Mount Tunak (Tunak Hill) Nature Recreation Park, a natural conservation area dedicated to protecting the habitat of various endemic flora and fauna, gained viral attention after being featured on a popular national TV program for youth, My Trip My Adventure, around 2014-2016. At the time, the spirit of adventure among young people was at its peak.
Here’s a complete guide to this nature tourism park, including routes, facilities, and travel tips.
Uniqueness and Attractions
With an area of approximately 1,200 hectares, Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park stands out as one of Lombok’s premier destinations. The park not only offers breathtaking natural landscapes but also provides an educational experience on the importance of environmental conservation.
This destination sees fewer visitors compared to other popular spots in the Mandalika area, due to its relatively challenging access. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a break from crowded tourist locations.
Key Highlights
- Tunak Beach
Before beginning the trek to the hill, visitors will be greeted by the pristine white sand of Tunak Beach. The soft, clean sands and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation. - Viewing Tower
At the peak of the mountain, there’s a tower or viewing platform that visitors can climb for a more stunning panoramic view. From here, the southern coastline of Lombok comes into sharp focus, with the vast ocean meeting the horizon in an awe-inspiring sight. - Dramatic Coastal Cliffs
The powerful waves of the Indian Ocean have sculpted the edges of the mountain into striking curved formations, creating a dramatic and unique landscape. - Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the visual beauty, the park offers an educational experience at its wildlife sanctuary. One of the highlights is observing the graceful fluttering of beautiful butterflies, making it a delightful and serene experience. - World-Class Birdwatching
Mount Tunak is renowned as a top birdwatching spot sought after by enthusiasts from around the globe. Its rich avian biodiversity makes it a haven for birdwatchers.
The History of Mount Tunak
1. The History Behind the Name
The name “Gunung Tunak” is deeply rooted in local culture and mythology. According to local folklore, the name “Tunak” is derived from a story about a loyal guardian spirit or deity believed to reside in the area. This guardian was tasked with protecting the natural beauty and resources of the region, ensuring balance between humans and nature.
In the Sasak language, spoken by the local community, “Tunak” is also associated with vigilance and resilience, symbolizing the strength of the environment in standing against natural forces, such as the fierce waves carving the cliffs.
Historically, the area served as a vital part of local life, providing resources for the surrounding communities while being respected as a sacred space. Over time, as conservation efforts were introduced, the area was designated as a nature tourism park to preserve its ecological and cultural significance.
The name “Gunung Tunak” thus carries not only geographic significance but also cultural and spiritual meaning, reflecting the harmonious relationship between the local community and the natural environment.
2. The History of Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park
Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park (TWA Gunung Tunak) has a rich history, encompassing its ecological, cultural, and conservation significance:
1. Early Use by Local Communities
Before its designation as a protected area, the Mount Tunak region was integral to the lives of the local Sasak community. The land and coastal areas provided resources such as firewood, medicinal plants, and marine products. However, the community respected the area as a sacred space, following traditional practices that aligned with environmental conservation.
2. Official Designation as a Conservation Area
In 1999, the Minister of Forestry of the Republic of Indonesia designated this uninhabited area as a Nature Tourism Park (Taman Wisata Alam). The primary objective was to protect the biodiversity and coastal forest ecosystems while supporting the development of environmentally-based tourism (ecotourism) within the Mandalika Special Economic Zone (KEK).
3. Focus on Biodiversity
The area’s unique ecosystems, which include coastal forests, savannas, and mangroves, make it a haven for wildlife. The conservation status ensures protection for species such as the elusive Timor deer (Rusa timorensis), several endemic birds, and the rich diversity of butterflies.
4. Development for Eco-Tourism
In the mid-2000s, efforts were made to develop Mount Tunak into an eco-tourism destination. Infrastructure such as trails, a viewing tower, and visitor facilities were constructed to attract tourists while minimizing environmental impact. Educational programs and wildlife sanctuaries were also introduced to enhance visitors’ understanding of conservation.
