Lombok: The land and the Sasak people of Lombok | Waterfall, water castle

Highlights

• Experience the hustle and bustle of the traditional market
• Visit Taman Narmada, formerly the palace of the Balinese king on Lombok
• See Benang Stukel and Benang Kelambu, waterfalls in the tropical rainforest
• Discover weaving and pottery at a traditional village on Lombok

Description

Departure is at 8:30 AM from your hotel. We will see the following things during the trip: This market is the largest traditional market in the city and offers a variety of products such as fashion items, vegetables and many types of spices for traditional Indonesian dishes or local Sasak cuisine. Then, continue to your next destination, Taman Narmada Park. This is the largest Hindu temple in the city, built in 1724 by Anak Agung Karangasem from Bali. As it is the most important temple for Hindus in Bali, Balinese people make pilgrimages here to honor their ancestors. The park also serves as a miniature version of the sacred Mount Rinjani for the Balinese, while for the locals it is a place where they make their living from the tourism industry. The next destination is a visit to the Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu waterfalls in Rinjani National Park. They are located on the southern slope of Mount Rinjani and offer hiking opportunities in the national park as well as the chance to bathe in the Benang Kelambu waterfall. We will visit the traditional village of Sukarara in the south. Sukarara is known for its intricate and beautifully woven fabrics, which are an essential part of Lombok's identity. Just a half-hour drive from Mataram, the village is located in the heart of Lombok. It specializes in songket, an elaborately patterned fabric that is embellished by weaving in gold or silver threads. These threads stand out from the other colors and create a shimmering effect. The motifs of songket are diverse; some feature floral or chicken motifs, each with its own meaning. The woven items are made of cotton fabric, silver threads, nylon and silk. The dyes come from natural sources such as betel leaf, bark, turmeric or tamarind. Weaving is traditionally done by hand, and many locals spend their days practicing this art. Various products can be made, such as clothing, tablecloths, blankets, scarves and fabrics. Visitors also have the opportunity to learn how to weave themselves and to find out more about the complexity and processes involved. Most woven fabrics are made by people working from home and are available for purchase in many souvenir shops. Finally, pottery is on the agenda. You will get to know the art of pottery in Lombok. Return transfer to the hotel.

Includes

Car with a German-speaking driver who is also your tour guide All entrance fees

Excludes

Lunch

Important Information

• Swimming at the waterfalls is only allowed while wearing a T-shirt and shorts. Bikinis are not appreciated by the locals.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund