Lombok Travel Guide 2026

Meta Title: Lombok Travel Guide 2026 — Beaches, Temples & Rinjani | Waddat Meta Description: Complete Lombok travel guide for 2026. Discover Mount Rinjani, the Gili Islands, pink beaches, and the best places to stay. Tips, budgets & booking links. Slug: lombok-travel-guide

Why Visit Lombok
Best Time to Visit Lombok
How to Get to Lombok
Where to Stay in Lombok
Things to Do in Lombok
Getting Around Lombok
Food & Drink
Day Trips from Lombok
Lombok Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions

Why Visit Lombok

If you're looking for what Bali felt like 20 years ago — untouched beaches, volcanic hiking, and genuine local culture — Lombok is your answer. Just a 30-minute flight east of Bali, this Indonesian island offers a remarkably different experience that has quietly become one of Southeast Asia's most exciting destinations.

Lombok packs an outsized punch for its size. Here's what makes it special:

Mount Rinjani — Indonesia's second-highest volcano (3,726m) with a crater lake that will genuinely take your breath away. The 2-3 day trek is one of SE Asia's best adventures.
Stunning beaches without the crowds — From the famous pink sand at Tangsi Beach to the world-class surf breaks at Desert Point, Lombok's coastline rivals Bali's — with a fraction of the tourists.
Gateway to the Gili Islands — Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air are just a short boat ride away, offering car-free island living, turtle snorkeling, and legendary sunsets.
Sasak culture — The indigenous Sasak people have a rich weaving tradition, unique architecture, and villages that feel untouched by modern tourism.
Lombok vs Bali — While Bali has become heavily commercialized, Lombok retains an authentic, laid-back vibe. You'll find fewer traffic jams, lower prices, and more genuine interactions with locals. For a deeper comparison, check out our Bali Travel Guide 2026.

Whether you're a backpacker on a shoestring, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or an adventure traveler chasing the next big hike, Lombok delivers on every front.

Best Time to Visit Lombok

Dry Season (April – October) — Best Overall

This is the sweet spot for visiting Lombok. Skies are clear, humidity is manageable, and sea conditions are calm — essential if you're planning to visit the Gili Islands or take a boat tour.

April – June: The best months. Green landscapes after the wet season, fewer tourists than peak summer, and ideal trekking conditions on Rinjani.
July – August: Peak European summer holiday season. Expect more visitors (especially on the Gilis) and slightly higher prices, but weather is perfect.
September – October: Shoulder season with great weather and thinner crowds. Highly recommended.

Wet Season (November – March) — Budget Season

Rain comes in heavy but short bursts, usually in the late afternoon or overnight. Mornings are often still sunny.

Rinjani trekking is typically closed from January through March due to heavy rain and unsafe trail conditions.
Surf season at Desert Point peaks between November and March — this is when the legendary left-hand barrels fire.
Prices for accommodation drop 30-50%, making it an attractive option for budget travelers who don't mind occasional rain.

Month-by-Month Breakdown

Month	Weather	Crowds	Best For
Jan	Heavy rain	Low	Budget travel, surfing
Feb	Heavy rain	Low	Surfing at Desert Point
Mar	Rain tapering	Low	Surfing, budget travel
Apr	Dry starting	Low	Best value, trekking opens
May	Sunny, dry	Low-Med	Everything
Jun	Perfect	Medium	Everything
Jul	Sunny, dry	High	Beaches, Gilis
Aug	Sunny, dry	Peak	Everything (book ahead)
Sep	Sunny, dry	Medium	Everything
Oct	Dry, warm	Low	Best shoulder month
Nov	Rain starting	Low	Budget travel
Dec	Rain	Low	Budget travel

Our recommendation: Visit in May or September for the perfect combination of great weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices.

