Indulge In The 10 Best Things To Do In Gili Trawangan

A cloudy weather picture with several shacks on the beach of Gili Trawangan island.

The Gili Islands, located on the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia, are a tropical paradise that beckons you with crystal-clear water, sandy beaches, and a laid-back island vibe. As you step into the Gilis, you will discover countless things to do in Gili Trawangan that will make your trip memorable. It has three main islands Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air. Whether you are a diver, a sunset chaser, or someone who wants to enjoy the beauty of these islands, the Gili Islands promise unforgettable experiences to everyone.

10 Best Things To Do In Gili Trawangan

The Gilis offers various things to do in Gili Trawangan for every type of traveller, from adventure lovers to those seeking peace.

1. Snorkelling With Turtles In Gili Trawangan

An image of a turtle clicked while snorkelling point on Gili Trawangan Island, Indonesia.

Photo: Aria Bima / Unsplash

One of the must-do while on Gili Trawangan is snorkelling with turtles. Tourists can enjoy this on the northern coastline of the area, ideal for turtle spotting alongside the colourful coral reefs and splendid fishes. You can book an organised trip for snorkelling, or you can hire a guide to explore alone. The best time to snorkel is early morning when the tides are calm. The easy access and the incredibly rich marine life make it a favourite spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/Person: IDR 150,000 / ₹804
Timings: Early morning

2. Diving

Witnessing the aquatic life while diving is one of the best things to do in Gili Trawangan.

Photo: Uber Scuba Gili / Unsplash

Shark Point is the most thrilling dive site in Gili Trawangan. It is renowned for its reef sharks, stingrays, and other aquatic animals. Divers of every level can immerse themselves in this underwater haven that boasts spectacular coral formations. Dive shops around the island sell packages for self-diving, diving lessons, and guided dives. Crystal visibility and abundant marine life make Shark Point the top choice and one of the most thrilling things to do in Gili Trawangan for diving enthusiasts.

Duration: 1 – 2 hours per dive
Cost/Person: IDR 500,000 / ₹2680 onwards

3. Biking Around The Gili Islands

A picture of two people sitting on the shore of the Gili islands during the time of the sunset.

Photo: Bernard Hermant / Unsplash

As no motorised transport is permitted here, cycling is an environmentally friendly and calm method of exploring the coastline, local towns, and charming cafes. As this island is flat, it is quite easy for visitors of all age groups. In an hour, you can roam the island, stopping off here and there to enjoy the beaches, take some photos, and visit local markets. Renting a bike is affordable and comfortable.

Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/Person: IDR 30,000 / ₹160 onwards

4. Sunset Viewing

A beautiful image captured by a photographer of the sunset on the Gili Trawangan Island.

Photo: Alex K / Unsplash

You can enjoy your sundowners at Gili Trawangan’s Exile Bar on the western shore. The sun setting on the horizon is pretty scenic, with a range of colours reflective in the calm sea. That is indeed a view to remember. The Exile Bar is relaxed with an array of bean bags, swings, and cocktails to sip while you enjoy the sunset view. Sunsets here are probably going to be a favourite pastime for you and help you unwind after an exhausting day tramping around the island.

Duration: 30 – 60 minutes
Timings: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

5. Night Market

Exploring the vibrant night market is one of the best things to do in Gili Trawangen.

Photo: Sabrina Mazzeo / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Gili Trawangan Night Market is a food haven for foodies, with various local dishes, fresh seafood, and budget street snacks. After sunset, you will find food stands there exclusively selling everything from Indonesian specialities like nasi goreng to grilled fish and satay skewers. Vibrantly decorated and brimming with options to cater to everyone’s palate, Gili Trawangan Night Market has become the right pick for dinner or a late-night snack. This market is not only famous among locals but also a social gathering for tourists.

Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Cost/Person: IDR 20,000 / ₹107 onwards
Timings: After sunsets

6. Yoga Class

Enjoy yoga class is one of the best things to do in Gili Trawangan in Indonesia.

