Last updated on May 16th, 2025 at 02:56 pm
Bukit Selong in Lombok is not mentioned on most of “the best attractions in Lombok” lists and we cannot understand the reason why – because Bukit Selong Viewpoint is awesome!
Imagine a view of all the different colored crops that create a spectacular patchwork effect that covers the entire valley – well, this is Bukit Selong viewpoint.
Bukit Selong is a spectacular hidden gem in Lombok and the perfect addition to your Lombok Itinerary.
Don’t have time to read the entire article? Check out this Top-Rated Full-Day Guided Tour to experience the very best of Lombok including Sembalun Valley’s grandeur!
What Exactly is There to see at Bukit Selong Viewpoint?
So, before you add Bukit Selong to your Lombok itinerary – what exactly can you expect to see when you get there? Good question!
Bukit Selong viewpoint, or, Selong Hill is a small rice field viewpoint that offers panoramic views of patchwork rice fields, traditional villages, and dramatic hillsides in Sembalun, East Lombok.
From the top of Bukit Selong Viewpoint, aka Selong Hill, you get an amazing view of the whole town of Sembalun. It honestly gave us “Indonesian Florence” vibes – all the mosques standing tall above the village really make the scene something special.
If you have extra time, we highly recommend adding 7 days in East Java to your Indonesia itinerary – it’s our favorite island in the country and a hidden gem in Indonesia filled with jaw-dropping landscapes and fewer crowds.
Where is Bukit Selong Viewpoint Located?
The easiest way to find Bukit Selong Lombok is to use Google Maps, which will direct you all the way to the Bukit Selong viewpoint.
However, here are some general directions to get to Bukit Selong Viewpoint if you get lost:
To get to Bukit Selong Viewpoint from the Rinjani National Park Office, follow the main road south and turn left just after “Putra Sembalun Homestay”. Keep walking until you cross a small bridge over a river and through the bamboo forest until you arrive at a small village.
From here, you can already catch a glimpse of the rice fields – Bukit Selong Viewpoint is a small hill just a short walk beyond the village.
There are two viewpoints that overlook the rice fields – Tangkok Hill Sembalun (see map above) is at a lower level with just as great views (this is the one we went to) and the other, Bukit Selong viewpoint, is further up the hill where you’ll see a handcrafted wooden star on bamboo stilts that makes for a great photo.
For an even more unforgettable Indonesian adventure, consider combining this lesser-visited island of Lombok with the paradise Gili Islands and Bali. Check out our Bali–Lombok–Gili Islands itinerary for the ultimate travel route through some of Indonesia’s most beautiful and diverse destinations.
How Do I Get to Bukit Selong Viewpoint?
During your Lombok itinerary, you’ll quickly notice that the roads in Lombok are in excellent condition – making it perfect for a road trip. So why not take advantage of it? Hit the road and explore Lombok’s best viewpoints, secluded beaches, and lush tropical forests at your own pace.
There’s truly no better way to experience the island. Renting a scooter gives you the freedom to discover Lombok’s hidden gems and enjoy the journey as much as the destinations.
We rented a scooter for 4 days, which cost just 70–80k IDR (€4–5) per day – an affordable and convenient option for getting around Lombok.
We based ourselves in Senggigi, taking a day trip to Kuta and Bukit Merese, followed by an overnight adventure to North and East Lombok to explore Bukit Selong Viewpoint and the stunning Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls. Now that’s not a bad Lombok Itinerary!
If waterfalls are your thing – who doesn’t love a good waterfall?! Check out our list of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world – some may surprise you!
With such a stunning, rugged island soaked in natural beauty, we found ourselves stopping off on so many occasions for photos or simply just to take it all in.
We stopped off in local villages, ate in local restaurants (warungs), and shopped in local shops – the time and freedom of having our own transport is unbeatable.
If you don’t drive a scooter yourself we witnessed plenty of people who hired a Lombok local to drive them around the island on a scooter (or in a car), so don’t worry, you will still get the Lombok road trip experience.
Or simply join a Lombok tour that covers the best of North Lombok, combining a visit to Bukit Selong Viewpoint with these stunning Lombok waterfalls.
Check out some more of the best Lombok Tours below to find the one that suits you best:
What is the Fee to Visit Bukit Selong Viewpoint?
