GETTING TO LOMBOK
Lombok International Airport (abbreviated to LIA with the IATA code “LOP”) is the only operating airport on Lombok.
The official name of the airport is Zainuddin Abdul Madjid International Airport, and you will sometimes see “Mataram” or “Praya” on ticketing, but they all refer to Lombok’s airport.
The airport is close to Praya (Central Lombok); approximately 40km south of Mataram City, and around 1 hour drive from Senggigi and only 25 minutes from Kuta.
The airport’s terminal is divided into international and domestic sections, with shared arrival and departure areas, and separate boarding lounges. There is no duty-free shopping at the airport but shops and souvenirs, ATMs, and food outlets are readily available.
Airport departure tax is included in the price of all tickets.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS
Lombok International Airport has full Visa on Arrival (VOA) facilities, including 30-day Tourist Visa. Visit: evisa.imigrasi.go.id to apply online.
AirAsia operates direct international flights between Lombok and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia every day, onboard A320 Airbus. Flight time is approx. 3 hours. Book cheap flights through the AirAsia website: www.airasia.com
Batik Air also offers direct Lombok - Kuala Lumpur flights 4 times per week. www.batikair.com.my
Direct flights between Lombok and Singapore are operated by Scoot Airlines (a low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines) four times per week. Flights are onboard A320 Airbus and flight time is approx. 3 hours. www.flyscoot.com
In addition to Malaysia and Singapore, international flights to Bali and Jakarta connect Lombok to all major destinations around the world.
DOMESTIC FLIGHTS
European connections are easy via Jakarta (the capital city of Indonesia), Bali and other capital cities such as Jogjakarta and Surabaya. Direct flights to Lombok from Bali, Jakarta, Jogjakarta and Surabaya are available from multiple airlines every day and are usually timed to connect with European flights.
Batik Air flies direct between Lombok and Jakarta and Lombok and Surabaya every day. www.batikair.com.my
Citilink has direct flights between Lombok and Jakarta, and Lombok and Surabaya, three times a week. www.citilink.co.id
Garuda Indonesia has direct flights daily between Lombok and Jakarta. www. garuda-indonesia.com
Lion Air / Wings Air has daily flights between Lombok and Bali, Jakarta, Jogjakarta, Surabaya, Sumbawa Besar and Bima (Sumbawa). www.lionair.co.id
Super Air Jet flies between Lombok and Jakarta, Jogjakarta, and Surabaya every day. www.superairjet.com
BALI TO LOMBOK BY AIR
It’s easy to get to Lombok from Bali – flight time is only around 50 minutes. Buy tickets online, or direct from the airline counters at the domestic airports, or contact local travel agents in both Bali and Lombok.
In Lombok, all flights depart and arrive at Lombok International Airport. In Bali, flights arrive and depart at the domestic terminal at Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) Airport.
Wings Air / Lion Air flies between Bali and Lombok up to four times daily. The companies code-share, so you purchase tickets through the Lion Air website for a
Wings Air flight. Note: tickets include no luggage allowance; book pre-paid baggage through their website. www.lionair.co.id
BALI TO LOMBOK BY SEA
Padang Bai Harbour (east Bali) provides the sea link between mainland Bali and Lombok. Lembar Harbour (Lombok) is on the southwest coast, approx. 1 hour from both Senggigi and Kuta.
Arrange transport and buy tickets direct from the ticket office at the harbours, or use a reputable tour company to provide a transfer service.
Public Ferries run 24 hours a day and depart every hour for the sea crossing between Bali and Lombok. The fare is Rp 62,200 per person and the trip takes approx. 4 to 5 hours, depending on sea conditions.
It’s a slow but scenic ferry trip and the cheapest way to travel between the islands. It’s also useful if you want to take a motorcycle (approx. Rp 160,000) or small car (approx. Rp 1,127,000).
FAST BOATS
There are numerous fast boat services operating between Bali and Lombok every day, via the Gili Islands. All fast boats must stop at Bangsal Harbour in North Lombok for port clearance, so it is possible to reach mainland Lombok using any of the fast boat services to the Gilis. See our Gili Guide for more.
Gili Getaway operates several comfortable fast boats connecting Bali and mainland Lombok (including Gili Gede in southwest Lombok) from Serangan Harbour on Bali. www.giligetaway.com
Eka Jaya offers fast boat connections between Bali (Padang Bai Harbour) and Senggigi (West Lombok). Boats arrive and depart from the Senggigi Jetty, right in the centre of Senggigi Beach. www.ekajayafastboat.com
• Available Daily 10am-2pm
•
Dear Readers
Welcome to the March issue of The Lombok Guide!
As we go to print this month, Muslims around the world are fasting for Ramadan, so believe it or not – this month is all about food!
It’s the perfect time to try out our delicious local cuisine by hitting up the street markets set up on roadsides in every town in the late afternoon. Or take advantage of the good value Iftar and Buka Puasa (break the fast) menus on offer at our best resorts and restaurants.
At the end of the month, Balinese Hindus in Lombok celebrate Nyepi – the day of silence and, while we’re never silent in Lombok, you can witness Hindu traditions at our temples and the fabulous Ogoh-ogoh parade in the city, when hundreds of weird and wonderful monsters dance through the streets!
Then, there’s barely time to catch your breath before the island erupts with Idul Fitri celebrations to mark the end of Ramadan. Read on to learn more…
Whether you are a first-time visitor to Lombok or a seasoned traveller returning for the tenth time, The Lombok Guide is committed to provide you with the information you need – attractions and activities, places to go and things to see – all brought together in one convenient Guide.
The island awaits… welcome to the magic of Lombok!
Contents
The Lombok Guide
Page 2
Getting to Lombok
Page 4 Contents
Page 6 Lombok Map
Page 8 & 10 Getting Around
Page 12 & 13 Best in Lombok
Page 14 Senggigi Map
Page 16,18 & 20 Senggigi & The West Coast
Page 22 & 24 Ramadan & Idul Fitri in Lombok
Page 26 IFTAR... Breaking the Fast at Aruna Senggigi
Page 28 & 29 Nyepi in Lombok
Page 32 & 33 One Thousand Princesses on Parade!
Page 34 Distribution
Page 36 Lombok's Growing Cruise Ship Business
Page 37 Pasar Classified
Page 38 The Cities Map
Page 39-42 The Cities
Page 43 Kuta Map
Page 44-52
Kuta & The South Coast
Page 53 Useful Contacts
Page 54 South Lombok Map
Page 55-60 The Southwest
The Gili Guide
Page 2 & 4
Getting to the Gilis
Page 6 The Gilis Map
Page 8 - 18
The Gilis, Lombok's Three Iconic Islands
Page 19 & 20 Best in the Gilis
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GETTING AROUND
LOMBOK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
is a relatively small airport that handles domestic flights between Bali, Jakarta and other Indonesian cities, and international flights to and from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
Getting to the Airport: Lombok Taxi (Blue Bird) is the most convenient taxi operator throughout Lombok and will drop passengers directly in front of the departure terminal. Note: Lombok Taxi (Bluebird) cannot pick up passengers from inside the airport grounds.
Otherwise, book an airport transfer through your hotel or a private car and driver service. There is ample parking at the airport and cars can be left overnight.
From the Airport: taxis and private cars are available to meet all arriving flights. After collecting your baggage, head out of the exit doors of the terminal and through to the arrival hall.
There are official taxi counters inside the arrival hall that will allocate you a fixed
price taxi to most destinations. Prices can be negotiated.
Golden Bird Taxi is the premium branch of Blue Bird Taxi and offers regular taxis, limousine and car rental. Look for their desk in the arrival hall or WA 0859 5462 7000.
There are also many private drivers waiting to offer rides to anywhere on the island. This is a good option if you are in a group or have a lot of luggage or sports equipment, such as surf boards. Negotiate a fixed price before you get in the vehicle.
Organising an airport transfer with your hotel is often the easiest option, with the hotel driver meeting you on arrival and transferring you to your hotel in airconditioned comfort. Check with your hotel – charges are usually only slightly more than a taxi.
Approximate taxi fares: Kuta Rp 150k; Selong Belanak Rp 250k; Sekotong Rp 400k; Senggigi Rp 250k; Mataram Rp 150k; Bangsal Harbour Rp 350k; Senaru Rp 500k.
Car rental kiosks are located at the arrival terminal and are open from 7am until 10pm daily.
For low-cost airport transfers, the public DAMRI bus is the cheapest way to travel between the airport and Senggigi and Mataram.
The air-conditioned buses seat around 40 passengers and operate a regular schedule of departures from 7am to 5pm every day. Buses to Mataram leave every hour and cost Rp 25,000. Buses to Senggigi leave every 90 minutes and cost Rp 35,000.
The DAMRI counter is located inside the arrival hall and prices are clearly shown on sign board at the counter. The bus parks just outside the hall on the right.
The helpful drivers tend to stop at popular points along the route. If you need to stop at a certain point, let the driver know and he will usually accommodate your request.
Asian Fusion Restaurant
QUNCI VILLAS, Jl. Raya Mangsit, Senggigi, Lombok
Continued from Page 8
Around Lombok: Lombok is easy to get around. The roads are in good condition and there is little traffic, apart from in the cities.
The island itself is only slightly smaller than Bali at 115km (70 miles) long and 80km (50 miles) wide; however, it is not practical to drive around Lombok in one day.
