Merese Hill in Central Lombok is a charming natural tourist destination, offering spectacular views, the opportunity to enjoy sunrise and sunset, and fun activities suitable for all ages.
Lombok, an island rich in natural beauty, always attracts tourists with its spectacular views and cultural richness. One of the must-visit places when you are on this island is Merese Hill.
Located in the Central Lombok area, Merese Hill offers extraordinary natural scenery, both during the bright day with green grass, blue sea, or during the enchanting sunrise and sunset.
Unlike other tourist destinations, Merese Hill still maintains its naturalness and peace, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
The Amazing Attraction of Merese Hill
1. Local wisdom that seems natural
One of the reasons why Merese Hill is so interesting is because this place is full of local wisdom that is still preserved. In the past, this hill was a barren area with little vegetation, only decorated by a few growing trees.
However, in recent years, Merese Hill has undergone major changes. This hill is also a place for locals to graze cows and buffalo. Things to do Central Lombok include exploring this scenic area, where you can witness the harmony between nature and local traditions.
Pictures of cows or buffalo roaming freely among the green grass are often interesting photo objects for tourists. The view of local people’s lives blending with nature provides a captivating, authentic impression.
2. The Amazing Charm of Sunrise and Sunset
For lovers of sunrise and sunset views, Merese Hill is the perfect location to enjoy both. The beauty of the sunrise on this hill is stunning, and so is the sunset.
Merese Hill provides an opportunity for visitors to witness the beauty of the bluish Tanjung Bongo Beach, combined with the reddish orange color of the setting sun. This view is a favorite of many tourists who want to experience the tranquility and unforgettable beauty of nature.
3. Instagrammable Photo Spots in Every Corner
Merese Hill is also known as a very instagrammable place. Every corner of the hill offers stunning photo spots. One of the most popular spots is the galau tree located at the top of the hill.
This tree is the only one in the entire area, making it a special attraction for visitors who want to take photos. In addition to the galau tree, visitors can also take pictures with the background of the stunning beach scenery or herds of cows and buffaloes being grazed. No need for a professional photographer, shooting with your cellphone will produce stunning photos.
4. Tanjung Aan Beach and Hidden Beach
Merese Hill not only offers stunning hill views, but also provides access to two beautiful beaches. Tanjung Aan Beach is located close to the hill’s entrance gate and immediately welcomes visitors with soft white sand and clear sea water.
From the top of the hill, you can enjoy the amazing view of this beach. On the other side, there is Tanjung Bongo Beach, better known as the “hidden beach” because of its hidden location.
This beach offers a calmer and quieter atmosphere than other beaches, making it the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful sunset.
5. Authenticity is still maintained
Merese Hill is a place that is still very natural and has not been exploited much. Even though it is increasingly visited by tourists, this place still maintains a calm and natural atmosphere.
Visitors can feel at peace amidst pure nature and enjoy views that have not been touched by development. However, because food and beverage facilities are only available around Tanjung Aan Beach, make sure you bring enough supplies before climbing.
Location and How to Access Merese Hill
Bukit Merese is located on Jalan Kuta Lombok, Pujut, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, precisely in the southern region of Lombok and is close to Tanjung Aan Beach.
From Mataram City, the trip to Bukit Merese takes about two hours by motorized vehicle, while if you come from Lombok International Airport, the trip will take about 45 minutes.
To make your trip easier, you can use a map application such as Google Maps. Once you arrive at the location, you only need to walk about 10 minutes from the parking area to reach the top of the hill.
Entrance Ticket Prices and Operating Hours
Merese Hill offers very affordable entrance fees. Visitors only need to pay a parking fee, which is IDR 5,000 for motorbikes and IDR 10,000 for cars.
If you come by bus, the parking fee charged is IDR 15,000. Bukit Merese is open 24 hours a day, giving visitors the freedom to come anytime, even if you want to camp or enjoy the night atmosphere. There is no time limit, so you can enjoy the beauty of nature quietly as you wish.
Fun Activities to Do at Merese Hill
Merese Hill not only offers stunning natural views, but also various exciting activities that can be done, both for individuals, couples, or families.
1. Enjoying Sunrise and Sunset
The most popular activity for tourists at Merese Hill is enjoying the sunrise and sunset. You only need to climb a hill that is not too high to enjoy the extraordinary view of the sunrise and sunset.
The climbing process that only takes about 10 minutes will be paid off with a very beautiful view at the top of the hill.
2. Witness the Beauty of Tanjung Aan Beach and Batu Payung
Apart from sunrise and sunset, Merese Hill also offers stunning views of Tanjung Aan Beach and Batu Payung. From the top of the hill, you can see the beach with clear sea water, surrounded by coral reefs and calm waves.
This view is very pleasing to the eye and is the reason why Merese Hill is very popular among tourists.
3. Take photos at Instagrammable spots
For photography enthusiasts, Merese Hill is heaven. There are so many beautiful photo spots that can produce stunning photos.
From the top of the hill, you can take beautiful natural landscape photos, or take photos with Batu Payung and the beaches surrounding it as a backdrop. In fact, Merese Hill is often used as a pre-wedding location because of its natural beauty.
4. Playing with Cows or Buffaloes
At Merese Hill, you can play with cows or buffaloes herded by local people. The presence of these animals provides a more natural and authentic feel. You can also take this opportunity to take photos with these animals, which are usually quite tame and do not disturb.
5. Camping on Merese Hill
If you want to enjoy a closer natural atmosphere, camping at Bukit Merese is the right choice. With cool air and a sky full of stars, camping here will be an unforgettable experience. You can make a campfire to warm yourself and enjoy a quiet night in the open air.
Facilities Available at Bukit Merese
Even though it is a natural tourist destination, Merese Hill has been equipped with adequate basic facilities for visitor comfort:
- Spacious parking area with affordable parking fees.
- Food stalls and vendors that provide snacks and drinks.
- Public Toilet for basic needs of visitors.
- Gazebos and seating at several points to relax while enjoying the view.
- Officers and Tour Guides are often around the hill to provide information and assistance to visitors.
Merese Hill is the perfect tourist destination to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Lombok. With spectacular views, a serene atmosphere, and a variety of fun activities to do, Bukit Merese is a must-visit.
Whether you want to enjoy the sunrise and sunset, take photos at an Instagrammable spot, or just relax and camp, Bukit Merese offers an unforgettable travel experience.
Tourist Attractions in East Lombok also feature stunning natural beauty, from pristine beaches to majestic hills, making the region a must-visit destination. So, make sure you take the time to visit this place during your trip to Lombok!
