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GUNUNG RINJANI NATIONAL PARK
The park covers an area of 41,330 ha on the northern part of Lombok and locates
the three administrative district of West, East and Central Lombok. The area
covers 12,357.67 ha in the west, 22,152.88 ha in the east and 6,819.45 ha in
central Lombok. Rinjani dominates the National Park of Lombok, an island east of
Bali on the Indonesian archipelago. At 3726m it is the second highest volcano in
Indonesia, part of the infamous ring of fire that encircles the basin of the
Pacific. Within the crater is the spectacular Segara Anak lake and the still –
active volcano Gunung Baru (2,363m).
It is surrounded by further 66,000 ha of Protection Forest also covers the three
administrative districts. The park ecosystem is in the transitional zone between
Asia and Australia (Walaceae zone). Average rainfall is about 3,000mm annually.
Gunung Rinjani is rich in variety of flora and fauna and vegetation types. There
are 114 families and more than 500 several of floras found and about 50 species
of plant that can be used for traditional medicine. While fauna in Gunung
Rinjani is about 12 mammal and reptile species, more than 50 birds species and
more 50 several of butterflies which some are protected and has limited area of
spread. On the South Western side of mountain is the most eastern extent of
primary rainforest in Nusa Tenggara. This gives way to monsoon forest and drier
climate in the east, and savannah in the north east. Notable flora includes the
everlasting edelweiss flower (Anaphalis viscida), tiger orchid (Vanda sp)
alang-alang grass (Imperata cylindrical), cemara tress (Casuarina trifolia and
Casuarina ocidentale).
Gunung Rinjani, one of the over 50 National Parks through out Indonesia and 21
become National Park model included Gunung Rinjani National Park, it was
established in 1997. It is valued and protected for its spiritual as well
natural values, and is worshipped by thousands of Balinese as well as Sasak
pilgrims. Hot springs near the crater lake are sought after for their healing
powers.
Over 38 villages spread out in 12 sub-districts surround Rinjani and there are
many routes up to the mountain, but the main access is from Sembalun Lawang to
the East. The challenging three-day Rinjani Trek route from Senaru to crater rim
(Pelawangan), down to the stunning crater lake then on to Sembalun Lawang, is
considered one of the best treks in South East Asia. Those heading for the
summit usually prefer to start in Sembalun Lawang.
The village of Senaru is the main gateway to Mt. Rinjani National Park, the most
popular start point for the three day Rinjani Trek up Indonesia’s second highest
volcanic peak (3,762 m). For the people of Lombok, Sasak and Balinese alike, the
volcano is revered as a sacred place and the abode of Gods. Within the
spectacular crater, the Segara Anak Lake is destination of many pilgrims who
place offerings in nearby hot spring.
A model for ecotourism in Indonesia, the community-based activities are focused
on the Rinjani Trek Centre in Senaru and Rinjani Information Centre in Sembalun
Lawang, the most popular starting points for the tough trek. Developed with New
Zealand Government assistance since 1999, the Rinjani Trek Centre and Rinjani
Information Centre embody under one roof (satu atap) the unique partnership of
the National Park, tourism industry and local communities that has been forged
to manage and protect the Rinjani mountain environment. The programme has been
successful and in 2004, the Rinjani Trek won the 2004 Destination Stewardship
Award for “the tourism destination that best demonstrates effective protection
its natural and cultural environment.”
THE RINJANI TREK
Over 38 villages spread out in 12 sub-districts surround Mt. Rinjani and there
are many routes up the mountain, but the main access is from Senaru in the north
and Sembalun Lawang to the east. The challenging three-day Rinjani Trek route
from Senaru to the crater rim (Plawangan), down to the stunning crater lake then
on to Sembalun Lawang, is considered one of the best treks in South East Asia or
the 4-day Rinjani Trek that includes the climb to the summit and usually begins
in Sembalun Lawang.
A model for ecotourism in Indonesia, the community-based activities are focused
on the Rinjani Trek Centre in Senaru and on the Rinjani Information Centre in
Sembalun Lawang, the most popular starting point for the tough trek. Developed
with New Zealand Government assistance since 1999, the Rinjani Trek Centers
embody under one roof (satu atap) the unique partnership of the National Park,
tourism industry and local communities that has been forged to manage and
protect the Rinjani mountain environment. During the period of the New Zealand
Government assistance, the Rinjani Trek Management Board (RTMB) was formed and
continues the program of Rinjani Trek Ecotourism Programme.