Taxis are easily available in most areas on Lombok apart from Kuta, Lombok. Unlike in other areas of Asia, all taxis use their meters (argo) to calculate fares, so there is no need to haggle a price.
Lombok Taxi (operated by Blue Bird Taxi, light blue colour) is the largest company in Lombok and you will find them in the cities and around tourist areas such as Senggigi. Express Taksi (white cars) are also available, mainly in the cities.
Taxis can be used to make trips to Kuta or Lembar and Bangsal Harbours and, if you are shopping or making day trips by taxi, ask the driver to wait and leave the meter running. Fares are still very low compared to those in the west. Short trips around Senggigi will cost around Rp 30,000; a taxi from Senggigi to Mataram is around Rp 80,000.
Phone for a taxi or ask your hotel to phone, or flag one down from the side of the road. Make sure the driver starts the meter when you get in.
Download the “My Blue Bird” app to book taxis easily. The app is also handy for calculating distances and fares when planning trips and the fare will give you a general idea of the rate you should be negotiating with a private driver.
Lombok Taxi (Blue Bird), ph: 0370 627 000 (or download the ‘My Blue Bird’ App from Play Store, App Store or from the Blue Bird Group website). www.bluebirdgroup. com
Gojek and Grab also operate in most areas of Lombok (apart from Kuta on the south coast). Download the apps for easy transport options via car or motorbike.
Motorbikes are the most popular form of transport and are generally small, light 110 - 125cc motorbikes with automatic transmission. Modern and economical scooters, such as a Honda Vario, are easy to ride. Expect to pay between Rp 60 - 75,000 per day for motorbike rental, depending on age and type. Both require an international drivers’ licence.
Do wear a helmet and appropriate shoes when riding a motorbike and don’t decide that Lombok is the place to learn to ride! Apart from the dangers from other riders and a general disregard for road rules, there can be unexpected hazards such as dogs, chickens, cows and children running into the road.
Note that taxis can drop off guests in Kuta but cannot pick up from Kuta. If you are staying in Kuta, the best options are to ride a motorbike or hire a car and driver.
Cars and Motorbikes can be hired in Lombok and driving yourself is easy. Cars drive on the left-hand side of the road (as in the UK).
Car hire can be arranged at the airport and car rental companies in Mataram. However, self-drive car hire isn’t popular in Lombok and most will include a driver. Modern, air-conditioned cars that comfortably seat 4 - 5 people with a driver can be hired for between Rp 600 - 700,000 per day, including petrol and basic insurance.
A private car and driver can be arranged in all the tourism areas, either through your hotel or from talking to the drivers that hang around on the streets looking for customers.
Negotiate a price and what is included in the rate (petrol, duration of hire, waiting time, entrance fees if you are visiting attractions, etc). It’s easy to arrange transport this way, whether for a short trip to a restaurant or a full day of exploring.
Tours are readily available in all the tourist areas, and drivers and guides are licensed by the local Kotasi (tour organisation), who also regulate prices in the industry.
Most tour operators are reliable and will have a wealth of local knowledge, which can make touring a more rewarding experience. It is also the most comfortable way to explore the island, as you have time to sit back and observe, rather than negotiating traffic and unfamiliar roads.
Popular tours, such as day trips to waterfalls or traditional villages, are structured to take in a full day of sightseeing with stops at other points of interest along the way. Tours range between Rp 350 -700,000 a day for a driver and an air-conditioned vehicle for up to 4 passengers, depending on distances and the number of places visited.
* Prices are approximate. Expect to pay higher prices during peak seasons.
Useful Tip: WhatsApp is the most popular messaging service in Indonesia. Download the app to your phone for convenient messaging and phone calls to Lombok businesses wherever there is internet available.
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BEST IN LOMBOK
RIVER TUBING
A fun variation on white water rafting, river tubing involves floating down the river in a giant inflatable tube. Sit back and enjoy the scenery as you float down the lazy river sections and then get ready for the adrenaline to pump when you hit the rapids!
The tubes are actually giant tyre inner tubes and the best tour operators provide webbing that wraps around the tube to create a seat in the bottom, as well as life vests, helmets, and body protection for knees and elbows.
Lombok has some fabulous large rivers to explore and most of these activities take place in West Lombok, around Lingsar and Suranadi or to the east, around Pringgasela.
The half-day adventures usually take in a trek through the jungle or rice fields to reach the river and include lunch and
refreshments. The routes are designed to be enjoyable and challenging, but not dangerous – making river tubing fun and exciting for the whole family!
LOMBOK WILDLIFE PARK
Since it first opened in 2017, Lombok Wildlife Park has become one of the most popular attractions in North Lombok –delighting guests and earning rave reviews on sites like TripAdvisor.
The Park spreads over 4 hectares with two hectares filled with gardens and animal enclosures designed to be as natural as possible.
Many of the creatures who live at the park have been rescued from circuses and zoos, and arrive at the park abused and in poor condition, physically and mentally.
Owners Fellicia and Ketut now dedicate their time to giving them a safe and comfortable place to heal and live out their days happily.
The resident Sumatran Elephants are the stars of the show. Both came from a notorious zoo in Java, where they were forced to perform circus tricks and offer elephant rides for up to 8 hours a day.
Now they live in safety, and are healthy and happy. Elephant rides are not available. Instead, visitors to the park can meet the elephants up close and feed them fruit and vegetables from the fruit baskets available for purchase.
The Park also offers the chance to join the animals in their daily bath and give them a scrub in the mud bath; an activity the elephants obviously love.
Elephant Mud Bath
River Tubing by www.lombokagent.com
The Park’s resident Orangutans from Borneo, Kaka and Kiki, are adorable characters who love to put on a show and the park is also home to Sun Bears, Gibbons, Proboscis Monkeys, cute Pygmy Hippopotamus, a Komodo dragon, and more.
The variety of birds includes cassowary, eagles, cockatoos, and Birds of Paradise, while the nearby snake enclosure houses lizards and large pythons, which are happy to drape themselves over guests for a photo.
The restaurant has a great selection of meals and snacks, cold drinks, juices and milkshakes, as well as serving a delicious afternoon tea.
Lombok Wildlife Park is a “must visit” on your Lombok itinerary… families with kids will love it too! lombokwildlifepark.com
STAY AT AN ORGANIC FARM
Lombok has a good selection of unique stay options for those looking for out-ofthe-ordinary experiences while on holiday.
One such is Saifana Organic Farm – a family-run organic farm located at the foot
of Mt Rinjani near Bayan in North Lombok. Enjoy stunning views of Lombok’s famous volcano as well as ocean views from the five simple but comfortable bungalows on the property.
Guests can learn about organic farming, sample the fruits and vegetables grown on the farm, immerse themselves in the daily rhythms of the local community, and find true peace in the surrounding nature.
Activities include farm and garden tours, cooking classes using home-grown ingredients prepared in the traditional way over a wood fire, discovering the fascinating world of Trigona bees, one of
the smallest stingless bees in the world, and harvesting the honey, learning how cashew nuts are grown and processed, and much more.
Saifana Organic Farm is an ideal base to explore the beauty of North Lombok and the many small villages, forests, waterfalls and mountains in the area. Motorbike hire is available. You can even climb the volcano from here, or rest and recover after your climb.
Saifana is just 20 minutes from Senaru or two hours from Senggigi, so the farm makes a perfect day trip to discover the beautiful north of the island. Join one of the daily workshops or enjoy a farm-totable meal at the restaurant, open every day from 8am to 9pm.
The Saifana experience is one not to pass up if you are looking for a unique, off the grid yet comfortable twist to your vacation. Visit: saifanaorganicfarm.com
*** Getting around Lombok is easy by car or motorbike and you can hire these in all the main tourism areas, with an International Driver’s License. The roads are generally in good condition and traffic is light. Alternatively, hire a car and driver for exploring.
Or take part in the tours and day trips by the many tour agencies on the island offering these tours; just do an internet search for the title (e.g. “waterfall tour Lombok”, “river tubing Lombok”, etc.)
Saifana Organic Farm
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Senggigi, with its strategic location, is not only a wonderful holiday destination but an ideal base for exploring the many attractions that Lombok offers.
Senggigi is the oldest established tourism area on Lombok’s West Coast and many of the hotels and resorts are set on expansive grounds along the beautiful beaches of the west coast. Beachfront dining and beach holidays are a feature of staying in Senggigi.
Its central location, around a one-hour drive northwest of Lombok International Airport, puts Senggigi within easy reach of many of the main attractions on the island.
The waterfalls, golf courses, Lombok Wildlife Park and other attractions in the north are only an hour or so drive away and Bangsal Harbour (the main harbour for
catching boats to the Gilis) can be reached in less than an hour.
The historic attractions of Lingsar and Narmada, and Benang Stokel and Kelambu Waterfalls to the east, are around an hour’s drive from Senggigi, while the cities and shopping are less than an hour away.
Lombok Taxis (the local branch of the Bluebird Taxi group) are readily available in Senggigi and the west coast, so getting around is easy. Download the app or ask your hotel to call a taxi for you.
The Senggigi tourism strip stretches for about 10km, starting a few kilometres before central Senggigi and running north along the coastal road, with many hotels and restaurants positioned along the beautiful beaches and hills that line the west coast.
A few kilometres south of Senggigi, The Hill (locally called The Bukit), is a residential community perched on the hillside in Batu Layar. The homes and villas here feature architectural designs and have magnificent views over the ocean.
