But, here is the thing, one day is never enough to uncover all the beauty and charm that Lombok has to offer. But if your time is ticking fast and you’ve only got a single day to explore, don’t worry—we’ve mapped out the ultimate route for a magical 24-hour escape.

Kicking off in the early morning from Mataram City, we cruised down quiet country roads to a charming pottery village, wandered through handwoven wonders in a traditional weaving centre, stepped inside the time-honoured homes of the Sasak people, soaked up sunshine along the dazzling shores of Kuta Mandalika, and found ourselves deep inside a cave where the sunlight spills in like something from a dream. The perfect day ended on a high—literally—watching the golden sunset from a hilltop with sweeping, soul-stirring views.

What to Do in Lombok in One Day

Banyumulek Pottery Village

Step into Banyumulek, a charming village in West Lombok where the art of clay lives and breathes. Lining the simple shop fronts are handcrafted treasures — tiny sambal dishes, quirky ashtrays, and elegant vases in all shapes and sizes. This village is a haven for lovers of earthenware. On busier days, visitors can watch artisans mold magic out of clay. But during quieter times, like during the pandemic, the village hums in silence — no tourists, no live demos, just the gentle presence of pottery waiting to be discovered.

One piece you’ll definitely want to see? The Kendi Maling, or the “Thief’s Kettle.” It’s a curious invention unique to Lombok. At first glance, there’s no opening at the top — water must be poured in from underneath. Flip it, fill it, and when turned upright again, not a single drop escapes. The secret lies in its cleverly cone-shaped inner chamber. Not only does it surprise you with its design, it also keeps water cool and crisp — a refreshing delight in the island heat.

---

Sukarara Weaving Village

Just outside of Praya in Central Lombok, Sukarara is a village where time slows down and tradition is woven into everyday life. Known across the globe for its dazzling handwoven songket, Sukarara is where artistry meets ancestry. At the local weaving centers, women — some barely in their teens — sit at wooden looms, their hands dancing through thread. Here, weaving is more than craft. It’s a rite of passage. Girls are taught to weave from childhood because being a skilled weaver is a must before marriage.

You’ll find all kinds of woven creations to take home: scarves, prayer caps, table runners, and intricately patterned cloths. Prices range from the modest to the magnificent, depending on the complexity of the design.

After shopping, don’t miss the cultural corner — a cluster of Sasak traditional houses made of bamboo and thatch. Here, you can try on traditional outfits and pose for photos in front of homes with woven bamboo walls and alang-alang roofs. While this village once buzzed with tourist groups, today, it feels more like a hidden gem — quiet and authentic.

---

Sade Village

Right on the main road but tucked behind a humble wooden gate lies Sade Village — home to the indigenous Sasak people of Lombok. As you step inside, you’ll be asked to wear a mask, wash your hands, and respect local customs — a gentle reminder that culture and care go hand-in-hand here.

Bobi, a local guide with a warm smile and a sapuk (traditional headband), will likely greet you with tales of village life. Around 700 people live here, all from the same lineage. Marrying within the village is common — a tradition meant to preserve their culture. In fact, inter-cousin marriages are not unusual. Young men must build their own homes outside the village, unless they’re the youngest sons, who inherit the family land.

One of the most intriguing customs here is kawin lari, or elopement. When two young hearts fall in love, they plan a secret “kidnapping” — the boy’s family takes the girl away, and only afterward do they inform her parents. There are no formal engagements. Just tradition, trust, and a bit of drama.

Walking through the village, you’ll see modest houses close together. Each one tells a story — built with bamboo frames and topped with alang-alang thatched roofs, which are replaced every seven years. You must bow your head when entering, a respectful nod to the elders inside. Inside, rooms are simple: a sleeping area for parents, another for daughters, while sons usually sleep outside. The floors? Polished weekly with warm cow dung — believed to strengthen the clay base and ward off evil. It’s an earthy, sacred ritual practiced with care — except in the village mosque.

Strolling through the narrow lanes, you’ll find woven textiles for sale, watch women at their looms, and maybe pick up a colorful bracelet or two. Before leaving, take a moment under the “Tree of Love” — a dry, twisted tree said to be the meeting place for young lovers.

---

Kuta Mandalika Beach

Golden sunshine, kids laughing on the swings, the salty breeze — Kuta Mandalika is the kind of beach where time melts away. Families gather under shady trees for impromptu picnics, while others wade into the clear turquoise waves. You’ll see locals snapping selfies on coral rocks, children squealing down slides, and couples soaking in the easy, breezy vibe. Just steps from the sand are beach cafés, warungs, and cozy stays — making it a perfect place to linger all day long.

---

Bangkang Cave

Hidden in the hills near Kuta, Bangkang Cave — or Bat Cave — is a surreal stop on your Lombok journey. From the roadside gate made of bamboo, it’s a short walk over rocky paths before reaching the stairs. The scent of bat guano hits you first. Then your eyes adjust to the shadows — and you spot them: bats, cockroaches, and the eerie shapes of stalactites overhead. But what steals the show? A beam of sunlight cutting through the darkness like a spotlight. It’s a moment straight out of a fantasy film, perfect for a moody Instagram shot.

---

Mawun Beach

Soft sand. Gentle waves. Two majestic hills flanking a quiet bay. That’s Mawun Beach. Set in Tumpak village, this hidden paradise is made for lazy days. Rent a chair and umbrella or bring your own mat and sprawl out on the warm sand. A fresh coconut, sipped straight from the shell, is practically mandatory. Take your time here — barefoot walks, sea breeze naps, and spontaneous swims are what Mawun is all about.

---

Merese Hill

Just a 40-minute drive from Mawun, Merese Hill is where golden hour dreams come true. The hike? Easy. The view? Unforgettable. In less than 15 minutes from the parking lot, you’ll find yourself standing on a sweeping green hill with the Indian Ocean on one side and Tanjung Aan Beach on the other.

As sunset nears, people claim their spots along the ridge — cameras ready, hearts full. Vendors roll up with snacks and warm treats for those wanting to picnic at the top. Just bring your own water so you don’t need to climb down mid-hike.

---

From the quiet charm of clay villages and handwoven songket to sun-kissed beaches and golden hills, a day in Lombok is anything but ordinary. Though 24 hours barely scratch the surface of what this island has to offer, it’s enough to leave your heart full and your camera roll bursting with beauty. Whether you’re weaving through the traditions of the Sasak people or watching sunlight dance through a cave’s mouth, every stop is a story waiting to be told.

And as the sun dips behind the hills of Bukit Merese, painting the sky in hues of tangerine and lilac, you’ll realise—this island isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling. One you’ll carry long after you’ve left.