How to Get to Lombok

By Air — Fastest Option

Lombok International Airport (LOM) is the main gateway, located in Praya in central Lombok. It's well-connected with direct flights from several cities:

From Bali (DPS): 30-minute flight. Book flights via Skyscanner →
- Airlines: Wings Air, Nam Air, Garuda Indonesia
- Frequency: 4-6 daily flights
- Cost: $40-80 USD (600,000–1,200,000 IDR) one way
From Jakarta (CGK): 2-hour flight. Book flights via Skyscanner →
- Airlines: Lion Air, Garuda Indonesia, Citilink
- Cost: $60-120 USD (900,000–1,800,000 IDR) one way
From Singapore (SIN): Direct flights available via Scoot
- Cost: $80-150 USD one way

Airport to your hotel:

To Senggigi: $12-18 USD (180,000–270,000 IDR) by taxi, 1 hour
To Kuta Lombok: $15-20 USD (225,000–300,000 IDR) by taxi, 1.5 hours
To Bangsal Harbor (for Gilis): $15-20 USD by taxi, 2 hours
Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek operate from the airport

By Fast Boat from Bali — Most Popular Route

Most travelers arrive via fast boat from Padang Bai harbor in east Bali. This is the cheapest and most common route, especially if you're already in Bali. Book boats via 12Go.asia →

Duration: 1.5-2.5 hours depending on sea conditions and boat operator
Cost: $25-45 USD (375,000–675,000 IDR) one way
Operators: Eka Jaya, BlueWater Express, Padang Bai Express
Departure: Padang Bai, Bali (arrive 45 min early)
Arrival: Bangsal Harbor, Lombok (for Gili Islands connections) or Teluk Nare / Senggigi

Pro tip: Pay $5-10 extra for the VIP/cabin option on fast boats. Standard seating is cramped, open to the elements, and rough on choppy days.

By Public Ferry from Bali — Budget Option

The slow ferry runs from Padang Bai, Bali to Lembar Harbor, Lombok.

Duration: 4-6 hours (often longer due to delays)
Cost: $5-8 USD (75,000–120,000 IDR) one way
Departures: Every 1-2 hours from early morning to evening
Comfort: Basic bench seating, limited shade, often crowded

This is a genuine budget option but not recommended unless you're watching every dollar. The time and discomfort are significant trade-offs.

Where to Stay in Lombok

Lombok offers distinct areas to base yourself, each with a different vibe. Here's where to stay depending on your travel style:

Best Neighborhoods to Stay

Area	Vibe	Best For	Budget/Night
Senggigi	Established, good restaurants, sunset bars	First-timers, couples, families	$20-150
Kuta Lombok	Surf town, chill, rapidly developing	Surfers, backpackers, beach lovers	$10-100
Gili Islands	Car-free islands, party (Trawangan) or peace (Meno/Air)	Divers, honeymooners, party crowd	$15-200
Senggigi	Main tourist strip with best infrastructure	Convenience, nightlife	$20-150
Mataram	Capital city, local experience	Business travelers, transit	$15-60

Luxury Hotels ($100+/night)

Hotel	Area	Price/Night	Why Stay Here
The Lombok Lodge	Senggigi	$150-250	Boutique luxury, private beach, infinity pool
Jeeva Klui Resort	Klui Beach	$120-200	Eco-luxury, stunning ocean views, spa
Katamaran Hotel & Resort	Gili Trawangan	$150-300	Only luxury resort on Gili T, overwater villas
Villa Hantu	Kuta Lombok	$100-180	Private villa, surf access, peaceful setting
Puri Mas Boutique Resort	Senggigi	$120-200	Balinese-style villas, spa, close to town

Search luxury hotels in Lombok on Booking.com →

Mid-Range Hotels ($40-$100/night)

Hotel	Area	Price/Night	Why Stay Here
Sunset House	Senggigi	$40-70	Great value, pool, near the beach strip
Kies Villas & Resort	Kuta Lombok	$50-90	Modern rooms, surf-friendly, excellent breakfast
Pondok Santi Villa	Gili Air	$50-90	Peaceful, beachfront, great snorkeling
Green Valley Boutique Hotel	Senggigi	$40-65	Lush gardens, pool, friendly staff
Pearl Beach Resort	Gili Trawangan	$60-100	Beachfront, turtle conservation, good food

Search mid-range hotels in Lombok on Agoda →

Budget Options (Under $40/night)

Hotel	Area	Price/Night	Why Stay Here
Puri Rinjani Bungalow	Senggigi	$12-20	Basic but clean, garden setting, great location
Kuta Lombok Hostel	Kuta Lombok	$8-15	Social, surf vibe, dorm beds and private rooms
Gili Backpackers	Gili Trawangan	$10-18	Party hostel, meet other travelers, organized events
Tugu Art House	Senggigi	$15-25	Unique art-filled rooms, affordable for the character
Casa Vintage Hotel	Kuta Lombok	$20-35	Stylish budget option, pool, near surf breaks

Search budget hotels in Lombok on Booking.com →

For more accommodation inspiration: Check out our guides on best villas in Ubud Bali and Canggu vs Seminyak — where to stay for alternative Indonesia options.

