The History and Beauty of Gili Island - When we arrive in Gili Trawangan, West Nusa Tenggara, the sound of the waves gently crashing on the shore spoils our ears. Nothing has changed too much on this small island whose name has become well-known around the world.
Gili is a Sasak word that means "little island." Nusa is the name given to an island that is quite huge. However, it is not only Gili Trawangan that is a true icon. Gili Meno and Gili Air, for example, are two more dykes that are close together and parallel.
Because of its location in the northwestern part of the island of Lombok, it is close to the island of Bali, thus it's no surprise that so many visitors arrive from the island of the gods.
A Quick Overview of Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is the largest of the Gili brothers and the island that is the furthest away from Lombok's mainland. Despite its distance, the island can still be viewed from the port of Bangsal – Lombok, which is only 10 minutes away by speed boat and 2.5 hours from Bali.
The island of Gili Trawangan was founded as a prisoner-of-war detention center. This is why "Trawangan" means "tunnel," referring to a cave on a hill left by Japan on this island during World War II. Bugis migrants from the island of Sulawesi arrived on this island only in the 1980s.
In the late 1990s, tourism on Gili Trawangan became more noticeable when it was first discovered by foreign tourists, who flocked to the island to enjoy the sun, the underwater life, and the unspoiled beaches.
The majority of the tourists in this region to the left of the center are from other countries, it's easy to forget that we're in Indonesia. They appear to be competing to "escape" from their homeland and seek refuge on Gili Trawangan in the sun and white beaches.
There Are Variety of Things To Do on Gili Trawangan
We recommend doing some of the following activities for individuals who want to spend their holiday time on this beautiful Gili island:
- Water Sports with a Glass Bottom Boat
- Sunbathing while doing yoga on the beach
- On the beach, at sunset, watching a nightlife movie
The Best Way to Get Around Gili Trawangan
Vehicles are not permitted on Gili Trawangan. Because this island is so small, it can only be explored by non-engine means, such as;
1. Ride a bicycle
You can borrow a bicycle for a short period if you stay at a hotel or resort that provides free bicycles. Otherwise, bike rentals may be found almost anywhere. Single and tandem bicycles are available, with prices ranging depending on how long they are used.
Our recommendation is to hire for half a day because Gili Trawangan, with a length of 3 km and a width of 2 km, can be circumnavigated by bicycle in about 1.5 hours, but be aware that some areas have deep sand piles that must be navigated by bicycle.
You will, of course, stop several times to view the island's natural beauty and atmosphere, so a half-day of cycling plus resting will be enough.
The cost of renting a bike starts at IDR 15,000 per hour or IDR 50,000 per day.
2. Cidomo (horse-drawn carriage)
Because motorized cars are not permitted, this mode of transportation is the most exclusive and costly. They charge a rather high rate on average, which is likely because one horse can only work for 2-3 hours per day, thus the operational costs are equivalent.
If you are traveling from somewhere other than Bali, you can fly to Praya Airport and then to the Angsul port to travel to Gili Trawangan. It takes only 30 minutes to travel the distance.
However, if you are traveling from Bali, it is recommended that you use a quick boat. Bali Gili Fast Boat can help you book a fast boat to Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, or Gili Air based on your requirements.
Some travelers in Bali also strongly suggest Gili Fast Boat due to its excellent services. This will undoubtedly make getting to your vacation destination easier. Only by selecting a one-way or round-trip option at a reasonable price.