Lombok is an island in the West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia.


Lush Balinese resort garden, Senggigi[edit] Cities
Bangsal - little harbor servicing the Gili Islands
Kuta - a surfing mecca like its Bali namesake, but that's where the similarities end
Lembar - for boats to Bali
Mataram - the largest city by far
Senggigi - the main tourist strip, including the neighboring beach of Mangsit
[edit] Other destinations
Gili Islands - three islands off the west coast, popular with backpackers
Gili Sulat - two off-the-beaten-path small islands off the east coast
Mount Rinjani - large, active volcano looming over the island
[edit] Understand
Located just east of Bali, Lombok has been promoted as "an unspoiled Bali" for quite some time, with beautiful beaches and the large, looming volcano of Mount Rinjani. However, an impending tourism boom was severely disrupted by riots in 2000, when mobs of Muslims and ethnic Sasak people, ostensibly protesting sectarian violence in Maluku, attacked and looted churches as well as homes and businesses owned by Christians and ethnic Chinese. The ensuing years have been quieter, but tourists have continued to stay away.

The more Islamic culture in Lombok compared than Bali may explain the reason why Lombok is quieter than Bali in terms of parties and nightlife, which can be either a positive or a negative depending on your point of view. Lombok is also becoming increasingly popular for honeymooners.

[edit] Culture
Lombok's people are 85% Sasak, culturally and linguistically closely related to the Balinese, but unlike Bali's Hindu they are Muslims. A notable non-orthodox Islamic group found only on Lombok are the Wektu Telu ("Three Prayers"), who as the name suggests pray only three times daily, instead of the five times required in the Quran.

[edit] Climate
While tropical, hot and humid, Lombok is drier than neighboring Bali, which makes it a particularly attractive option during the October-December rainy season (it rains on Lombok too, but rarely for more than an hour). The peak of the tourist season, though, is May through August.

[edit] Talk
The main local language is Sasak. Bahasa Indonesia is universally spoken and English is common in the resort areas.

[edit] Get in
[edit] By plane
Lombok's only airport is Mataram's Selaparang Airport (AMI), which occasionally also shows up in flight schedules as "Ampenan" (hence the seemingly odd airport code). There are frequent connections to Denpasar on Bali (30 min) and Surabaya (1 hour) on Garuda, Merpati and Germania Trisakti ("GT Air"), but only a single flight per day to Jakarta or Yogyakarta (both on Garuda). International flights are limited to Kuala Lumpur daily on Merpati and Singapore thrice weekly on Silk Air, with visas available on arrival. Lombok Network maintains a useful, mostly-updated flight schedule listing all flights to the island.

[edit] By boat
Slow boats from Padang Bai on Bali leave about every hour for the four- to five-hour trip to Lembar (Rp 25,000). The slow ferries are a bit rusty and dusty, with minimal restroom facilities, and are used mostly by locals, with few tourists on board. Access to the passenger deck is usually from the vehicle deck via steep and narrow stairs, so maneuvering heavy luggage is a challenge. Would-be porters wait by the docks, and will happily carry your stuff for Rp 10,000 per item. Sometimes they insist on doing so even when you don't ask. They can be a bit intimidating, and sometimes try to overcharge. Lots of Kuta travel agents offer end-to-end transport, including a van ride from your Bali hotel to Padang Bai, the ferry ticket, and a ride from the dock on Lombok to your ultimate destination, for Rp 130,000 and up depending on where you are going in Lombok.

Fast ferries run from Benoa on Bali to Lembar on Lombok twice daily in season, one daily in the off season. The trip takes just 2 hours but costs US$25/30 depending on class. Perama Tour also runs daily cruises from Padang Bai directly to Senggigi for Rp120,000.

[edit] Get around

Perahu fishing boats, Gili Trawangan[edit] By bemo
Bemos (converted passenger-carrying minivans) are the main means of long-distance transport on Lombok. They can be hailed down on all larger streets, and will happily take you even short hops around Senggigi. Fares are cheap: for example, as of November 2005 the official fare from Mataram to Senggigi is Rp. 1500/person, but tourists tend to get charged a bit extra and empty bemos will expect you to charter them for a higher price yet. Travel agents can also get you on semi-regular shuttle services, which connect Senggigi, the airport, and the harbors of Lembar (for Bali) and Bangsal (for the Gilis).

[edit] By taxi
Metered taxis are a fairly new development on Lombok, but they have become quite common in Mataram and Senggigi. The largest operator is Blue Bird, although there are a few other companies competing for your custom. As of November 2005, flag fall is Rp3,850 and the meter ticks up a few hundred rupiah for every hundred meters past 2 km. Figure on Rp10,000 for hops around town and around Rp30,000 from Senggigi to Mataram.

