Lombok is an island situated to the east of Bali. Unlike its sister island, it's relatively unpopular to mass tourism, which makes it more appealing to backpackers and those seeking untouched natural beauty. Here are a few things that one should do while in Lombok:
1. Climb Mount Rinjani
Photo credit: Fabien Rolland
Mt. Rinjani is the second highest active volcano in Indonesia, standing at 3,726m. Situated in the north of Lombok, this mountain sets the prefect trekking range for enthusiast.
You will experience various terrains, from hot flat fields to dense rain forest and cold temperatures.
Getting to 2,700m is a feat in itself and you'll be greeted by beautiful views of the crater lake (Segara Anak), which is exceptional during sunset and sunrise. Concurring the peak would require extra mental and physical strength, and rewarded with fantastic views of Bali, Java and the Gili islands on a clear day.
You will experience various terrains, from hot flat fields to dense rain forest and cold temperatures.
Getting to 2,700m is a feat in itself and you'll be greeted by beautiful views of the crater lake (Segara Anak), which is exceptional during sunset and sunrise. Concurring the peak would require extra mental and physical strength, and rewarded with fantastic views of Bali, Java and the Gili islands on a clear day.
2. Island hopping
The Gili's are 3 islands, nestled together on the north-west of Lombok. All 3 islands have beautiful powdery white sands and clear blue waters. Its a heaven for backpackers as well as for those seeking rustic holidays. Each island have their own personalities:
Gili Trawangan: Largest of the 3 islands, its usually bustling with people and nightlife. Popular with the backpacking crowd, this island offers a lot in terms of nightlife and activities.
Gili Air: If you're looking for both a relaxing spot and some nightlife, this island has a good balance of both!
Gili Meno: Smallest of the islands and a honeymooners dream. Parties are definitely non-existant on the island but you can always take a long tail boat to Gili Trawangan next door (15-20minutes away). But for come quality time with your other half, this place is perfect. Plus it has some of the best snorkelling spots right by your doorstep.
Gili Trawangan: Largest of the 3 islands, its usually bustling with people and nightlife. Popular with the backpacking crowd, this island offers a lot in terms of nightlife and activities.
Gili Air: If you're looking for both a relaxing spot and some nightlife, this island has a good balance of both!
Gili Meno: Smallest of the islands and a honeymooners dream. Parties are definitely non-existant on the island but you can always take a long tail boat to Gili Trawangan next door (15-20minutes away). But for come quality time with your other half, this place is perfect. Plus it has some of the best snorkelling spots right by your doorstep.
3. Scuba diving
Photo credit: Andrew Bowman; Photo Editing: Roshini Ashok Kumar
The water around the Gili islands are warm and great for diving as its generally quiet calm. Green Turtles and Rays are something to keep an eye out for while diving around these waters. Some spots worth going to is Deep Turbo, Japanese Wreck and Hans Reef. One is sure to spot one, if not a few turtles at Hans Reef.
4. Surf in Kuta (Lombok)
Yes, Lombok has a placed called Kuta as well! Kuta in Lombok consist of 4 sandy beaches and 4 surfing spots. If you love to surf then head out here, the breaks at some of these places are amazing. This place is relatively undeveloped making it a heaven for those seeking unspoilt beaches and surf spots. This place is truly a surfer's 'Diamond in the rough'.
5. Sample the local cuisine
Sasak food is amazing. They are know for adding the zest to life that is chilli! Sambal (made from chillies) is a dangerously spicy condiment that is usually served with a lot of their dishes as a dipping sauce. Some times its used as a marinate for grilled meat.
Their Fish Satay accompanied by spicy peanut sauce is not to be missed together with the all famous Gado-Gado (blanched vegetables in peanuts sauce), and Ayam Bakar Taliwang (BBQ chicken covered in spices) to name a few.
Their Fish Satay accompanied by spicy peanut sauce is not to be missed together with the all famous Gado-Gado (blanched vegetables in peanuts sauce), and Ayam Bakar Taliwang (BBQ chicken covered in spices) to name a few.
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