Apparently, God is delighted to give a glimpse of the heavenly atmosphere on Lombok Island, one of which is the Sendang Gile Waterfall & Tiu Kelep Waterfall, which have become major tourist attractions on this island of a thousand mosques. Every traveler we’ve asked has never regretted their journey to this must-visit waterfall destination in Lombok, even if it means climbing hundreds of steps and trekking along the river.

Uniqueness & Attractions

The scent of the tropical forest and the fresh oxygen from the surrounding trees make the journey feel far from exhausting. As you descend the stairs, the sound of rushing water seems to call you, inviting you to witness its beauty. After climbing down around two hundred steps, your eyes are greeted by the sight of the Sendang Gile Waterfall. The next challenge is even more thrilling, as the reward you’ll receive is even more spectacular: Tiu Kelep Waterfall, a masterpiece crafted by God through nature’s mechanisms.

The uniqueness of Sendang Gile Waterfall lies in its two-tiered structure. The first tier features twin waterfalls that are shorter and collected in a small canal. From this canal, the water cascades down again, forming a taller waterfall.

Meanwhile, the uniqueness of Tiu Kelep Waterfall lies in its water curtains that seep through the soil in a semicircular basin, enveloping the main waterfall. The word “beautiful” seems insufficient to describe it, especially when a rainbow forms from the sunlight refracting off the water mist in the air.

Both of these famous Lombok waterfalls originate from the natural springs of Mount Rinjani, which are safe and healthy for direct consumption.

Location

Both waterfalls in North Lombok are located within the administrative area of Senaru Village, Bayan District, North Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara Province. These waterfalls, which play a significant role in driving the local economy of Senaru Village, are also part of the conservation area of Mount Rinjani National Park (TNGR) and have been officially recognized as a global geological site by UNESCO GEOPARK.

From Mataram City, it takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach Senaru Village. Sendang Gile waterfall tour can be done in just one hour from the main gate. You only need a 15-minute descent down the steps to reach it. Then Another 45 minutes of trekking is needed to reach the Tiu Kelep Waterfall.

How To Get To Sendang Gile Waterfall & Tiu Kelep Waterfall

Navigating to these Senaru waterfalls is not difficult, the route guide we provide below can be helpful if your Google Maps suggests an inaccurate route. You can also check out other route options on the map embedded below.

Mandalika – Airport – Mataram to Sendang Gile Tiu Kelep Route

1. Mandalika (Kuta Beach) – Sade Village – Airport – Mataram via Bypass – Pusuk – Pemenang – Tanjung – Gondang – Bayan – Senaru – entrance gate.
2. Airport – Mataram via Bypass – Ampenan – Senggigi – Pemenang – Tanjung – Gondang – Bayan – Senaru – entrance gate. ( More views on the road )

Senggigi to Sendang Gile Tiu Kelep Route

Senggigi – Pemenang – Tanjung – Gondang – Bayan – Senaru – Entrance Gate.

Bangsal to Sendang Gile Tiu Kelep Route

Bangsal (Pemenang) – Tanjung – Gondang – Bayan – Senaru – entrance gate.

Lembar Port to Sendang Gile Tiu Kelep

1. Lembar Port – Senggigi – Pemenang – Tanjung – Gondang – Bayan – Senaru – entrance gate.
2. Lembar Port – Mataram – Pusuk – Pemenang – Tanjung – Gondang – Bayan – Senaru – entrance gate. ( Faster )

Sembalun to Sendang Gile Tiu Kelep Route

Sembalun – Sajang – Bilok Pitung – Kokok Putih – Bayan – Senaru – entrance gate.

Available Transportation Options

A variety of transportation modes, ranging from motorbikes to buses, can be used to reach Senaru Village. However, before departing, please ensure your vehicle is in good condition, particularly the braking system, as the route includes many uphill sections.

Motorbike

Recommended for those seeking flexibility. A motorbike with a minimum engine capacity of 150 CC is advised for better performance on inclines.