Things to Do in Lombok

1. Trek Mount Rinjani 🏔️

The crown jewel of Lombok. This active volcano towers at 3,726 meters and rewards trekkers with one of Indonesia's most spectacular views — a turquoise crater lake (Segara Anak) inside the caldera, with a smoking cone rising from the water.

2-day trek (to crater rim): Easier option, still stunning sunrise views
- Cost: $120-180 USD via organized tour
- Difficulty: Moderate-challenging
3-day trek (to summit + lake): The full experience
- Cost: $180-280 USD via organized tour
- Difficulty: Challenging
Best months: April-November (closed January-March)
What's included: Guide, porters, food, tent, sleeping bag
What to bring: Warm layers (summit is near freezing), headlamp, good hiking boots, rain jacket

Book Rinjani treks via Klook → or via Viator →

2. Visit Sendang Gile & Tiu Kelep Waterfalls 💧

Located in the lush foothills of Rinjani, these two waterfalls are among Lombok's most accessible natural attractions.

Sendang Gile: The first falls — a powerful cascade dropping into a natural pool. 20-minute walk from the car park.
Tiu Kelep: A 45-minute trek further upstream through the forest. A wider, more dramatic waterfall with a large swimming area.
Cost: 20,000 IDR ($1.30 USD) entry fee
Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Getting there: 2.5 hours from Senggigi by scooter, or 2 hours from Kuta Lombok

Pro tip: Go early (before 9 AM) to have the waterfalls to yourself and swim in the clearest water.

3. Explore Traditional Sasak Villages 🏡

The Sasak people are Lombok's indigenous population, and their culture is fascinating and accessible.

Sade Village: The most visited Sasak village, known for its traditional thatched-roof houses with buffalo dung floors (which surprisingly keep them cool and bug-free). You'll see women weaving traditional ikat textiles.
- Cost: 15,000 IDR ($1 USD) donation
- Location: 30 minutes south of Praya
Sukarare Village: Famous for its handwoven textiles. Watch weavers create intricate patterns on traditional looms and purchase directly from the artisans.
Ende Village: Less touristy, more authentic experience of daily Sasak life

4. Surf at Desert Point 🏄

Desert Point, located on the remote southwest coast, is consistently rated as one of the best left-hand waves in the world. When it's on, it delivers long, barreling rides that attract surfers from around the globe.

Skill level: Advanced only — this wave breaks over a shallow reef
Best season: November – March (wet season)
Access: 1.5-hour drive from Kuta Lombok, then a 30-minute boat ride or walk
For beginners: Head to Gerupuk Bay near Kuta Lombok instead — consistent, manageable waves with several surf schools
- Lessons: $15-25 USD per session
- Book surf lessons via Klook →

5. Relax at Pink Beach (Tangsi Beach) 🏖️

One of only a handful of pink sand beaches in the world, Tangsi Beach gets its unique color from crushed red coral fragments mixed with white sand.

Location: Southeast Lombok, 2.5 hours from Kuta Lombok
Best time: Morning light makes the pink color most vivid
Entry: Free
Facilities: Very basic — bring your own food and water
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, photography

Pro tip: The color is most visible when the sand is wet. Visit at low tide for the best experience.

6. Explore Kuta Lombok's Beaches 🌊

Kuta Lombok (not to be confused with Kuta Bali) is the surf capital of Lombok, with stunning bays and beaches stretching along the south coast.

Tanjung Aan Beach: Perhaps the most beautiful beach on Lombok — turquoise water, white sand, and dramatic hills. Two adjacent bays with different vibes.
Mawi Beach: Excellent surfing spot with a dramatic backdrop
Selong Belanak: Wide, white sand beach — perfect for beginner surfing lessons and long walks
Seger Beach: Great sunset spot with a local food scene

All beaches are within a 15-30 minute scooter ride from central Kuta Lombok.