Closer to Senggigi, Batu Bolong forms a strip between the historic Batu Bolong Temple and the southern gateway to Senggigi. The beach is lined with small hotels, bars and restaurants and the centre of town is only minutes away.
Pura Batu Bolong (literally meaning “rock with a hole”), is an interesting Hindu temple on a cliff facing Bali across the Lombok Strait. Built on a large rocky outcrop with a hole at the base, from which the temple takes its name, it is said that virgins were once sacrificed to the sea from the seat-like rock at the outermost point.
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One of the most spectacular sights on the island is the sunset viewed from Senggigi and along the west coast, which faces Bali across the ocean. It is a magical sight watching the bright orange sun sinking into the sea and Bali’s Gunung Agung volcano silhouetted on the horizon like a giant pyramid floating in the ocean.
Colourful Hindu ceremonies are held here every month at the dark and full moons, and at Hindu festival times. Admission and rental of a compulsory sarong and temple sash is by donation. This is a great place to watch the sunset, with fantastic views across the ocean to Gunung Agung on Bali Just before the entrance to Senggigi. directly across the road from Café Alberto is the entrance to the Green Valley residential area, popular with expats, where you will find small hotels, Air BnB and cafés within walking distance to town.
Senggigi Beach is the large bay that forms the centrepiece of Senggigi. The main road runs parallel to the beach and large resorts occupy the space between, with Merumatta Senggigi at the southern end and the Sheraton Senggigi Beach Resort at the northern end of the bay.
Continued from Page 16
The beach is a wide protected bay with promontories at each end, and is lovely for swimming and relaxing (but can become crowded on Sundays and public holidays).
Roughly in the centre of the bay is the Senggigi Jetty where the fast boat from Bali arrives and departs. Visiting yachts often anchor in the calm waters of the bay.
In the early mornings, enjoy a stroll along the beach looking out to the ocean dotted with the bright, colourful sails of fishing boats, as the local fishermen return with the day’s catch.
Senggigi Reef, off the southern point in front of Merrumatta, has good coral for snorkelling during high tide. You can wade in directly from the beach.
To the left of the reef, Anjungan is a popular surf spot and, in the right
conditions, has some decent surf breaks. When the tides are high, local surfers can be seen catching the waves here every day. Canoes can be hired from the beach on the weekends and during peak tourism times. Local outrigger boats (perahu) can be chartered from the beachfront for trips along the coast or out to the Gili Islands. In the centre of the bay is the Pasar Seni (Art Markets) with small shops selling handicrafts, clothing, sarongs, jewellery and other souvenirs. Lining the beach side of the Markets are small restaurants for dining. Come for a drink at sunset and enjoy delicious meals from the beachfront restaurants with the waves lapping only metres away.
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Whether you are seeking a tranquil interlude with luxury accommodation at a top resort with fine dining and spa facilities, or a budget holiday with days spent exploring – or all the choices in between – Senggigi caters for all tastes and budgets.
Swim, snorkel, dive, hike, lie in the sun, have a massage, eat and drink at some of the great restaurants and bars in town; or just take a break and be enchanted by the unspoiled beauty of Lombok’s west coast.
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Continued from Page 18
Away from the beach, the main road (Jalan Raya Senggigi) is lined with cafés and restaurants, shops, spas, tour agencies, bars and nightclubs; many of which have live music in the evenings.
There are convenience stores and supermarkets, numerous ATM’s, banks, money changers, a post office and other tourist facilities along the main street.
About 2 km north of central Senggigi, Kerandangan has a popular beach nearby and a road leading into a residential area situated in a pretty valley.
At the end of the road through Kerandangan Valley is the Taman Wisata Alam – Kerandangan Nature Reserve –with hiking paths leading through the rain forest along the river. There is a Ranger’s hut and basic visitors centre near the entrance. The park boasts a small waterfall, pretty river scenery, families of local monkeys, and a variety of tropical plants and birdlife.
Further north, Mangsit has developed as an accommodation alternative to Senggigi, with some of the best boutique hotels
positioned along the breath-taking beaches of this section of coast.
There is good snorkelling in front of Puri Mas Beach Resort at high tide and, when the wind is right, surfers take to the waves in front of Qunci Villas.
Furthest north are Klui, Lendang Luar and Setangi, with a long stretch of pristine beach at Lendang Luar and lovely resorts positioned on each of these beaches.
Mainly deserted white sand beaches, flanked by coconut groves, continue all the way north along the main coastal road.
Malimbu and Nipah are two picturesque bays less than half an hour from Senggigi, which are good for snorkelling, swimming and getting away from it all.
Mangsit Beach by Barbara
Malimbu by Barbara
ANGGREK PUTIH COOKING CLASS & GARDEN TOUR
We had an incredible day at the Anggrek Putih Cooking Class with Chris and the crew. From start to finish, the experience was absolutely fantastic. The farm tour was a great introduction to the fresh ingredients we would be cooking with, and Chris had so much to share about the culture and history of Lombok – it made the day even more enriching.
The cooking class itself was superb. The food we prepared was delicious beyond words, and we learned so much in the process. Chris and his team were so kind, knowledgeable, and attentive. We would highly recommend this class to anyone visiting Lombok – it’s a must-do experience!
Amazing Experience at Anggrek Putih Cooking Class!
Ramadan & Idul Fitri IN LOMBOK
As we go to print this year, Muslims across the world are fasting for month of Ramadan.
Lombok’s Muslim community too will be abstaining from drinking, smoking, and having sex between sunrise and sunset each day. However, if you are staying in the main tourism areas – Senggigi and the west coast, Kuta and the south coast, and on the three Gili Islands – it’s business as usual.
Hotels and resorts are open for business, restaurants serve meals all day, bars are open and still serve alcohol – and planes, ferries, fast-boats and taxis are all operating as usual!
Ramadan is also due to end this month, around 30 - 31 March and, for those who are in Lombok at this time it’s a great opportunity to join in the celebrations!
Idul Fitri (or Eid al-Fitr) – known as Lebaran in Indonesia – is the most important holiday of the year, as the whole nation celebrates the end of the fasting month.
The first two days of Lebaran are especially happy occasions. Similar in spirit to Christmas for westerners, Lebaran is the time for all the family and friends to get together and celebrate.
Around 150 million people will be travelling to reunite with their families in the days before Idul Fitri. This holiday exodus is known as Mudik. People working in the far-off islands, as well as many of those working abroad, will try to come home at this important time – for many it is the only time in the year that the whole family will be together.
For those travelling during this time, it’s important to be aware that flights are often booked out weeks in advance.
Airports, terminals and harbours will be crowded and traffic on the roads will be heavy for the week before and after Lebaran. Expect delays. Peak period is from 24 March to 8 April.
Lebaran is a time of happy reunions and people greet each other, saying “Mohon ma’af, lahir dan batin” – meaning to ask forgiveness for any wrong-doings throughout the previous year. It is a way to let bygones be bygones and to start afresh.
Mosques can be particularly noisy on the night of Takbiran, with drumming and chanting lasting the whole night. Be aware that it may be difficult to sleep if you are staying near a mosque. Closing windows, using the air conditioner, playing soft music or wearing ear plugs will help.
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The Indonesian government estimates that around 150 million people will be travelling across the archipelago over the two weeks of Idul Fitri, returning home for the holidays. This will create a lot of congestion at airports and ports, but mostly on the roads, with millions of people travelling by car, motorbike, bus, truck and any form of transport available. We hope that those who are making the journey for Lebaran take care on the roads and reach home safely.
The first day of Idul Fitri starts with early prayers at the mosque and then the day is spent visiting families and friends; celebrating the end of a successful fast, renewing bonds and eating festive foods together.
People in Lombok will often visit cemeteries together to freshen up the graves of family and friends who have passed away, to pray and remember their spirits at this special time of the year.
Of course, everyone dresses up in their best clothes for the day and many will buy a new special outfit (baju Lebaran) Traditional batik is particularly popular.
In the weeks before Lebaran, you’ll see clothing stalls set up everywhere, and the shops and malls in Lombok are packed with people buying special outfits for the celebrations. Competition is fierce with
A couple of weeks before Lebaran, community groups gather together to construct displays for the parade. These will include models of mosques, holy characters and other Islamic symbols. Some of the floats are quite elaborate, featuring detailed miniature mosques, complete with carefully painted minarets and domes.
discounts and sales, and it’s a good time to pick up a bargain!
There are also special feasts to prepare and tables loaded with festive goodies to share with visiting family and friends. These are served at every house you visit and, as it is impolite to refuse, you will end the day feeling very full!
If you are invited to local homes during this time, don’t miss the opportunity to share in the happiness and feasting on delicious traditional foods and treats!
PAWAI TAKBIRAN, or the Takbiran Parade, is celebrated throughout the towns and villages of Indonesia in recognition of the successful completion of the holy fasting month and heralds the start of Idul Fitri.
Starting in the evening on the last day of Ramadan and continuing throughout the night, bedug drums are beaten at sunset (maghrib) to signal that it is time to break the fast.
The communities then assemble for loud and boisterous parades, which include drumming accompanied by amplified prayer, chanting and lively Islamic music. Takbiran itself is traditionally a “lantern festival”, or a festival of light, and lights feature highly in the parades. Mosques are lit from within, floats glow with fairy lights, and smiling people dressed in traditional Islamic clothing carry huge glowing letters spelling out words from the Qur’an, or glowing stars and hearts.
