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Fringed with tiny sand islands, lapped by metronomic swells, and dominated by one of Indonesia’s mightiest volcanoes, Lombok draws travelers and superlatives alike. Although developing fast, Bali’s slightly smaller neighbor pulls fewer visitors than its western sibling, despite the rugged beauty of its southwest coast. Travelers come here to hike Mt. Rinjani, party on the Gilis Islands (Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan), and try surf breaks that run from beginner-friendly to world-class. But the island’s culture and its unique brand of Islam are worth a second look, too.
Lombok is blessed with year-round surf and a milder rainy season than Bali next door, but the dry season (roughly Apr. to early Nov.) is the most popular time to visit for surfers, hikers, and sunseekers alike. The Bau Nyale Sea Worms Festival, generally held in early Feb., is a good time to visit. However, Mt. Rinjani National Park generally closes Jan. through Mar. because of rain.
As much as photographers love Lombok’s colorful cidomo horse carts, they don’t make up for the island’s lack of effective public transit. Getting here is easy enough, though. There are fast boats from Bali to the mainland and the Gilis. The airport has many domestic and some international flights. Most travelers find that taxis, local rideshare apps like GoJek, or self-driving are the easiest way to get around Lombok.
While there are vehicles on Lombok, there are not any on the Gili Islands. Bike rentals are cheap and easy: Gili Trawangan spans 6 square miles (15 square kilometers). Ride one up to Sunset Point for epic photos.
Lombok’s Hindu and Muslim traditions come together at Pura Lingsar, a unique multidenominational establishment with a temple for Hindus and another for followers of Lombok’s Wetu Telu brand of Islam. At Perang Topat the two sides “fight” an annual rice cake war.
Local Currency Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) | Time Zone WITA (UTC +8) | Country Code +62 | Language(s) Indonesian | Attractions 1 | Tours 381 | Reviews 2,682 |
Yes. Mainland Lombok has gorgeous landscapes, great hiking, epic surf, lovely waterfalls, and an impressive volcano. The three Gili Islands (Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan) draw party animals from across the globe. Lombok also has a unique culture and much of the island is unspoiled by development.
...MoreThat depends what you’re after. If you’re looking for bars, spas, shops, malls, beach clubs, restaurants, or water parks, head for Bali. If you’re looking for hiking, uncrowded waves, and unspoiled landscapes, set your course for Lombok. Want to chill or party on a desert island? Pick a Gili.
...MoreTo hike Mt. Rinjani, you’ll need a minimum of a week on Lombok to account for at least three days climbing and then recovery time. Travelers who aren’t hiking Rinjani can get a taster in four days with stops at Kuta, Senaru’s waterfalls, the Gilis Islands, and Mataram.
...MoreTravel to Lombok carries some risks, including the possibility of petty crime. Lombok is not a rich island and largely undeveloped, so getting around can be difficult. Earthquakes, like the devastating one in 2018, are a risk. Unsuspecting travelers may find Gili Trawangan crowded and noisy.
...MoreLombok’s most famous hot spot is the Gili Islands: Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan (Gili T), which has a worldwide reputation as a place to party. Lombok is also known for Mt. Rinjani, Indonesia’s tallest volcano, which towers 12,224 feet (3,726 meters) above the island.
...MoreNot really. Gili Air and Gili T are party islands, but Lombok proper is not. For beach clubs with international DJ sets, head to nearby Bali. Lombok is a Muslim-majority island, although alcohol flows in the tourist areas. Outside the Gilis, you’ll want to dress more conservatively than in Bali.
...More