Tiu Kelep Waterfall

Air Terjun Tiu Kelep

Tiu Kelep is a spectacular waterfall in northern Lombok cascading into a natural pool surrounded by tropical jungle and volcanic rock formations. The short trek to reach it passes through lush rice paddies and traditional villages, combining waterfall bathing with cultural immersion.

Things to do

• Swim in the natural pool — Plunge into the cool, crystal-clear emerald pool directly beneath the waterfall's cascade, surrounded by volcanic rock and jungle canopy.
• Trek through rice paddies — Walk the scenic 15-minute path from the village entrance through terraced rice fields and traditional Sasak farming landscape to reach the waterfall.
• Explore Mekar Jaya village — Visit the small traditional Sasak village at the trailhead where locals live in bamboo and thatch houses and practice subsistence farming.
• Photography at sunrise — Arrive early to capture the waterfall bathed in golden morning light with mist rising from the pool, before crowds arrive.
• Climb behind the waterfall — Wade through the shallow pool to access a hidden grotto behind the falling water for a unique perspective and refreshing cascade shower.
• Bird watching in the jungle — Listen and watch for endemic Lombok bird species like the Lombok Sunbird and various herons in the dense tropical forest surrounding the falls.

Food to try

• Nasi kuning — Fragrant yellow rice cooked with turmeric and coconut milk, often served at village warungs near the trailhead with sambal and grilled fish.
• Soto Ayam Lombok — A warming turmeric-based chicken soup with local spices, fresh turmeric root, and aromatic herbs unique to the Sasak region.
• Plecing kangkung — A spicy water spinach dish from Lombok dressed with fiery sambal made from bird's eye chilies, shallots, and shrimp paste.
• Beberuq — A traditional Sasak dish of minced meat wrapped in young papaya leaves and grilled, often sold at village food stalls.
• Fresh coconut water directly from the tree — Vendors at the village offer ice-cold young coconuts that are macheted open on-site, providing the perfect post-swim refreshment.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress modestly for the village — Wear respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees when walking through Mekar Jaya village to honor Sasak Muslim traditions and local sensibilities.
• Ask permission before photographing locals — The villagers are generally welcoming but appreciate being asked before taking photographs, particularly of families and during daily activities.
• Bring cash for small purchases — The remote village has no ATMs or card readers, so carry small Indonesian rupiah to pay for food, drinks, and donations to community guides.
• Visit during dry season (April-October) — The waterfall is most accessible and safest to visit during dry months; rainy season can make the trek slippery and the water turbulent and cold.