Get to know Jonggat through Bonjeruk, a destination where colonial-era history and rural activities come together. Bonjeruk was the administrative center of Jonggat District during the colonial period. Notable features include historic buildings, extensive rice fields, and activities that offer insights into everyday life and local traditions. Travelers can experience the place from several perspectives: through its architecture and history, on a cycling tour through the village, and through activities involving crafts, learning, and shared meals. This mix particularly appeals to those who want to experience different facets of a place while traveling.
Historical traces in Bonjeruk
Gedeng Beleq is a gate bearing the inscription “Bondjeroek den 10 mei 1933” that leads to a house in the Art Deco style from the Dutch colonial period. Another historic site is Masjid Raden Nunu Unas, built in the 19th century. The two references differ in how precisely they are dated: the mosque is dated to the 19th century, while the gate bears a specific day in 1933. Different historical traces thus stand side by side: a construction period placed within a century and an inscription bearing an exact date.
Landscape, cycling, and daily life
The area around Bonjeruk features extensive rice fields and a rural atmosphere. The Nuansa Bonjeruk Cycling Tour takes visitors by bicycle through the village, with views of the countryside, a river valley, and historic sites. It also offers insights into residents’ daily lives. The tour thus combines landscape, local history, and village life in one activity. Cycling and camping are also among the activities that bring visitors to Bonjeruk. Encounters with agricultural work offer another perspective on the surroundings: visitors can watch rice and garden farmers as well as livestock keepers at work and learn more about their activities.
Crafts and learning opportunities
During the Nyesek weaving process, visitors can observe the steps involved, learn about traditional tools, and discover the meaning of the patterns. English-learning activities take place in a natural setting; lessons may be held in a flower garden or an open pavilion. Desa Wisata Bonjeruk also offers courses on small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as cooking classes. Topics therefore range from traditional crafts and English learning to business and culinary subjects. Depending on their interests, visitors can focus on different learning topics rather than limiting their visit to a single activity.
Cooking and shared meals
Cooking activities introduce visitors to Sasak culinary traditions. Begibung is a communal meal eaten in a circle with the local community, which visitors can join. Cooking and Begibung offer different ways to experience food culture: Sasak traditions take center stage in the cooking activities, while Begibung focuses on sharing a meal. Together with the learning opportunities and the Nyesek weaving process, this adds crafts, cuisine, and community to the area’s historical and rural offerings.
Discover more destinations: Bayan, Dompu, Sekotong Tengah, Lembar, Sumbawa Besar, Hu'u, Pujut, Bima
For the broader travel overview: West Nusa Tenggara.