Photo: Chelsea Gates / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Gili Trawangan would be the best thing for wellness-seekers; it is much better when you are joining the yoga class. You will find that there are several yoga studios, such as Gili Yoga, offering classes to suit all skill levels, from beginners to pros. You can practice yoga on the beach, listen to the waves, or join a studio class in an environment filled with peace. Many studios also heal people with yoga and meditation retreats. Yoga would be an amazing way to either unwind, stretch, or find your balance amidst island beauty that will fit into your itinerary.

Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening
Entry Fees: IDR 100,000 / ₹535 onwards
Duration: 1 hour

7. Party At Sama-Sama Reggae Bar

Relaxing at Sama-Sama Reggae Bar which is one of the things to do in Gili Trawangan.

Photo: Kym Ellis / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Gili Trawangan’s nightlife is something you should experience at least once in your life. Bars like Sama-Sama Reggae Bar keep the nightlife feeling alive. Famous for its laid-back atmosphere, the bar brings together passionate lovers of live reggae music and a friendly crowd for a fun, easy-going night out. Dance to great tunes, sip on cocktails and mingle with numerous travellers in a lively yet cool setting. It’s a nice place where you can discover the island’s party scene.

Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Cost/Person: IDR 30,000 / ₹160 onwards
Timings: 7:00 PM

8. Horse Riding On The Beach

Enjoy the exciting horse riding is one of the best things to do in Gili Trawangan.

Photo: loli mass / Unsplash

Horse riding on Gili Trawangan shores is important to know the unique way of resorting to natural island beauty with cracks of the setting sun. Many tour operators offer rides along the beach, as you gaze upon scenery, accompanying the setting sun over the horizon. If you are looking for an adventurous day this will serve you perfectly. Ideal for those who wish to let loose on horseback, it offers a unique and good experience to connect to nature along the island’s shore.

Duration: 1 hour
Cost/Person: IDR 300,000 / ₹1607 onwards
Timings: 4:00 PM to sunset

9. Visit The Gili Eco Trust

An image of Gili’s eco trust logo with mountains, coconut trees, and waves on it.

Photo: Reena Yadav / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

For an incredible opportunity to learn about marine conservation happening in the Gili Islands, you can visit the Gili Eco Trust. This organisation protects coral reefs, manages waste, and promotes sustainability on the islands. You can take part in reef restoration activities or visit just to see what they are doing for island conservation. The Eco Trust plays an important role in the preservation of the island’s ecosystem, making it an inspirational destination for eco-conscious travellers.

Duration: 1 hour
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (Fridays) and 9 AM – 5 PM (Saturdays)

10. Gili Trawangan Cinema

Picture clicked while the people watching a cinema in a crowded movie theatre.

Photo: Kilyan Sockalingum / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

The Gili Trawangan cinema is a great option for a relaxing night under the starry sky. The experience of watching the latest blockbusters here on ripe bean bags, with snacks and the sounds of waves crashing, adds to your perfect evening moment. This place shows a balance of the new cinemas and some priceless gems, which has made this a cherished activity among couples and solo travellers. A beach movie remains one of the most underrated yet most enjoyable things to do in Gili Trawangan.

Entry Fees: IDR 50,000 / ₹268
Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Timings: 7:00 PM

Gili Trawangan boasts many offers for adventurers, barbecue lovers, and party people. No matter if you are scuba diving with turtles, practising your yoga exercises, or simply lounging during the sunset, there are endless things to do in Gili Trawangan. Gili Trawangan lights up at night with its fabulous nightlife and beautiful scenery. Plan a trip with TripXL today and indulge in a travel experience that you will remember forever.

Cover Photo: Jusdevoyage / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

From April through October, the hot, dry season is generally considered the best time to visit the islands.
There are fast boats direct from Bali or Lombok to the Gili Islands. The usual ports from which these boats depart are Padang Bai or Serangan Harbor in Bali.
Motorised vehicles are not allowed; the means of transportation are mainly bicycles and horse-drawn carts.
You can rent snorkelling equipment from any shop on the Gili Islands at approximately IDR 50,000 to 100,000 per day.
Island hopping from the three Gili Islands can cost around IDR 150,000 for a one-day tour.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month