The largest parade takes place along the main roads in the city and finishes at the Islamic Centre in Mataram.
The parade culminates with thousands of the Takbiran floats lighting up the night as fireworks explode overhead. It’s an awesome sight and the festival atmosphere makes Takbiran a fascinating event to witness.
If you don’t want to make the trip into the city, smaller parades take place along the main roads in all major towns across the island. Check at your hotel where their local Takbiran parade will take place if you’d like to witness the celebrations.
The actual date of Idul Fitri depends on the lunar calendar and varies each year. The dates announced at the time of our going to press are 31 March and 1 April, so Takbiran should take place on the night of 30 March (but may be later by one day). If you are in Lombok close to this time, ask any local person for the exact date.
8 days holiday including weekend Monday, 31 March to Monday 7 April, inclusive.
Also note the prior Friday and Saturday, 28 and 29 March are public holidays for Nyepi.
Idul Fitri is a major holiday in Indonesia and official public holidays run from Monday, 31 March to Monday, 7 April, inclusive. Also factor in that Nyepi takes place on 29 March, so Friday, 28 March is also a public holiday.
This means government offices and banks will be closed from Friday, 28 March until Tuesday, 8 April.
Remember to take this into account for any banking or governmental business at the end of the month – including immigration for passports, visa renewals, exit permits, etc.
Romantic Sunset Cruises
Enjoy
IFTAR… Breaking the fast at Aruna Senggigi Hotel
Aruna Senggigi Hotel is back with a special “breaking the fast programme” called “Serambi Timur Tengah” available during the month of Ramadan.
This menu presents a variety of mouthwatering Middle Eastern specialties such as Briyani Rice, Chicken Tandoori, Roti Maryam, Kunafa, Baklava, Beef Kofta, Mesh Om Ali, and even Chocolate Dubai.
In line with that, Tony Correngel, Executive Chef at Aruna Senggigi said that his team wanted to provide a more special breakingof-the-fast experience by adding menu variations. In addition to various main dishes, the Aruna Senggigi Iftar Package also serves Zam-Zam water from Mecca and various mouth-watering Takjil variants.
Not only Middle Eastern dishes are featured but also Indonesian favourites and specialties from West Nusa Tenggara.
“We continue to strive to provide the best for our guests. This time, we are increasing the variety of Middle Eastern dishes and we will even pamper our guests with the deliciousness of Chocolate Dubai, which is currently popular with the wider community,” said Yeyen Heryawan, General Manager of Aruna Senggigi.
Takjil are small snacks or sweets eaten to break a fast.
In addition to the Iftar feast, Aruna Senggigi Hotel is also offering Henna Art for guests.
“Visitors can decorate their hands with Henna while waiting for the time to break the fast," explained Pak Yeyen.
Guests can enjoy the “Serambi Timur Tengah” package for just IDR 157,000 nett/ person. For early bird orders, guests pay just IDR 127,000 nett/person, plus there is a 50% discount for children aged 6-11 years.
“Serambi Timur Tengah is for culinary lovers who miss enjoying breaking the fast with family and friends. To add to the excitement, Aruna Senggigi also provides various attractive prizes for guests. This gift is one of our forms of appreciation to customers, so that customers can enjoy their breaking fast even more,” Pak Yeyen concluded.
For more information about the Aruna Senggigi Iftar Package, please contact the Reservation Team on WhatsApp: +62 817 777 932 or via Instagram @arunasenggigi.
Nyepi IN LOMBOK
You can see Bali in Lombok... but you can’t see Lombok in Bali!
This old Lombok saying is especially true during Nyepi – the Balinese Hindu “Day of Silence” – when you really can see Bali in Lombok!
Many people assume that Balinese Hindus only live in Bali but, with the two islands being so close together, Balinese settlement on Lombok dates back for centuries. Today, Balinese communities and temples are found all around the west coast and in the cities of Lombok.
Nyepi is one of the most important days in the Balinese calendar and the start of the Hindu New Year. However, Balinese Hindus do not celebrate the new year with lavish parties; they celebrate it with peace and meditation instead, with the aim of entering a new year with a “clean slate”.
This year Hari Raya Nyepi falls on Saturday, 29 March.
In keeping with the traditions of Nyepi, Bali will grind to a halt for 24 hours – from 6.00am on Saturday, 29 March until 6.00am on Sunday, 30 March. This does not happen in Lombok.
Nyepi in Bali is observed by a “day of silence” based on four guiding principles called Catur Berata Penyepian. These four principles specify:
Amati Geni: Prohibiting the lighting of fires, the use of lighting or the satisfaction of pleasurable human appetites.
Amati Karya: Prohibiting all forms of physical work other than those dedicated to spiritual cleansing and renewal.
Amati Lelungan: No journeys or travel; people are required to stay within their residences.
Amati Lelanguan: Prohibiting all forms of entertainment, recreation or general merry-making.
In keeping with the strict traditions of this holy day, activities will grind to a halt in Bali for 24 hours – from 6.00am on 29 March until 6.00am on 30 March.
Bali’s airport is closed for both international and domestic travel during Nyepi and all seaports that connect to Bali are also closed.
No passengers are allowed to land or take off from the airport and ports and, although some technical stops may be allowed, no passenger may disembark or embark during this period.
Domestic flights between Ngurah Rai Airport (Bali) and Lombok International Airport will not operate on Nyepi, nor will public ferries between Padang Bai Harbour (Bali) and Lembar Harbour (Lombok).
If you are planning a trip to Lombok, make sure you leave Bali by 28 March and be sure to book transfers and accommodation well in advance, as many people travel to Lombok and the Gilis during Nyepi.
In Bali, for the 24 hours of Nyepi, hotels are not allowed to check-in or check-out guests. No shops or restaurants are open, and visitors are required to stay within the grounds of their hotels and not leave the premises, except in cases of medical emergency.
Hotels are asked to limit outside lighting out of respect to the surrounding Balinese communities. Guests are asked to keep noise at a minimum. All businesses are closed and the streets are empty. Taxis do not operate on Nyepi and only emergency vehicles are permitted on the roads. The situation is different in Lombok, where the community is made up of a mixture of Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Christians and other religions.
Of course, Lombok’s Hindu community observes Nyepi but the restrictions are not
enforced in Lombok and this quiet time of no noise, lights, travel or work only takes place in the Hindu communities.
Most visitors to Lombok would be unaware of Nyepi practices as shops, restaurants and businesses are open and everything on the island operates as on any normal day.
Pawai Ogoh-ogoh
However, there is one Nyepi tradition that draws the attention of both Lombok’s residents and visitors; this is when Lombok’s Hindu community participate in Ngerupuk or the “Ogoh-ogoh Parade”.
The parade will take place on Friday, 28 March, the day before Nyepi, and is an exciting and noisy procession of fantastic monsters that dance and twist their way along the main streets of Lombok’s capital city, Mataram.
“Ogoh-ogoh” is the name given to the giant monsters representing Hindu creatures of the underworld (known in Balinese as buta kala). Balinese Hindus believe that Ogoh-ogoh will absorb all the negative energy from the guardians of the demon spirits.
In preparation for Nyepi, the Banjar collects money, often with other smaller communities joining with a bigger one to create Ogoh-ogoh together.
The people work together to create the monsters, using bamboo and wire frames, papier-mâché, polystyrene and other materials. Sometimes special artisans are brought in from Bali, gifted in monster making and hired to produce the amazing statues.
Ogoh-ogoh are usually based on evil characters or spirits taken from traditional myths and legends, although more modern monsters include effigies of political characters, or symbolic representations of “the demon within” and evil temptations in the modern world.
In the months before Nyepi, the Hindu community starts to plan their Ogoh-ogoh creations. If you drive around the back streets of Mataram and Cakra over the next couple of weeks, you will see these huge constructions taking shape by the side of the roads.
Each Balinese village, even those in Lombok, is run by a Banjar, a community council that supports and maintains the temples and village environment; as well as mediating problems in the village, etc.
They are often works of art that have taken many hours to create. A simple Ogoh-ogoh may cost as little as one million rupiah to make, but more elaborate figures can cost millions.
The young people of the villages take great delight in competing with other villages to create the most gruesome, terrifying or eyecatching Ogoh-ogoh.
The parade of the Ogoh-ogoh, although a fun and popular event for spectators, is in fact an important ceremony in preparation for Nyepi; representing a type of mass exorcism of evil in order to start the Hindu New Year spiritually pure and clean.
Before the parade, a pemangku (temple priest) holds a ceremony to imbue the buta kala with spirit and power. Some say the monster gets heavier after this ceremony!
The Ogoh-ogoh is then placed on a bamboo frame, so that many people can help to carry it, making wild movements and dancing to bring the monster to life. Groups of people in traditional dress join the parade, taking turns to carry the heavy figures and dancing alongside their Ogohogoh.
Musical groups, gamelan players and dancers in costume often accompany their monster, creating a spectacle of sound and drama.
As evil spirits are believed to inhabit crossroads, particular attention is paid to each intersection, with the Ogoh-ogoh lurching and dancing wildly in the middle of the road to scare off any other evil spirits lurking there.
The parade travels along Jl Pejanggik, the main street in Mataram, and usually involves more than a hundred Ogoh-ogoh and thousands of spectators.
The monsters are then paraded to the Jagadnata Temple in Cakra, or home to their respective Banjar, where they will often be burned in a ritual symbolising the destruction of evil (although these days some of the more elaborate creations are no longer being destroyed).
Most importantly, the Ogoh-ogoh parade has become a multi-cultural event in Lombok, with the whole community joining in the excitement.
It’s not unusual to see Muslim groups and Gendang Beleq troupes playing the big drums of Lombok – and even Chinese Lion Dancers and Hare Krishna groups – marching and laughing alongside the Hindu groups with their monsters.
If you would like to see the parade, join the crowds in the afternoon on Friday, 28 March at around 2pm along Jalan Pejanggik (the main street of Mataram, near Mataram Mall).
The Ogoh-ogoh parade is a fascinating event, full of music, dance, fun and excitement. Spectators are always welcome… be sure to take your camera!
If you are planning a trip to Lombok, make sure you leave Bali by 28 March at the latest and be sure to book transfers and accommodation well in advance, as many people travel to Lombok and the Gilis during Nyepi.
OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY | 9am - 6pm
Jalan Majapahit (opposite PJR Polda) Next to Dr Wahyu Vet - Ampenan FIND US ON GOOGLE MAPS!
ONE THOUSAND PRINCESSES ON PARADE!
The Bau Nyale Festival this year was enlivened by a spectacular pageant of 1,000 “princesses” at the Putri Mandalika Parade held in Kuta Mandalika on Monday, 17 February 2025.
More than a thousand of the best local beauties from all sub-districts in Central Lombok participated, walking gracefully from Kuta Beach Park Mandalika to the Mandalika Bazaar area, showcasing the charm of Lombok's culture and customs in stunning traditional costumes.
Thousands of residents and tourists gathered on the beachfront to watch the parade.
This event was part of a series of Bau Nyale celebrations, centred around Seger Beach, South Lombok between 14 - 19 February.
Bau Nyale is an important cultural tradition in Lombok, which features Princess Mandalika as its heroine. Every year, young ladies from all over Lombok compete to be crowned “Putri (Princess) Mandalika” and represent the island’s most beloved princess for the year.
The Bau Nyale ritual is not only part of the island’s cultural heritage, but also symbolises blessings and hopes for an abundant harvest for the local community.
Thousands of tourists and residents crowded Seger Beach, especially at the peak of the event on Wednesday, 19 February to participate in the ritual of searching for Nyale, a sea worm believed to be the incarnation of Princess Mandalika.
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LOMBOK’S GROWING CRUISE SHIP BUSINESS
Lombok is growing as a cruise ship stopover destination, with around 28 cruise ships expected to visit our island this year.
Cruises to Lombok stop at the Gili Mas Port, near Lembar Harbour in southwest Lombok.
Gili Mas Port is the largest port on Lombok, constructed at a cost of IDR 1.1 trillion between 2016 and 2019. The port began operating in late 2019. The port was specifically built to accommodate large vessels, such as container and cruise ships, which were unable to manoeuvre easily at Lembar Harbour. Gili Mas boasts a 440m long pier, which means that ships can dock directly at the pier, rather than having to use lifeboats to ferry passengers to shore, as was the case at Lembar Harbour previously.
still other passengers choose to organise private tours to different parts of the island, such as Senggigi and Kuta.
“The presence of cruise ships is a breath of fresh air for the tourism sector in NTB. Moreover, the number of tourists on board the cruise ships is quite large,” the Head of the BPPD, Pak Sahlan told reporters at the port recently. “Although the ships usually only stay one night in port, the visits are an important opportunity to showcase the attractions of Lombok to a large number of potential visitors all at once.”
ITDC ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR MANDALIKA IN 2025
The AIDAstella Cruise Ship, part of the AIDA Cruises fleet, docked at Gili Mas Port last month carrying around 2,000 passengers, the majority of whom were from Germany.
This was the 7th ship to dock in Lombok this year, with six ships arriving in January 2025. Another five ships are due to call at Lombok during March, including the huge Anthem of the Seas, carrying 4,825 passengers.
More visits are scheduled in April and October, with five more cruise ship stopovers in both November and December, including the Discovery Princess in November, carrying 4,402 passengers and Crown Princess in December, with 3,674 passengers on board.
Passengers are greeted on arrival with a traditional Gendang Beleq performance and are gifted locally woven scarves as souvenirs, organised by NTB Regional Tourism Promotion Agency (BPPD).
While some passengers choose to stay on board, many take part in tours overseen by the Tourism Board, such as visits to popular tourism attractions on Lombok, while
PT Indonesia Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), manager of The Mandalika development near Kuta in south Lombok, is already making plans to improve the 2025 Indonesia MotoGP to be held at Mandalika International Circuit later this year.
The MotoGP will be held in Lombok on 5 October, 2025, as the 18th series in a total of 22 series to be held this season.
Wahyu Moerhadi Nugroho, General Manager of The Mandalika, told reporters last month that, among other infrastructure improvements, ITDC will make improvements to the Royal Box grandstand at the Mandalika Circuit by increasing the capacity to 500 spectators.
“The pit building facility will be renovated into the Royal Hall, so that it can increase the capacity of spectators for MotoGP 2025 and other international racing events at the Mandalika Circuit,” said Wahyu.
Renovations have also recently been carried out on the canopies of the Grand Stand A, B, C, J, and K grandstands located
in front of the 15th and 16th corners of the Mandalika Circuit.
“Initially, the canopy was not completely closed. Now we have fixed it so that it is completely covered for the comfort of MotoGP 2025 spectators,” he said.
Wahyu also said that ITDC plans to build a hotel, called Bale Seccha, on one hectare of land near the Mandalika Bazaar.
The hotel already has 8 rooms, which are used internally by ITDC, and they plan to add another 30 rooms this year, together with a sports centre for residents and tourists that includes a basketball court, yoga area, tennis court, and spa.
“We propose the development for 2025 to be around Rp 14 billion for the centre,” Wahyu said.
Wahyu also said there are plans to build a boat dock on Kuta Beach, although little is known about these plans as yet.
“ITDC will build a fast boat dock at Kuta Mandalika Beach, which will serve tourists from Bali and Gili Trawangan to the Mandalika area,” he told reporters.
Passengers arriving at Gili Mas Port
LEEZY NEEDS
THE CITIES
The three main cities in Lombok –Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara – have expanded over the years and now merge together to create what is, for Lombok, an urban sprawl of shops, administrative centres and residential areas.
A visit to the cities makes an interesting day trip, exploring the numerous shops selling everything imaginable from everyday items to gold and pearls, and to the Lombok Epicentrum Mall – Lombok’s main shopping mall.
There are many pearl shops in Ampenan and the nearby village of Sekarbela that sell unset pearls and pearl jewellery at attractive prices. These are genuine pearls – some cheap quality from China and more expensive ones farmed in Lombok and Sumbawa. If you bargain the price, you can usually get a good deal.
There are gold shops in both Ampenan and Cakra. The gold sold in Lombok, as with most Asian cities, is 24 karat gold and is sold by the gram at current market price. For cheap and interesting food choices, explore the many restaurants, warung (local cafés) and food stalls in the cities. Especially in the late afternoon, stalls set up along the main streets selling fresh fish and seafood grilled over hot coals and coated with spicy sauce, satay skewers with spicy peanut sauce, and many other
kinds of local street food.
Or just wander around the streets to soak up the atmosphere and discover fascinating insights into Lombok life!
Ampenan was the original port in Lombok during Dutch colonial times and some of the old architecture is still visible around the town, particularly toward the beach to the west, where the remnants of the port are slipping into the sea.
main post office, and Mataram University downtown.
The streets become a market at night, filled with warung and kaki lima (food carts) for cheap, tasty food and local flavour.
Pasar Kebun Roek, just near the traffic lights in Ampenan (near the intersection to Senggigi), is the site of the local markets. Every day traders set up stalls selling fresh produce from around the island, local snacks and products, live chickens and fresh fish in the afternoon when the fishing boats come in. A stroll through the markets is a pungent and enlightening experience!
Mataram, about 3 km to the east of Ampenan, is the administrative centre for Lombok and Sumbawa (NTB Province), with government offices, banks, mosques, schools and colleges, bookstores, the
In Mataram, the Nusa Tenggara Barat (NTB) Museum houses historical and cultural artefacts from Lombok and Sumbawa. It’s an interesting place to visit and occasionally hosts special exhibits. Displays include exhibits on geology, history and culture. Address: Jl Panji Tilar, Taman Sari. The Museaum is open from 8am to 3pm and there is a small admission fee.
Cakranegara (usually abbreviated to “Cakra”) is Lombok’s main shopping area. It is also home to many Chinese and Balinese, who make up over 50 percent of the city’s population. The streets of the city make an interesting walk with gold shops, sporting goods, clothing and fabric stores selling imported silks, laces and cottons, to name a few.
There is a local market at the main intersection in Cakra; turn right at the traffic lights and look for the entrance to the market on the left. Inside is a labyrinth of stalls selling everything from woven baskets to fresh flowers and local food.
The next large town east of Cakra is Sweta. The Bertais Bus Terminal is located here for connections to the east of the island and beyond. Near the bus terminal there is a huge local market every day with all kinds of goods on sale, from foodstuffs to clothing, exotic birds, handicrafts and more.
Shopping
Lombok Epicentrum Mall on Jl Sriwijaya (see cities map) is Lombok’s most modern shopping centre with four floors of retail outlets. The large, clean and air-conditioned complex houses a Hypermart Supermarket and a Matahari Department Store, as well as a Cinema XXI Movie Theatre.