5. Gaining Popularity Through Media
The park gained widespread attention after being featured on national television programs like My Trip My Adventure. This exposure brought it to the spotlight as a serene alternative to the more crowded Mandalika attractions, appealing to adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Today, Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park stands as a testament to the harmonious balance between preserving natural heritage and promoting sustainable tourism. Its historical journey reflects the ongoing commitment to safeguarding Lombok’s unique biodiversity and cultural legacy.
Tunak Hill Location
Introduction to Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park
Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park (Taman Wisata Alam Gunung Tunak), also known as Bukit Tunak, is a remarkable natural destination located in Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. If you’re planning a trip to Lombok and want to include this park as a must-visit attraction, it’s recommended to allocate an entire day for your visit. The travel time to reach the park is relatively long, and the narrow roads require careful navigation, making a brief visit insufficient to fully appreciate its beauty.
The park is uniquely positioned between two bays: Bumbang Bay to the west and Awang Bay to the east. This geographic feature enhances its scenic charm, offering visitors diverse landscapes and picturesque views.
Mount Tunak Height
Despite its name, this area is more accurately described as a hill rather than a mountain, as its elevation ranges from just 0 to approximately 100 meters above sea level.
How to Get to Mount Tunak
To reach Mount Tunak in Central Lombok, it’s highly recommended to use a manual transmission motorcycle rather than an automatic motorcycle or a car. This is because certain spots along the route are challenging to navigate due to damaged roads and steep inclines.
Using a manual motorcycle provides better control and power, making it easier to handle the rough terrain and steep climbs that you may encounter on your way to the park. Ensuring your vehicle is in good condition before the trip is also important for a smoother and safer journey.
Routes to Mount Tunak
The route estimation below is just an approximation. The actual travel time may vary depending on various factors such as traffic, weather conditions, road quality, and vehicle performance.
For your convenience, you can use the map below as a reference for navigating to Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park. To ensure better flexibility and accuracy, it’s recommended to use fullscreen mode or open the map in Google Maps. This will allow you to make adjustments as needed while on the road.
Stay cautious and check the current conditions before you set off to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey!
Mataram to Mount Tunak Route
The journey from Mataram to Mount Tunak will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. You will pass through – Bypass Mataram – Gerung Roundabout – Lombok International Airport (Bandara Internasional Lombok) – Bypass Road to the Airport – Mertak Village (Desa Mertak).
Keep in mind that the actual travel time may vary depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions, so it’s a good idea to allow some extra time for potential delays.
Lembar Port to Mount Tunak Route
The travel time from the starting point in Mataram is approximately the same, around 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through – Lembar Port (Pelabuhan Lembar) – Gerung Roundabout – Lombok International Airport (Bandara Internasional Lombok) – Bypass Road to the Airport – Mertak Village (Desa Mertak).
As always, travel time may vary due to traffic, weather, and road conditions, so it’s advisable to plan accordingly.
Bangsal Port to Mount Tunak Route
If you are starting your journey from Gili Trawangan, you will need about 1 hour to travel to Bangsal Port. From Bangsal Port to Mertak Village, the trip will take at least 3.5 hours, passing through – Bangsal Port – Pusuk Pass Monkey Forest – Mataram City – Bypass Mataram – Gerung Roundabout – Lombok International Airport (Bandara Internasional Lombok) – Bypass Road to the Airport – Mertak Village.
Lombok International Airport to Mount Tunak Route
From Lombok International Airport, it will take approximately 2 hours to reach Mertak Village, following the route – Lombok International Airport – Bypass Road to the Airport – Mertak Village.
As always, travel time may vary depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions, so it’s a good idea to allow some extra time for potential delays.
Kuta Mandalika Beach to Mount Tunak Route
This might be the fastest starting point, as it takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach Mertak Village, following the route – Kuta Mandalika Beach – Mandalika Circuit – Mertak Village.