Rinjani Trek Ecotourism Programme has received the following International and
National Awards;
The World Legacy Award sponsored by International Conservation and National
Geographic Traveler, June 2004 The Award for Innovative Ecotourism from the
Ministry of Tourism, September 2004
A finalist in the Tourism for Tomorrow Destination Awards, April 2005
WHAT YOU MIGHT SEE
Gunung Rinjani National Park lies within the major transition zone (Wallaceae)
where the flora and fauna of South East Asia makes a dramatic transition into
that which is typical of Australasia. The Park has a rich variety of plants and
animals, although they can be hard to spot due to the terrain and rainforest
cover.
Sometimes seen early in the mornings is the rare black Ebony leaf monkey, known
locally as Lutung. The Long tailed grey macaque or Kera is common in Lombok and
older males are seen on the crater rim. Rusa deer are forest dwellers and are
occasionally seen along the Rinjani trek trail. The smaller Barking deer or
Kijang has an alarm call with a distinct dog-like bark. Look for the disturbed
ground where the Wild pig or Babi hutan has been foraging. Also found in the
forest is the Leopard cat or Bodok alas, Palm civet or Ujat and Porcupine or
Landak.
A variety of colourful birds live in the forests of the Park. Perhaps the
best-known icon of the Park is the Sulphur Crested Cockatoo that is not found
any further west of Lombok. Many of the forest-dwelling animals, insects, birds,
civets and monkeys owe their survival to the wild fig tree or Beringin as a
provider of food and shelter. The pine-like Casuarina species, Cemara, are a
feature of the grassy higher slopes. Orchids or Anggrek are also a feature of
the grassland areas, as is Edelweiss or Bunga Abadi growing above the tree line;
it is a beautiful icon of the Park and one of our best-known sub-alpine plants.
RINJANI TREK INFORMATION
Rinjani Trek Centre: The Centre is located at the trailhead above Senaru
traditional village and Rinjani Information Centre located at Sembalun Lawang
village. They offer information and displays for visitors on the trek, the
National Park, Sasak culture and a range of activities available in Senaru.
Displays include maps, Park interpretation, village walks and environmental
guidelines. All trek arrangements can be made here, cultural tours booked and
purchases made of local produce and handicrafts.
Park Fees: Fees are paid at the Rinjani Trek Centre. They contribute to the
protection, maintenance and management of the National Park, Rinjani Trek route,
village attractions and visitor facilities.
Guides and Porters: Trained and licensed guides and porters are available. You
will need three days and two nights to trek from Senaru via the spectacular
crater lake, to Sembalun Lawang (or the other way). More time will be needed to
explore the summit of Mt. Rinjani.
All trek arrangements can be made and paid for at the Rinjani Trek Centre. If
not with a guide, please ensure you are well equipped and have knowledge of
mountain safety.
Warnings: The Rinjani Trek is a challenging mountain walk and you must be
prepared with good equipment, warm and windproof clothing. Rinjani can attract
severe storms, lightening and strong winds. When the weather is settled, the sun
is intense and the nights frosty. Parts of the trail are steep and slippery.
Beware of bad weather and risks of exposure to the wet and cold (hypothermia).
If caught in an electrical storm, take shelter and avoid prominent ridges.
Beware of snakes, and stinging insects and plants. Leeches can be a nuisance in
the wet season.
Note: Each year, during the wet season the trekking activities are closed from
December to March.
Volcanic Hazards: Although Mt. Rinjani has not erupted in recorded history, Mt.
Baru (2,363m) in the crater lake is an active volcano. It last erupted
dramatically in 1994. Check the notice boards for recent hazards, and take
advice from park staff and guides.
Spring Water: Fresh water springs are a feature of the trek and determine
campsites. Your guide knows where these are. During the drier months
(July-September) some springs completely disappear. Park staff and guides
constantly monitor these water sources to determine their abundance.
Communications: You are advised to ensure that your guide is carrying a radio
handset or mobile phone. Radios are available for rent at the Rinjani Trek
Centre. In case of emergency the National Park authorities are also equipped
with radio communications.