7. Snorkel with Sea Turtles at the Gili Islands 🐢

The three Gili Islands — Trawangan, Meno, and Air — sit just off Lombok's northwest coast and offer some of the best snorkeling in Indonesia.

Gili Meno: Best for turtles — snorkel off the west beach near the underwater statues
Gili Air: Perfect mix of snorkeling access and relaxed vibe
Gili Trawangan: Most developed, best nightlife, largest reef
Cost: $2-5 USD for snorkel gear rental per day
Best snorkeling spots: Turtle Point (Meno), Statue Point (Meno), Sunset Reef (Air)
Book Gili Islands snorkeling tour via Klook →

8. Visit Narmada Water Palace 🏛️

Built in 1727 by the King of Mataram, this historical park features a replica of Mount Rinjani and Segara Anak lake, designed so the king could perform rituals without making the full pilgrimage.

Cost: 10,000 IDR ($0.65 USD)
Location: 10 km east of Mataram, easily accessible
Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Getting Around Lombok

Scooter Rental — Best for Independent Travelers

The most popular and flexible way to explore Lombok.

Cost: 50,000-100,000 IDR ($3-6 USD) per day
Fuel: 10,000 IDR ($0.65 USD) per liter
License: Technically required, but rarely checked (drive at your own risk)
Tips: Rent from a reputable shop, always wear a helmet, and be cautious on mountain roads — Rinjani foothill roads are steep and winding

Hired Car with Driver — Best for Groups & Comfort

If you're not comfortable on a scooter, hiring a car with a driver is the way to go.

Cost: 400,000-600,000 IDR ($27-40 USD) per day for the car + driver
Fuel: Usually included
Capacity: Up to 4-6 passengers
Book through: Your hotel, or arrange in advance via Klook

Book a private driver in Lombok via Klook →

Grab & Gojek — Best for Short Trips

Both ride-hailing apps operate in Lombok, mainly around Senggigi, Mataram, and Kuta Lombok.

Cost: 15,000-80,000 IDR ($1-5 USD) for typical trips
Availability: Limited in remote areas (south coast, Rinjani access points)
Gojek generally has better coverage than Grab on Lombok

Public Transport — Budget Option

Lombok has a basic public bus network (called bemo or angkot), but it's slow, confusing, and not recommended for tourists except for the adventurous.

Cost: 5,000-20,000 IDR ($0.30-1.30 USD)
Routes: Mainly between Mataram, Senggigi, and Praya
Note: No fixed schedule — buses leave when full

Boat Transfers to Gili Islands

If you're visiting the Gilis from mainland Lombok:

Public boat (Bangsal Harbor): 15,000-30,000 IDR ($1-2 USD), 20-30 minutes, leaves when full
Private charter: 200,000-400,000 IDR ($13-27 USD), fast and flexible
Shuttle boats from Senggigi hotels: $5-10 USD, convenient door-to-pier service

Food & Drink

Lombok's food scene is one of Indonesia's most underrated. The Sasak cuisine is distinct from Balinese food — more fiery, more herbaceous, and deeply connected to the land.

Must-Try Dishes

Ayam Taliwang: Lombok's signature dish. Grilled chicken marinated in a paste of chili, garlic, shrimp paste, and lime, then grilled over coconut shells. Served with plecing kangkung. Spicy, smoky, and absolutely addictive.
- Where to try: Rumah Makan Taliwang in Mataram (the original), or any warung in Senggigi
- Cost: 25,000-50,000 IDR ($1.70-3.30 USD)
Pelecing Kangkung: A spicy water spinach salad dressed with chili, tomato, lime, and roasted coconut. The perfect complement to any dish.
- Cost: 10,000-15,000 IDR ($0.65-1 USD)
Sate Rembiga: Grilled beef skewers with a sweet-spicy marinade unique to Lombok.
- Cost: 20,000-35,000 IDR ($1.30-2.30 USD)
Nasi Balap Puyung: A famous Lombok rice dish featuring shredded chicken, fried tempeh, spicy sauce, and vegetables. Named after the village where it originated.
- Cost: 15,000-25,000 IDR ($1-1.70 USD)
Bebalung: A hearty beef rib soup with turmeric and lemongrass — comfort food Sasak-style.
- Cost: 20,000-30,000 IDR ($1.30-2 USD)

