Beyond the scenic landscapes, Lombok has rich and enduring tradition of artisan pottery making. Come to Banyumulek Village, a place famous for its pottery. From flower vases and water jars to lamps and wall decorations, everything is made using traditional techniques passed down from one generation to the next.

One of the most famous pottery pieces from Banyumulek is the Kendhil Maling. This is a unique water pot with a hole at the bottom for filling water. The design is inspired by the idea of a thief (“maling” in Indonesian) who enters a house through unusual ways, like windows or roofs. Interesting, right?

Where is Banyumulek Village?

Located just 14 kilometers from Mataram City, in Kediri District, West Lombok Regency, Banyumulek is one of the largest and most well-known pottery-producing villages in West Nusa Tenggara Province.

Covering an area of about four hectares, the village is home to over eleven thousand residents, many of whom have dedicated their lives to the art of pottery. This traditional craft has become both a livelihood and a source of pride for the community.

It takes only about 20 minutes by car from Mataram City. You can follow a map or rent a car to make the journey more comfortable.

There’s no entrance fee to visit the village, so you can walk around and explore freely. The best time to visit is between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when most of the craftsmen are still busy making pottery.

Visiting Banyumulek Village is more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a chance to learn, create, and appreciate the rich culture of Lombok. It’s a place where tradition lives on, and where every piece of pottery has a story to tell.

Banyumulek: A Village of Craftsmanship

Upon arriving at Banyumulek Village, you will be greeted by a green entrance gate adorned with the words “Banyumulek Pottery Craft Center.” This gateway marks the beginning of a memorable journey into the world of handmade ceramics.

Pottery pieces are displayed right in front of homes, turning the village into a living gallery. Even local schools and government buildings are decorated with large clay pots and artistic pottery along their fences, showing how deeply rooted the craft is in the community’s identity.

Banyumulek is not just a village; it is a vibrant center of creativity and tradition. You will be treated not only to the sight of beautiful pottery but also to the experience of seeing how these items are made. Skilled craftsmen work expertly with clay, shaping and decorating each piece by hand. Their artistic process, which has been passed down through generations, is a fascinating thing to witness. Some workshops even offer hands-on sessions where guests can try making their own pottery.

All the pottery in Banyumulek is made using local clay from around the village. The craftsmen shape it by hand, following the ways taught by their ancestors. For coloring, many still use natural materials, like tamarind seeds, which are cooked before being used as dye. Although modern colors are available now, many artisans still prefer traditional coloring methods to keep their work original and authentic.

You don’t just get to see the finished pottery—they can also join the process! The friendly craftsmen will gladly guide you to try making their own pottery. What makes it even more special is that no modern machines are used.

Everything is done by hand, with care, patience, and a great sense of art. It’s a fun and eye-opening activity that shows the amazing skills of the local people.

From Daily Use to Artistic Masterpieces

The history of pottery in Banyumulek goes back many years. In the beginning, villagers made pottery simply to meet their daily needs. Items like water jugs, cooking pots, and storage containers were commonly crafted. Over time, however, the pottery evolved. Today, the designs are more artistic and varied, including decorative vases, wall ornaments, and interior accents. Many hotels and villas across Lombok now use Banyumulek pottery to enhance their interior design.

This shift from utility to artistry has helped the local economy grow. Pottery is no longer just a household item—it is a valuable product sought by tourists and collectors. The pieces made in Banyumulek have found their way to international markets, including countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Australia, the United States, and several European nations.

A Way of Life Passed Down Through Generations

In Banyumulek, pottery-making is more than just a job—it’s a way of life. Children grow up learning the craft from a young age. Girls are taught how to shape and decorate the pottery, while boys often help collect clay and assist in the finishing process. This division of labor helps preserve the traditional techniques that make Banyumulek pottery so special.

One of the reasons these items stand out is the combination of unique shapes and beautiful, rich colors. Each piece carries a distinct look that reflects the cultural heritage and creative spirit of the village. No two items are exactly alike, and that’s part of their charm. The price of the pottery depends on the complexity of the design and the time it takes to produce. Some smaller items can cost as little as tens of thousands of rupiah, while larger or more detailed pieces may sell for millions.

Embracing Local Wisdom and Tradition

What makes Banyumulek Village even more remarkable is the way it has preserved traditional methods in a rapidly modernizing world. The techniques used to make the pottery remain simple and manual. Rather than adopting machines and mass production, Banyumulek artisans continue to shape, fire, and finish each piece using time-honored practices. This dedication to tradition is a true form of local wisdom—a cultural heritage that is carefully nurtured and passed down.

The local government recognizes the value of this heritage and has chosen Banyumulek as a location for the development of a regional innovation system. The goal is to support the village’s artisans while helping them reach broader markets. Tourism is also being promoted, making Banyumulek an official tourist village that welcomes people from across the globe.

A Cultural Experience

A trip to Banyumulek Village is more than just shopping for souvenirs—it’s a cultural experience. Walking through the village, watching the artisans at work, and even trying your hand at making pottery are all part of what makes the visit so special. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with the artistic energy of the community, leaves a lasting impression.

For those who want to take a piece of Lombok home, Banyumulek pottery makes a perfect memento. Each item tells a story of craftsmanship, tradition, and the enduring spirit of a community that continues to shape its future from the earth beneath its feet.

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Banyumulek Village is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Lombok. It offers a different side of the island—one that celebrates tradition, creativity, and sustainable local enterprise. As the village grows in popularity, it remains firmly rooted in its cultural heritage, proving that true beauty isn’t just found in nature, but also in the hands of its people.