Lombok, separated from Bali by the Lombok Straight, was first set foot on by the Dutch in 1674. While the Hindu Dynasty from Bali ruled the western half of the island, the Dutch settled in the east. In 1894, after the Sasaks rebellion against the Balinese rule, the entire island fell under the Netherlands East Indies’ power. 85% of the island’s population consists of the Sasak people, whose origins are believed to stem from Java. 10 to 15% are Balinese plus a small group of Chinese, Arab, Javanese and Sumbawanese inhabitants. Lombok’s geographic scenery is dominated by Mount Rinjani, sitting in the centre of the island. The 3.726 meters high Mount Rinjani last erupted in 1994. The volcano and its crater lake, ‘Segara Anak’ (child of the sea), are protected by a national park since 1997. Corn, tobacco, rice, coffee and cotton are grown in Lombok’s prolific south. As a result of the island’s fertile lands, many local farming and fishing families are able to live a healthy and productive life on astonishingly low incomes. The most developed tourism hub is Sengigi that extends the length of the coastal road north of Mataram, which is Lombok’s provincial capital and largest city. Surfing along the untouched beaches of Kuta (incomparable to Kuta in Bali) is considered some of the world’s best by recognized surf magazines.
Although consistently compared to neighboring Bali, Lombok is nothing like its so called sister island. Travelers are attracted to Lombok’s unspoiled inherent beauty and ability to retain a more natural, isolated and undeveloped character. Add to that the charismatic presence of the three Gili Islands and you will understand why visitors find it especially hard to return home. As a direct result of Bali’s commercialization during the past few years, however, Lombok now seems to be on the verge of a tourist boom. With that comes the development of a number of luxurious resorts. Just off the northwest coast of Lombok rest the three islands of Gili Meno, Gili Air and Gili Trawangan. All three of these beautiful islands feature virgin white sandy beaches, translucent waters and spectacular coral reefs – ideal for picture perfect scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing – and are steadily becoming one of the most sought after destinations for visitors to Bali and Lombok. The Gilis’ now sound accessibility, absence of cars and motorbikes, hippy-ish character and charming simplicity nudges that steady growth into a rapid escalation of tourist numbers. The only means of transportation are ‘cidomos’ – horse-drawn carriages – and bicycles. The cost of food, drinks and most goods are somewhat higher than in other places as they need to be brought over from the mainland.

Day 01: ARRIVAL
Arrive at Lombok airport, meet and greet then transfer to the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel.

Day 02: FULL DAY TOUR
Breakfast at hotel, Depart to visit: Banyumulek village, famous for its traditional pottery, Mandalika market; the perfect place to observe the local activities. Narmada, the Royal garden dated back 17th Century, proceeds to Senggigi, the major tourist beach resort in Lombok. Lunch will be served in Senggigi area. A short drive to Senggigi main area for leisure. The tours then proceed to visit the temple of Batubolong, where, during the clear weather, you can witness the panorama of Mt. Agung in Bali. Passing through the old harbor of Ampenan, to reach Mataram, the capital city of West Nusa Tenggara and the trading centre of Cakranegara just before you stop at the temple of Lingsar; a unique culture that merges the Hindhus and Moslem to live in harmony. After that, Mayura; the water palace, which was also used as the meeting hall of the former Balinese kingdom, Jangkuk village, famous for its wood and lontar leaves handicraft.

Day 03: DEPARTURE
Breakfast at hotel.

Free at leisure till time of departure to next destination.