Public Transportation
There is no public transportation available to take you there. However, you can rent a car or rent a motorcycle from us at competitive rates, with well-maintained and reliable vehicles.
Climate and Temperature
The climate at Mount Tunak is similar to other areas in Lombok, with only two seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.
The average temperature ranges from 23°C to 32°C. During the dry season, the sun can be very intense, while during the rainy season, the weather feels more humid and oppressive, especially when the sky is overcast with dark clouds. Humidity levels can be quite high, particularly during the rainy season, contributing to a warmer, more stifling atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Mount Tunak
The best time to visit Mount Tunak, in our opinion, is at the end of the rainy season and the beginning of the dry season, between April and June. During this period, the temperature tends to be more comfortable, not too hot, and the scenery remains lush and green, offering visitors a beautiful and refreshing experience.
Entrance Ticket and Parking Fees
The entrance fee for Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park (TWA) varies and is differentiated between domestic and international tourists. The details are as follows:
| Origin | Weekdays | Weekends |
|---|---|---|
| Indonesia | Rp. 5,000 | Rp. 7,500 |
| Foreigner | Rp. 100,000 | Rp. 150,000 |
In addition to the entrance ticket, you will also need to prepare parking fees. The costs are Rp. 5,000 for motorcycles and Rp. 10,000 for cars. These fees are required for parking your vehicle within the park area.
Please check locally for the most up-to-date prices, as they may change over time.
Mount Tunak Facilities
The entrance ticket is quite affordable considering what you will experience, in addition to the stunning views. Although still natural, Mount Tunak Nature Tourism Park is equipped with several basic facilities, such as:
- Parking Area
- Safe Trekking Trail
- Tourist Information
- Iconic Photo Spot
Mount Tunak Activities
Playing With Sands of Tunak Beach
The sand at Mount Tunak Beach is very fine and soft, with a white color similar to other beaches in southern Lombok. Before hiking up the hill, take some time to enjoy the beauty of this beach.
Swimming in Tunak Beach
The beach is generally safe for swimming, but always exercise caution if the waves and sea currents are strong. It is advised not to swim when the conditions are rough or if the waves are particularly high. Stay alert to ensure your safety.
Soft Trekking & Hiking
After enjoying the beach, soft trekking around Mount Tunak is a must-do activity, as the view from the top is absolutely amazing. The trail is not difficult and is relatively gentle, making it an accessible and rewarding experience for visitors.
Picnic
Look for a shaded spot under the trees if you want to relax and enjoy some time with friends, family, or a partner. It’s the perfect way to unwind while surrounded by the natural beauty of Mount Tunak.
Bird Watching & Bird Photograph
Bird watchers and bird photographers around the world are certainly familiar with Mount Tunak. Bring your binoculars and telephoto lens, as you will have the chance to witness rare endemic birds. The most famous bird in TWA Gunung Tunak is the sate tail bird, along with the footed megapode (Megapodius reinwardtii), which resembles the maleo bird. This makes the park a prime spot for bird enthusiasts to observe and capture these unique species.
Watching Butterflies
You can see beautiful butterflies at the Mount Tunak butterfly sanctuary. The most popular species is the Troides Helena, or Helena butterfly. In addition to Helena, there are around 50 other species that can be observed, making the sanctuary a fascinating place for butterfly enthusiasts.
Climb Up the Tower
At the edge of the hill, directly facing the Indian Ocean, there is an observation tower that you can climb. The beauty of the view from the top of this tower is one of those things that is incredibly difficult to describe—it’s something you truly have to experience for yourself.
Landscape Photography
We believe no photographer can resist capturing the stunning scenery at this spot. The breathtaking views make it an ideal place to take unforgettable photos.
Prewedding
Don’t let yourselves regret not choosing this spot for your pre-wedding photoshoot. The breathtaking scenery here makes it an unforgettable location for such special moments!