There was no entry fee for the Tangkok Hill Sembalun viewpoint, however, there is a fee of 10,000 IDR for the viewpoint further up with the wooden star platform – Bukit Selong.
What is the Best Time To Visit Bukit Selong Viewpoint?
The best time to visit Lombok is during the dry season (May – September). This period consists of dry and sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities like visiting Bukit Selong.
It is worth visiting Bukit Selong at any time of day as the views are pretty spectacular. However, like most popular attractions, early or later in the day will be quieter and cooler.
Bukit Selong Viewpoint is one of the best things to do in Lombok, especially if you’re looking for an iconic Lombok sunset or sunrise viewpoint without much of a hike involved.
If hiking is your thing, make sure to check out our 10 best hikes in the world – some just may surprise you!
Is The Bukit Selong Hike Difficult?
The hike to Bukit Selong Viewpoint is easy! We really wouldn’t even call it a hike.
The viewing platform is situated just a short 10-minute walk from the car park. The trail is uphill, yet very manageable.
Mind you, we visited Bukit Selong viewpoint during a very rainy day so it was muddy and slippery but we were determined!
We visited Indonesia in January (wet season) but let’s just hope you get better weather!
Read more about the best time to visit Indonesia and prepare yourself with our ultimate guide for visiting Indonesia.
What About Bukit Selong Accommodation?
For your visit to Bukit Selong you will be based in the charming hilltop village of Senaru and will be spoiled for choice of affordable Bukit Selong accommodation.
Bukit Selong Viewpoint is an hour’s drive from the hilltop town of Senaru and as mentioned you can either drive to Bukit Selong Viewpoint yourself or arrange for a driver.
*Make sure to ask your Senaru accommodation as they may be able to assist you in finding a guide/driver.
Luxury
Featuring a restaurant and an outdoor pool, Rinjani Lodge is located 0.6 mi away from Rinjani National Park and the traditional Sasak Village of Dusun Senari.
Rinjani Lodge offers rooms with private terraces overlooking the mountain and surrounding greenery.
Best Travel Insurance– Even with the luck of the Irish, things can still go wrong. World Nomads Travel Insurance is our top choice for travel coverage. With the best transparent fine print in the industry, it’s no wonder they’re ranked number one. Don’t let your adventures turn into mishaps and get a free quote today!
Mid-Budget/Budget
Pondok Guru Bakti Cottage was our choice of accommodation during our visit to Bukit Selong and at 15 Euro per night we don’t think it gets better than this! We honestly couldn’t recommend this place more!
Pondok Guru Bakti Cottage offers pool with a stunning mountain view, a garden and air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi.
If you plan on including a visit to Lombok’s most stunning waterfalls, this accommodation is only a short 1km walk away.
We explored both Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile Waterfalls in the morning before returning to Senggigi, making it incredibly convenient and not taking much time from our Lombok road trip.
Not only does this accommodation offer the most amazing mountain views but the price also included breakfast!
We enjoyed dinner in the restaurant onsite after our day of activities and it possibly was the nicest meal we had during our entire Indonesia itinerary.
Is Bukit Selong Lombok Worth Visiting?
In short, absolutely Bukit Selong viewpoint is worth visiting. And we drove through torrential downpours to get here!
Check out the video below to watch the highlights of our Lombok adventure.
We have seen rice field views on many occasions through our Asia Travels but the Bukit Selong viewpoint was different and is most definitely one of the top things to do in Lombok!
From the carpet of colors, the surrounding majestic mountains and the mosque silhouettes – it was very special indeed and we are certain that you will feel the same.
Even though we come from the beautiful island of Ireland, at this point in our travels we’ve probably written more about Indonesia than anywhere else. It’s a country that completely captured our hearts. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to dive into our Indonesia travel guides – they’re packed with our favorite spots, hidden gems, and itineraries we’ve loved.
Enjoy Bukit Selong Viewpoint!
We honestly hope you enjoy your visit to Bukit Selong as much as we did. In fact, we are certain that you will!
Have you visited North Lombok? What did you include in your Lombok itinerary?
As always, we would love to hear your thoughts. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
Slán go fóil
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on the links to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission. This is at NO EXTRA COST to you. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides.