On the second floor, you’ll find a wonderland for young people and families, with Funtopia and Time Zone entertainment arcades, Play and Learn, Toys City toy shop, and children’s shops.
International brands include UNIQLO, KKV, Adidas, Birkenstock, Puma, Billabong, and more.
There is a well-stocked Ace Hardware store, an Informa furniture store, a Mr DIY discount store, a Sociolla cosmetics outlet and several pharmacies. Other retailers sell a wide variety of fashion including brand name stores, shoes, electronics, sporting goods, and much more.
Food outlets include Burger King, KFC, J. Co, Starbucks, Kimukatsu, Pepper Lunch, Wendy’s and Pizza Hut, as well as many local eateries.
“Epicentrum” as it is known, makes a fun day out if you want some retail therapy and to pick up a bargain. It is also great for families, with entertainment and kids’ activities and a good movie theatre, as well as the fast-food options that they might be missing on holiday.
Nearby Temples and Places of Interest
It’s possible to combine a trip to the cities with a visit to some of the historic sites in the area.
Pura Meru on Jl Selaparang, Cakranegara, was built in 1720 by Balinese
Prince Anak Agung Made Karang and is the largest temple on Lombok. Its three meru are for the Hindu trinity – Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma.
This is an important temple for the Balinese here and its annual Pujawali festival, held over five days during the full moon in September or October, is the biggest Balinese Hindu event on Lombok.
The outer courtyard hall has large drums used to announce ceremonies and festivals. In the central courtyard are two buildings with raised offering platforms. The interior enclosure has 33 shrines as well as the three multi-tiered meru.
Entry is Rp 20,000 per person, which includes the loan of a temple sash.
Pura Mayura, just across the street from Pura Meru, was built in 1744 as the court temple of the last Balinese kings in Lombok. An open hall or bale kambang (floating pavilion) stands in the middle of a large artificial lake here and an interesting temple is sheltered under huge old trees at the rear of the lake.
The gardens and the adjoining Pura Jagatnatha temple complex are a peaceful place to escape the bustle of the city and well worth exploring. Do use a guide to get the most out of your visit and understand the interesting history of the park.
Taman Mayura is open every day, from 8am to 8pm; entry is Rp 20,000 per person. The gardens are popular on weekends so the best time to visit is during the weekdays.
Continued from Page 40
Meru Temple
Lombok Epicentrum Mall
THE SOUTH COAST
Visitors are drawn to the south for the raw beauty of the southern coastline, stunning beaches and scenery, almost year-round sunshine… as well as some of the best surf breaks in Indonesia!
Located around 60 km south of Mataram, Kuta (sometimes spelt Kute) is the main town and tourism centre on the south coast of Lombok, and is the gateway for exploring the fantastic south coast and the many places of interest in the region.
The Lombok International Airport (LIA) is the only commercial airport on Lombok and is located just 25 minutes’ drive north of Kuta, making access to the south very easy.
The proximity to the airport and the construction of the Mandalika Circuit has sparked an investment boom in the area over the past couple of years and Kuta has transformed into a vibrant town, with many new hotels, restaurants and cafés catering to increasing numbers of visitors.
The Mandalika Circuit – officially called Pertamina Mandalika International
Street Circuit – was completed in 2021 and currently hosts World Superbike and MotoGP racing events, drawing thousands to the island during race times.
The Mandalika Resort development, with its plans for luxury hotels, villas and supporting facilities spread over 1000 hectares of prime land, will further transform the south coast in coming years.
Kuta is an area that is rapidly developing – residential areas are spreading, international schools have opened to serve the growing expatriate community, and shopping, services and supporting infrastructure continues to grow.
In the past, Kuta offered mainly low budget hotels catering to the thousands of surfers from around the world who were drawn to the area every year.
These days, there is a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes – from simple hostels and medium range hotels to wonderful boutique resorts and luxurious villas tucked away on the side streets.
At present, Kuta boasts two large resorts: the Novotel Lombok and Pullman Mandalika Lombok Resort. Both are located on the beach just outside of town and offer a range of accommodation from comfortable hotel rooms to spacious suites and villas, some with private swimming pools.
As with accommodation options, new restaurants and eateries have sprung up in the area and are arguably among the best in Lombok. These offer a range of choices – Mediterranean, Seafood, Japanese, Mexican, Chinese, vegan and gluten free, home-made cakes and breads – foodies are truly spoilt for choice!
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Kuta offers a full range of tourist facilities from motorbike hire, car rental and tours, surf lessons, surfboard hire and repair. There is a Fresh Market supermarket and various mini-markets, boutiques and shopping, as well as spas, a hair dressing salon, ATM facilities, and more.
Surfing is one of the main reasons to visit Kuta and the town attracts thousands of visitors every year for the great surf locations at Gerupuk, Ekas, Tanjung Aan, Are Guling and more. It’s easy to hire a board and a surf guide from here to learn surfing or, for experienced surfers, to access the more challenging surf breaks in the area. There are surf coaches for hire, as well as surf schools and camps throughout the year.
Apart from surfing and days spent hanging out at fabulous beaches, there are many other attractions to explore. The drive between Kuta and the airport reveals
interesting rural villages and farming communities where fields of tobacco, corn and peanuts line the roadsides and farmers till the fields using antiquated ploughs pulled by large water buffalo.
Nearby are two traditional Sasak villages – Sade and Rambitan – with authentic clusters of thatched Lumbung, or rice barns, and traditional homes made of thatch and bamboo, with hardened cow and buffalo dung floors.
Both villages have been updated and cater to the tourist market, but there are still interesting examples of traditional Sasak architecture and
communal living within the compounds, where life continues as it has for centuries.
Residents, who act as guides for a small fee, encourage walks through either of these villages and are happy to share a glimpse of their lifestyles with visitors.
Also nearby are pottery villages with nice examples of earthenware pots and home décor, and villages that weave traditional
fabrics (tenun ikat) using old backstrap looms and techniques passed down through generations.
Otherwise, hire a car or motorbike and you can spend days visiting stunningly beautiful beaches, both to the east and west of Kuta.
Photo by 360 Surf Academy
Just east of Kuta is Seger Beach (sometimes called Mandalika Beach, after the legendary Princess Mandalika – a beloved character in Sasak folklore who is believed to have sacrificed herself from the rocks overlooking the beach for the good of her people).
It is here that thousands of people gather every year to celebrate the colourful ritual of Bau Nyale, when masses of sea worms spawn in the waters offshore.
There are great views from the beach and even better views if you climb the surrounding hills. There are small stalls selling drinks and snacks to enjoy after taking a swim or a stroll to enjoy the views.
Tanjung Aan, around 5km east of Kuta, is a long picturesque beach with a wide arc of white sand, perfect aquamarine water and shady trees on the shore. There are a number of warung or beach cafés along the beach
selling cold drinks and beer, as well as snacks and simple meals. Many have sun lounges on the beach and guests are welcome to spend the day swimming in the calm waters and relaxing with a drink or meal.
The water at Tanjung Aan is calm and clear, with a white sandy bottom making it fantastic for swimming. There are also perahu (local outrigger boats) available for hire, offering trips around the bay and to the nearby surf breaks.
There is a small hill (Bukit Antara) towards the east end with steps cut into the side. It’s an easy climb to the top for lovely views and you can watch the surfers catching the waves offshore.
On the far western end of the beach is Bukit Merese – a larger hill and a slightly tougher climb – but worth the effort for the fantastic views from the top. It is popular in the late afternoon, when everyone climbs up to see the spectacular sunsets.
on Page 50
Tanjung Aan by Barbara
Further east of Tanjung Aan is Gerupuk – well known as a top surf location and situated on a peninsula of land that juts out into the ocean.
The bay is used for fishing and lobster farming and is filled with local boats, which ferry avid surfers to no fewer than five surf breaks nearby.
Gerupuk is also evolving and offers a range of accommodation and cafés to cater to the growing tourist trade.
The beaches and wonderful scenery continues all the way to the east coast, with fantastic places such as Bumbang, Awang Bay, Ekas and Pantai Surga (Heaven Beach)… the name says it all!
In the opposite direction, heading west from Kuta, are another series of beautiful
beaches and bays hidden behind headlands and rolling hills, providing peaceful and secluded spots for picnics and swimming. All are within easy day trips of Kuta.
Are Guling is popular with surfers, with left- and righthand reef breaks as well as a beach break for beginners. There are great views over the bay and to the small island of Gili Nusa off-shore.
Are Guling has accommodation, mainly catering to surfers, and a number of local cafés, including a couple of places on the beach.
Mawun Beach is around 30 minutes’ drive to the west and is an almost circular bay with small green headlands rolling into the ocean from either side. It is a spectacular beach with calm blue waters, perfect for
swimming and spending a day lazing on the white sand. There are stalls on the beach selling drinks, snacks and simple meals.
Mawi, around another 7km to the west, is for experienced surfers and has good right- and left-hand barrels for surfing when the swell is large enough.
For non-surfers, if you can brave the treacherous road, it is a lovely beach surrounded by small hills, with impressive views; look for the three pinnacles of rock jutting out of the ocean.
Photo by 360 Surf Academy
Tanjung Aan by Barbara
Mawun Beach by Barbara
Selong Belanak is a long sweeping bay framed on each end by headlands and surrounded by rolling hills. The beach is lovely for swimming and has good waves for body surfing, as well as being popular for beginners surfing lessons.
There are many small stalls selling drinks and snacks, as well as offering surf lessons and surf board hire on the beachfront.
Sempiak Seaside Resort has plush villas, some with private pools, perched on the hillside overlooking the bay with breathtaking panoramic views.
Laut Biru Restaurant and Bar at the resort is right on the beachfront with lovely views. It is a popular place for a stop –and justifies a day trip in itself – serving delicious snacks and meals under shady trees on the beach.
Selong Belanak is another area undergoing a lot of growth, mainly due to the popularity of the beach and the wonderful landscapes of the area. Here you will find many small hotels and private villas, as well as interesting cafés and shops to explore.
Bruga Villas Restaurant & Spa, on the main road leading to the beach, is a small boutique hotel offering exceptionally
good value accommodation with eight large, comfortable and modern rooms surrounding a central swimming pool.
There is a roadside coffee shop serving delicious cakes and barista coffees and, upstairs at Surf Kitchen, enjoy fresh sea breezes and tasty western and Asian meals, full bar service and cold beers.
There is also the Bruga Wine and Spirits bottle shop on site, with a good selection of takeaway wine, beer and spirits, as well as a range of snacks and general supplies. Free delivery is available if you are staying at one of the villas in the area.
If you are staying elsewhere, Selong Belanak and the surrounding beaches make a great day trip, with lunch and a swim here as the highlights of your day.
Further west are more beaches to explore – Serangan, Torok, Nambung, Pengantap and more – many of them undergoing some type of development as investors recognize the potential of this gorgeous area.
Further west stils are the picturesque bays of Sepi and Belongas, and many more scenic beaches along the way; all are mostly deserted.
Steeped in history and legend, surrounded by beaches of almost surreal beauty, the south coast is a fascinating area to visit, whether your interests are historical and cultural, in search of the perfect wave, or just the opportunity to see and explore some of the most beautiful and pristine coastal scenery in Indonesia.
Sunset at Selong Belanak Beach
CONTACTS
EMERGENCY SERVICES
Lombok Police (POLRES NTB): Jl Gajah Mada 7, Mataram. Emergency No: 110 Emergency Rescue (RSU Mataram) Ph: 0370 620009 / 0877 7757 7119
HOSPITALS (Rumah Sakit)
Siloam Hospitals Mataram
Jl Majapahit 10 Mataram | Phone: 0370 600 1100 / 0878 8590 8372.
Emergency: 1-500-911
Rumah Sakit Harapan Keluarga
Jl Ahmad Yani 9, Selagalas. Ph: 0370 6177000 / 0813 5353 7941. Emergency 0859 3096 5695. Mataram Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Mataram)
Jl Bung Karno No 3 Pagutan. Phone: 0370 640774 / 0877 7757 7119
NTB Province Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Propinsi)
Jalan Prabu Rangkasari, Dasan Cermen Phone: 0818 988 119
Central Lombok Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Praya)
Jl H Lalu Hasyim, Tiwugalih, Praya. Phone: 0877 4343 6738
Mandalika Hospital
Jl Kuta-Lombok, Sengkol, Pujut Phone: 0878 1359 4055
Emergency: 0812 3775 6717. East Lombok Public Hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Dr R Sudjono)
Jl Professor M Yamin No 55, Selong, East Lombok. Phone: 0817 7523 0033
Biomedika Hospital
Jl Bung Karno 143, Mataram. Phone: 0370 645137
Risa Sentra Medika Hospital
Jl Pejanggik 115, Cakranegara. Phone: 0370 625560 | 632117
DENTISTS (Dokter Gigi)
Drg Farida Istiarini, Sp.Ort (Joli Sourire Dental Care)
1st Floor at Lombok Epicentrum Mall. Jl Sriwijaya, Mataram. Ph: 0878 6490 1535 Ritz Aesthetic Dental Care
Jl. Bung Karno No.35b, Cilinaya, Mataram. Ph: 0878 8833 4000
Drg Yuanita
Jl Sriwijaya (opposite Kura-Kura Waterpark), Mataram. Ph: 0812 3763 156
Drg. Mumu
Jl Bung Hatta 14, Mataram. Ph: 0853 3730 7008
Drg. Sumi
Mandalika Medicare. Jl Raya Kuta. Ph: 0852 5521 8362
VETS (Dokter Hewan)
Dr Wahyu
Jl Sriwijaya (next to Town Palace), Mataram. Ph: 0370 6160300
Dr Hanifah
Jl Majapahit 37A. Ph: 0821 4100 0965
Dr I Gede Sudiana
Jl Sadewa 9, Cakra. Ph: 0878 6585 6260
Dr Ajus Ph: 0878 6441 3232
Dr Yoses Kristianto
Jl Pabean, Ampenan. Ph: 0819 99831337
Dr Dwi Ph: 0878 6477 0490
Dr Irfan Ph: 0817 579 0834
Dr Nurul (Kuta) Ph: 0818 0366 2612
TAXI
Blue Bird Taxi: 0370 627000 / 08111 794 1234
IMMIGRATION
Jl Udayana, Mataram, Ph: 0370 632520
PUBLIC SERVICES
ELECTRICITY
PLN Mataram. Ph: 0370 643123
PLN Ampenan. Ph: 0370 622793
TELKOM (Phone/Internet) Ph: 147 Directory Assistance (Phone Numbers): Ph: 108
CONSULATES
AUSTRALIA
Phone: 0361 2000100. Emergency: +61 26261 3305. Email: Bali.congen@dfat.gov.au
BELGIUM
Phone: 0343 740274. Emergency: 021 3162030. Email: stefaan.vancolen@st-group.com
BRAZIL
Phone: 0361 8446530. Emergency: 0821 44440018. Email: renato@bythesea.co.id
BRITAIN
Phone: 021 23565200. Email: john.makin@ fco.gov.uk / ika.larasyati@fco.gov.uk
CHILE
Phone: 021 3199 7201 / 02
Email: yakarta@consulado.gob.cl
CHINA
Phone: 0361 239902. Email: chinaconsul_dps_id@mfa.gov.cn
DENMARK
Phone: 081 1398 0220 / 021 5761487
Email: bali@umgate.dk
ESTONIA
Emergency: 0811 987111. Email: bharat@consul-estonia.or.id
FINLAND, SWEDEN & NORWAY
Phone: 0361 282223. Emergency: 0817 9723658. Email: finnishconsulatebali@yahoo.com / sweconsul@yahoo.com / norwegianconsulatebali@yahoo.com
FRANCE & TIMOR LESTE
Phone: 0361 9345862. Emergency: 021 23557600. Email: consul@dps.centrin.net.id
GERMANY
Phone: 0361-288535. Emergency: 0812 3913938. Email: sanur@hk-diplo.de
HUNGARY
0361 425924. Emergency: 081 2385 3781 / 082 144 933 506.
Email: hubaliconsul@gmail.com
INDIA
Ph. 0361 259502/3. Emergency: 081353846936. Email: cg.bali@mea.gov.in / cons.bali@ mea.gov.in
ITALY
Phone: 0361 701005. Emergency: 081 2390 4471. Email: italconsbali@italconsbali.org
JAPAN
Phone: 0361 227628. Emergency: 0361 227628. Email: denpasar@dp.mofa.go.jp
MEXICO
Phone: 0361 223266, 0361 245828. Emergency: 0361 288218. Email: yudhara@astinatravel.com
NEW ZEALAND
Phone: 0361 8446456. Emergency: 0819 99477552. Email: indy.honcondibali@gmail.com
POLAND
Phone: 0361 263967 / 081 238 78324. Emergency: 0811 389449. Email: iblolec@pacificworld.com
RUSSIA
Emergency: 021 5222912 SLOVAK REPUBLIC
Phone: 0361 9005583. Emergency: 0811810680. Email: konsulslowakbali@yahoo.com SOUTH AFRICA Ph: 0361 751223. Emergency: 081510533842. Email: info@bagus-discovery.com
SPAIN
Phone: 0853 3838 5008. Emergency: 081 38004 1258. Email: honorary.cspainbali@gmail.com
SRI LANKA
Phone: 0361 728483. Email: citrabaliide@yahoo.co.id
SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA
Phone: 0361 264149 / 021 5256 061. Helpline: +41 800 247 365 Email: bali@honrep.ch
THAILAND
Phone: 081 238 25542. Emergency: 021 2932 8190. Email: rtcdps@yahoo.com
TUNISIA
Ph: 021 52892328/29. Email: tunisconsulbali@popodanes.org THE NETHERLANDS Phone: 0361 761502. Email: dutchconsulate@kcbtours.com USA
Ph: 0361 233605 / 021 5083 1000. Email: CABali@state.gov
THE SOUTHWEST COAST & SECRET ISLANDS
Southwest Lombok boasts long meandering coastlines of pristine white sand beaches and sparkling ocean, with rarely a person to be seen. Off the coast, thirteen small islands - the Southwest Gilis - float in the turquoise waters just waiting to be discovered.
Unlike the famous ‘Gili Islands’ in northwest Lombok, the Southwest Gilis are largely uninhabited and have yet to be discovered by most travellers... that’s why we call them ‘The Secret Gilis’!
The picturesque Southwest region begins from Sekotong, just south of Lembar Harbour, and features stunning beaches and bays set against a backdrop of rolling green hills.
