Lombok, Indonesia, is home to stunning natural beauty, from white-sand beaches to majestic mountains. The Gili Islands offer crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving. Mount Rinjani attracts hikers with its challenging trails and crater lake. Selong Belanak and Tanjung Aan beaches are perfect for relaxation.
And Bukit Merese Lombok provides breathtaking coastal views. This beautiful hill, surrounded by the beauty of the ocean, offers extraordinary natural charm. Rich in culture and untouched charm, Lombok is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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| Picture by Rajbani Edited by Hertravelnote |
Bukit Merese Lombok, Grasslands with a View of the Beach
Bukit Merese, also known as Bukit Merese, is one of the most popular natural tourist destinations in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. It is located in the Mandalika area, specifically in Kuta Village, Pujut District, Central Lombok Regency. Bukit Merese offers breathtaking natural views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
It offers breathtaking natural beauty, and Bukit Merese also holds a rich history and culture. Merese originates from the local language, meaning bald or without tall trees.
This term describes the condition of Bukit Merese Lombok, which is indeed devoid of large trees. As far as the eye can see, the hill is covered in a vast expanse of green grass. This expanse of grass without large trees offers a breathtaking natural beauty.
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| Picture by Rajbani |
This beautiful and popular hill is famous for its natural beauty and the strong traditional customs and culture of the surrounding community.
Bukit Merese also has an iconic tree often called the Pohon Galau. This iconic tree has become a unique attraction for visitors, as its isolated position makes it appear lonely and solitary. The iconic tree at Bukit Merese Lombok is a favorite photo subject for visitors to the hill.
The local history of Bukit Merese Lombok is also connected to the maritime history of Lombok City due to its strategic location between Bali and Sumbawa. This made it an important observation point for sailors and traders in ancient times. From the summit of Marese, they could monitor sea conditions and anticipate threats coming from the sea.
Additionally, the fascinating local culture of Bukit Merese Lombok stems from the belief that it is inhabited by many supernatural beings that protect the well-being of the surrounding villages. This belief adds a profound spiritual and cultural dimension for the local community and visitors.
Location and access to Bukit Merese Lombok
Bukit Merese Lombok is approximately 300 meters from Tanjung Aan Beach and can be easily reached from Lombok International Airport, about a 30-40 minute drive away. The road leading to Bukit Merese is in good condition, paved, and accessible to both two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles. Upon arriving at the parking area, visitors only need to walk 10-15 minutes to reach the hill's summit.
Entrance fees and operating hours
Interestingly, Bukit Merese Lombok does not charge an entrance fee. However, visitors are required to pay a parking fee Rp5,000 for motorcycles, Rp10,000 for cars, and Rp15,000 for buses. Bukit Merese Lombok is open 24 hours a day. However, to fully experience its natural beauty, it is recommended that you arrive before 11:00 AM WITA.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bukit Merese Lombok is during the transition season, around December to February. During this period, the hill is covered with fresh green grass. Those who enjoy the brown or yellow grass view can visit in May and June. The grass will begin to turn yellow, offering a different yet equally stunning view with its beautiful brown hues.
Activities to Do at Bukit Merese Lombok
Bukit Merese is a must visit destination in Lombok, known for its breathtaking hilltop views and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this scenic spot offers a variety of enjoyable activities for travelers of all kinds. And here activities to do at Bukit Merese Lombok.
1. Enjoying sunrise and sunset
Bukit Merese Lombok is the best spot to watch sunrise and sunset in Lombok. To enjoy the sunrise, visit around 5:00 AM WITA. For those wanting to watch the sunset, come around 4:00–5:00 PM WITA.
2. Taking photos with beautiful natural scenery
At Bukit Merese Lombok, visitors can enjoy stunning views of Tanjung Aan Beach, Batu Payung, and the small islands surrounding them. The scenery makes an excellent backdrop for photos or videos.
The view of green grass and some livestock grazing or eating the green grass adds to the beauty of Bukit Merese Lombok, making it an Instagram-worthy and aesthetic photo spot.
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| Picture by Rajbani |
3. Camping and picnicking
For those who enjoy camping in the great outdoors, Bukit Merese Lombok is also suitable. Tourists are permitted to set up tents and build campfires at specific locations. Imagine the beauty of a campfire accompanied by crashing waves, vast hills, and the stars and moon. It will undoubtedly create an unforgettable travel experience.
4. Leisurely trekking
You can trek around Bukit Merese Lombok on this hill. Tourists can enjoy leisurely trekking around the mountain to take in the scenery, breathe in the fresh air, and take photos.
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| Picture by Rajbani |
5. Taking photos with grazing animals
One of Bukit Merese's unique features is that visitors can take photos at the hilltop with the natural scenery and goats grazing in the background. This makes our photos even more aesthetic and beautiful.
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| Picture by Rajbani |
6. Interacting with residents
This is the most enjoyable moment. Because we can interact directly with the local community, we can listen to the local community's stories about the history and culture of Bukit Merese Lombok. You will gain unforgettable insights and experiences when interacting with the local community.
7. Watching cattle herders
On this hill, tourists can witness various activities of the local community. One of them is herding cows and buffaloes on the mountain. This local activity provides a unique view and an extraordinary tourist experience.
Those activities that you cn do when visit Bukit Merese Lombok.
Tips for Visiting Bukit Merese Lombok
- Wear comfortable footwear, as the path to the summit of Marese is steep and rocky.
- Bring your own food and drinks, as there aren't many food options available at this tourist spot.
- Bring sun protection, as the weather is very hot, such as hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen.
- Keep the area around Bukit Merese Lombok clean to preserve the natural environment.
- Avoid the rainy season, as the path becomes slippery during the rainy season, and clouds often obscure the views.
With its natural beauty and activities on offer, Bukit Merese Lombok is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers when visiting Lombok. So don't forget to bring proper documentation equipment.
When I visited Bukit Merese Lombok, I met other travelers from Kalimantan, who took all the photos above. All photo credits go to Rajbani. With this documentation, we won't miss out on the natural beauty of Bukit Merese.
Have you ever visited Bukit Merese, Lombok? Please comment below and share your experience.
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