Things to do in Lombok
Lombok attracts those searching for 'undiscovered' Indonesia and was for many years a haven for backpackers. The attractions on Lombok are its pristine beaches, paradise islands and secret surf spots, although the area is rapidly losing its off-the-beaten-track credentials as more tourists discover its considerable wonders. Resorts are now springing up to provide a more commercial and luxurious Lombok experience, but it still retains its secluded beauty and unscathed coast.
Visitors tend to begin their Lombok travels in the metropolis formed by the combination of the four villages of Ampenan, Mataram, Caimanegara and Swete, on the west coast. Ampenan is the most foreigner-friendly and is on the coast, so it tends to be the springboard for the rest of the island. From here travellers head north to the beautiful volcanic scenery and hiking trails of the Gunung Rinjani National Park, which includes Indonesia's third highest peak, the spectacular Mount Rinjani volcano. Or they set out for the stunning Gili Islands, which until recently were a backpackers dream, almost totally deserted and pristine. The islands are slowly becoming more developed but they are still charming destinations.
Just a few miles south of Ampenan is Senggigi, Lombok's most developed holiday resort and arguably the only place on Lombok with a decent nightlife. Visitors also flock to the southern beaches around Kuta Lombok, which are loved for their white expanses of sand and great surf breaks.
Ampenan
Ampenan-Mataram-Cakranegara-Sweta, or more simply referred to as Ampenan, is a vibrant district located on Indonesia's lush Lombok Island. The sprawling metropolis is comprised of …
Ampenan
Ampenan-Mataram-Cakranegara-Sweta, or more simply referred to as Ampenan, is a vibrant district located on Indonesia's lush Lombok Island. The sprawling metropolis is comprised of four towns, the boundaries of which are indistinguishable to casual holidaymakers. A number of the destination's shrines and temples are open to visitors, the best of which are located around the Mayura Water Palace, which dates from 1744 and was used by the royal court during the Balinese rule of Lombok. Ampenan's market is the area's primary attraction and is located along the main road to Senggigi, north of the city proper.
Jayapura
The city of Jayapura is often the first stop for travellers to Papua, but even so its remoteness is such that many of the visiting Westerners are thought to be mine workers or miss…
Jayapura
The city of Jayapura is often the first stop for travellers to Papua, but even so its remoteness is such that many of the visiting Westerners are thought to be mine workers or missionaries. Although the wilds of Papua are a quick trail away, the city itself provides visitors with reasons to stay. Beautiful beaches and bays stretch below thick jungle hills and some of these contain remnants of WWII landing crafts, just as some of the caves in the area are said to retain Japanese skeletons from the war. The nicest swimming beach is Base G, which has aqua blue water and a palmed shoreline.
Gili Islands
Situated a few miles off the northwest coast of Lombok, the three Gili Islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air were 'discovered' by backpackers in the '80s and, until rec…
Gili Islands
Situated a few miles off the northwest coast of Lombok, the three Gili Islands of Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air were 'discovered' by backpackers in the '80s and, until recently, remained a laid-back haven for budget travellers in search of a peaceful and secluded holiday paradise. The islands are surrounded by glorious soft sandy beaches, colourful coral reefs and crystal clear turquoise waters, and are ideal for diving.
Visitors can also attend an Indonesian cooking class, relax at a spa, go horseback riding or enjoy a variety of watersports. There are almost no roads or motor vehicles on the islands, with scooters and donkey-drawn carts acting as their replacements. Small ferries transport guests between the Gili Islands, none of which are more than twenty minutes apart.
Gili Trawangan is considered the party island and caters to a decidedly upmarket crowd. Bars usually stay open till 4am and the famous Full Moon parties are held on the southern beaches. Gili Meno is the smallest and quietest of the three, its pristine coral beaches and easy-going charm offering the perfect escape for honeymooners. Gili Air is closest to the main island of Lombok, and its character lies somewhere between the tranquility of Gili Meno and the bustle of Gili Trawangan.
Kuta Lombok
Not to be confused with its better-known namesake on Bali, Lombok's Kuta is almost totally undeveloped by comparison, having only been 'discovered' by surfers a few years ago and s…
Kuta Lombok
Not to be confused with its better-known namesake on Bali, Lombok's Kuta is almost totally undeveloped by comparison, having only been 'discovered' by surfers a few years ago and still lacking any large holiday resort hotels. The whole south coast is characterised by miles of stunning curved sandy bays set beneath empty, rolling hills. Kuta's southeast peninsula and Awang Bay are dotted with tiny fishing villages that are untouched by tourism, and there are inland villages that specialise in local crafts such as pottery, weaving, basket weaving and carving.
Senggigi
Senggigi lies just a few miles south of Ampenan and is the most developed holiday resort on Lombok. Characterised by broad bays, towering headlands and first-rate hotels and restau…
Senggigi
Senggigi lies just a few miles south of Ampenan and is the most developed holiday resort on Lombok. Characterised by broad bays, towering headlands and first-rate hotels and restaurants, it boasts the only real nightlife on the island. Being close to the airport it makes a good first or last night stop for travellers intent on exploring. The drive north along the coast from Senggigi to Pemenang is a great day out for those with a car, offering spectacular views of the Gili Islands and across to Bali when the weather is clear.