Sembalun, Lombok

Sembalun is a cool, green highland valley on the eastern flank of Mount Rinjani in Lombok, sitting at around 1,150 metres above sea level. Ringed by mountains and famous for its strawberry and garlic farms, rolling savannah hills and crisp mountain air, it’s both the main eastern gateway for Rinjani treks and a beautiful, refreshing escape in its own right.

The Eastern Gateway to Mount Rinjani

Sembalun is the most popular starting point for the climb to Rinjani’s summit, with the trail rising gradually through open savannah grassland — a gentler, more scenic ascent than the Senaru side. From Sembalun Lawang village it’s roughly a 7–8 hour trek to the crater rim at about 2,639 metres, rewarded with sweeping views over Segara Anak lake and the summit. For routes, permits and the best season, see our full Mount Rinjani trekking guide..

More Than a Trekking Base
You don’t have to climb the volcano to love Sembalun. The valley’s gentle foothill walks, the panoramic Bukit Selong viewpoint over the rice fields, the strawberry farms and the cool climate make it a wonderful, relaxed day for couples and families wanting mountain scenery without the summit. It pairs beautifully with the rest of a Lombok trip. see our things to do in Lombok and Lombok itineraries for ideas.