Few places on earth let you experience the blue marble, at its breath-taking best. One of those sits just off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia — the Gili Islands. The stunning Gili Islands archipelago is rightly one of the country’s treasured tourism hotspots. Where crystal blue waters break over white sand beaches. Where colourful coral reefs invite you under and lush tropical vistas keep you entranced above. Where slow living is the natural pace of life. Yet, the thrill of adventure is found at every corner. All the makings of a spectacular getaway, a rejuvenating island-hopping experience to check off your travel bucket-list.

Highlights:

GiliTrawangan

Furthest away from the mainland lies the biggest of the islands, GiliTrawangan. Known for its vibrant party scene, the island also has a relaxed side, offering visitors the best of both worlds. Here, you can choose how you stay — walking-distance from the waves kind of beach huts to in the lap of luxury exclusive resorts. And how you play — shack and bar hopping, peaceful sunbathing, sublime scuba diving or under-the-moonlight dancing. GiliTrawangan is just the place for families, couples or travellers that love a good thrill.

GiliMeno

This is the smallest and least developed of the islands, located in the middle of the archipelago. The serene spot is the ultimate destination to experience nature’s bliss and the wonders of solitude. Perfect for honeymooners or nature-inspired travellers who enjoy experiences out in the wild, encircled the whole while, by hypnotically beautiful white sand beaches and cobalt sea.

Gili Air

The island closest to the mainland is called Gili Air, where you can find the largest living local population and a wonderful blend of activity and relaxation. It isn’t as peaceful as Meno, but still offers plenty of secluded and private spots for you to enjoy. While the happening side of the island ensures you are fully engaged, be it water sports or bars, authentic villages and lively craft markets.

Top things to do in the Gili Islands

• Diving at some of the best coral reefs in the world, with professional dive schools and instructors.
• The View Point on Gili T for enchanting views, magnificent sunsets and countless selfie moments.
• The Sea Swing at Gili T, where you can swing, surrounded by beautiful azure waters.
• Turtle Sanctuary on Meno to see the extraordinary creatures, thriving in their natural habitat.
• The Bird Park on Meno to spot over 300 exotic avian species, living free and wild, as they should.
• Soak in scenic moments at the natural marvel on Meno — the Salt Lake.

Interesting Facts About Gili Islands

• GiliTrawangan is the largest of the three islands, with a population of around 1500.
• GiliMeno is the island in the middle, with a permanent population of just 500.
• Gili Air is the smallest and closest to the mainland, with a population of 1800.
• There are no motorised vehicles on any of the three islands. To move around, one can use a bicycle or the local horse-drawn carriages known as Cidomo. The name ‘Gili’ actually means ‘island’ in the local Sasak language.

Location if Gili Islands

The Gili Islands are three islands that lie in the Lombok Strait, extending beyond the Sire peninsula, off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia.

Best Time To Visit Gili Islands

For optimal weather conditions that let you experience the Gili Islands at their best, visit between the months of July to September and February to April. Avoid the monsoon months of November to January, as they tend to dampen diving or outdoor plans.

How To Reach Gili Islands

There are two ways to reach the Gili Islands once you arrive into Indonesia — from Bali or Lombok. Take one of the boat services from Amed or Padang Bai in Bali. Or you can hop onto the public boats at Bangsal Harbour in Lombok. Chartering your own private boat is an available option from both routes.

History of Gili Islands

The Gili Islands were once untouched and pristine. This first changed during World War II, when the Japanese used the islands as a strategic army base and prisoners of war camp. But it was only in the 1970s that permanent settlers arrived. Over the next decade, contentious land issues arose between the early settlers and the government, signs of which remain even today. Nevertheless, by the 1980s, backpackers discovered the islands and tourism began to flourish. Till the late 1990s, Gili Islands became a party destination, but also one for diving. In modern times, the islands have gone the eco-tourism way, to maintain the natural habitats and protect the industry too.