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If you are one of the types that want to live something away more different from the well-known and bustling resorts of Indonesia, Lombok, on the east of the island, is a virgin place o and not as touristy yet equally impressive. Tourism has penetrated less threateningly, but this has its negatives, as visitors often feel invaded in a place that is perhaps unwanted or indifferent. Something to change soon, since these travelers who have already visited Mali start for “fresh lands”. This, in addition for the island’s main reason for visiting as a weddings in Bali destination and coupled with recent luxury hotel facilities, means that soon the island will cease to be the “hidden treasure” of Indonesia.
Exploring Lombok
With a variety of beautiful beaches, a larger volcano and a larger variety of scenery make it significantly different. Lombok is divided into three countries with three capitals. Mataram, to the west, which is also its largest city and the capital of Lombok, Praya in the center and Selong in the eastern part of the island.
The culture of the west side of the island is still heavily influenced by Bali. The eastern side is the base of the native Sakas, mainly Muslims. Although the cities are separated, Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara and Sweta are actually becoming one, in Lombok’s “city”.Mataram, to the west, which are also its major city and the capital of Lombok, Praya in the center and Selong in the eastern part of the island.
The culture of the west side of the island is still heavily influenced by Bali. The eastern side is the home of the native Sakas, mainly Muslims. Although formally separate cities, Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara and Sweta are actually becoming one, in Lombok’s “city”. Mataram is the largest city, Cakranegara is the old royal city and Sweta is the transport center and largest market on the island and Ampenan on the west, sometimes the main harbor, is now a point where one can find cheap accommodation and food.
At Mataram there are several local souvenirs, markets .You can also buy handmade sarongs made with hand-made and foot-operated looms as if nothing has changed. The Mayura Royal Palace is a lovely place for relaxation. The large artificial lake with the open gazebo in the center is connected to the coast with an elevated path. Statues and fountains decorate the park that surrounds it. Pula Meru, the largest Balinese temple, is located just opposite the palace. As in any mall, Lobok’s outdoor market is filled with people, locals and tourists, discovering small hidden treasures from spices and herbs to folk art and antiques.
Lombok’s most touristic area is Senggigi Beach. The route is full of steep turns, hills and stunning coastal views. The view is amazing but swimming is forbidden. At Sengiggi there are many restaurants, bars and discos, souvenir shops and all-inclusive accommodation.
The first acquaintance with the island is through the exploration of the island’s volcano. Gunung Rinjani is Lombok’s tallest mountain and active volcano and the third largest volcano in all of Indonesia, a popular destination for those who love hiking and locals flocking to hot springs in the northeast side of the caldera, in an effort to take advantage of Lopocti’s excellent healing properties. The holy Segara Anakan Lake is located lower than the crater’s periphery. Daily trips are organized at the foot of Mount Rinjani and the beautiful mountain village of Tetebatu, another area chosen for trekking in the volcano. The compass leads to the southern part of the island and Sukarara, a place with unusual houses made of local stone. It is located in an area with many rice fields, filled with small villages with wooden houses and almost every house has an old wooden loom. Most of the materials are built in houses in the surrounding villages and there is so much variety. The bazaar is a pleasant process. Dine with the locals, have a cup of coffee or try boiling sweet potato and relax.
Lombok beaches are quieter than those of Bali. Kuta beach in Lombok is a resort that the surfists prefer. Apart from the main tourist season in August, you will find peace and relaxation. A beautiful white sandy beach, blue sea and verdant hills to surround it, make up the scenery, which is considered the most idyllic.
The Pantai Segar is about 10 minutes on the east of Kuta and if you climb on the huge rock you will thank God for these spectacular views, especially when the sun rises. Gerupak is also a beach which is the ultimate destination for surfing and fishing. A beautiful sandy beach,Selong Blanak Bay, offers surfing, along with the beaches of Mawan, Tampa and Mawi. There are many good waves in the coral reefs of the island, many hidden secrets left and right from the beach Kuta, and east of Tanjung Aan. The local fishermen will take you with only a few rupees to take you there.
As for scuba diving, the Gilis Islands always come first. There are several instructors that can guide you with the necessary equipment. You can spend the night in bungalows, Gili Air has the largest population of locals and offers the possibility of greater contact with the inhabitants’ culture, which is absent from the other islands.
The best time to visit Lombok is the drought period, from June to October. On the other hand, the rainy season, from October to May, is warmer and, of course, wetter, but the landscape is green and surely more beautiful.
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