Complete updated guide to visiting two of Lombok’s most epic waterfalls, Tiu Kelep & Sendang Gile in Senaru.
When it comes to Lombok waterfalls, Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls are the two most popular and most spectacular falls on the island.
They are both located within the small trekking village of Senaru, in Northern Lombok, and require a short hike to reach. In this guide, I’ll break down the best ways to visit this must-see icon, whether you’re staying in Senaru, Sengiggi, or Kuta Lombok.
How to Get to Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall Lombok
Wherever you're basing yourself on Lombok, there will be tour companies that offer trips to both Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfall. This is because they are the most popular waterfall to visit on the island.
However, don't let that dissuade you from checking them out. Unlike neighboring Bali, you won't have to wait in cue to grab a photo. In fact, when I visited these waterfalls we had them both to ourselves the entire morning (albeit we did visit at sunrise).
Tiu Kelep & Sendang Gile Waterfall Trekking Tour
For those staying in Sengiggi or Mataram, there's an awesome waterfall day trip you can book that includes transport, entrance fees, and a local guide to show you to both falls.
This is an easy option as you won't need to arrange transport for the 2.5-hour drive from Sengiggi to Senaru.
Furthermore, the tour also includes a short tour through the traditional Senaru Village in the foothills of Mount Rinjani.
Alternative Tour: Waterfalls & Traditional Villages Day Trip
If you're staying outside of Sengiggi, or would prefer to enjoy more attractions in north Lombok in addition to a visit at Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile, then you can also book this Waterfall & Sasak Villages Tour.
It also includes transport, as well as these highlights:
- Narmada Summer Palace
- Bayan old mosque
- Senaru Sasak village'
Self-Drive Option to Senaru
If you're already planning to trek to the Rinjani crater, then it might be a good idea to stay in Senaru, since most treks leave from here anyway.
This way, you'll be able to visit Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile and begin trekking the next day!
From Senggigi
From Senggigi, it's a two-hour drive along the coast and into the ancient volcanic highlands. On the way, you'll pass traditional villages through some bumpy roads as you make your way up to the town of Senaru.
You can rent a bike pretty much anywhere in Senggigi for about 70,000 IDR per day.
From Kuta Lombok
If you're looking to see Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls from Kuta Lombok, then you're in for a ride. It will take roughly 3 and a half hours each way.
You have the option of taking the coastal roads through Mataram and Senggigi, or head inland through Tetebatu, over the mountain pass in Sembalun and then back around to Senaru.
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Senaru Waterfall Map
Once you reach Senaru, you can follow the below pin to reach the start of the short waterfall hike to reach Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep waterfalls.
The entrance to the trail is very obvious and almost impossible to miss. Simply walk down the hill and you'll notice some billboards and a small ticketing booth marking the entrance.
Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfall Entrance Fee
The updated entrance fee to visit these waterfalls is 20,000 Indonesia Rupiah per person. You must pay this at the official entrance. However, be careful as I've been told of scammers and unofficial collectors.
Once you've paid the fee, begin the easy stroll down to the first waterfall. This track is unsealed but well-maintained and shouldn't be a problem for anyone with a decent level of fitness.
Sendang Gile Waterfall
If you're here to see the more popular Tiu Kelep Waterfall, then you're in luck because you'll actually pass Sendang Gile (Air Terjun Sendang Gile) on the way! From the entrance, it's a short walk, approximately 10 minutes or so, down with a few steps until you reach the waterfall basin below.
Sendang Gile translates to "Crazy Tiger". The story goes that a Prince once accidentally found this waterfall while being chased by a crazed tiger. He hid behind the waterfall and was luckily able to escape. Don't worry - there are no tigers in Lombok. However, you'll probably spot some monkeys on the track if you visit early.
Sendang Gile Waterfall has two streams that flow into a shallow river which slowly trickles down and around the volcanic slope. There's a big area just next to Sendang Gile where you can relax. Although there's no deep swimming pool, you can definitely get a good natural shower in!
Don't Miss:
Benang Stokel & Benang Kelambu Waterfalls
Tiu Kelep Waterfall
The next waterfall is the waterfall highlight of Lombok. In fact, visiting this waterfall is a reason why many people come to North Lombok to begin with. The track picks up just to the right of where you came down to Sendang Gile.
You'll need to follow this path up a broken concrete staircase, over a bridge, and along a river. Depending on the flow, you might need to get your feet wet as you walk around the river bends.
It only takes about 25 minutes to reach Tiu Kelep, and the track isn't difficult. However, it's not well marked. My advice is to just follow the obvious trail until you eventually reach this amazing waterfall.
Tiu Kelep Waterfall Lombok is one of the most impressive waterfalls that I've come across in Indonesia. You'll probably have seen this on Instagram and several tourism posters both in Lombok and Bali. But - laying eyes on it yourself is a completely different experience.
Water trickles down an even, rounded wall down green vines and sharp rock. There's also a huge plunging waterfall stream that seems to propel itself across the entire scene.
Tiu Kelep After the Earthquake
Many people might be wondering about the state of Tiu Kelep after the 2018 earthquake. Unfortunately, Tiu Kelep Waterfall took some serious damage in this earthquake. The once-deep swimming pool is now drained, leaving only a shallow pool and scattered boulders below.
There seems to have been some serious rockfall on all sides.
However, the thick jungle seems to now have regained ground. The walls are green again and are more stabilized by the growing tree roots. The waterfall stream has also maintained its integrity. So besides losing its swimming pool and having a few more boulders around, Tiu Kelep Waterfall is still an epic place to visit after the earthquake.
Senaru Accommodation
Where to Stay in Senaru
- Rinjani Lodge - the perfect option for those wanting a luxurious experience surrounded by mountains. Boasting 2 outdoor swimming pools and breakfast delivered to your room Rinjani Lodge sits at the top of the list.
- Pondok Guru Bakti Cottage - the homestay you didn’t know you needed! With incredible views over the mountains from the infinity pool Pondok Guru Bakti Cottage is a hidden gem with Tiu Kelep Waterfall just a short 1 km walk from the property.
- Tiu Kelep Homestay - This one is located literally across the road from Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile waterfalls. The owner is super friendly, offers free unlimited coffee and tea, breakfast, and can also organize waterfall, or Rinjani trekking tours. A double room is the cheapest in Senaru at only $7 per night.
More Lombok Travel & Adventure Guides
I hope that you've enjoyed this guide to visiting Tiu Kelep Waterfall and Sendang Gile on the island of Lombok, Indonesia. Before you head off on a waterfall-chasing adventure, make sure to check out some of my other guides below for more inspiration!
