The beauty of Lombok Island in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Province has caught the attention of tourists and hospitality investors alike. Located just 35 kilometres from Bali, Lombok is often seen as an exotic destination, relatively uncrowded, and a more affordable option than its more famous neighbour. Lombok also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with picturesque beaches and majestic mountains not unlike those found on Bali.

Tourism has become one of the key drivers of the regional economy. According to government data, Lombok welcomed 1.2 million visitors last year, representing half of the total tourist arrivals to West Nusa Tenggara, which stood at 2.4 million. The provincial tourism office projects 2.5 million domestic and international tourist arrivals across Lombok and neighbouring Sumbawa Island in 2025.

Mandalika: A super priority destination

Tiu Kelep Waterfall lies deep in North Lombok’s rainforest, accessed by a jungle trek, where clear water cascades into a cool, shaded natural pool. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/ShaifulZamri

One of Lombok’s icons is the Mandalika white sand beach area, facing the Indian Ocean. Located in the heart of the island, Mandalika is close to some of Lombok’s most outstanding beaches, including Tanjung Aan, Kuta, Gerupuk, Serenting, and Seger Beach.

The government has played a major role in Mandalika’s rapid development. In 2018, President Joko Widodo designated Mandalika as a Special Economic Zone, to be developed into a world-class tourism destination alongside other super priority destinations such as Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Borobudur Temple (Central Java), Likupang (North Sulawesi), and Labuan Bajo (East Nusa Tenggara).

By late 2018, the Mandalika International Circuit was also completed. It has since hosted various rounds of the Asia Talent Cup, the Superbike World Championship, and Grand Prix motorcycle races.

According to its master plan, the Mandalika Special Economic Zone is set to be equipped with 20,000 accommodation rooms and 325,000 sqm of commercial space. Planned facilities include golf courses, amusement parks, marine parks, and more, with a total projected investment of Rp. 40 trillion. The construction timeline spans from 2016 to 2039.

Just recently, PT Injourney Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), a state-owned company overseeing integrated tourism areas in Indonesia, announced a cooperation with PT Kleo Mandalika Resort to build a five-star hotel under the Luxury Brand Collection concept. The hotel will be located at Tanjung Aan Beach, covering a land area of 101,185 sqm.

Adventures and wellness offerings

At Mount Rinjani National Park, travellers can expect scenic treks, stunning crater lakes, diverse wildlife, lush forests, and breathtaking views of Lombok's volcanic landscape. Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Saidin Jusoh

Lombok is also home to Mount Rinjani National Park, an ideal destination for those seeking intimate retreats away from modern life. Trekking around the mountain, home to a variety of plants and trees, is family-friendly. The area provides a great opportunity to explore and learn about many species of tropical flora and is particularly popular among families with children.

The wellness tourism sector in Lombok is also growing rapidly. In addition to Mount Rinjani, there are many other spots for relaxation, rejuvenation, and connecting with nature. Yoga studios, meditation centres, and wellness resorts are flourishing, especially in areas like Kuta, Senggigi, and Selong Belanak.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in the traditional life of the Sasak people, the island’s indigenous group. Many travellers take part in traditional healing practices rooted in local wisdom. Spa treatments using locally sourced organic ingredients are readily available, and hands-on workshops allow visitors to learn how to prepare jamu (Indonesian herbal tonics) and other traditional remedies.