Looking for a short but rewarding adventure in Lombok? Pergasingan Hill is an underrated gem that offers sweeping views over the lush rice fields of Sembalun and an incredible vantage point of Mount Rinjani. Whether you’re hiking up for sunrise or camping overnight under the stars, this experience belongs on your Indonesia bucket list.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know before hiking Pergasingan Hill – including trail details, costs, what to pack, and the best time of year to visit.
Where is Pergasingan Hill?
Pergasingan Hill is located in Sembalun, a small village in the northeastern highlands of Lombok. The region is best known as the base for treks to Mount Rinjani, but Pergasingan offers a far more accessible and less strenuous alternative – perfect for those who want stunning views without a multi-day summit.
What to Expect on the Hike
The trail begins just outside the main village, at a parking area where you’ll find the ticket booth. You’ll need to register and pay before starting the hike.
Hike overview:
- Distance: ~2.35 km one way
- Elevation Gain: ~1 km vertical
- Duration: Around 2 hours to the top (with breaks)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging (due to steep incline)
- Surface: Dry, dusty ground — extremely slippery in wet conditions
The first section of the trail is a steep, relentless climb through grassy fields and switchbacks. It’s a full-body workout, especially in the afternoon sun. As you near the top, the incline eases off before one final rocky scramble to the summit.
Once at the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the patterned rice terraces below and the dramatic outline of Rinjani rising in the distance.
Pergasingan Hill is best experienced either at sunrise or sunset, when the golden light transforms the landscape into something truly magical. However, hiking in the dark to make it for sunrise (most locals start at 4:30 AM) isn’t for everyone, especially since it’s a steep scramble up even in the daytime.
That’s why many travellers choose to camp overnight at the summit.
Camping Overnight on Pergasingan Hill
By staying on the summit, you can enjoy the sunset without the pressure of rushing back down before dark. As the sun dips below the horizon, the call to prayer drifts up from the village below – a beautiful moment that adds to the atmosphere.
Camping also means you’ll be able to unwind with dinner and a cup of tea prepared right on the mountaintop. As the stars come out, the hill becomes wonderfully quiet and peaceful, giving you the chance to fall asleep surrounded by nature.
In the early morning, you can take a short hike – around 1.3 km further – to reach the sunrise lookout point. The views from there are even more dramatic, especially as the first light spills over the valley.
After taking in the sunrise, a warm breakfast awaits before you begin the descent back into Sembalun. It’s a truly immersive way to experience the landscape and a highlight of any trip to Lombok.
Most guided overnight hikes include meals, tents, and gear. Prices start at around 180 USD per person from Sembalun with transport, or 100 USD without transport. If you’re going independently, entrance fees are much cheaper.
Costs and Entrance Fees
Here’s a quick breakdown of the fees:
| Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Independent hike (no guide or camping) | 25,000 IDR (~$1.60 USD) |
| Scooter parking | 5,000 IDR |
| Car parking | 10,000 IDR |
| Guided hike with camping (from Sembalun) | ~$180 USD pp |
| Guided hike (no transport) | ~$100 USD pp |
As you can see it’s quite a bit cheaper to do the hike independently, so if you’re reasonably fit, hiking without a guide is very doable and budget-friendly. Just make sure to check conditions beforehand. If you choose to camp, though, it’s definitely worth going with a guide and porter so you have all the food and camping equipment you need for a night on the top of Pergasingan Hill.
We organised the overnight stay at the top of Pergasingan Hill through our driver Adhie (+62 819-0740-3330 on WhatsApp) who was able to call the relevant people and arrange everything for us! They can also arrange hiking and stays on the nearby Anak Dara Mountain in Sembalun.
You could also ask at the ticket booth too, but you would need to ask them with at least a day’s notice.
Where to stay in Sembalun
If camping under the stars isn’t your style, there are several accommodation options in Sembalun that offer comfort and convenience while still keeping you close to the trailhead. Staying in Sembalun allows you to rest up before an early morning hike or unwind after your descent, all while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this highland village. Many accommodations can also help arrange guides or transport to Pergasingan Hill, making your trip even smoother. Here are a few to check out:
Rautani Sembalun: A cosy homestay with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and a peaceful garden setting – $60 / night.
Zoya Rinjani Villa: Located in Sembalun Lawang, this villa features family rooms with balconies and a terrace with views of Mount Rinjani – from $38 / night.
Bale Aur Sembalun: Simple accommodation near waterfalls, some with terraces and scenic mountain views – from $50 / night.
Bobocabin Gunung Rinjani: Modern cabins equipped with smart technology, offering Rinjani views and a unique glamping experience – from $52 / night.
Best Time of Year to Hike Pergasingan Hill
The best time to hike Pergasingan Hill is during Lombok’s dry season, which runs from April to October. During this time, trails are dry and visibility is usually clear, especially in the early morning.
- April to June: Lush greenery and fewer tourists
- July to August: Peak season, best weather but more crowded
- September to October: Still dry and slightly quieter
Avoid hiking during the rainy season (November to March), as the trail becomes muddy, slippery, and potentially dangerous.
For the best views, start your hike before sunrise or camp overnight – mornings tend to be clear, but clouds often roll in by mid-morning.
What to Pack for Hiking Pergasingan Hill
Whether you’re day-hiking or camping overnight, here’s a comprehensive packing list to make sure you’re prepared:
Essentials:
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip (trail is dusty and steep)
- Breathable activewear (clothes you don’t mind getting dirty)
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Headlamp or torch (if hiking early or camping)
- At least 2L of water per person
- Snacks or packed lunch
- Camera or phone for photos
If Camping:
- Layers for night (it gets chilly on the summit)
- Warm hoodie or jacket
- Beanie or head covering to keep ears warm
- Power bank
- Toiletries and tissue (no facilities at the top)
- Reusable cutlery and cup (if you’re cooking or having tea)
- Insect repellent
- Light blanket or sleeping bag (if not provided)
- A couple of beers or drinks to enjoy with the view (optional but highly recommended)
Final Tips Before You Go
Try to avoid hiking after rainfall, as the dusty trail quickly turns into slippery mud, making the ascent much more difficult and potentially dangerous. If you’re planning a day hike, it’s best to start early in the morning. This helps you avoid both the intense midday heat and the low cloud cover that often rolls in by late morning.
For those who choose to camp, consider booking your trip through a local guide or your accommodation in Sembalun. This ensures you have the necessary gear, meals, and support for a safe and enjoyable overnight stay.
Be mindful of local customs while hiking. Dress modestly, especially in the villages, and always carry out any rubbish you bring with you to help preserve the beauty of the area.
Lastly, don’t forget to get travel insurance before you go, especially for activities like hiking and if you’re getting around by motorbike. Motorbike accidents are a HUGE cause of injury to people travelling South East Asia so it’s best to be protected in case the worst should happen. You can save 5% on your travel insurance by booking through my link, which also gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you!
Why Pergasingan Hill Is Worth It
Despite its relatively short distance, Pergasingan Hill delivers huge rewards. It’s one of those rare hikes that offers both epic views and a true sense of tranquility without needing days of trekking. For sunrise lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting a break from Bali’s crowds – this is a perfect detour.
Need help planning your trip to Lombok? Get the perfect 7-day Lombok itinerary here.
