Pergasingan Hill: Lombok’s Best Sunrise Ridge Hike
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We’d considered hiking Mount Rinjani. We occasionally get glimpses from the southern coast and we hear epic tales of friends making their way to the summit. But we didn’t want to spend our whole weekend climbing and descending.
Instead, we found a “hill” that would still give us the sense of achievement, epic sunrise views and we could be back at our homestay for breakfast.
Bukit Persasingan is easily accessible from Sembalun and can be summited either as a sunrise trek, during the day or you can camp on the summit and awake to the sunrise over Gunung Rinjani (Mount Rinjani).
Quick Hike Overview
Distance: 7km (out and back)
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Hard
Start/End: Sembalun Village
Highlights: Sunrise over Mount Rinjani, sweeping views across the rice fields of Sembalun and out to Sumbawa on a clear day
Facilities: None
Best Time to Hike: Dry season (May–Oct); sunrise for clear skies
Getting There
Pergasingan Hill is located in the village of Sembalun, a mountain village in northern Lombok. The roads in Lombok are reasonably good all over the island, so getting here is relatively easy, no matter where you’re coming from.
Lombok Airport is located in the south of the island, about 2.5 hours away. You can easily arrange for our friend Baron to collect you from the airport (or Bangsal if you’re coming from the Gili Islands). You can WhatsApp him here.
We drove up from Kuta Lombok, in the south. It took us about four hours on the motorbike, with 2-3 stops each way. I’d recommend stopping once in an Indomaret for a little air-conditioning and an ice-cold drink. Then, once you enter the forested part, there are plenty of local restaurants nestled into the jungle that will welcome you in for refreshments.
The hike trailhead is just on the edge of town. We stayed locally and walked there, but you could easily park your scooter at the base.
We paid for a local guide to take us up, so we didn’t have to pay an entrance fee. If you’re hiking later in the day or without one, you may be asked for a small fee.
Trail Description (Segmented Sections)
Section 1: The Mountain Climb
This first bit is where you’ll gain most of your elevation. It is so steep that it feels a bit more like rock climbing at times. I found this part super taxing, and my heart rate got right up there. I haven’t done a lot of trekking lately, and my legs are great for running but less great for climbing.
We were doing this to see the sunrise at the top, so we didn’t see much of our surroundings as we climbed. However, we did stop to admire the sound of the call to prayer a few times. There are a lot of mosques dotted around Sembalun and they become this morning chorus, bouncing off the surrounding mountains.
Section 2: Ridgeline Views Open Up
Once you reach the first plateau, the views do start to open up. You can see the patchwork of the fields of Sembalun below. And if you spin around, you’ll see Mt Rinjani beginning to appear out of the darkness behind you.
The steepness hasn’t finished yet, though. There’s still a bit more elevation to climb, but this is relatively gentle and rolling. There are patches of flat ground in between the climbs, which are much more gentle.
This is where you may also pass tents of people who have camped overnight.
We then perched up to watch the sunrise over Sumbawa. From here, you have some epic panoramic views and can see some of the islands off the east coast of Lombok, too.
You can walk further along the ridgeline, but we decided we’d had enough of the views and were ready for breakfast.
Section 3: The Descent
This is an out-and-back trail, so the first part of the descent is easy going. There is some tree cover, it’s flat, and then there’s a little descent, then flat again. Nice and gentle.
You’ll also be looking at the beauty of Mount Rinjani as you go. She is a sight to behold.
But once I reached the steep part, I did struggle. Personally, I didn’t feel like my legs were strong enough to catch me if I stumbled, so I ended up squatting right down and using my hands a lot. Kie was much more confident, but was in trainers with zero grip, so he slipped a couple of times.
We took it super slow, and by the time I got to the bottom, my legs were giving out on me. I was glad at this point that I had a walking pole.
That was my experience and I think if you had a bit more confidence or leg strength, you’d do just fine.
Highlights
Sunrise over Mount Rinjani: There’s something deeply grounding about watching the first light stretch across Rinjani’s dramatic peak while the valleys below are still sleeping.
Patchwork rice fields of Sembalun: Once the ridgeline opens up, you’ll see the perfect green grid of Sembalun’s rice terraces below—best viewed as the mist lifts.
