Lombok, Indonesia: Beyond Bali's Beaten Path

While neighboring Bali grabs most of the tourism attention in Indonesia, the rugged island of Lombok, just east of Bali, retains a mellow vibe and natural beauty that earnestly beckons more intrepid travelers. Despite developments in tourism infrastructure in recent years, Lombok remains delightfully disconnected from the crowds, offering intrepid visitors an authentic Indonesian island experience off the well-trodden path.

Getting to Lombok

The easiest way to reach Lombok from nearby Bali is via a short boat or flight. Public ferries and fast boats depart regularly from Padangbai in eastern Bali, taking around 90 minutes on calm seas. Flights from Bali and other parts of Indonesia arrive at Lombok International Airport in Praya, located about an hour's drive southwest of the main city of Mataram. Once on Lombok, ojeks (motorcycle taxis) are widely available for local transportation—just be sure to agree on fares beforehand to avoid disputes later.

Top Things to See and Do on Lombok

With secluded beaches, rugged interior mountains, and a predominantly Muslim culture distinct from Hindu Bali, Lombok has abundant natural and cultural attractions to keep adventurous visitors busy for over a week if desired. Here are some top sights and activities not to miss:

Hike Mount Rinjani

Dominating Lombok's northern skyline, the active volcano Mount Rinjani presents trekkers with sweeping caldera lake views and tropical cloud forest scenery. A multi-day hike involves an overnight stop at one of the crater rims before a dawn summit bid. Start early to summit before clouds build up—the sunrise views across the caldera to Peeranutan and Barujari peaks are breathtaking. Be sure to book approved guides in Senaru village for safety and to help locals.

Relax on Gili Islands

Just off Lombok's west coast lie the trio of idyllic Gili Islands—Trawangan, Meno, and Air—offering postcard-perfect white sand beaches and turquoise waters that may look familiar to Bali visitors hoping to escape crowds. Gili Trawangan has the most accommodation and party scene if that's your speed, while Gili Meno retains a laid-back village vibe. All are easily accessible by boat from Bangsal harbor near Senggigi. Consider hopping on a snorkeling or diving trip too—marine life is abundant here.

Soak at Tangkahan Beach

On Lombok's eastern coast, the black sand beach of Tangkahan is a scenic spot for R&R, featuring milky-blue waters and a backdrop of volcanoes across the Lombok Strait. Hot springs bubble up near the shoreline offering natural hot tubs to soak weary muscles. Nearby Berlagak village is also worth a wander with its charming thatched roofs and absence of tourist crowds. Getting here involves a bumpy 4WD ride along logging roads from Sembalun—part of the appeal of its isolated splendor.

Experience Sasak Village Culture

Head inland from Senggigi to discover more of Lombok's Sasak ethnic group, the predominant people inhabiting the island. Picturesque traditional villages like Sade offer a glimpse into daily life, with folks tending rice paddies and grazing water buffalo. Drop in at a mosque for evening prayers. For an activity with education, book a homestay experience where English-speaking families introduce visitors to local food, crafts and views on matters like religion and tourism's impact. This humanizes an island often viewed through a tourist lens.

Where to Stay on Lombok

With plenty of beachfront and inland lodging options available at a variety of price points, Lombok caters well to varied budgets. Consider these recommendations based on location and character:

Senggigi Resorts

The main tourist enclave of Senggigi on the west coast features budget to luxury resorts along its sandy bay. Royal Avila Boutique Resort offers spacious chalets and a swimming pool area conveniently located near the main strip for those preferring amenities. For a more relaxed vibe away from crowds, head south to family-run Puri Sari Beach Resort just north of Mangsit.

Gili Islands Homestays

For a cultural exchange on the Gili Islands, opt for one of the homestays peppered along palm-lined lanes. Gili Asah offers charming thatched treehouses with decks over the water; contact the local organization Gili Eco Trust for bookings that support community causes. Families enjoy Gili Meno's Scuba Frog Village and its resident puppy for delightful company.

Nature Lodges in Sembalun

Mount Rinjani trekkers can spend their night in the crater at the scenic Sembalun Lodge or enjoy a hot spring-fed pool at Lindawa Lodge at the trailhead village of Sembalun Lawang. Both offer cozy rooms, classic Indonesian fare and sweeping volcano views from verandas. An insider tip? Time your visit for a full moon over Rinjani for superb lunar scenery.

Booking and Budgeting Tips

Now that you're captivated by the natural beauty and cultural intrigue of Lombok, it's time to iron out logistics for your trip! Consider using BitBook to book accommodations and earn rewards in the process. Be sure to:

Book transport, including flights, ferries and tours in advance during peak season

Budget for airport transfers, ojeks, food, park entrance fees

Download mapping apps like Maps.me offline since data coverage can be spotty

Bring your own snorkel gear rather than renting to save costs

Exchange larger bills at airports rather than ATMs to get better rates

Watch out for commissions from touts and ojek drivers demanding fixed rates

Bring sunscreen, bug spray and water bottles to stay safe outdoors