Best Places to Eat

Restaurant/Area	Location	What to Expect	Price Range
Warung Bu Janti	Kuta Lombok	Fresh seafood, grilled fish, local favorites	$2-6
Rumah Makan Taliwang	Mataram/Senggigi	The original ayam taliwang	$3-7
Kenari Bistro	Senggigi	Western-Indonesian fusion, ocean views	$5-15
Warung Makan Bu Siti	Senggigi	Authentic Sasak home cooking	$2-4
Ashtari Lounge	Kuta Lombok	Panoramic hilltop views, healthy food, cocktails	$5-12

Food budget: You can eat well on Lombok for $8-15 USD per day. Street food and warungs will keep you under $5/day.

Day Trips from Lombok

1. The Gili Islands (Full Day)

Just a 30-minute boat ride from Bangsal Harbor, the three Gilis are worth at least a full day — ideally 2-3 nights.

Gili Trawangan: The party island. Great nightlife, restaurants, and a vibrant backpacker scene.
Gili Meno: The honeymoon island. Peaceful, least developed, best turtle snorkeling.
Gili Air: The middle ground. Relaxed but with enough going on to keep you entertained.
Cost: $1-2 USD for the public boat each way, or $10-15 for a speedboat charter
Book a Gili Islands day trip →

2. Moyo Island

An uninhabited paradise off the north coast, Moyo Island is a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Activities: Hiking to waterfalls, snorkeling pristine reefs, wildlife spotting (deer, wild boar, macaques)
Access: 2-hour boat from Senggigi (charter $80-120 USD for a full-day trip)
Best for: Nature lovers, couples seeking seclusion

3. Sekotong Peninsula

The southwest coast offers calm bays, small islands, and a developing eco-tourism scene.

Activities: Island hopping, snorkeling, kayaking, beach hopping
Access: 1-1.5 hours from Mataram by car
Highlight: Gili Nanggu, Gili Sudak, and Gili Kedis — tiny islands with crystal-clear water

4. Benang Stokel & Benang Kelambu Waterfalls

Two spectacular waterfalls in central Lombok, often visited together.

Benang Stokel: Twin waterfalls surrounded by lush jungle
Benang Kelambu: A waterfall that spreads across a wide rock face like a curtain (kelambu means "curtain" in Sasak)
Cost: 15,000 IDR ($1 USD) entry
Trek: 20-30 minutes from the parking area

Lombok Travel Tips

Safety

Lombok is generally very safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare.
The main risks are road accidents (especially on scooters) and petty theft (lock your scooter, watch your bags at the beach).
Rinjani trekking carries inherent risks — always go with a licensed guide and check conditions before departing.
The 2018 Lombok earthquakes caused significant damage, but tourism infrastructure has largely recovered. Check current conditions before visiting.

Budget Breakdown Per Day

Budget Level	Accommodation	Food	Transport	Activities	Total/Day
Budget	$8-15 (hostel)	$5-10	$3-6 (scooter)	$0-10	$16-41
Mid-Range	$40-80 (hotel)	$15-25	$10-20 (driver)	$10-30	$75-155
Luxury	$100-250 (resort)	$30-60	$20-40 (private)	$30-100	$180-450

A realistic budget for most travelers: $30-60 USD per day covers comfortable accommodation, good food, a scooter, and daily activities.

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly when visiting villages and mosques — cover shoulders and knees
Remove shoes before entering homes and traditional buildings
Ask permission before photographing locals, especially in Sasak villages
Use your right hand for eating, passing items, and greeting (left hand is considered impolite in Indonesian culture)
Ramadan: During the fasting month, be respectful by not eating or drinking in public during daylight hours in conservative areas

What to Pack

Reef-safe sunscreen (essential for snorkeling)
Light, breathable clothing + a light jacket for Rinjani or air-conditioned transport
Hiking boots if trekking Rinjani (rental quality is poor)
Dry bag for boat trips
Insect repellent (especially for village visits and evenings)
Power adapter (Type C/F — same as Bali/Europe)
Cash — ATMs are available in Senggigi, Kuta Lombok, and Mataram, but many smaller businesses only accept cash