[edit] By horse cart
Horse-pulled carts known as cidomo are very common on Lombok, and while a bit touristy in Senggigi and the Gilis, they're still a serious method of transportation elsewhere.

[edit] By boat
Traditional fishing boats known as perahu ply the waters around Lombok, and are instantly recognizable due to their rather unusual feature of having two logs attached by bars on both sides like a catamaran, for greater stability in heavy swells. They can also be chartered, either directly from owners (in which case some knowledge of Bahasa will come in handy) or via any travel agent, who will of course take their cut. Some prices to aim for are Rp.100,000 from Bangsal to the Gilis or Rp.400,000 for a full day.

[edit] By bicycle
Traffic is relatively light throughout the island so travel by bicycle is quite possible, and provides a very different cultural experience to other means of transport. You should bring your own touring bike, as local bikes are of a very basic quality. For a full “Fact Sheet” on cycle touring in Lombok see : http://users.chariot.net.au/~gloria/indonesia.htm

[edit] See

The pepper-like sand, Tanjung AanTanjung Aan, a beautiful area near the Kuta Beach. The sand is very unique that it looks like pepper. Come early as the beach guards will be there by then. Otherwise you may get bugged by lots of hawkers (mainly children) trying to sell everything.

Weaving processSee the local handicraft and weaving process in Desa (village) Sukarare. The price should be cheaper than in Sengigi shops.
Narmada Park (Taman Narmada). Located 10 km east of Mataram, this park was the relaxation place for king during feodalism time. This park has a Hindu temple and swimming pool. Also it has a fountain which called "Youth Fountain" which is believed to give long life to a person that drink water from the fountain. Entry fee for this park is cheap. It will cost around Rp 5000.
[edit] Do
Traditional massage. There will be a lot of women offering the massage service. For more professional service, ask the hotel staffs.
Snorkeling. There are several good sites between the Gili Islands. If lucky, you can spot and swim with turtles.
[edit] Eat
Given that the very word lombok means "chili pepper" in Bahasa Indonesia, the local cuisine isn't quite as spicy as you might expect. Probably the best known local dish is is ayam taliwang, chicken stewed in a rich sauce of galangal, turmeric and (of course) chili.

[edit] Budget
A meal in a tourist-oriented restaurant will be around Rp. 15-20k per person. In a local restoran the same meal might be about Rp. 12k or less. On the road, simple warungs sell "nasi bunkus", a pyramid shaped parcel of about 400gm of rice with several tasty extras for as little as Rp. 2k. One very reliable option is nasi campur ( rice with several options, chosen by the purchaser) for about Rp. 5k or so. Note that rice is often served at ambient temperature.

[edit] Drink
Alcoholic drinks are not available everywhere throughout the island, as Lombok is mostly Muslim. However, local supermarkets offer a variety of local as well as international beers. Note that beer is relatively expensive: a small bottle costs at least the same as a full meal in a "local" eatery.

The island's most touristic city, Senggigi, has numerous bars and clubs with the usual international favorites. The local favorite, though, is tuak, a red or white fermented palm wine with 2-5% volume.

[edit] Sleep
Nearly all of Lombok's better-quality accommodation can be found in Senggigi, while backpackers tend to make a beeline for the Gili Islands. See those articles for details; the following covers only accommodation elsewhere in Lombok.

[edit] Mid-range
Nusa Bunga, Klui, Central Lombok, tel: +62 0370 693035 fax: +62 370 693036 web: www.nusabunga.com . Very friendly staff and superb photo gallery on the website. As described in Lonely Planet: "A well-run place, is one of the better ones. It has a splendid, idyllic beachfront position, a pool and thatched bungalows in a pretty garden". The hotel is located 4 kilometers north of Senggigi. Rates:US$35-45/night including generous breakfast.
Novotel Lombok, Mandalika Resort Pantai Putri Nyale Pujut, Central Lombok, tel. +62-370-653333, Fax +62-370-653555, email: hotel@novotel-lombok.com. Might be a good choice If travelling with children, as the resort was apparently built with children's needs in mind - with interesting swimming pool design, good playing and sport areas for kids. The resort is located approx. 1h drive from Mataram. Rates: US$66-77/night.
Qunci Villa, Mangsit Beach, Tel. +62-370-693800, Fax +62-370-693802, email: stay@quncivillas.com. A small resort where the staffs know and greet you by your first name. A nice medium size swimming pool which looks as if it is part of the sea. The room does not have TV, in order to 'detach' the guests from the outside world. The restaurant serve very good food at reasonable price, and dinner can be enjoyed directly on the beach. Rates: US$70-90.
[edit] Splurge
The Oberoi Lombok, Medana Beach, Tanjung West Lombok, Tel. +62-370-638444, Fax +62-370-632496, email: gm@theoberoi-lombok.com, [1]. The most expensive hotel in Lombok. An ideal hideaway due to its 'secluded' area. Rates: US$270-952/night (discounts available).
[edit] Stay safe
Although Lombok is a safe and stable place, these tips may help you along the way:

