Gunung Rinjani National Park is an awe-inspiring natural wonder located on the island of Lombok, Indonesia. The park encompasses the second highest volcano in Indonesia and the breathtaking Lake Segara Anak. The stunning natural landscapes of this park make it a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers. At the summit of the volcano, the reward for the challenging trek is an incredible view of the sunrise. The park also boasts an abundance of wildlife and rare flora and fauna.

From Mataram, you can take a bus or hire a car to reach Senaru village, which is the starting point of most treks to the park. Alternatively, you can fly into the nearby Lombok International Airport and take a taxi or arranged transfer to the village.

The best time to visit Gunung Rinjani National Park is from April to October, during the dry season, when the weather is cooler and the skies are clear. Trekking during the rainy season, from November to March, can be dangerous due to slippery trails and flash flooding.

The temperature at Gunung Rinjani National Park varies between 15-25°C in the daytime. However, temperatures at higher altitudes can drop below 10°C at night. During the dry season, the skies are generally clear, but clouds can sometimes obscure the view. The rainy season is accompanied by thunderstorms and occasional heavy rain.

Budget accommodation options, such as homestays and hostels, are available in Senaru and nearby towns starting from about IDR 100,000 (USD 7) per night. Mid-range and luxury hotels or villas with mountain views are also available starting from IDR 700,000 (USD 48) per night.

Food is relatively inexpensive in the area, with local warung restaurants serving a range of rice, noodle, and seafood dishes starting from IDR 20,000 (USD 1.5) per meal. Western-style cafes and restaurants are also available at higher prices.

While the area is generally considered safe, it is always important to exercise caution when trekking in the park and be aware of the risks of altitude sickness. Women are advised to dress modestly and avoid traveling alone at night. The region is generally tolerant of all races, ethnicities, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

The population of Lombok Island is predominantly Sasak people who follow traditional Islamic practices. Some minority groups include Balinese Hindus and Chinese Indonesians. The official languages are Bahasa Indonesian and Sasak, but English is widely spoken in urban areas and tourist destinations.

The main activity in Gunung Rinjani National Park is trekking to the summit of Mount Rinjani. Visitors can also enjoy swimming or fishing in Lake Segara Anak, taking a dip in nearby hot springs, or exploring the waterfalls and traditional villages around the park.