Orong Bukal translates to “bat tunnel” in the local Sasak Language. It is named after the hollowed bat cave leading up from the ocean right beside a cliff jumping spot on Lombok’s southern coast

The hike to Orong Bukal and Pilling Beach features steep sections with ropes. This section of Lombok is very hot, so I suggest starting early. The simple dirt track is well-marked but can be slippery, especially on the way down to Pilling Beach

After roughly 40 minutes arrived at a cleared section in the forest where there were a few swings in the tree. Unfortunately, there was also a lot of rubbish and trash here. This is essentially a fork with signs pointing left to Orong Bukal and right to Pilling Beach. It’s also a great place to rest and enjoy the view out to the sea

Next, turned down on the steep left path just before the swings and followed it all the way down. I’d say we dropped at least 150 meters getting down to the shore, which took us around 15 minutes. There are some fixed ropes to guide you down but it is quite slippery. So, make sure to take your time