Wildlife Edu Tour
Visit the endemic animal sanctuary, where you will encounter a variety of fascinating species such as butterflies, Timor deer, the sate tail bird, and the footed megapode, all in their natural habitat.
Initially, 48 Timor deer were kept at the sanctuary, but now only 38 remain, as 10 have been released back into the wild. This reflects the park’s successful conservation efforts and commitment to preserving these unique species in their natural environment.
Witnessing the Tradition of Releasing the Buffalo
The local community has a unique ritual that you can witness if you visit in February or March, right after the Nyale Festival. This Sasak Lombok tradition involves releasing cattle and buffalo into the forest.
The buffalo, once released into the wild, are not at risk of being stolen because the locals believe that anyone who tries to steal them will face a terrible curse or bad karma. This cultural practice highlights the deep spiritual beliefs of the Sasak people and their connection to the land and animals. It is a fascinating tradition to witness, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Lombok.
Opening Hours
It is open everyday from 07:00 to 18:30 Local time.
Other Tourist Destinations Near Mount Tunak
One of the advantages of traveling in Lombok is the proximity of many beautiful spots, allowing you to visit several attractions in a single trip. For example, if you take a 3 Days 2 Nights Lombok Itinerary, you can visit at least 7 famous tourist attractions in Lombok, making it an efficient and rewarding experience to explore the island’s top destinations.
Here is the list:
- Bumbang Beach
- Sari Goang Beach
- Bila Sayak Beach
- Gili Penyu ( Turtle Island )
- Terasak Beach
- Teluk Ujung Beach
- Gerupuk Beach
- Kotak Cave
- Seger Beach
- Tanjung Ann Beach
- Kuta Mandalika Beach
- Merese Hill
- Pertamina Mandalika Circuit
- Mawun Beach
- Selong Belanak Beach
- Awang Bay
- Ujung Kelor Beach
- Maringkik Beach
- Ekas Beach
- Surga Beach
- Kura-kura Beach
- Kaliantan Beach
- And more
Accommodations Near Mount Tunak
There are so many lombok accommodation nearby from homestay, cottage, in to high class resorts.
| Name | Price / Night (IDR) | Booking.com Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| Tunak Resort Lombok | 3,176,471 | 9,6 |
| Tunak Cottage | 700,000 | 8,4 |
| Azana Essence Villa Tabitha Lombok | 817,000 | 7,4 |
| Trytan Gerupuk Homestay | 315,000 | 9,2 |
| Jepun Homestay Surf Point | 255,000 | 9,1 |
| Dome Lombok | 1,200,000 | 9,0 |
| Aira Homestay | 276,000 | 7,8 |
| Ridho Malik Hotel | 360,000 | 8,2 |
| Spear Villa | 430,000 | 7,2 |
| Sugesty Homestay | 360,000 | – |
| Rizky Homestay | 250,000 | – |
| Akar Homestay | 252,000 | – |
| Edo Homestay & Restaurant | 250,000 | 8,3 |
| Inlight Lombok Beach Hotel | 1,584,000 | 8,7 |
| Wave House Gerupuk | 495,000 | 9,1 |
| Spear Beach House | 600,000 | 8,6 |
| Awang Bungalows & Restaurants | 327,000 | 8,4 |
| Lobster Bay Lombok | 2,937,000 | 9,2 |
| Villa Strata | 14,200,000 | 8,8 |
| Warm Villas Lombok | 771,000 | 8,6 |
The prices above are the average lowest rates for December – January 2024. Prices may change at any time depending on demand, events, and peak holiday season.
Tips For Visiting Mount Tunak
Please Contact Lombok Journey if you want to tour this place with safety, comfort, and no hassle.
- Prepare Physically: Ensure that your body is fit for trekking. Don’t push yourself if you’re feeling feverish.
- Arrive Early: The weather here can be very hot, so it’s best to come as early as possible.
