What to Do in Senaru – When travelers plan a trip to Lombok, the first images that often come to mind are the pristine beaches or the towering Mount Rinjani. Yet, tucked away in the northern foothills of Rinjani lies a village that offers something different—Senaru.
For international visitors, the name may sound unfamiliar, but once you arrive, the charm of this small village quickly reveals itself. The problem is, many travelers hear about Senaru only as a “starting point” for a Rinjani trek. They come for the mountain and miss the village itself. That’s a mistake.
Senaru isn’t just a gateway; it is a destination worth exploring on its own. From hidden waterfalls and cultural experiences to cozy lodges and breathtaking views, there’s plenty here to keep you busy.
If you’re asking yourself “What to Do in Senaru?”, this guide will help you discover why Senaru deserves more than just a passing glance.
Getting to Know Senaru, Lombok
Senaru is a small village located on the northern side of Lombok, Indonesia. Perched on the slopes of Mount Rinjani, it serves as both a cultural hub and a natural wonderland.
The village is home to the Sasak and Balinese communities, who still preserve their traditional ways of life. Unlike the crowded tourist zones in the south of Lombok, Senaru retains a peaceful, authentic atmosphere.
For travelers, Senaru offers a slower pace—lush greenery, cool mountain air, and friendly locals who welcome visitors with genuine warmth. Whether you’re trekking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing, Senaru feels like a refreshing escape from the usual tourist trails.
What Makes Senaru Special? Highlights of Senaru, Lombok
So, what exactly makes Senaru stand out? Let’s take a look at its highlights:
1. Senaru’s Most Popular Hotels
If you plan to stay overnight, Senaru has several well-loved accommodations:
- Rinjani Lodge – famous for its infinity pool overlooking the mountains.
- Rinjani Lighthouse Cottages – a cozy spot with traditional-style rooms.
- And, Rudy Trekker Guest House – perfect for budget travelers looking for a base before their trek.
2. The Best Places to Eat in Senaru
Good food is never far away in Senaru. Some favorites include:
- Rinjani Lodge Restaurant – serving Indonesian and international dishes with a stunning view.
- Cafe Rinjani Dawn – a relaxed spot for breakfast and coffee.
- Kedai Safira – a small local eatery serving delicious home-style meals.
3. Must-Visit Attractions in Senaru
Senaru’s treasures are more than just hotels and restaurants. When you’re here, you simply cannot miss:
- Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall
- Senaru Village
- Pura Penataran Agung Rinjani
- Mount Rinjani Vacation
Read also: What to Do in Lombok in 4 Days? Explore the Full Mount Rinjani
What to Do in Senaru? 4 Must-Visit Places You Shouldn’t Miss
Now let’s dive deeper. Here are the top four places in Senaru that deserve a spot on your itinerary, along with what you can actually do there:
1. Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall
Imagine walking through lush tropical forests, following the sound of rushing water until you reach not one, but two breathtaking waterfalls. Sendang Gile is the first stop—a refreshing cascade where you can dip your feet or enjoy a cool swim.
A little further up lies Tiu Kelep, the star of the show. The water tumbles dramatically into a turquoise pool, surrounded by mist and greenery. For international travelers, this is often a highlight of their Lombok trip. Activities include hiking, swimming, photography, or simply soaking up nature.
2. Senaru Village
If you want to connect with Lombok’s culture, spend some time in Senaru Village. Here, you’ll see traditional Sasak houses with their unique architecture, meet local families, and learn about customs that have been passed down for generations.
This is a chance to do more than just “look around”—you can join weaving demonstrations, try local snacks, or listen to village elders share their stories. For many, this cultural exchange becomes one of the most meaningful parts of their trip.
3. Pura Penataran Agung Rinjani
This sacred temple is set against the backdrop of Mount Rinjani, making it not just a spiritual site but also a place of natural beauty. While it may not be as famous as Bali’s temples, it holds deep significance for the Balinese Hindu community in Lombok.
Visitors can observe ceremonies, admire the traditional carvings, and enjoy panoramic views. Even if you’re not religious, the sense of peace here is unforgettable.
4. Mount Rinjani Vacation
Of course, no visit to Senaru is complete without considering Mount Rinjani itself. Whether you’re up for a multi-day trek to the summit or a shorter hike to the crater rim, the experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Sunrise over the volcano is a sight that many call life-changing. For those who prefer not to trek, simply enjoying the view from Senaru is already rewarding.
If you’re planning to hike, you’ll be glad to know there are flexible trekking packages available through Hikingmountrinjani.com. You can choose:
- 2 days / 1 night to Senaru Crater Rim – perfect for those who want a shorter climb with stunning views of Segara Anak Lake.
- 2 days / 1 night to the summit – a faster but more challenging option for adventurous trekkers.
- 3 days / 2 nights full trek – climb up and down Mount Rinjani through different routes, experiencing the mountain from multiple perspectives.
- 4 days relaxed package – a slower-paced journey designed for those who want to enjoy the trek without rushing, ideal for travelers who prefer a more comfortable experience.
Each package includes professional guides, porters, meals, and camping equipment, ensuring you can focus on the beauty of Rinjani while everything else is taken care of.
Read also: Rinjani Trekking Planner 2025: Best Routes, Costs & Top Guides
Explore Senaru and Mount Rinjani with Hikingmountrinjani.com
Traveling to Senaru doesn’t have to be complicated. If you’re a budget-conscious traveler, consider visiting between September and November, when hotel prices are generally lower. Peak season typically runs from June to August, when crowds and costs rise.
With Hiking Mount Rinjani, your journey becomes easier and more enjoyable. Their experienced guides are ready to assist you from start to finish, ensuring you feel safe and confident along the way.
- The itineraries are flexible
- customized to your physical condition and personal interests.
- Every essential you need for your adventure is provided, so you can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Ready to plan your Senaru adventure? Contact Hiking Mount Rinjani via WhatsApp, choose your package, and enjoy the freedom to adjust it to your liking. Their responsive team will answer every question, from pricing details to what’s included in the package. Don’t hesitate—after all, as a future trekker, you deserve to know everything upfront.
Click the link below, and let Senaru and Rinjani reveal their magic.
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