West Nusa Tenggara

Nusa Tenggara Barat

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Nusa Tenggara Barat

West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) is a province consisting of Lombok and Sumbawa Islands, with Mataram as its capital. Officially established in 1958 after separating from the former Nusa Tenggara region, NTB is known for its breathtaking natural beauty—from exotic beaches and tropical highlands to wide savanna landscapes. Its cultural identity is strongly shaped by the Sasak people of Lombok and the Sumbawa communities, each with distinct customs and heritage. Traditional arts such as Gendang Beleq, Peresean stick fighting, and various local ceremonies remain deeply rooted in daily life. NTB is home to major attractions including Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, and the famous Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, Gili Meno), renowned worldwide for snorkeling and diving. The province’s economy thrives on tourism, agriculture, fisheries, and local crafts. As Mataram continues to grow as a regional hub, other areas like Central Lombok and Sumbawa offer significant potential in agriculture and energy development.

Best Time To Visit

April – October during the dry season for clear skies, beach activities, and outdoor adventures.

Climate

Tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 22–32°C. Coastal areas are warm and sunny, while Rinjani highlands offer cooler mountain weather.

Travel Etiquette in West Nusa Tenggara

• Respect and participate in local customs with an open and polite attitude.
• Keep public and natural areas clean at all times.
• Wear appropriate attire when visiting temples, mosques, or cultural events.
• Appreciate the cultural and religious diversity across the Sasak and Sumbawa communities.

Things to Avoid in West Nusa Tenggara

• Do not take photos or videos of ceremonies without proper permission.
• Avoid littering, especially in culturally sensitive or natural areas.
• Do not speak rudely or act disrespectfully towards elders or traditional leaders.
• Avoid creating disturbances or inappropriate behavior in public spaces.

Travel Tips

• Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending traditional ceremonies.
• Maintain cleanliness at beaches, cultural sites, and natural attractions.
• Ask permission before taking photos of ceremonies or religious rituals.
• Be respectful when interacting with elders, local leaders, and community members.

Popular Foods

• Ayam Taliwang — spicy grilled chicken with strong chili flavors.
• Plecing Kangkung — water spinach with sambal served cold and spicy.
• Sate Rembiga — savory beef satay with bold seasoning.
• Se'i Sumbawa — traditional smoked beef from Sumbawa.
• Bebalung — Sasak-style rib soup with warming spices.

Top Activities

• Snorkeling and diving at Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno.
• Exploring beaches such as Kuta Lombok, Tanjung Aan, and Pink Beach.
• Climbing Mount Rinjani and exploring nearby valleys and waterfalls.
• Adventure trips across Sumbawa’s savanna and rugged terrains.
• Culinary and lifestyle tours across local markets and weaving villages.
• Joining yoga retreats and wellness escapes around Lombok.
• Watching cultural traditions such as Gendang Beleq, Peresean, and Bau Nyale Festival.