- Leave Before Sunset: Try to leave before it gets too late to ensure you still have sunlight, as many parts of the road can be difficult to navigate.
- Bring Supplies, Especially Water: There are few shops around the area, so make sure to bring your own food and drinks.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose shoes or sandals that are suitable for tropical climates.
- Be Careful of Coral: Along the soft trekking trail, there are sharp corals, so wear sandals or shoes that can protect you.
- Respect Nature: Avoid littering and do your best to preserve the environment.
- Use a Manual Motorcycle: It’s recommended to use a manual motorcycle for the trek.
- Use a High Ground Clearance Car: Some road sections are bumpy or muddy, so a car with high ground clearance is ideal.
- Wear Sunscreen: The sun can be very harsh, so be sure to protect your skin.
- Bring Sunglasses or UV-protective Glasses: These will help prevent glare from the bright sun.
- Don’t Stand Too Close to the Edge: The cliffs are curved, and there’s a risk of landslides.
- Bring a Power Bank: There are no charging spots available.
- Free Up Storage Space on Your Camera or Phone: You’ll want to take many photos here.
- For Foreign Tourists, Especially White man: Make sure to use mosquito repellent lotion.
Flora dan Fauna
Mount Tunak Recreation Park ( TWA Gunung Tunak ) plays an important role in the conservation of biodiversity. However, some species of flora and fauna in the area are facing threats, including poaching, habitat destruction, and climate change. Conservation efforts continue through monitoring, reforestation, and community education.
Flora
Coastal Forest Plants:
- Sea Pine (Casuarina equisetifolia): Grows along the beach and cliffs, acting as a natural barrier against erosion.
- Sea Pandan (Pandanus tectorius): A coastal plant with long, spiny leaves and uniquely shaped fruit.
- Mangrove (Mangrove): Found near estuaries or calm waters, these trees play a crucial role in coastal ecosystems.
Karst Plants:
- Cactus and Succulents: Grow in the karst cliff areas with nutrient-poor soil conditions.
- Wild Orchids: Several species of endemic orchids can be found in the area.
Medicinal Plants:
- Essences Root and Piper Aduncum: Used by the local community for traditional medicine.
- Kayu Putih (Melaleuca leucadendra): Known for its essential oil, which is used for medicinal purposes.
Fauna
Birds (Avifauna):
- Bondol Eagle (Haliastur indus): A rare species often seen flying over the cliffs.
- Yellow Hair Kakatua (Cacatua sulphurea): An endemic bird that is becoming increasingly hard to find.
- Cekakak Belukar (Todiramphus chloris): A brightly colored bird commonly seen in trees.
Mammals:
- Long Tail Monkey (Macaca fascicularis): The long-tailed macaque is found in the forested areas of the park.
- Timor Deer (Cervus timorensis): Occasionally found in the conservation area.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
- Biawak (Varanus salvator): A monitor lizard found in the forest and coastal areas.
- Tokek Hutan (Gekko sp.): A species of gecko often found on rocks.
Insects:
- Butterflies: Several species of endemic butterflies are found, making the area popular for insect observation.
- Forest Bees: Provide a natural source of honey for the local community.
Marine Animals:
- Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas): Occasionally comes ashore to nest on the nearby beaches.
- Coral Fish: Found in the waters around the coastal cliffs.
Mount Tunak Reviews
On Google Maps, this place has a rating of 4.3/5 from 223 reviewers. Meanwhile, on Tripadvisor, it has a rating of 4.0/5 from 17 reviewers.
Why Should We Go There?
Mount Tunak is an ideal place for anyone who wants to enjoy the natural beauty of Lombok. From Pantai Tunak to Bukit Tunak, this area offers an unforgettable experience. With proper preparation and an awareness of the importance of environmental conservation, your visit to “TWA Gunung Tunak” will undoubtedly be a valuable moment in your Lombok tours.
