Foto : asset.indonesia.travel
As the year comes to a close, come to celebrate the arrival of a fresh chapter on Lombok Island, Indonesia. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Bali, Lombok has earned its own rightful place among the world's most beautiful natural destinations. In TripAdvisor’s 2024 Travelers Choice Awards, it ranked as the fifth Best Nature Destination worldwide. From pristine beaches and mesmerizing underwater worlds to breathtaking cultural experiences, Lombok is an ideal spot to recharge and reflect. This 3-day, 2-night guide will help you enjoy Lombok in three days,, with highlights on must-visit sites and tips for a memorable New Year’s holiday.
Day 1: Island Hopping – The Stunning Gili Islands
Start your Lombok adventure with an island-hopping tour to the Gilis—Gili Air, Gili Meno, and Gili Trawangan—each a slice of paradise with its own unique allure.
Morning: Head to either Bangsal or Teluk Nara Harbor to begin your Gili adventure. Teluk Nara is a popular choice for private boat rentals, which cost around IDR 350,000 (~$22 USD) for up to 7 passengers. This is a flexible and scenic way to enjoy the islands at your own pace.
Gili Trawangan: Begin at Gili Trawangan, where you can experience an unforgettable sunrise near the small harbor at 6:20 AM. Gili Trawangan is the liveliest of the three islands, offering beach bars, cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Take a morning dip or stroll along the beach for that picture-perfect start to your year-end holiday.
Gili Meno: Next, make your way to Gili Meno for a remarkable underwater experience. Gili Meno is famous for its submerged sculptures, the "Nest" by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, depicting 48 lovers locked in an eternal embrace—a stunning sight for snorkelers and divers alike. Gear rentals are available for around IDR 50,000–100,000 (~$3–6 USD), and it’s best to arrive early before the crowd.
Gili Air: End your day at Gili Air, known for its friendly local cafes, including The Rising Sun Café, Kopi Susu Gili Air, and Ruby’s Café. Each offers a range of dishes from IDR 60,000–100,000 (~$4–6 USD), allowing you to savor fresh seafood or enjoy a light snack while soaking in the tropical views.
Evening Tip: For sunset, visit Pink Coco Café on Gili Trawangan around 6:00 PM, where you can relax with a drink and watch the sky turn stunning shades of pink and orange. Wrap up your day with a bonfire on the beach or take a late boat back to Lombok.
Day 2: Immerse Yourself in Lombok’s Rich Culture – Sukarara and Sade Villages
For your second day, dive into the heart of Lombok’s traditional culture by visiting Sasak villages known for their rich heritage and timeless craftsmanship.
Morning in Sukarara Village: A 1.5-hour drive from Teluk Nara will take you to Sukarara, famous for its handwoven textiles and unique traditional houses. Here, friendly local women known as "Inaq" will guide you through the intricate process of weaving and even let you try your hand at it. You can buy beautiful woven cloths, known as "songket," directly from artisans, with prices ranging from IDR 200,000–500,000 (~$13–32 USD) depending on the complexity of the design.
Afternoon in Sade Village: From Sukarara, head to Sade Village, about 30 minutes away. Sade welcomes visitors with traditional Sasak dance performances, including the lively Peresean dance, where two male dancers engage in mock battles using rattan sticks and cowhide shields—a captivating cultural display with deep historical roots. Wander through the village to see traditional Sasak houses, with floors made from a mix of clay and buffalo dung, believed to be dust-resistant and incredibly durable.
Tip: Bring cash for purchasing handmade crafts and small donations for the performers. Entry to Sade Village is free, but visitors often leave a small tip to support the community.
Day 3: Waterfalls and Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping
On your final day, connect with Lombok’s stunning natural scenery and grab some unique souvenirs to take home.
Morning Waterfall Adventure: Venture to the island’s northern region to discover Lombok’s renowned waterfalls—Tiu Kelep and Sendang Gile. It’s about a two-hour drive from Senggigi, so aim for an early start to maximize your time. Entrance fees are minimal, around IDR 10,000–15,000 ($6 USD), who can take you through the trails and share local lore. Don’t miss Tiu Kelep’s natural swimming pool—a refreshing place to take a dip and unwind after hiking.
Afternoon Shopping for Souvenirs: End your Lombok journey with a visit to WAHANA Lombok Souvenirs on Jalan Saleh Sungkar No. 77. This well-stocked souvenir center offers a wide range of traditional foods, snacks, and crafts from Lombok. Open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM, you can pick up treats like Dodol Rumput Laut (seaweed sweets) or Lombok coffee for family and friends back home.
Alternatively, swing by the Lombok Souvenir Center on Airport Bypass Street in Penujak, just minutes from the airport. Open from 7 AM to 9 PM, this shop offers an extensive selection of bamboo crafts, textiles, and delicious Lombok specialties. Most items range between IDR 50,000–200,000 (~$3–13 USD), making it an ideal spot for last-minute shopping.
Tips for Your Year-End Lombok Getaway
1. Book Early for the Best Deals: With Lombok’s rising popularity, especially during the year-end season, book flights and accommodation in advance. Budget-friendly hotels in Senggigi start from IDR 500,000 ($125 USD).
2. Stay Hydrated and Prepare for Rain: December is part of Lombok’s rainy season, so pack a light rain jacket and be ready for quick tropical showers that are usually refreshing and brief.
3. Respect Local Culture: Lombok has a deeply rooted culture, so dress modestly when visiting villages and always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in rural areas.
4. Eco-Conscious Packing: Lombok’s marine life is precious, so pack reef-safe sunscreen and avoid single-use plastics as much as possible to help preserve the island’s natural beauty.
5. Currency: While many places accept cards, smaller shops and rural areas may only take cash. It’s recommended to withdraw what you need in Senggigi or near the airport.
A perfect destination for a year-end holiday, Lombok offers adventure, culture, and serene landscapes to ring in the New Year. From the white sands of the Gili Islands to the cultural charm of Sasak villages, get an experience that’ll stay with you long after you leave.
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