There is no written curfew, but when travelling in villages or non-tourist areas you are best to stay indoors after dark.
Always have locks on the zips of your bags. Not only do they keep thieving hands out they also prevent people slipping prohibited substances in.
Dress modestly in villages and religious sites; long pants or sarongs are suggested and a blouse that covers the woman's bust and shoulders should do the trick. This is not so much a safety measure, but it does save you and onlookers from embarrassment

HOTEL IN BALI

Accommodation Home > Indonesia > Hotels in Bali


Adhi Dharma Cottages - Kuta (3 stars)
Adhi Dharma Hotel - Kuta (3 stars)
Adhi Jaya Hotel - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Alila Manggis Hotel - Manggis (4 stars)
Alila Ubud Hotel - Payangan (4.5 stars)
Amanda Resort Seminyak - Seminyak Beach (3 stars)
Aneka Kuta Beach Hotel - Kuta Beach (2 stars)
Ayu Hotel - Kerobokan (3 stars)
Bale Bali - Nusa Dua (5 stars)
Bali Desa Suites - Nusa Dua (3 stars)
Bali Garden Hotel - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Bali Reef Resort - Tanjung Benoa Beach (3 stars)
Barong Kuta Hotel - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Biyukukung Suites & Spa - Ubud (4 stars)
Bounty Hotel - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Bumi Ayu Bungalows - Sanur (3 stars)
Cahaya Dewata Resort & Spa - Ubud (3.5 stars)
Candi Beach Cottage - Candi Dasa Beach (3 stars)
Cendana Resort & Spa - Ubud (3 stars)
Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah Ubud Bali - Ubud (5 stars)
Club Bali Mirage - Tanjung Benoa Beach (4 stars)
Courtyard Hotel & Apartment - Legian Beach (3 stars)
Damai Lovina Villas - Lovina (5 stars)
Dewi Sri Cottages - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel - Kuta Beach (5 stars)
Diwangkara Holiday Villa - Sanur Beach (3 stars)
Dyana Villas - Seminyak (5 stars)
Four Seasons Resort Jimbaran Bay - Jimbaran Bay (4 stars)
Four Seasons Resort Sayan - Ubud (4 stars)
Graha Resort - Ubud (3 stars)
Grand Istana Rama Hotel - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Grand Mirage Resort - Nusa Dua (5 stars)
Green Garden Beach Resort & Spa - Tuban Beach (3 stars)
Green Garden Hotel - Kuta Beach (2 stars)
Griya Santrian Resort - Sanur Beach (3 stars)
Inna Grand Bali Beach - Sanur Beach (5 stars)
Inna Kuta Beach Hotel - Kuta Beach (4 stars)
Inna Putri Hotel - Nusa Dua (5 stars)
Jayakarta Residence & Spa - Legian Beach (3 stars)
Jepun Bali Resort - Tombok Beach (4 stars)
Jimbaran Puri Hotel - Jimbaran Beach (4.5 stars)
Karthi Hotel - Kuta Beach (2.5 stars)
Keraton Jimbaran Resort - Jimbaran Beach (4 stars)
Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa - Ubud (5 stars)
Kuta Paradiso Hotel - Kuta Beach (5 stars)
Legian Beach Hotel - Legian Beach (3 stars)
Legian Paradiso Hotel - Kuta (3 stars)
Legian Village Hotel - Legian Beach (2 stars)
Lotus Bungalows - Candi Dasa (4 stars)
Mandira Hotel & Spa - Legian Beach (4 stars)
Melasti Beach Resort & Spa - Legian Beach (3 stars)
Melasti Kuta Beach Bungalows - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Melia Bali Villas and Spa Resort - Nusa Dua (5 stars)
Mercure Kuta Hotel - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Mercure Resort Sanur - Sanur Beach (4 stars)
Mimpi Resort Menjangan - Menjangan (3 stars)
Nikko Bali Resort and Spa - Nusa Dua (5 stars)
Novotel Coralia Benoa - Tanjung Benoa Beach (4 stars)
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and Spa - Nusa Dua (5 stars)
Nusa Lembongan Resort - Nusa Lembongan Island (4.5 stars)
Oasis Kuta Bali - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Padma Hotel - Legian Beach (5 stars)
Parigata Resort & Spa - Sanur (3 stars)
Parigata Villas Resort - Sanur (4 stars)
Peneeda View Hotel - Sanur Beach (2.5 stars)
Pertiwi Resort & Spa - Ubud (3.5 stars)
Pita Maha Resort & Spa - Ubud (5 stars)
Puri Bagus Candidasa Resort & Spa - Candidasa (3.5 stars)
Puri Bagus Lovina Hotel - Lovina Beach (4 stars)
Puri Benoa Bungalows - Tanjung Benoa Beach (3 stars)
Puri Dajuma Cottages - Pekutatan Beach (3.5 stars)
Puri Santrian Hotel - Sanur Beach (4 stars)
Rama Beach Resort & Villas - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Ramada Resort Benoa - Tanjung Benoa Beach (4 stars)
Rani Hotel - Kuta Beach (3 stars)
Resor Seminyak Resort & Spa - Seminyak Beach (3 stars)
Sahadewa Resort & Spa - Ubud (3 stars)
Sanur Paradise Plaza Hotel - Sanur (3 stars)
Sari Segara Resort Villas & Spa - Jimbaran Bay (3 stars)
Sekar Nusa Resort - Hilltop (4 stars)
Sofitel Hotel Seminyak - Seminyak Beach (5 stars)
Spirit Hotel & Spa - City (3 stars)
Sri Phala Resort & Villa - Sanur (4 stars)
Stana Puri Gopa Hotel - Sanur (3 stars)
Sunari Villas & Spa Resort - Lovina Beach (3 stars)
Swiss-Belhotel Resort Aga - Nusa Dua (4 stars)
Taman Harum Cottages - Ubud (3 stars)
Taman Rosani Hotel - Kerobokan (2.5 stars)
The Legian - Seminyak Beach (5 stars)
The Oberoi Bali Hotel - Legian Beach (5 stars)
Tropic Resort & Spa - Tanjung Benoa Beach (3 stars)
Tugu Hotel - Desa Canggu (4 stars)
Ulun Ubud Resort & Spa - Ubud (3.5 stars)
Uma Ubud Hotel - Ubud (5 stars)
Vilarisi Hotel - Kuta Beach (2.5 stars)
Villa Balquisse - Jimbaran Bay (4 stars)
Villa Semana Hotel - Ubud (4 stars)
Villa Sonia - Ubud (3.5 stars)
Vira Hotel - Tuban (3 stars)
Westin Resort Nusa Dua - Nusa Dua Beach (5 stars)
Yulia Beach Inn - Kuta Beach (3 stars)

