Mandalika A new tourism destination called "a new bali"

Mandalika A new tourism destination called "a new bali"

   12:11 AM       Rizkooblogsite

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A Sasak man walks along Kuta Beach Mandalika. Credit: Source

A 30-minute journey south from Lombok International Airport will take you to Mandalika, a beach paradise. Cruise down the south coast of Lombok Island's lengthy stretch of lovely white sandy beach and you'll come across a spectacular glimpse of an unending horizon.

Mandalika, in contrast to over-commercialized Bali, is a 1,250-hectare oasis featuring exquisite resorts, golf courses, spas, and a plenty of nature. Mandalika, formerly a surfer's best-kept secret, is now an emerging attraction thanks to the Indonesian government's enormous investments in tourism development.

Moto 3 Leopard Racing Team at Mandalika International Circuit. Credit: Source

Mandalika is noted for its bustling pubs and nightclubs, adrenaline racing courses, and a variety of aquatic sports, in addition to its topographical features. A MotoGP race will also be held on the island.

What should you do?

Tanjung Aan, Serenting, Gerupuk, and Seger Beach are among the most stunning white-sand beaches in Indonesia, with each offering something unique for visitors to enjoy and experience.

Mandalika's Kuta Beach, which stretches for 7 kilometers, is where all of the major activities take place, including swimming, wake boarding, and other enjoyable water sports. If you want a tranquil and serene location, head to Serenting Beach.

Surf the waves at Mandalika's well-known Gerupuk Beach, a haven for surfers. (Credit: Oliver Sjöström)

Gerupuk Beach, on the other hand, is ideal for fishing, swimming, and surfing, with particularly hard waves. You can also trek the hills to see Mandalika from a different perspective. Head to Merese Hill for a more difficult yet rewarding trail, especially before sunrise (the sunset crowd may be a little too much for most people). Begin your adventure around 4 a.m., and the dawn light will have you holding your breath as you gaze out into the beautiful Indian Ocean.

The panoramas of Merese Hill. Credit: Source

If you only have time for one beach, we recommend Seger Beach for the best of both worlds: marvel at the stunning natural phenomenon while immersing yourself in a one-of-a-kind cultural experience. The lively Bau Nyale Festival is held yearly in the last week of February, when people flock to see the Nyale sea worms appear in the first light of day. A successful catch is considered to bring good fortune, but the event is more than just scooping some sea worms out of the water. Surfing competitions, creative discussions, a cuisine expo, and a photography contest are also part of the week-long celebration.

While at Seger Beach, search for Princess Mandalika, a Lombok legend who lives on in the shape of a statue along the beach.

Experience Mandalika's Sasak culture firsthand. Credit: Yulia Agnis

What should you eat?

When visiting Mandalika, it is important to eat the food of the Sasak tribe - the indigenous people who make up 85 percent of the island's entire population. In Bali, fiery sambal and skewered grilled beef cubes (satay rembiga) are as common as mie bakso and babi guling. However, try something more regional, such as bebalung (beef or mutton soup) or sayur nangka (jackfruit curry similar to the ones found in Malay cooking).

Typical Sasak cuisine includes ayam bakar Taliwang. Credit: Source

One thing is certain: there are plenty of food vendors and restaurants in the centre of Kuta Beach. Kemangi Restaurant serves a menu that combines Western and Asian flavors with products grown locally and imported from other countries. Try Kemangi's cocktails, which are made with indigenous herbs and tropical fruits.

If you're looking for a place to eat that's nutritious and fresh, head over to Kenza. The peaceful hues and textures of wood and bamboo complement the relaxed interiors. Order everything from healthy smoothies to acai bowls that will look great on your Instagram feed. Café Fin and Terra are two more cafes with a similar idea, both of which provide vegan and plant-based selections.

Breakfast at Lombok's Mana Yoga Retreat. Credit: Gabrielle Cepella

Markisa Restaurant serves flawlessly roasted octopus and excellent pasta dishes for a more premium dining experience. It is the best rooftop restaurant in Mandalika. Otherwise, try Hungry Bird's Lombok Curry (house-made yellow curry with tempeh or chicken, veggies, and coconut milk) and Ayam Taliwang (marinated grilled chicken in a blend of traditional Lombok spices).

Where should You stay?

Mandalika has a wide range of hotels and resorts to select from. The Novotel Lombok is one among the most opulent options, and it is perfectly placed in the city's busiest area. Traditional Sasak-style rooms and private pool villas are sprinkled around the resort. As you go down the beachfront resort facing the blue bay, take in the lush tropical vegetation.

For those looking to escape the bustle of the city, Origins Lombok is a yoga and health retreat. Credit: Source

Origin Lombok, located slightly north of Kuta Beach, is a stunning boutique-style resort with all-white construction set among the lush tropics. Check in on the last night of your stay to just enjoy the art of doing nothing – relax in the sun, lie by the pool, and sip a cocktail (or two) all day.

If you're traveling with a large party, stay at Villa Sorgas, which is located between Tanjung Aan and Gerupuk Beach. The hillside villa boasts an infinity pool that doubles as the ideal site to see both sunset and sunrise, promising you a truly magnificent experience.

Kuta Lombok's Villa Amani, a three-bedroom luxury villa. Credit: Source

How to Get There

After a direct flight to Lombok International Airport, Mandalika's Kuta Beach is only a 30-minute drive away. You can also take a ferry from Bali to Lembar Harbour on Lombok, which runs from Padang Bai Harbour. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Mandalika, which will take you two to three hours.