Update June 2018: Please note that this information might be out of date as we haven’t had time to check and rewrite it. To get the latest and best tourism information, please consider staying at Sari Inn where our manager Hamy would be happy to take care of you. Hamy worked for the Lombok Tourism commission for twenty years and drove for the former presidential family. He speaks good English and remains one of the top experts on the area.
Basket weaving is a tradition which has flourished in Lombok. There are two main types of basketry which you will see on your travels. Lombok ikat is a weaving of dyed threads which create a distinct pattern. Songket is a more advanced weaving of gold and silver cloth resulting in baskets which should be treasured and used for special occasions.
When walking through the village it is common to see women working at the looms, their hands steadfast in the craft. Raised above the dirt on platforms the work is kept clean and each row showing a tight weave. They are confident in the movement and can look away to tend children and talk with other ladies. The baskets are almost flawless and ready for a new home.
When you are looking for a fine work of art, be sure to visit these areas on your trip:
- Sakura
- Sade
- Senggigi
To find the hidden gems of basket weaving in Lombok, book one of these tours:
Kuta and South Lombok 8 Hour Tour
Flores Overland Indonesia
Lombok Holiday Tours