KUTA BEACH

Kuta is a town in southern Bali, Indonesia. A former fishing village, it was one of the first towns on Bali to see substantial tourist development, and as a beach resort remains one of Indonesia's major tourist destinations. It is known internationally for its long sandy beach, varied accommodation, many restaurants and bars, and convenience to Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport.

Kuta was the site of the October 12, 2002 Bali bombing (202 killed) and the October 1, 2005 Bali bombing (26 killed).

Kuta is now the center of an extensive tourist-oriented urban area that merges into the neighboring towns. Legian, to the north, is the commercial hub of Kuta and the site of many restaurants and entertainment spots. Most of the area's big beachfront hotels are in the southern section of Tuban.

Legian and Seminyak are northern extensions of Kuta along Jl. Legian and Jl. Basangkasa. They are somewhat quieter villages with cottage-style accommodations, where many of the emigrated designers and tourists live. Also to the north are Petitenget, Berawa, Canggu, and Seseh - new and quieter continuations of Kuta's beach. They are easy to reach through Abian Timbul or Denpasar and Kerobokan. Several large hotels are located in this area: the Oberoi Bali, the Intan Bali Village, the Legian in Petitenget, the Dewata Beach and the Bali Sani Suites in Berawa.

To the south, Kuta Beach extends beyond the airport into Jimbaran.

The Balinese Provincial Government have taken the view that the preservation of the Balinese culture, natural resources and wild life are of primary importance in the development of the island. To this end they have limited tourist development to the peninsula on the extreme southern aspect of the island; Kuta beach is on the western side of this peninsula and Sanur is on the east. To the north of the peninsula no tourist development is permitted

BALI

Jimbaran
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Restaurants on the beach near JimbaranJimbaran is a fishing village and tourist resort in Bali, Indonesia. Located just at the south of Ngurah Rai International Airport, the beach is cluttered with hotels from inexpensive homestays to five stars hotels. Tourism in Jimbaran has increased rapidly that has boosted local economy, but it suffered by the 2005 Bali bombings where the bomb exploded in one of the restaurants in Jimbaran.

Jimbaran lies on the 'neck' of the southern peninsula in Bali and is widely known for the fresh seafood kiosks that litter the beach. Diners select the seafood live that they wish to eat and it is prepared immediately. More recently, Jimbaran has become a popular location for foreigners