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If you have seen enough of the beauty of Bali, then you will find no better option than Lombok Island. Bali’s neighbouring island promises to be a fantastic getaway holiday that the tourist crowd may need to rethink, as it were. Lombok Island is a treasure house of ethereal natural beauty and fullness of attractions. This island has Indonesia’s second-largest volcanic peak, Mount Rinjani. A tropical vacation here is no less than a fancy Bali vacation in terms of experiences and memories. The island offers a far more extraordinary experience of underwater adventures and deserted beaches, everything you ever wanted to have on a fabulous vacation.
Lombok Island Location
Photo: Ditras Family / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Indonesia’s West Nusa Tenggara province is home to Lombok Island. It is created by the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands, which is divided by the Alas Strait from Sumbawa to the east and the Lombok Strait from Bali to the west. The overall shape is oval, with a “tail” (the Sekotong Peninsula) to the southwest. Its approximate diameter is 70 km (43 mi), and it encompasses around 4,607.38 sq km (1,778.92 sq mi), plus a few smaller islands off the shore. Mataram, the largest town and provincial capital, is located on the island.
How To Reach Lombok Island
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By Flight: Denpasar, Bali, and Mataram, the capital of Lombok, have regular flights. Located at Tanah Awu, Central Lombok District, Lombok International Airport (LOP) is thirty kilometres or an hour’s drive southeast of Mataram. Lombok is served by the following airlines: Silk Air, Garuda, Lion Air, and Trans Nusa.
By Ferry: Several ferries travel from Padangbai (Bali) to Lembar (Lombok) throughout the day. The trip takes about 4-5 hours. You can take a motorbike or car on board the ferry. If you get seasick, the ride can get quite bumpy. Ferries run between Labuhan Lombok and Poto Tano on Sumbawa several times daily. The journey is one and a half hours.
By Fast Boat: Several fast boats run from Benoa Harbour in Bali to Lembar Harbour in Lombok, taking about 30-40 minutes. Several fast boats also run from Amed in East Bali to Lovina in North Lombok from 9 AM to 1 PM.
Places To Visit In And Around Lombok Island
There are several popular attractions that visitors can plan to visit around Lombok Island to make the most of their trip.
1. Gili Islands
Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons
Gili Islands comprises of three islands, i.e. Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan. With its white sand beaches and abundant marine life, this location is a tropical paradise. On the smooth beach, you can lounge or go diving and snorkelling. Every island has its unique flavour; Gili Meno is for calm and quiet, and Gili Trawangan is for nightlife. From Lombok, the islands are accessible by boat, ensuring that your vacation is both exciting and restful.
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Cost/Person: ₹1,800 (for boat transfer)
2. Mount Rinjani
Photo: Uwe Aranas / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of Indonesia’s tallest volcanoes is Mount Rinjani. It is also among the most popular locations for trekking. You will ascend to the summit via verdant forests and breathtaking scenery, which will ultimately reward you with breathtaking views of Segara Anak Crater Lake. For those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure, this hike is tough but incredibly rewarding. Many guided tours are available, and all equipment and meals will be provided. With the island’s rich ecosystems and breathtaking natural beauty, you will never forget the experience of standing on the summit as the sun rises.
Best Time To Visit: April to December
Cost/Person: ₹12,500 (for guided tours)
3. Senggigi Beach
Photo: Bikersspensiun / Wikimedia Commons
Senggigi Beach is one of Lombok’s favourite tourist destinations. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunset and lively atmosphere. Water sports, such as snorkelling and surfing, are also available on the beach. Countless restaurants and bars have become a hodgepodge along the shore. Just walk on the sandy beach or visit local attractions in Batu Bolong Temple. Senggigi is a good base to explore the island. It offers a lively atmosphere for relaxation and adventure and is a must-visit in Lombok.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Cost/Person: N/A
4. Tiu Kelep Waterfall
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Tiu Kelep Waterfall is one of Lombok’s stunning natural attractions. Nestled in the lush jungles of Senaru, this waterfall flows into a clear pool surrounded by tropical flowers. The hike itself is quite an adventure, offering some of the most picturesque views you’ll ever see. Many visitors take a refreshing dip in the calm waters afterwards. The setting makes it an absolute haven for nature lovers and photographers who wish to capture Lombok’s natural beauty in a serene environment.
