Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, Lombok - Travel Photography
TL;DR
A quick escape to Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, Lombok turned into an unforgettable travel photography session. Armed with my Nikon D800 (17–35mm f4) and DJI Mini 3, I captured one of the most serene and misty waterfall scenes I’ve ever photographed. It wasn’t easy - the climb tested my fitness, and I even had to hop on a motorbike for part of the way - but the reward was breathtaking: soft water curtains falling through layers of lush green.
Tourist posing in front of Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, Lombok
Tucked away in the heart of Lombok’s central highlands lies Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, a hidden gem surrounded by dense jungle and the sound of cascading water. I’ve photographed many waterfalls before, but this one had a calm, almost spiritual quality - the kind that silences your thoughts.
Here’s a snapshot of the experience and what stood out:
The Journey
Drone Shot of Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, Lombok
Getting there was an adventure on its own. From the main parking area, it’s roughly 5km to the entrance of the waterfalls. Walking was out of the question under that tropical heat, so I rented a motorbike with a local rider to take me up the narrow, winding path. It was a thrilling ride through dense greenery, bumpy tracks, and occasional glimpses of distant hills.
Once there, the real test began - hundreds of steps through humid jungle terrain. It’s not for the faint-hearted, especially when you’re carrying a full photography kit. But every step closer made the sound of rushing water more rewarding.
The Scene
Benang Kelambu isn’t your typical single-drop waterfall. Instead, it’s a series of delicate water streams flowing through moss-covered rock walls, like soft curtains of mist. Sunlight peeks through the trees, hitting the fine spray and creating an ethereal glow. The whole place feels untouched, almost sacred.
The Gear I Used
Camera: Nikon D800
Lens: Nikkor 17–35mm f4
Drone: DJI Mini 3
Tripod & ND filters: For smooth, long exposure shots
Aerial Shot of Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, Lombok
Photography Notes
Shot long exposures between 1/4 and 1 second for that dreamy, flowing water effect.
Used a wide angle (17mm) to emphasize depth and scale.
Flew my DJI Mini 3 above the canopy to capture aerial shots that reveal the layers of the waterfall and surrounding jungle - a view impossible from ground level.
The mist was relentless, so lens cloths were my best friend. Waterproofing gear was a must.
Challenges
The steep climb back up after hours of shooting was brutal. Every step felt heavier with gear on my back.
The humidity tested my patience and my equipment. But that’s the price for capturing something raw and real.
Yellow leaf - Benang Kelambu Waterfalls, Lombok
Travel Tips
Rent a motorbike or go with a local rider from the main car park - it saves time and energy.
Bring plenty of water and wear proper shoes.
Start early to avoid harsh sunlight and crowds.
Don’t skip your tripod - it makes all the difference for landscape shots here.
As I reviewed the images later that night, I couldn’t help but smile. The journey, the sweat, and even the aching legs felt worth it. Benang Kelambu isn’t just a waterfall - it’s a lesson in patience, endurance, and perspective.
If you’re in Lombok, Indonesia, this spot deserves a place on your list. It’s a challenge to reach, but for photographers, it’s a paradise hidden behind a bit of effort.
Want to see more of my travel photography?
👉 Top 10 Photography Tips from Pacu Jawi Bull Race
