The Gili Islands or Tiga Gili is an archipelago consisting of three small or triplet Gili islands, namely Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, just off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia.
These islands are a popular tourist destination. Each island has several small resorts, usually with tourist huts, a small pool, and a restaurant. Most of the local population lives in Trawangan, the town stretching along its eastern side inland (also where the most recent development occurred). Car and motor vehicle traffic is prohibited on the islands by local regulations, thus the preferred methods of transportation are by foot and bicycle or horse-drawn carriages called cidomo. Scuba and free diving in and around the Gili Islands are also popular due to abundant marine life and attractive coral formations. Shark Point, Manta Point, and Simon’s Reef are the most famous diving spots.
Unique Facts about Gili
The Gili Islands are unique in more than one way. One of the most prominent features is the absence of fossil fuel vehicles. Instead, you’ll explore these islands using environmentally friendly modes of transportation, including bicycles, electric cars, horse-drawn carriages, or on foot. This commitment to sustainability adds to the charm of these islands and protects their natural beauty.
It is also interesting to note that dogs are not allowed on these islands. The first reason is to avoid overpopulation. Second, dogs are considered unclean in Islamic culture, and because the majority of the local population is Muslim, villages on the Gili islands prohibit dogs from entering the islands.
The Gili Islands have something to offer every traveler, from the vibrant nightlife of Gili Trawangan to the serene solitude of Gili Meno and the perfect mix of Gili Air. Whichever island you choose, you will find a worthy trip and traveling experience here.
There are quite a lot of Gili tourist attractions in Lombok, of course each with its own advantages or uniqueness as an attraction for you tourists. Currently, several of these dykes are inhabited, so accommodation, culinary and simple transportation facilities such as horse carts are available and quite adequate.
So, you don’t need to worry about this during the holidays. But if you have to choose which dyke to visit because of its charm and heavenly beauty, maybe you can look at the following brief explanations about the dyke in Lombok.
3 Populars Gili in Lombok
- Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is the most popular small island in Lombok. Here, you can enjoy various typical natural dishes. The sand on this beach is very white, and the water is also clear. The beach area is clean and free from hawkers, which is the main attraction of Gili Trawangan. The gradations of blue and green sea colors will become a common sight for your eyes. There is a boundless ocean, and the colors are beautiful. This is Gili Trawangan paradise. You can also see fish and coral reefs directly from the sailing ship without having to dive. - Gili Meno
Gili Meno is only inhabited by around 300 residents. That’s why it is called an island with minimal facilities: There are no shops, so tourists have to bring their own supplies. However, Gili Meno has a beauty that other Gilis do not have, namely salt lakes and spectacular diving corners such as Meno Wall, Sea Point Turtle, and Point Coral Blue.
The beaches on the eastern part of the island are very nice and suitable for snorkeling. On Gili Meno, you will find free-swimming turtles and colorful coral species. There are many choices of fun holiday activities on Gili Meno. Corners for diving are waiting for you to explore. The coral reef park around the northeast of this beach is worth a visit; the colors of the coral fascinate the diver’s eyes. - Gili Air
Gili Air offers several charming diving and snorkeling spots. You will have no difficulty satisfying your diving desires because there are many operators who provide diving equipment and guides. The corner of the beach usually visited by divers is in the eastern part of Gili Air. There you will be showered with extraordinary views. Coral fish will accompany us while snorkeling.This area which is usually used for snorkeling has a depth of 1.5 meters to 3 meters. Don’t dive too far, because in this area a rope is installed as a sign that you have crossed the safe limit for snorkeling. Try snorkeling when the waves are gentle. Try diving a little to the middle to get a stunning underwater view. Fast boats are the main transportation that connects Bali, Gili Islands, and Lombok. We can get the boat ticket with the online booking system at https://bali-gili.com
Some Gilis That You can be Visited
- Gili Tangkong
There is a place to eat here with various menu choices, and the sand is slightly yellowish in color. The most appropriate activity to fill the silence of Gili Tangkong is snorkeling to see the underwater beauty. Because there are not many tourists visiting Gili Tangkong, you can play as much as you like in the water, swim, and snorkel without worrying about being disturbed by other guests.
In fact, it’s like we’re visiting a private island. For those who like underwater photography, you can immortalize the underwater beauty of this Gili. You will see lots of colorful fish plus coral reefs that are still preserved. The overall view of Tangkong is very charming. If it’s sunny, the bluish sky will beautify your photos. - Gili Nanggu
The underwater view of Gili Nanggu is very beautiful. Because there are not many tourists, the coral reefs are still very well maintained. Rows of beautiful fish will also be a common sight of the sea on this Gili. You will definitely be amazed by the various colors and beauty you encounter while diving. Gili Nanggu will not make you lose if you really want to snorkel freely.You also don’t need to bother bringing snorkeling equipment. Snorkeling rentals are available there but are slightly more expensive than in Gili Trawangan. For those who don’t want to snorkel but want to see beautiful fish, you only need to bring bread to sprinkle on the beach to attract them and enjoy their beauty.