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Sembalun Wildflowers Walk |
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A two day one night scenic and wildflower hike to Propok in Gunung Rinjani National Park
We invite you to join our two day walk through the grassland and tropical forests that clothe the ancient Sembalun caldera and to camp the night in a hidden valley on the lower slopes of Mt. Rinjani. The second highest volcanic peak in Indonesia, Mt. Rinjani is sacred to Sasak and Balinese people and renowned for the challenging Rinjani Trek. This beautiful nature hike wanders through the hills, providing an unforgettable Rinjani experience for the less ambitious walker.
Led by local guides, the first day starts early from the Rinjani Information Centre in East Lombok village of Sembalun Lawang (1,156m) and eastern gateway into Gunung Rinjani National Park. Winding through agricultural fields belonging to the community, the walk climbs gently up 100m. Climb to the undulating caldera rim from where there are sweeping views of Sembalun Lawang and Sembalun Bumbung villages. Formerly Sembalun was known for coffee production until the crop was changed to garlic to take advantage of the garlic boom in the early 1990s. On clear days many Lombok villages can be seen to the north with the ocean beyond. To the west is the soaring summit of Mount Rinjani (3,726m).
After a couple of hours walk from Sembalun, reach the grassland area of Dandaun, home of wild animals particularly groups of wild pig. October is their breeding season. After another hour the walk arrives at the open grasslands at Kanji where various species of orchid flourish in the trees and the ground is carpeted in wild flowers. Along the way the guide explains local agricultural activities, such as the tradition of owners calling their cows using only salt. After about three hours the trail reaches our camp site at Propok (1,600m), a beautiful flat valley with beautiful views of the tropical forest. At sunset and early morning, wild animals such as pigs, deer, various birds and, if you are fortunate, even the rare black Ebony leaf monkey may be observed here.
Next day the walk returns through the forest using a different route and see the communities’ farming, your guide will explain the plantation on the field. Visit hand weaving, women have been weaving in this village for many generations and these techniques have been passed down from mother to daughter. The fine weavings from Sembalun Lawang are made on traditional wooden hand looms and are used for special rituals and religious celebrations. Arrive in the afternoon at the Rinjani Information Centre at Sembalun Lawang. A special feature of this hike is to be accompanied by the local Pemangku (traditional spiritual leader) and on the way blessings are made in sacred places to celebrate the creation of nature and ensure a safe journey.
What to Bring:
Make sure you bring your camera - the views are simply wonderful! The best season is May to October. Days can be warm (29 – 32 degrees C.) although during June to August the night time temperatures can drop to well below 10 degrees C. so bring some warm clothing as well as a hat, sun-cream and an umbrella. Camping equipment, all meals and drinking water will be provided.
How to Book:
Please book at least two days in advance. The Sembalun Wildflowers Walk operates on a demand basis with minimum two persons.
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