The drive down the southwest coast is an enjoyable trip, meandering through villages where life is largely untouched by tourism and where the people are involved in their day-today activities of farming, fishing, brick-making and other traditional pastimes.
Situated on a wide, placid bay in Sekotong is the peaceful village of Taun (sometimes called Tawun). The sea is sparkling turquoise and the dazzling white sand stretches in a wide sweep around the bay.
Accommodation at Taun has grown over the past few years and there are now small hotels, villas and home stays overlooking the bay. It’s easy to base yourself on the mainland and take
boat trips to explore all the southwest islands from here.
Just out in the bay are the three lovely islands of Gili Nanggu, Gili Tangkong and Gili Sudak (and the tiny island of Gili Kedis) – all easily accessible by local outrigger boats. A small sign in the nearby village will direct you to the local boat hire area, where you can arrange boat trips out to Gili Nanggu and the other islands.
Island-hopping tours usually stop at Gili Nanggu, Sudak and Kedis, which all have good snorkelling from the shore.
Back on the main road and travelling a little further south, before the marine culture complex (Balai Budaya Laut), there is a small dirt road leading out onto a white peninsular of sand that juts
into beautiful clear waters. Drive to the end for superb views and a close up look at Gili Genting.
Gili Genting sits just off the tip of the peninsular and at low tide you can walk across the sandbar and explore this uninhabited island. Old volcanic rocks and stone carved from centuries of tidal flow create small caves and alcoves, providing shelter for picnics and interesting nooks and crannies to explore.
Further south is the village of Tembowong. There are a few cafés and places to eat here. Nearby is a parking area and a small jetty – the site for catching boats out to Gili Gede, only a few minutes across the water.
Gili Gede
Gili Gede: The largest of the islands in the area is Gili Gede, appropriately meaning ‘Big Island’ in the local language. The island lays just offshore and is so large visitors often mistake it for part of the mainland.
Gili Gede is developing as the main hub for the Southwest Gilis, as it is one of the few islands in the area that has a choice of accommodation, making it an ideal base for exploring the other nearby islands.
Ko - ko - mo Gili Gede Resort is the sister resort to the renowned ko - ko - mo Resort on Gili Trawangan. The luxurious resort, comprising 1- and 2-bedroom villas with private swimming pools, and one bedroom Villa Kecil (small villas), is spread out over spacious grounds on a pristine beachfront.
All modern comforts such as air conditioning and ceiling fans, flat screen televisions with satellite channels and DVD, Wi-Fi, fresh (not salt) hot water, plentiful power points for charging devices, and more are provided in each villa.
Facilities at the resort include a tennis court, a small gym, a resort swimming pool and purpose-built Spa facility, and a beachfront restaurant.
Guests at the restaurant can enjoy upmarket dining with a menu prepared from fresh locally-sourced seafood, imported Australian meats and in-house breads and bakery items. There is also an outstanding wine and drinks list.
Ko - ko - mo has a purpose-built jetty at the front of the resort and operate their own fast boat service – ‘Gili Getaway’ –making Gili Gede easily accessible from Bali.
Perched on the hilltop just to the north of ko - ko - mo is Villa Selalu, a private luxury retreat that enjoys outstanding 360º views of the stunning surroundings.
Continued from Page 56
The fully serviced 4-bedroom villa boasts unparalleled luxury with all mod cons and ultra-chic furnishings. Guests can enjoy a number of indoor and outdoor living areas, as well as an 18m infinity pool overlooking the ocean surrounded by a spacious deck, BBQ area and lounging pavilion.
Villa Selalu has a private beachfront and a boathouse equipped with snorkelling gear, sea kayaks, paddle boards and bikes to make the most of your holiday.
Individual rooms are available or rent the villa in entirety for the ultimate island escape!
The High Dive Resort, Gili Gede is the only PADI 5-star certified dive resort in Southwest Lombok and is the perfect choice for those wishing to learn to dive in a small, personalised setting with highly experienced dive masters and instructors. Whether you are learning to dive, upgrading skills, or just wish to explore an area with pristine reefs, a vast variety of underwater life, and uncrowded diving locations – the High Dive Resort is for you.
The luxurious beachfront bungalows at the resort all feature ocean views and boast king-sized beds, air conditioning, modern bathrooms and a spacious private deck overlooking the beach. There is also a comfortable two-bedroom apartment for families and larger groups.
The restaurant and bar are located on the beach, serving delicious local and international cuisine, with refined vegetarian options and full bar service available. Dining here is a true castaway experience with bare feet in the sand and enchanting views across the water to the nearby islands.
Other accommodation options on the island include some lovely mid-range resorts as well as cottages and home stays with simple accommodation for budget travellers.
Marina Del Ray, on the south of the island, is an Australian-operated yacht marina with a long jetty extending into deep, protected waters offering safe anchorage year-round for visiting boats.
Continued on Page 60
VILLA SELALU
Gili Gede, Lombok
Villa Selalu is a private luxury hilltop retreat on beautiful Gili Gede that enjoys 360-degree, uninterrupted views of a truly unique and untouched part of the world. The villa offers four king-size bedrooms each with marble ensuites and can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests.
Whether booking one bedroom as a couple, or two or more bedrooms as a group, enjoy the villa exclusively for your stay.
. private jetty .18m infinity pool . private white sand beach . hilltop bbq pavilion . entertainment room . WIFI . commercial kitchen . spacious open plan living . fully air conditioned . tv’s in bedrooms . ceiling fans throughout . hilltop breakfast pavilion . fully catered . dedicated manager and staff. bespoke furnishings & amenities . beach lounges . beach café & bar . bikes . snorkelling gear . kayaks and stand-up paddleboards
ENQUIRIES: bookings@villaselalugiligede.com | www.villaselalugiligede.com | +61 411 031 607
The marina offers customs, immigration, and port control facilities as well as fuel supplies, moorings, provisioning, and repairs. There is also a Yacht Club, with restaurant and accommodation available.
Gili Gede is large enough to provide a range of activities such as hiking to the hills in the centre for fantastic views across the other islands, exploring deserted beaches and hidden coves, and meeting the people living on the island, who are very friendly and, as yet, unspoilt by tourism.
To the south of Gili Gede, the islands of Gili Ringgit, Layar and Asahan are lined up like secret treasures in the calm sea.
Bounty Cruises, a Bali-based company, own a large parcel of land on Gili Ringgit and constructed a pier on the island some years ago. There is good snorkelling on the west side of Gili Ringgit, accessed by boat. Large gardens of hard and soft corals lay just beneath the surface and the reef extends along most of the island’s coast. On the other side of the island is where the pier is located, is a fantastic white sand beach.
It’s easy to snorkel offshore, just north of the pier and, although the reef isn’t as large as on the other side of the island, there is still plenty to see.
Visitors are astounded by the pristine conditions and huge schools of turtles seen near Gili Layar – the island between Gili Ringgit and Gili Asahan.
Bright blue starfish drape themselves across patches of coral, and bright yellow and black Moorish Idols dart through the water. Schools of hundreds of small iridescent fish swim past and weirdlyshaped squid drift by in the deeper areas.
Slightly further south, beautiful Gili Asahan attracts visitors with its deserted white sand beaches, clear calm waters and swaying palm trees. There is very good snorkelling just off-shore.
Leaving Gili Asahan and back on the mainland, continue south on the coastal road until you come to a main intersection. A signpost to the left leads to the spectacular large bay at Mekaki. The road to the right leads to Labuhan Poh and Pelangan.
the beach is buzzing with surfers, but otherwise it is a remote and peaceful area. Bali is clearly visible, with the island of Nusa Penida only about an hour’s sail away.
The drive to the point is dotted with bucolic scenery and tiny villages, making it a worthwhile trip even for non-surfers. There is basic surfer accommodation in the area and plans for development in the near future.
There are small home-stays and private accommodations spaced out along the road to Bangko-Bangko – known as Desert Point and the surfing Mecca for those in the know – located on the far southwest tip of Lombok.
The wide white sand bay is lined with fisherman’s huts and draws hundreds of surfers every year from as far away as Hawaii and Brazil to challenge the huge waves of Desert Point, just offshore.
Although the road deteriorates after Labuhan Poh, it is still passable for most vehicles in the dry season. During the surfing season, from mid-May to September and again in December,
The dive sites of the Southwest reflect a good cross-section of what Indonesian diving has to offer. Dive in and be fascinated by turtles, white tip reef sharks, cuttlefish, moray eels and many other varieties of marine life.
The reefs are full of colourful corals, which harbour an amazing variety of marine life, including ghost pipe fish, leaf fish, pygmy seahorses and much more.
For non-divers, the islands are a delight for snorkelling – abundant coral reefs lay just below the surface waiting to be explored, filled with thousands of brightly coloured tropical fish, huge sprawling blue starfish and magical turtles gently gliding through the water.
It’s easy to imagine hotels and resorts on all these beaches and islands in the future but for now, the Southwest is unspoilt and the Gilis remain the secret islands stunningly beautiful, pristine and unique, and visited only by the lucky few.
times a week.
Gili Getaway is fast, comfortable and equipped with safety features to ensure guests’ comfort when travelling between the islands, and is the best option for easy and quick access to Gili Gede and the Southwest Gilis. www. giligetaway.com
Gili Getaway Fast Boat Service: Gili Getaway operates a convenient fast boat service between Bali and Gili Gede three