Family Car

Ideal for group or family trips. Rear-wheel drive cars with manual transmissions are highly recommended for better control on hilly terrain.

Minibus

Suitable for small tour groups or extended families.Vehicles like Toyota Hiace or Isuzu Elf are preferred for their reliability and capacity.

Tourist Bus

Best for larger groups or organized tours. Ensure the bus is equipped to handle steep inclines and narrow village roads.

Public Transportations

Currently, there is no reliable public transportation available to reach Senaru Village. This includes the DAMRI buses, which cannot be fully recommended due to their frequently changing routes.

For a smoother and more flexible trip, renting a private vehicle in Lombok is highly recommended. This option provides convenience, comfort, and better control over your travel itinerary.

Senaru Waterfall Maps

This map can be used as a navigation guide. You can view the routes track by track in the legend section. Opening the map in full-screen mode will provide better visibility.

Tracks to Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfalls

Some of the tracks below have also been included on the map above.

Main Track

The main trail enters through the main gate and involves descending hundreds of steps. This trail is steeper but shorter.

Alternative Track

This trail follows the irrigation flow of Tiu Kelep Waterfall with a gentle slope and expansive forest views. It is ideal for soft trekking enthusiasts or travelers with joint issues.

Alternative Track With Motorbike Taxi

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Best Time To Visit

The morning is the best time to visit the Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfall area. Due to its location in a valley, sunlight tends to fade quickly because of the shadows cast by the surrounding hills. Additionally, rain usually falls in the afternoon and evening. Visiting during the end of the year, when it’s the rainy season, is not highly recommended.

Sendang Gile Waterfall Height

Sendang Gile Waterfall in North Lombok is located at an altitude of about 500 meters above sea level, with a water drop height of approximately 31 meters from the riverbed.

Tiu Kelep Waterfall Height

The height of Tiu Kelep Waterfall, measured from the base of its pool, is approximately 42 meters. According to the data we have from our GPS and topographic map, the area is located at an elevation of around 600 meters above sea level.

The History Of Sendang Gile Waterfall

Before Lombok’s tourism became popular, this place was often referred to as Batu Ko’ (Buffalo Rock) by the locals because of the large rocks that resembled buffaloes.

According to a folk tale we sourced from Wikipedia, Sendang Gile Waterfall in North Lombok was once believed to be a bathing place for celestial nymphs when they descended to Earth. It was believed that anyone who bathed in this waterfall would receive the benefit of eternal youth.

Another version of the local legend says that a lion once went on a rampage and spread terror in the village. A hunter succeeded in driving the lion to this location and, by chance, discovered the waterfall. The villagers then named the place “Sengang Gile,” which over time became more popularly pronounced as “Sendang Gile.”

The waterfall became more popular as interest in hiking Mount Rinjani grew. Since Senaru Village, a well-known tourist village, served as one of the main gateways and hiking routes at that time, the waterfall began to gain exposure as tourists would often visit it the day before their hike.

That’s when its fame began to “explode” (Menggile).

The History Of Tiu Kelep Waterfall

The name “Tiu Kelep” comes from two local words: “Tiu,” which means pool, and “Kelep,” which means to fly. When combined, it translates to “Flying Pool” in Indonesian. This name is based on the visual effect around the waterfall’s basin, which is always filled with water droplets that fly through the air.

The history of the waterfall’s popularity is very similar to that of Sendang Gile Waterfall in Senaru. Both waterfalls are located within the same entrance area, and it is possible to visit them both in a single day or even half a day.

Operational Time

The ticket counter is open from 08:00 to 17:00 local time.

Entrance Fee & Parking

Sendang Gile waterfall entrance fee is differentiated into two categories: IDR 10,000 per person for locals and IDR 25,000 per person for foreign tourists.

You do not need to purchase a separate ticket for Tiu Kelep Waterfall if you have already bought the ticket for Sendang Gile Waterfall, as both waterfalls share the same entrance gate. Whether you visit both waterfalls or just one, the ticket price remains the same.

