Veils, Pools, and Weavers: A Day Among Lombok’s Benang Waterfalls
A half-day trek to curtainlike falls, deep pools, and Sukarara’s weaving traditions
By midmorning the trail narrows into a green tunnel and the sound arrives before the falls do — a distant, gathering applause that grows louder with each step. The jungle breathes around you: leaves drip in the tropical humidity, insects skitter like punctuation, and sunlight dangles in golden ropes through the canopy. When Benang Kelambu first appears, it does so shyly — a curtain of water falling in layered sheets, veiling a cliff face in a thousand small threads. Benang Stokel, downstream, answers like a bass note: broader, bolder, with a plunge pool that dares you to cool off.
Trail Wisdom
Travel Light, Keep Dry
Bring a lightweight daypack with a dry bag or waterproof phone case—camera gear and valuables will get wet near the falls.
Grip-First Footwear
Wear trail shoes or sturdy sandals with good tread; river rocks and jungle steps are often slick.
Hydrate and Snack
Carry at least 1–1.5 liters of water and salty snacks—there are small warungs but calories are useful between stops.
Respect Local Customs
Ask before photographing locals, remove shoes if entering family compounds, and buy local textiles to support communities.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Aik Berik rice terraces’ low ridgelines offer quiet photo vantage points away from main paths
- •Small roadside warungs in Sukarara serve grilled fish and fresh tropical fruit—perfect for a midday bite
Wildlife
Monitor lizards (Varanus) scuttling along riverbanks, Tropical bird species like kingfishers and sunbirds in the riparian zone
Conservation Note
The waterfalls and surrounding forests are vulnerable to litter and deforestation; supporting local guides and buying local crafts helps communities manage resources sustainably.
Sukarara is a traditional Sasak weaving village; its ikat and songket textiles are cultural artifacts that reflect social identity and ancestral patterns.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Lush green scenery, Fewer crowds, Comfortable temperatures
Challenges: Intermittent rain showers, Muddy trails
Spring (Mar–May) bridges the wet and dry seasons—expect vibrant vegetation and manageable trails, with occasional showers that freshen the air.
summer
Best for: Clear trails, Safer swimming, Longer daylight
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Stronger sun exposure
Summer/dry season (Jun–Aug) offers the easiest trekking and best pool conditions, though bring sun protection and start early to avoid midday heat.
fall
Best for: Warm water flows, Harvest-time rice colors, Lower humidity
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Possible localized showers
Fall (Sep–Nov) keeps warm conditions but slowly shifts toward wetter weather—terraces can be especially photogenic during harvest transitions.
winter
Best for: Dramatic, full waterfalls, Lush rainforest scenes
Challenges: Heavier rain and mud, Stronger currents making swimming risky
Winter (Dec–Feb) is wet season: waterfalls are powerful and impressive, but trails are muddier and some swimming spots may be unsafe.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Trail shoes or sturdy sandalsEssential
Grip and ankle support for slippery rocks and uneven jungle paths.
Light rain shell / quick-dry layersEssential
Protection from tropical showers and spray near the falls.
Waterproof phone/camera caseEssential
Keep electronics safe from spray and accidental dips during swims.
Reusable water bottle with filter or purification tablets
Useful for topping up water in villages and reducing plastic waste.
Common Questions
How long is the hike and how strenuous is it?
The full experience lasts about 6–8 hours including transfers; walking distance is roughly 4–6 km with moderate elevation changes—suitable for most people with reasonable fitness.
Can you swim at both waterfalls?
Yes—Benang Stokel’s plunge pool is commonly used for swimming; Benang Kelambu can be swimmable in the dry season but currents increase during and after rains.
Are guides included and are they local?
Yes—local guides are typically included; they handle entrance fees, navigation, and cultural context, and hiring them supports the local economy.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Generally yes for older children comfortable with uneven terrain, but younger kids may struggle with slippery sections and longer walking segments.
What should I bring for the Sasak village visit?
Modest clothing is respectful, and bringing small denominations of cash is useful if you want to buy textiles; ask permission before photographing people.
Is transport from Gili Islands or Senggigi available?
Many operators offer pickup from common tourist hubs like Gili Trawangan, Senggigi, or Mataram—confirm pickup details with your provider.
What to Pack
Trail shoes, quick-dry clothing, waterproof phone case, reusable water bottle — for grip, comfort, device protection, and hydration.
Did You Know
Benang Kelambu translates as "veil" and is named for the waterfall’s curtain-like appearance; Sukarara village is renowned for Sasak ikat weaving, a craft practiced there for centuries.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Start early to avoid heat and crowds. 2) Carry small-denomination rupiah for warungs and tips. 3) Confirm pickup location and time with your operator. 4) Bring mosquito repellent for shaded trails.
Local Flavor
After the hike, head to a local warung for ayam taliwang or plecing kangkung with steamed rice and fresh coconut; in Sukarara, buy a handwoven scarf from a family-run loom and visit a roadside café for strong local coffee—these simple exchanges keep tourism money in the community.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Lombok International Airport (LOP) — ~60–90 minutes drive; Typical driving distance from Mataram: 45–75 minutes depending on traffic; Cell service: intermittent in jungle spots, reliable in villages; Permits: no special permits required, but entrance fees are usually covered by the tour operator.
Sustainability Note
Pack out what you pack in, avoid single-use plastics, buy local textiles and snacks, and follow your guide’s advice to minimize erosion and disturbance to riverbanks and sacred sites.