Benang Kelambu Waterfall: Swimming and Jungle Trekking Near Mataram

Benang Kelambu is a multi-tiered waterfall in the forested foothills north of Mataram, dropping over 20 metres in a wide curtain of water that falls through a curtain of hanging roots and tropical vines. The name translates loosely as "mosquito net waterfall," a reference to the way the water fans out and catches light through the canopy.

It is one of the more accessible waterfalls in Lombok — not a hardcore trek, and genuinely rewarding when you get there.

The Trek

The trail starts from a small car park near the village of Aik Berik, in the Batukliang district. The path runs through mature jungle and secondary forest, with sections over wooden bridges and past smaller cascades. The walk one way takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on pace and how much you stop.

The trail is fairly well maintained but gets muddy after rain. Decent footwear is recommended — flip-flops are manageable in dry season but a poor choice otherwise.

At the Waterfall

The main falls drop into a wide, shallow pool that is good for swimming. The water is cool and clean. You can wade in behind the curtain of water, which creates a natural alcove — a popular photo spot. On weekends and Indonesian public holidays the site gets busy with local visitors. Weekday mornings are significantly quieter.

There is a second, smaller waterfall — Benang Stokel — a short walk further up the trail. The two are usually visited together.

Practical Info

• **Distance from Kuta:** Approximately 70–80km north — around 1 to 1.5 hours by car via Praya and Mataram
• **Getting there:** Hired car is most practical. Motorbike is possible but the road into the foothills has some steep sections.
• **Entry fee:** Small local conservation fee, usually IDR 10,000–15,000 per person
• **Best time:** Morning, before midday heat. Dry season (May–October) for clearest water and easiest trail conditions. The waterfall runs year-round but is more impressive in or just after the wet season.
• **What to bring:** Swimwear, water shoes or sandals you don't mind getting wet, change of clothes, water
• **Time needed:** 2 to 3 hours including trekking and swimming time

Combine With

Benang Kelambu and Benang Stokel sit in the same drainage area. Both are worth doing in a single visit. If you're making the drive north anyway, Narmada Water Palace in Mataram is on the route back — see the [Narmada guide](/blog/explore-narmada-water-park) for details.

The Spot in Kuta is the southern starting point for this trip. It's a solid inland day out that contrasts well with the beach-heavy itineraries of South Lombok. See [coworking and accommodation options](/cowork) if you're planning a longer island stay.