SIM Card & Internet

Buy a local SIM at the airport: Telkomsel has the best coverage
Cost: 50,000-100,000 IDR ($3-6 USD) for 10-30GB
Internet is generally good in tourist areas, spotty in remote south coast and on Rinjani

Health & Insurance

Drink bottled or filtered water only — don't drink tap water
Consider travel insurance that covers trekking and scooter accidents
There are clinics in Senggigi and Mataram; serious cases may require transfer to Bali
Get travel insurance via World Nomads →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lombok worth visiting?

Absolutely. Lombok offers world-class beaches, incredible trekking, authentic culture, and a fraction of the crowds you'll find in Bali. It's especially appealing if you loved the idea of Bali but want something less commercialized.

How many days do you need in Lombok?

We recommend 5-7 days as a minimum. This allows time for Kuta Lombok's beaches, a day trip to the Gili Islands, a waterfall visit, and either a Rinjani trek or Sasak village exploration. If you're trekking Rinjani, plan for 7-10 days total.

Is Lombok cheaper than Bali?

Yes, significantly. Accommodation, food, and activities are generally 30-50% cheaper than Bali. You can travel comfortably on $30-40/day in Lombok, whereas Bali's equivalent would be $50-70/day.

Do I need a visa for Lombok?

Most nationalities can enter Indonesia visa-free for 30 days, or get a Visa on Arrival (VOA) for $35 USD valid for 30 days (extendable once for another 30 days). Check your specific nationality's requirements before traveling.

For more details, read our Vietnam Visa on Arrival Guide 2026 — while focused on Vietnam, it covers general SE Asia visa tips.

How do I get from Lombok to the Gili Islands?

Take a public boat from Bangsal Harbor (20-30 minutes, $1-2 USD) or arrange a speedboat transfer through your hotel. Boats leave throughout the day starting around 8 AM. If staying in Senggigi, many hotels offer direct boat shuttles.

Is it safe to drive a scooter in Lombok?

It's safe if you're an experienced rider, but roads are narrower and less maintained than Bali. Mountain roads around Rinjani are steep and winding. Always wear a helmet, drive defensively, and avoid night riding. If you're not confident, hire a driver instead.

Can I swim at Pink Beach?

Yes, but conditions vary. The water is usually calm enough for swimming, but there are no lifeguards and currents can be strong. Best visited during calm weather in the dry season. Bring your own snorkel gear — the reef just offshore is decent.

Is Lombok safe after the 2018 earthquakes?

Tourism infrastructure has largely recovered from the 2018 earthquakes. The north coast (Senggigi, Gili Islands) and south coast (Kuta Lombok) are fully operational. Some remote village areas still show visible damage, but this doesn't affect tourists.

What's better: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, or Gili Meno?

Gili Trawangan for nightlife and socializing
Gili Air for a balanced experience — chill but not boring
Gili Meno for romance, peace, and the best turtle snorkeling

Can I climb Mount Rinjani without a guide?

Technically possible but not recommended and officially not permitted. The trails are unmarked, conditions change rapidly, and rescue is extremely difficult. Going with a licensed guide and porters costs $180-280 for a 3-day trek and is absolutely worth it for safety and the experience.

What's the best area to stay in Lombok?

First-timers: Senggigi — best infrastructure, restaurants, and access to Gilis
Surfers & beach lovers: Kuta Lombok — best beaches, surf breaks, and laid-back vibe
Romance & diving: Gili Air — car-free island with great snorkeling
Budget backpackers: Kuta Lombok or Gili Trawangan — cheapest hostels and social scenes

Planning more of Indonesia? Check out these related Waddat guides:

Nusa Penida Day Trip Guide — The complete day trip from Bali
7 Days in Bali Itinerary — The ultimate Indonesian island adventure
Bali Travel Guide 2026 — Temples, rice terraces, and beach clubs
Bali on a Budget — Stretch your rupiah further
Canggu vs Seminyak — Where to stay in Bali
Bandung Travel Guide — Java's cultural capital
Southeast Asia 1-Month Itinerary — The ultimate regional adventure

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