Mount Rinjani (Indonesian: Gunung Rinjani) is an active stratovolcano located on Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Rising to 3,726 meters (12,224 feet), it is the second-highest volcano in Indonesia and a centerpiece of the Mount Rinjani National Park, which spans over 41,000 hectares and was established in 1997.
Rinjani is part of the Rinjani-Lombok UNESCO Global Geopark, designated in 2018 due to its geological, ecological, and cultural importance.
Main Trekking Routes
Several official routes provide access to the summit and crater areas:
Sembalun Route
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Entry Point: Sembalun Village
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Elevation Gain: ~2,600 meters
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Highlights: Grasslands and savanna landscapes, summit access via Plawangan Sembalun.
Senaru Route
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Entry Point: Senaru Village
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Elevation Gain: ~3,100 meters
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Highlights: Dense tropical forest, waterfalls, Plawangan Senaru, and views of Segara Anak (caldera lake).
Torean Route
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Entry Point: Torean Village
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Highlights: Scenic waterfalls and rivers. Not officially developed by park authorities, with higher safety risks.
Timbanuh & Aik Berik Routes
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Location: Southern slopes of Rinjani
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Highlights: Less trafficked, used for alternative treks and scientific research.
Trekking Regulations
The park is managed by the Mount Rinjani National Park Authority (Balai Taman Nasional Gunung Rinjani). Trekking is allowed from April to December, with closures during the rainy season (January–March) for safety.
Quota and Permits
To prevent over-tourism and protect the ecosystem, the park enforces a daily trekker quota system. All visitors must register through the official eRinjani portal, operated by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry of Indonesia.
Guides and porters are required and must be certified by the park authority. Solo trekking is prohibited for safety reasons.
Environmental and Cultural Significance
Mount Rinjani holds spiritual value for local Sasak and Balinese communities. Pilgrimages are held annually at Segara Anak Lake. The region also supports unique flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the ebony leaf monkey (Trachypithecus auratus).
As part of a UNESCO Global Geopark, Rinjani is promoted for sustainable tourism, conservation, and education.
References
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Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Republic of Indonesia – Gunung Rinjani National Park Profile
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UNESCO Global Geoparks – Rinjani-Lombok UNESCO Global Geopark
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The Jakarta Post – Rinjani National Park introduces online permit system
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Mongabay Indonesia – Konservasi dan tantangan pengelolaan Rinjani