Food Menus

The coldness of the waterfall quickly makes your stomach growl. But don’t worry, around Sendang Gile, there are plenty of stalls selling hot food and drinks like tea, coffee, instant noodles, fried snacks, and mixed rice. The prices are very affordable. However, at Tiu Kelep Waterfall, there are no food stalls available due to its relatively isolated location.

Recommended Activity

Here are some interesting activities you can enjoy:

1. Soft Trekking / Hiking
   This is a must-do activity if you’re visiting the area. While you could take a motorcycle ride, it wouldn’t feel quite as complete.
2. Swimming
   Mountain water is irresistible with its refreshing appeal. If you swim here, please avoid using soap and shampoo to preserve the natural purity of the area.
3. Enjoy a free reflexology massage from the waterfallStanding under the waterfall’s cascade can provide a natural reflexology massage sensation. If you try this, we recommend positioning yourself at the edge of the waterfall, away from the main flow, for safety.
4. Sliding on the water bridge
   Don’t miss this luxurious natural waterslide on the water bridge when you’re heading back from Tiu Kelep Waterfall.
5. Explore the Tiu Kelep water tunnel
   This water tunnel leads to the final steps of Sendang Gile Waterfall. It’s a fun alternative route to try.
6. Yoga & Meditation
   Find a comfortable and quiet spot to absorb the unlimited energy from nature.
7. Selfie & Capture the MomentYou won’t be visiting this place every day, so make sure to capture your moment!
8. Pre-wedding PhotoshootsThe Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile Waterfalls can serve as a stunning natural studio with an amazing and majestic backdrop for pre-wedding photos.
9. Feeding the Monkeys
   Along the way, you’ll frequently encounter monkey groups. They’re harmless and love being fed treats like bananas and peanuts.

Facility

1. The area provides the following amenities:
2. Spacious parking area with a fee of IDR 5,000 per vehicle for a one-time parking charge, regardless of the duration.
3. Public toilets
4. Clear directional signs
5. Protective railings and handrails on the stairway tracks
6. Food and beverage stalls, as well as souvenir shops
7. Geological information boards
8. Concrete seating and tables

Accommodations Nearby

It is not difficult to find accommodation near the Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile Waterfall area. There are many options available in terms of price, facilities, and views. Below, we’ve summarized some hotels and cottages for you to enjoy your stay in Senaru Village.

The prices and ratings provided are quoted from Booking.com on December 6, 2024, at 15:00 WITA. Prices and ratings may change at any time, and we will make efforts to update them regularly.

Other Destinations nearby

1. Mount Rinjani
   Senaru is one of the most popular hiking entry points before the earthquake struck Lombok Island in 2018.
2. Bayan Ancient Mosque
   This historical relic stands as a witness to the arrival of Islam in the region in the past.
3. Senaru Coffee Plantation
   The perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee, surrounded by beautiful nature.
4. Senaru Traditional House
   Located near the entrance to the Rinjani National Park, it serves as a place for the preservation of local traditions and culture.

Flora & Fauna Arround Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep

The rich and diverse ecosystem is a key reason why it is so important to preserve this area as a natural zone that supports unique flora and fauna.

Flora:

Trees & Plants:

1. Banyan (Ficus benyamina)
2. Nettle (Laportea stimulan)
3. Guavas (Syzigium sp.)
4. forest nutmeg (Myritica fatna)
5. Forest Buni (Antidesma sp.)
6. Imba (Azadirachta indica)
7. Bajur (Pterospermum javanicum)
8. forest kapok (Gossampinus heptophylla)
9. Terep (Artocarpus elastica)
10. Harending (Melastoma sp.)
11. Pandan (Pandanus tectorius)
12. Keruing Flower (Dipterocarpus haseltii)
13. Salam (Syzygium polyantha)
14. Sentul (Aglaia sp.)