Challenging but achievable climb: It’s steep (and we mean steep), but the trail is short enough that most people with moderate fitness can tackle it—with breaks and a bit of determination.
A soundtrack like no other: Hiking in the dark with the call to prayer echoing off the mountains was unexpectedly magical—a reminder of how rich and alive this region is, even before dawn.
Camping option: For those with more time, camping on the ridge means waking up to a full panorama and not rushing the ascent.
Tips for Walkers
Start early for sunrise: The views are worth the 3–4am wake-up. Bring a head torch—your phone torch won’t be enough. Our guide had head torches available if we hadn’t packed our own.
Take a walking stick or trekking pole: The descent is steep and dusty, and your knees will thank you later. Again, our guide provided these but check beforehand so there are no surprises on the morning of.
Wear grippy shoes: Trainers will do, but since the trail is loose in parts, trail runners or hiking shoes are ideal.
Bring water and snacks: There are no facilities on the trail, and you’ll want something to fuel your climb or enjoy at the summit. Our guide had packed us a hearty breakfast of bread snacks and Beng-Bengs.
Go with a guide if you prefer company or local insight: It’s not strictly necessary, but it supports the local community.
When to Go
Dry season (May–October) offers the clearest skies and safest trail conditions. During the wet season, the trail can become muddy and slippery.
For sunrise, aim to be at the top 30 minutes before the official sunrise time. That gives you time to catch your breath and settle in.
Avoid weekends or holidays if you want a quieter trail—this is a popular hike with local travellers, especially those camping overnight.
Temperatures are cool before dawn. Because the ascent was challenging, we were fine in light layers. But as we sat watching the sunrise, I got cold. I was sweaty and the breeze picked up as we sat on the exposed plateau. I was glad for my jacket and beanie up there.
Where to Eat or Drink Nearby
For epic views of the valley and Persasingan Hill, check out Mahakala - Rinjani Coffee. They do great coffee and the staff are excellent. We spent quite a bit of time here, just gazing out at the view.
For hearty local fare, head to Darleen’s in town. They do great pasta, too, if you’re carb loading for your next challenge.
We found that a lot of restaurants don’t serve alcohol, due to the religious nature of the community here. If you are looking for a beer, head to Balenta. They also do excellent Vietnamese drip coffee if you’re there earlier in the day.
Map & GPX File
FAQs
Is Pergasingan Hill suitable for beginners?
It depends on your definition of beginner! The trail is short but very steep. If you're comfortable with elevation and take it slow, it’s doable.
Do I have to stay in Sembalun?
No! You can book a tour from elsewhere on the island, like Senaru or Sengigi, and they’ll bring you here on a one day tour for the hike. You won’t get sunrise, but you’ll still get to have a fantastic day hiking.
Can I hike without a guide?
Yes. The trail is straightforward. But hiring a local guide supports the community, and some let you skip the trail entrance fee.
Can I camp at the top?
Yes! There are flat spots along the ridge where people often pitch tents. You can arrange gear and food through local guesthouses or guides in Sembalun.
How long is the hike?
Roughly 7km return. It took us about 4 hours including stops and sunrise watching.
Is it worth doing if I’m not doing Rinjani?
Absolutely. It gives you views of Rinjani and the surrounding landscapes—without committing to a multi-day trek.
What should I pack?
Grippy shoes, water, snacks, a light jacket, torch, and optionally a walking pole. Don’t forget your camera—it’s one of Lombok’s best sunrise views.
Final Thoughts
If you're craving a hike that’s short, sharp, and seriously rewarding, Pergasingan Hill delivers. It’s not the easy option (despite what “hill” might suggest), but it’s absolutely worth the effort. The sunrise over Mount Rinjani, the sweeping views across Sembalun, and the stillness of those early morning hours all combine to create a moment that sticks with you.
This is the perfect hike for travellers who want a taste of Lombok’s mountain magic without committing to the full Rinjani experience. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or in a group, it’s doable with a bit of grit—and you’ll be back at your homestay in time for breakfast and a nap.
For us, it was one of the most beautiful mornings we’ve had in Indonesia so far. Slow travel doesn’t always mean slow pace—but it does mean noticing the call to prayer echoing through the valley, catching your breath on the ridgeline, and watching the sun rise over a landscape you’d never imagined.
Let me know your favourite sunrise hikes in the comments—or save this for your next Indonesian adventure.
