The name Mandalika has been gaining attention after becoming the venue for a world-class motorcycle race. Both domestic and international tourists are flocking to the area, not only to watch the races but also to enjoy the region's natural beauty and culture. If you are planning a vacation to Mandalika, here are some must-visit destinations.
Your itinerary
1. Seger Beach
Seger Beach is a top tourist destination located near the Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit. The beach offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, which can be enjoyed from the hilltop or the white sandy beach. Seger Beach is also a popular spot for surfing, with strong and high waves that provide an adrenaline challenge for professional surfers. Typically, surfers visit during July or August when the waves are at their peak. Another attraction at this beach is the Mandalika Princess monument. The statues along the beach symbolize the Bau Nyale tradition, which can be observed on the 20th day of the tenth month according to the Sasak tribe's traditional calendar.
2. Benang Kelambu Waterfall
Tired of beach tourism? Mandalika has the Benang Kelambu Waterfall, which will definitely amaze you. From the circuit area, you can drive for about 50 minutes and then trek to the site. The tiredness during the journey will be instantly paid off when you hear the sound of the waterfall through the thick trees. From a distance, the Benang Kelambu Waterfall looks like a white curtain dividing the lush surroundings. Interestingly, there are multiple waterfalls in this area, all flowing from different rock cliffs but converging into the same spot. The water flow is not too strong, making it a perfect spot for beautiful photos.
3. Sasak Ende Village
Mandalika is home to the Sasak people. About an hour from Mandalika, you will find a cultural village inhabited by the Sasak Ende tribe. The community here strongly upholds the customs and traditions of their ancestors, making it an interesting cultural tourism destination. Upon arrival, you will see traditional Sasak Ende houses made of wood, bamboo weaving, and palm leaves. Here, you can learn how to weave traditional Nusa Tenggara songket fabric with the local women. Additionally, you can buy the locally made songket fabric as souvenirs. Various types of songket can be found in the souvenir shops at the center of the village.
4. Merese Hill
About a 9-minute drive from the circuit, you will find another destination that you shouldn't miss, Merese Hill. This green hill offers one of the best spots for sunset hunters. Interestingly, the hill, which faces directly toward Tanjung Aan Beach, can be enjoyed for free. You only need to walk to the top of the hill. Once you reach the top, you will be awestruck by the magnificent view of the southern coastline of West Nusa Tenggara. To make your trip even more memorable, consider camping here. Most tourists usually set up tents on the hill to capture many beautiful moments.
5. Bangkang Prabu Cave
Looking for a unique Instagram-worthy spot? Visit Bangkang Prabu Cave. From the Mandalika circuit area, you can drive for about an hour to the location. This cave is home to thousands of bats, which is why it is often referred to as Bat Cave by international tourists. Uniquely, Bangkang Prabu Cave has a hole in the top. When the weather is clear, sunlight streams through the hole, creating a magical sight. This moment is often sought after by tourists, and the cave is sometimes called the "place of God's light." So, make sure to prepare your camera as soon as you reach the bottom of the cave. Be careful, though, as the cave floor can be very soft due to the accumulated bat droppings. These are some recommended tourist destinations around Mandalika that should be on your vacation list. All of them are equally fascinating to visit, so make sure not to miss any of them!
1. Seger Beach
Seger Beach is a top tourist destination located near the Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit. The beach offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean, which can be enjoyed from the hilltop or the white sandy beach. Seger Beach is also a popular spot for surfing, with strong and high waves that provide an adrenaline challenge for professional surfers. Typically, surfers visit during July or August when the waves are at their peak. Another attraction at this beach is the Mandalika Princess monument. The statues along the beach symbolize the Bau Nyale tradition, which can be observed on the 20th day of the tenth month according to the Sasak tribe's traditional calendar.
2. Benang Kelambu Waterfall
Tired of beach tourism? Mandalika has the Benang Kelambu Waterfall, which will definitely amaze you. From the circuit area, you can drive for about 50 minutes and then trek to the site. The tiredness during the journey will be instantly paid off when you hear the sound of the waterfall through the thick trees. From a distance, the Benang Kelambu Waterfall looks like a white curtain dividing the lush surroundings. Interestingly, there are multiple waterfalls in this area, all flowing from different rock cliffs but converging into the same spot. The water flow is not too strong, making it a perfect spot for beautiful photos.
3. Sasak Ende Village
Mandalika is home to the Sasak people. About an hour from Mandalika, you will find a cultural village inhabited by the Sasak Ende tribe. The community here strongly upholds the customs and traditions of their ancestors, making it an interesting cultural tourism destination. Upon arrival, you will see traditional Sasak Ende houses made of wood, bamboo weaving, and palm leaves. Here, you can learn how to weave traditional Nusa Tenggara songket fabric with the local women. Additionally, you can buy the locally made songket fabric as souvenirs. Various types of songket can be found in the souvenir shops at the center of the village.
4. Merese Hill
About a 9-minute drive from the circuit, you will find another destination that you shouldn't miss, Merese Hill. This green hill offers one of the best spots for sunset hunters. Interestingly, the hill, which faces directly toward Tanjung Aan Beach, can be enjoyed for free. You only need to walk to the top of the hill. Once you reach the top, you will be awestruck by the magnificent view of the southern coastline of West Nusa Tenggara. To make your trip even more memorable, consider camping here. Most tourists usually set up tents on the hill to capture many beautiful moments.
5. Bangkang Prabu Cave
Looking for a unique Instagram-worthy spot? Visit Bangkang Prabu Cave. From the Mandalika circuit area, you can drive for about an hour to the location. This cave is home to thousands of bats, which is why it is often referred to as Bat Cave by international tourists. Uniquely, Bangkang Prabu Cave has a hole in the top. When the weather is clear, sunlight streams through the hole, creating a magical sight. This moment is often sought after by tourists, and the cave is sometimes called the "place of God's light." So, make sure to prepare your camera as soon as you reach the bottom of the cave. Be careful, though, as the cave floor can be very soft due to the accumulated bat droppings. These are some recommended tourist destinations around Mandalika that should be on your vacation list. All of them are equally fascinating to visit, so make sure not to miss any of them!