Other Plants:

1. Fern (Cyclocorus sp.)
2. Orchid (Vanda sp.)

Fauna:

Mamals:

1. Long-tailed Grey Macaque (Macaca fascicularis)
2. Monkey (Trachypithecus auratus cristatus)
3. pangolin (Manis javanica)
4. Rinjani Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus rindjanicus)
5. Hedgehog (Hystrix javanica)

Birds:

1. Koakiau (Philemon buceroides neglectus)
2. Red-breasted Lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus)
3. Honey Suck Scale Hat (Lichmera lombokia)
4. Red Head Punglor (Zoothera interpres)
5. Black Head Punglor (Zoothera dohertyi)

How to Enjoy Without Touching

If hiking feels heavy, you can still see the majesty of God’s creation from two places, namely:

1. Senaru Coffee Plantation
   This coffee and chocolate plantation is the most cozy and instagrammable place to enjoy a cup of coffee. The parking rate at the Senaru coffee plantation is IDR 10,000 / Vehicle.
2. Pondok Senaru Restaurant
   A delicious Sasak specialty food menu combined with a view of the Sendang Gile waterfall from a distance is a distinct advantage for this restaurant. The close distance to the ticket counter is also a major advantage over other restaurants.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips for visiting the waterfalls:

1. Wear sandals or shoes with an anti-slip outsole that provide good grip on wet rocks and moss. Many people recommend wearing trekking shoes, but this isn’t always ideal because trekking shoes are generally designed for dirt terrain and can still be slippery on rocks and moss.
2. Visit on weekdays if you want a quieter atmosphere, as this tourist destination is always crowded on weekends and public holidays.
3. Use a waterproof bag or dry bag to protect your belongings, especially electronic devices like cameras and phones. The intense mist and water vapor can damage your equipment.
4. If you bring children, do not let them walk alone on the stairs. The steps leading to Sendang Gile Waterfall are in a damp area, making them mossy and slippery. It’s very dangerous to let your child walk alone.
5. Consider hiring a local guide from Senaru Village for comfort and to avoid any worries. Sometimes, they are also willing to help carry heavy bags. They usually charge IDR 100,000 – IDR 150,000 per trip.
6. Take slow and consistent steps to conserve energy and stamina during the hike.
7. Bring a change of clothes, as you’re likely to get wet here. Even if you didn’t plan on swimming at first, you may change your mind once you arrive.
8. Arrive as early as possible, as the Tiu Kelep waterfall trekking trail requires you to cross the Tiu Kelep river, which can become flooded during the rainy season. Rain typically starts in the afternoon and continues into the evening.
9. Don’t stay too late, as you will pass through a valley surrounded by mountains, trees, and clouds that block sunlight, which can reduce visibility.
10. Bring a flashlight or headlamp in case you plan to stay late.
11. The Tiu Kelep trail is not recommended for people with physiological, respiratory, or cardiovascular issues.
12. If walking is too difficult, you can also make use of the motorcycle services to Sendang Gile Waterfall.
13. Bring enough food and drink, as the hike can be very exhausting for those who are not accustomed to it.
14. Traveling with friends is recommended.

Stick together as a team!

Awards

The potential of the Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls became the focus of the judges’ assessment so that Senaru Village managed to enter the Top 50 of the Indonesian Tourism Village Award in 2021. And at the peak of the event, Senaru Village won fourth place in the Tourism Attraction category.

Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Review

The reviews for the area are nearly perfect on platforms like TripAdvisor and Google Maps (Google My Business). Most reviewers who gave positive feedback were impressed by the natural scenery and ambiance.

Some negative reviews were found from international tourists who complained about the lack of sanitation facilities and the need to hire a local guide, which they felt was unnecessary.

There were also some reviewers who claimed to have been deceived by travel agencies that charged excessively high and unreasonable prices.

As a developing tourist destination, we hope that these negative reviews serve as a tool for introspection, allowing the management to provide a better, safer, and more comfortable experience for visitors. After all, this flagship tourist attraction of North Lombok plays a crucial role in driving the local economy in Senaru Village.

Especially now, as the Senaru hiking trail has become less popular due to the damaged trail leading to Lake Segara Anak after the earthquake, and with the opening of several new hiking routes such as the Torean trail.