmosphere, and a variety of exciting activities such as hiking, camping, photography, and paragliding make this hill a must-visit destination for travellers exploring Lombok.
With all its unique features, Bukit Pergasingan offers a refreshing travel experience and leaves unforgettable memories for anyone who visits. Has anyone climbed Bukit Pergasingan Sembalun? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments section.
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