Tetebatu: A Hidden Gem on the Slopes of Mount Rinjani

Its history commenced in the 1920s with Dr. Raden Soedjono, a physician who arrived on a health mission.

by Laelatunniam

Lombok offers a diverse range of vacation experiences beyond its renowned coastal tourism. Located on the eastern side of the island, specifically within the Sikur District of East Lombok, lies the captivating tourism village of Tetebatu.

Tetebatu provides an exceptional weekend getaway that transcends conventional expectations, showcasing pristine natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage.

Situated at the base of Mount Rinjani (also one of Rinjani Climbing Gates), Tetebatu offers cool mountain air and a well-preserved ecosystem. Visitors can encounter unique wildlife, including black monkeys, long-tailed macaques, and the elusive Rinjani Scops Owl (Celepuk Rinjani).

The village’s scenery is iconic, featuring expansive terraced rice fields that resemble verdant staircases, set against the majestic backdrop of Mount Rinjani’s peak on clear days.

Tetebatu which located 43 kilometers northeast of Mataram, the capital of West Nusa Tenggara, serves as an adventurer’s haven, home to at least 13 stunning waterfalls, including Ulem-Ulem and Walet Waterfall. 

Accessing these hidden gems necessitates a trek through local villages and across rice field dikes, providing a refreshing and invigorating recreational experience.

Beyond trekking, the area now offers mountain biking trails and camping grounds. Tetebatu which take has even been officially designated as one of the climbing gateways to Mount Rinjani.

Baca juga: Mount Rinjani, Lombok: Why the Night Climb is the Ultimate Test of Endurance?

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Tetebatu’s reputation as a retreat dates back to the Dutch colonial era. Its history commenced in the 1920s with Dr. Raden Soedjono, a physician who arrived on a health mission.

Enchanted by the location’s beauty, he constructed a modest guesthouse, now known as the Soedjono Hotel. From there, Tetebatu’s tourism flourished through word-of-mouth until it gained international recognition.

The primary attraction of Tetebatu lies not solely in its landscapes, but in the warmth of its people. Travelers often extend their stays as they engage in daily local activities, ranging from traditional farming to the process of roasting local coffee.

The Sasak cultural heritage, encompassing Gendang Beleq and traditional dances, has been remarkably well-preserved. This authentic synergy between nature and culture has enabled Tetebatu to represent Indonesia in the esteemed UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages competition in 2021.

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Candra Hadisasmito Tjondronegoro, owner of the Lombok-based travel company Bale Laut Indonesia, states that Tete Batu is highly sought after by international tourists.

“With the growth of promotional media and digital platforms, Tete Batu will continue to flourish,” Candra said.

According to Candra, who frequently brings guests to the area, tourists there enjoy deep interaction with locals. This includes practicing traditional coffee bean roasting processes until the coffee is ready for consumption.

“International tourists also love learning how to make coconut oil traditionally, trekking through the rice fields, and learning about the farming systems used by local farmers,” Candra added.

Candra noted that during the high season (July – August), they average about 20 guests per day, totaling approximately 1,000 visitors throughout the season.

“Even during the low season, there are always visitors, including those staying overnight. Last year, I noticed a significant number of people either staying in Tete Batu or visiting on one-day trips. Many guests come from Kuta (Lombok) or arrive from Komodo; that flow significantly impacts visits to Tete Batu,” he explained.

In Candra’s view, Tete Batu is one of the tourism villages most prepared for international visitors, as the local community is highly tourism-conscious.

“Ideally, it’s better to stay overnight. Therefore, we need more hotels and a wider variety of restaurants, as options are currently limited. That is what needs to be developed moving forward,” Candra concluded.

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One day isn't enough to enjoy the charm of Tete Batu village. For visitors who want to stay longer, they can rent one of the many homestays available here.

Prices are quite affordable, ranging from IDR 174,000 to IDR 586,000 per night. One of the great things about staying in Tete Batu is that you truly experience the village atmosphere.

Editor: Ismail Zakaria