
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Mataram, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia
1. Puncak Sembalun
A serene highland village offering panoramic views of Mount Rinjani. Offers trekking opportunities and cultural immersion.
- Natural Scenery: Breathtaking views of Mount Rinjani and surrounding landscapes
- Trekking Experience: Various trekking routes for different skill levels
- Cultural Interaction: Opportunities to learn about local Sasak culture and traditions
2. Seger Bujuk Cave
An ancient cave system with unique stalactites and stalagmites. Hidden deep within the lush forests of Mataram.
- Natural Wonders: Beautiful formations created by centuries of water erosion
- Historical Significance: believed to have been inhabited by prehistoric humans
- Off-the-beaten-path: Not often visited by tourists, providing a serene and untouched experience
3. Banjaratua Traditional Market
An authentic local market selling traditional textiles, spices, and handicrafts. A great place to immerse in Sasak culture.
- Cultural Exchange: Opportunities to learn about traditional Indonesian craftsmanship
- Unique Shopping Experience: Offers handwoven textiles, traditional spices, and unique souvenirs
- Authentic Local Life: Witness the daily life of Mataram's residents in a vibrant market setting
4. Sengkang Lake
A picturesque man-made lake surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Sasak houses. Ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
- Natural Beauty: Calming waters and lush greenery create a serene setting
- Local Culture: Sasak houses provide insights into traditional architecture and lifestyle
- Recreation Activities: Offers boat rides, picnicking, and bird watching opportunities
5. Pusuk Monkey Forest
A forest reserve filled with playful long-tailed macaques. The forest is also home to various species of flora and fauna.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to observe and interact with long-tailed macaques
- Natural Setting: A lush, forested area with diverse plant species
- Educational Experience: Learn about the ecology and conservation efforts for the macaque population
6. Tanjung Aan Beach
A secluded beach with stunning red sand and clear waters. Known for its dramatic cliffs and sunset views.
- Natural Beauty: Red sand beaches contrasting against clear waters create a picturesque setting
- Off-the-beaten-path: Less crowded than other beaches, offering a more tranquil experience
- Sunset Viewing: Ideal spot to witness the breathtaking Mataram sunsets
7. Sade Village
An authentic Sasak village offering insights into traditional life. Known for its beautiful rice terraces and traditional dances.
- Cultural Experience: Opportunities to learn about Sasak traditions, culture, and lifestyle
- Natural Scenery: Stunning rice terraces and lush landscapes create a serene setting
- Traditional Performances: Witness traditional Sasak dances and music in a village setting
8. Selong Belanak Beach
A picturesque beach with white sand and clear waters. Perfect for surfing, swimming, or just lounging.
- Recreation Activities: Offers surfing, swimming, and sunbathing opportunities
- Natural Beauty: Beautiful white sand beaches and clear waters create a picturesque setting
- Off-the-beaten-path: Less crowded than other popular beaches, offering a more tranquil experience
9. Bat Cave (Gua Batu Putih)
A mysterious cave filled with thousands of bats. Known for its eerie atmosphere and unique bat formations.
- Natural Wonders: Thousands of bats create a mesmerizing sight
- Historical Significance: Believed to have been used as a burial site in ancient times
- Off-the-beaten-path: Not often visited by tourists, providing a unique and eerie experience
10. Prahu Sasak Museum
A museum dedicated to the traditional boat-building techniques of the Sasak people. Offers insights into their maritime history.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about traditional boat-building techniques and Sasak maritime history
- Architecture: Features traditional Sasak houses and artifacts
- Authentic Local Life: Witness the daily life of Mataram's boat builders and craftsmen
11. Sikerep Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall nestled deep within the forest. Ideal for swimming and picnicking.
- Natural Beauty: Beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery
- Recreation Activities: Offers swimming and picnicking opportunities
- Off-the-beaten-path: Less crowded than other popular waterfalls, offering a more tranquil experience
12. Borongis Waterfall
A stunning waterfall with crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by dense forests and offers great swimming opportunities.
- Natural Beauty: Stunning waterfall with clear waters create a picturesque setting
- Recreation Activities: Offers swimming opportunities in crystal-clear waters
- Off-the-beaten-path: Less crowded than other popular waterfalls, offering a more tranquil experience
13. Saraswati Temple
A beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Saraswati. Known for its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.
- Religious Significance: Dedicated to the Hindu goddess of knowledge, learning, and art
- Architecture: Features intricate carvings and traditional Balinese architecture
- Peaceful Atmosphere: A serene and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for reflection and meditation
14. Taman Mini Nusa Tenggara Barat
A miniature park showcasing the cultures of various regions in West Nusa Tenggara. Offers insights into local customs and traditions.
- Cultural Experience: Learn about the diverse cultures and traditions of West Nusa Tenggara
- Architecture: Features miniature versions of traditional houses from various regions
- Authentic Local Life: Witness daily life and cultural performances from different regions
15. Pantai Sekongkang
A secluded beach with black sand and stunning views of the sea. Ideal for a peaceful afternoon.
- Natural Beauty: Black sand beaches contrasting against clear waters create a picturesque setting
- Off-the-beaten-path: Less crowded than other beaches, offering a more tranquil experience
- Sunset Viewing: Ideal spot to witness the breathtaking Mataram sunsets