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Cost/Person: ₹80
5. Kuta Lombok
Photo: Ardy79 / Wikimedia Commons
Kuta Lombok has become very popular for its natural white sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect place for relaxing holidays and fun activities. One can experience sunbathing and surfing in crystal clear waters at either Tanjung Aan or Mawun Beaches. The area also has rich local culture and delicious traditional cuisine served at beachside warungs. Kuta Lombok offers an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience, away from the crowds but still displaying the natural beauty of Indonesia’s coastline and vibrant local traditions.
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Cost/Person: N/A
Things To Do On Lombok Island
Visitors can enjoy numerous things on the island to keep themselves engaged and entertained on their trip.
1. Golfing
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If you have patience and a love for the Gentleman’s game, there are surprisingly several Golf clubs on Lombok Island. They offer a great respite, and the place is blessed with picturesque surroundings of hilly terrains and lush forests. Enjoy an unforgettable golfing experience accompanied by a soothing breeze from the ocean. You can also follow the game with a dip in the club’s pool.
2. Experiencing Spa At Lombok Island
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Every day, on holidays in Indonesia, is a ritual of having a Balinese massage. Infamous for their healing properties and the simulation of blood flow, the techniques that abound in Indonesia have spa centres all over the island. From an alfresco rubdown by the ocean to exclusive resort spas, you can decide what pleases your style.
3. Scuba Diving
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Scuba diving and snorkelling are among water adventurers’ most sought-after activities. The Gili Islands, especially Gili Trawangan, boast some of the best dive facilities in Indonesia. This island has many species of marine life, such as turtles, reef sharks, and various colourful varieties of fish. Because the waters surrounding Gilis are so clean and full of marine life, the island is heaven for divers and snorkelers.
Where To Stay
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Most of Lombok’s better accommodation is situated along the Senggigi strip north of the airport. The Gili Islands are increasingly sought out by the young and now provide the full range of accommodations. Kuta is favoured amongst surfers and eco-travellers who want a more peaceful, traditional village atmosphere. There are four resort-style hotels in the region of Sira and Medana on the northwestern coast close to Tanjung. The central city of Mataram needs more tourist-oriented accommodations, with a couple of larger full-service hotels on offer. Many smaller and lower-priced hotels are situated in the Cakranegara/Sweta area and others throughout the city.
Where To Eat
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Kuta Lombok is available for a lively dining scene with cafes and restaurants. Bush Radio is famous for its vast smoothie bowls and mahi mahi avocado toast – it is just a ‘must’ visit, especially for foodies and digital nomads. Bude Warung is an off-the-beaten-path gem for families, offering authentic Indonesian dishes at accessible prices and promising return visits. KRNK has a varied menu for merriment, from burgers to Napolitano pizza, although it tends to get hectic. The Warung offers eclectic menus of traditional Indonesian oldies but goodies and surprisingly decent pizzas, providing a more peaceful meal at a location outside, away from the beat of the drum.
Best Time To Visit
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Lombok is pretty good throughout the year. There are just two major seasons in Lombok: dry and wet. From April onwards until October, it is mostly dry, and the rest of the year is supposed to be wet. However, the rain in Lombok is not as heavy as in Bali. So, even the wet season can be a good time to visit the island. The peak tourist season begins in April and continues until October.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
A day trip to Lombok Island will cost up to IDR 500,000 to IDR 1,000,000, including transportation, food, and the activities performed. Therefore, visitors can enjoy a range of different experiences without overspending on their visit. For most of your visit to the island, locals in small shops and restaurants don’t offer credit card payments, so cash is a must-have. Save sufficient money for entrance fees, food, and souvenirs during your visit.
Tips For Travellers
- Use Sunscreen: Protect your skin, as you will receive direct exposure to the sun’s scorching heat while enjoying your time on the island.
- Early Visit: This ensures that you experience serenity before people arrive.
- Carry Cash: Some places won’t accept cards, so do carry some cash.
- Good Weather: Ensure that the Lombok Island weather is excellent for water sports and outdoor activities
- Respect Local Custom: Ensure all local practices are respected, especially when visiting temples or living with the residents.
Lombok Island is an enchanting destination that seamlessly balances adventure and peace. Stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and various activities make for an unforgettable experience on this island for every tourist. Lombok tourism has something for everyone, from pristine beaches to mountain peaks worth hiking. Learning the local traditions will help you make the most of your journey. Plan for your scenic retreat to this scenic island with TripXL for a seamless experience.
Cover Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
