Pashmina, the voice behind The Gone Goat, is no stranger to daunting adventures. Known for her passion for the outdoors and her commitment to responsible travel, Pashmina took on one of her most challenging treks yet: climbing Mt. Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano.
This journey was not just about summiting a 3,726-meter peak but also about exploring the environmental and cultural heart of Lombok. Her tale is one of grit, connection, and reverence for nature.
Setting Out: A Green Approach to Trekking
When Pashmina first decided to trek Mt. Rinjani, she was acutely aware of the mountain’s history. Years of overcrowding had left the trails littered with trash and the ecosystem strained. Determined to minimize her footprint, she booked a green trekking guide, a decision that aligned with her ethos of sustainable travel. The journey began in Sembalun, a village nestled at the foothills of Mt. Rinjani, surrounded by verdant rice terraces and a vibrant agricultural landscape.
Her stay at a local homestay added a unique dimension to the trip. Her host, Armasih, introduced her to the Sasak way of life, sharing stories of the village’s history and its deep connection to the mountain. This cultural immersion was a reminder that Mt. Rinjani is more than a destination—it is a sacred land and a source of life for millions.
Through Grasslands to the Crater Rim
The first day of the trek started under a clear morning sky as Pashmina set off through Sembalun’s open fields. The early stretch of the trail was deceptively gentle, with grazing cattle and expansive views of the surrounding countryside. But as the day wore on, the incline grew steeper, and the heat of the midday sun bore down.
After hours of hiking, Pashmina reached Pos 1, a resting point where she replenished her energy and prepared for the next phase. The terrain turned rugged, with loose gravel that challenged her every step. By the time she arrived at Plawangan Sembalun, the campsite perched on the crater rim, her legs were aching, but the view was worth every ounce of effort. The sprawling Segara Anak crater lake lay below, its turquoise waters glimmering in the fading light of the day. That evening, surrounded by a sea of colorful tents, Pashmina watched the sun dip behind the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
A Grueling Summit Push
Summit day began in the dead of night. At 2:00 a.m., Pashmina and her group strapped on their headlamps and began the ascent under a blanket of stars. The final stretch to the summit was the most challenging part of the trek. The loose volcanic ash and steep incline made each step feel like a battle against gravity. “Every two steps forward felt like one step back,” she recalled.
Despite the grueling conditions, Pashmina pressed on, driven by a mix of determination and the camaraderie of her fellow trekkers. Four hours later, as the first rays of sunlight kissed the summit, she stood atop Mt. Rinjani. The view was otherworldly: the turquoise Segara Anak lake below, the conical Gunung Baru volcano rising from its center, and, in the distance, the Gili Islands shimmering on the horizon. Overwhelmed with a mix of exhaustion and triumph, Pashmina allowed herself a brief moment of reflection before beginning the descent.
The Descent: To the Lake and Beyond
Descending from the summit, Pashmina slid down the loose gravel, letting gravity do the work. The group made their way to the crater lake, where they soaked their tired feet in the hot springs. The natural warmth was a balm for their weary muscles, but the sight of litter around the springs was a sobering reminder of the impact of unchecked tourism.
After a hearty lunch, the trek continued through lush rainforest. The descent to Senaru was a stark contrast to the barren summit, with towering fig trees and the sounds of exotic birds accompanying the hikers. By the time Pashmina reached the end of the trail, she was physically drained but emotionally exhilarated.
Lessons from the Trail
For Pashmina, trekking Mt. Rinjani was more than a physical challenge; it was a lesson in resilience, humility, and the importance of responsible travel. She reflected on the delicate balance between tourism and preservation, noting that every hiker has a role to play in protecting the natural wonders they explore.
As she sat on a quiet Lombok beach the day after her trek, enjoying grilled corn and the soothing crash of waves, Pashmina felt a deep sense of gratitude. Mt. Rinjani had tested her limits and rewarded her with memories that would last a lifetime.
Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of adventure and a reminder that every step we take in nature should be with care and respect.
