North Lombok is home to some of the island’s most authentic cultural experiences and natural beauty. Far from the crowds of South Lombok, these villages offer a closer look at Sasak traditions, ancient architecture, and peaceful landscapes. Whether you’re into waterfalls, cultural heritage, or local crafts, here are five must-visit villages in North Lombok you shouldn’t miss.

1. Senaru Village: Gateway to Rinjani and Iconic Waterfalls

Located in Bayan district, Senaru is one of the most well-known villages in North Lombok. It’s the main entry point for hikers heading to Mount Rinjani. But beyond that, it’s also rich in cultural and natural treasures.

You’ll find two famous waterfalls here—Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep—surrounded by lush jungle. The traditional Sasak houses in Senaru are well-preserved, offering a look into ancestral ways of life. You can also see unique cultural traditions like the Suling Mendewa performance, Presean martial dance, and Batara Lenjang Waterfall, a hidden gem in the area.

Locals also produce some of the best souvenirs: Senaru coffee, coconut sugar, and cashew nuts straight from the village.

2. Malaka Village: A Coastal Escape with Local Flavor

Situated at the edge of North Lombok bordering West Lombok, Malaka Village offers a stunning blend of coastal views, forest hills, and village life.

You can visit beautiful, lesser-known beaches like Nipah Beach, Kecinan Beach, Setangi Malaka, Pandanan, and Klui Beach. The Turtle Conservation Center (TCC) and Pusuk Bantenan viewpoint also make great stops for eco-tourism.

Don’t leave without trying Malaka’s famous virgin coconut oil and raw forest honey—two popular local products you can bring home.

3. Sigar Penjalin Village: Beach Life Meets Wildlife

Only 1.5 hours from Lombok International Airport, Sigar Penjalin in Tanjung district offers beach vibes with a twist. One of the highlights is Pantai Sejuk (Cool Beach)—perfect for swimming, taking boat rides, and observing traditional boat builders at work.

Wildlife lovers can visit Lombok Wild Life Park, home to elephants, orangutans, deer, exotic birds, and more. Visitors can even help bathe the elephants for a unique experience.

The village is also known for its Trigona bee farms in Dusun Rangsot. The sour yet healthy honey produced here is packed with medicinal benefits and makes for a rare souvenir.

4. Bayan Village: The Cultural Heart of North Lombok

Close to the foothills of Mount Rinjani, Bayan Village is one of the oldest Islamic settlements on the island. It’s the place where Islam first took root in Lombok, and it still holds tightly to its cultural identity.

The highlight here is the Bayan Beleq Mosque, a historic 16th-century structure made from bamboo, wood, and thatch. Rituals and ceremonies are still held regularly. Traditional weaving and Sasak rituals can also be observed as locals go about their daily life.

Wander through rice fields, talk to villagers, and enjoy meals made from age-old recipes in a quiet, reflective atmosphere.

5. Gumantar Village: Where Culture and Nature Coexist

Located in Kayangan sub-district, Gumantar is known for its deep cultural roots and natural beauty. The heart of the village lies in Dusun Dasan Beleq, where traditional Sasak architecture and customs are still alive. You’ll find houses called Bale Beleq and locals practicing age-old rituals.

Gumantar is also a paradise for nature lovers. Surrounded by tropical forests, the village is home to several hidden waterfalls such as Tiu Ngumbak, Tiu Gransing, and Tiu Laweyan.

There’s also a 15th-century mosque, a symbol of the village’s religious heritage. On top of that, Gumantar is developing agroforestry tourism, inviting travelers to learn how locals manage forests sustainably.

Final Thoughts

North Lombok is more than just a gateway to the Gili Islands or Mount Rinjani—it’s a region full of life, history, and hospitality. Visiting these villages gives you a front-row seat to the island’s rich traditions, stunning landscapes, and local ingenuity. Whether you’re into cultural tourism, eco-travel, or off-the-beaten-path exploration, North Lombok’s villages are calling.

Read Also: 5 Must-Visit Traditional Villages in Lombok