Each region in Indonesia has a different culture, which is also influenced by its history. Even though it is a small island, the history of Lombok is quite long. Therefore, we summarized it in a short article.
Sasak Kingdom
The original inhabitants of Lombok are the Sasak tribe. Before the formation of Indonesia, Lombok was in the form of a kingdom. The kingdom that ruled Lombok changed very quickly due to intervention from other kingdoms.
As an example from the history of Lombok, in the 9th to 11th centuries, the Kingdom of Sasak reigned. It was replaced by Selaparang, who led quite a while after. While the majority of religions in Lombok history are Hinduism and Islam.
Hinduism was brought by the Balinese Kingdom and Islam, which only arrived after the 16th century, was brought by traders from Iraq and other Middle Eastern countries. The spread of Islam very quickly developed throughout Lombok after that. This was also supported by intermarriage as did Ghaus 'Abdurrazzāq who married one of the Sasak Princess and eventually gave birth to the next royal heir.
Foreign involvement in Lombok
After the Lombok Kingdom domination period, the British also had time to enter the Lombok region through trade. But at that time, the kingdom of Karangasem still occupied the government in Lombok.
During the time of Anak Agung Ngurah Gede Karangasem, King of Karangasem, the uprising of the Sasak Muslim community in East Lombok broke out several times. This is a maritime war from the history of Lombok with modern warships won by the Balinese Kingdom.
At the same time, Lombok officially asked for help from the Dutch, which had been in Indonesia long before through its giant trade partnership. It was the Dutch East India Company (Verenigde Oostindische Compagnie or VOC). The physical war and import blockade between the four continued for 4 years (1894).
Colonization of Lombok
The conflict ended with Lombok and Karangasem joining the Dutch East Indies. This is where colonization began in the history of Lombok. The administrative centre was moved to Bali. At this time, not only precious metals were confiscated from Lombok, but also their literary heritage.
This went on for a very long time, with a centralized royal system under colonialism. Lombok managed to escape from colonization after the big war in Bali. This great war after Indonesian independence was one of the biggest all-out wars in Indonesia. As a result, Bali and Lombok were truly free from colonialism and stood independently.
Influences on nowadays culture
This other royal intervention also influenced some Sasak culture. You can still visit the relics until now. Ancient Hindu temples such as Meru Temple, Gunung Pengsong Temple, Lingsar Temple, or Suranadi Temple are just a small part from the history of Lombok. Some ancient tombs and ancient mosques are also still there.
The Narmada park, which is a miniature of Mount Rinjani, is the most famous historical landmark. The park has a total area of 2 hectares, and is a King's rest, so it is very beautiful. If you are interested in the history of Lombok, visit the museum too.
Apart from the history, enjoying the culture of Lombok should also be included on your holiday itinerary. Lombok has several tourist villages, and a large mosque whose interior and exterior use local nuances. These are just some recommendations for historical places that you can visit. Before planning activities, don't forget to book your reservation at Amazing Resort Lombok. Don't forget to learn more about Lombok.
All About Lombok Articles
Last updated on: 05 June 2026