CULTURAL TIPS
DO's
Smile and greet people, especially elders.
Shake hands, gently.
Accept hospitality and food. You do not have to eat and drink, but it is polite
to ACCEPT.
Say goodbye and thank you when you leave.
Dress modestly. Women should keep upper arms and thighs covered.
Bend down and walk around seated people when you need to pass.
Use only your right hand to eat and to hand objects or money to someone.
Be sure to sit at the same level as other people.
Wear a sarong when entering the house of Melokaq (Adat leader) and when
participating in ritual and adat ceremonies.
DON'T's
Enter houses, building or village without being invited.
Wear shoes inside a house.
Point at people with your finger. Don’t ever use your foot to point at objects
or people.
Point the bottom of your feet directly at people whilst sitting on the floor.
Touch anyone’s head.
Step over people or food on the floor.
Eat with your left hand, or use your left hand to give or accept objects or
money.
Raise your voice, especially in anger.
NON-TREKKING OPTIONS
ROUND RINJANI DRIVE
This 10 hour day trip circuit drive around Mt. Rinjani passes through Rinjani
National Park, and includes beautiful landscapes and many highlights of north
and mid Lombok. The scenic route climbs across mountain passes with roadside
monkeys, and you can stretch your legs for a half hour walk to the popular local
cultural attraction, the healing hot spring at Sebau deep in the forest.
Optional stops include colourful local markets, several traditional village
visits, the ancient 16th century bamboo mosque at Bayan, the Balinese Narmada
summer palace, and visits to the Rinjani gateway villages of Senaru and Sembalun
Lawang.
SENARU
The village of Senaru, an easy 2.5 hours drive from Mataram or Senggigi, is the
main access to the National Park. As a non-trekking destination it is also
popular - a cool, flower-filled mountain village stretching along a hillside
spur above Bayan. Senaru has a range of accommodation in simple home stays (losmen),
and a number of cafes serving delicious local specialties. The Rinjani Trek
Centre at the trailhead offers displays, ecotourism activities, and visitor
information. Village guides, including several local women, escort visits to the
adjacent traditional village, three waterfalls, and a number of Village Walks.
Circuits include the one hour Rice Terraces and Waterfall Walk, or discover the
highlights of Senaru in a lovely half-day Senaru Panorama Walk.
SEMBALUN LAWANG
Sembalun Lawang is set in an ancient and fertile caldera to the east of Mt.
Rinjani, the preferred access route for summiteers. The rich soil produces high
quality market garden crops, including the famous garlic and rice, staple of
local farmers. Seismic activity is monitored daily at the government Rinjani
Volcanology Centre.
The beautiful valley of Sembalun is also known for its hill walks, recently
restored traditional village, active cultural performers and local weavers.
Some home stay (losmen) accommodation is available and trek services are based
at the Park’s Rinjani Information Centre. Also enquire about the local walks:
the Sembalun Lawang Village Walk, to experience the scenic beauty of the village
or/and the Sembalun Wildflowers Walk, a two day one night hike to see the
wildflowers at Propok in Gunung Rinjani National Park.
THE RINJANI TREK ECOTOURISM STORY
At 3,726m, Mt. Rinjani is the second highest volcanic peak in Indonesia and is a
part of the celebrated “Ring of Fire”. Forested slopes rising directly from the
sea create their own weather pattern and act as the main water-catchment for the
island of Lombok. Gunung Rinjani National Park lies within a major
bio-geographical transition zone (Wallaceae), where the flora and fauna of South
East Asia meets that of Australasia. The National Park, one of over 50
throughout Indonesia, was established in 1997.
For the people of Lombok, Sasak and Balinese alike, Mt. Rinjani is revered as a
sacred place and abode of deities. The crater lake is a pilgrimage destination
for tens of thousands each year. Pilgrims place offerings in the water and bathe
away ailments in the hot springs. For visitors, the three-day Rinjani Trek route
from Senaru to the crater rim, down to the crater lake then on to Sembalun
Lawang, is considered one of the best treks in South East Asia. More adventurous
trekkers aim for the summit, best reached from Sembalun Lawang returning after
four days to Senaru.
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