Where is SV Merakai

Raden picked us up at 10:00 to tour some temples and local crafts in Mataram, and then back through Senggigi for provisioning at two western-style shops Fresh (lettuce - yeah!) and Temptations (bakery and espresso coffee!). First stop was Taman Mayura (Water Palace), built in 1744.


A guide lent us a sash and took us around the grounds, explaining the focus on religious tolerance represented by Taman Mayura. Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians all mingle with complete acceptance throughout Lombok.


A platform in the middle of a large artificial lake has statues on its periphery that represent 6 religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, 2 forms of Islam (including Wektu Telu -Lombok's mystical take on Islam), Catholic and Protestant Christianity).


Pura Meru, within the grounds, is the second most important Hindu temple in Lombok.


It was built in 1744 by a Balinese King, when Bali ruled over Lombok.




Snake fountains (not running here) are used only a few times a year for ceremonies. Snakes were problematic until they introduced peacocks, which killed the snakes.



A Hindu wedding was just getting started within the grounds -the elaborately dressed bride and wedding party waiting to enter the reception area.

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Next stop was Pura Suranadi, set up in the hills through a monkey forest.

Another guide lent us a sarong and sash (main photo) and explained the bubbling, cold natural spring that has holy significance to Hindus who collect the water for anointing themselves.


Pura Suranadi


Then on to a village where local women demonstrate traditional looms for Ikat weaving. Intricate cloths can take weeks to months to make.

Then another village specialising in hand-thrown pottery made from clay from the local area.