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Top things to do in Gili Trawangan

Attractions, tours and activities in Gili Trawangan

About Gili Trawangan

Including tips for the best time to visit Gili Trawangan

Bali is still the most popular destination in Indonesia, but Gili Trawangan, off the coast of Lombok, is right there behind it. A haven for backpackers, the tropical island paradise is home to some of the best dive sites in the world in addition to a well-developed tourism sector that's brought in hip bungalow retreats, yoga centres and top-notch food and drink options.

Gili Trawangan is a major destination for divers and snorkellers. Scores of local dive schools and shops are ready to get divers of all skill levels face-to-face with the tropical fish, sea turtles and manta rays that hang around offshore reefs. Gili is especially known for its large sea turtle population, and at the local hatchery, you can learn about the island's conservation efforts and watch hatchlings get released into the wild.

Gili Trawangan is no stranger to crowds. 'Gili T', as it's affectionately known, is famous for its party scene – thanks in part to a bustling main street lined with all manner of foodie hangouts, cocktail bars and musical entertainment. While you're here, be sure to set aside a night or two to visit the Trawangan Night Market, where you can sample the local cuisine.

Gili Trawangan is just one of the three Gili Islands, and isle-hopping is a great way to experience all of them. Wildlife-rich Gili Meno is refreshingly serene, while Gili Air's white-sand beaches and buzzy restaurants offer a nice balance between Trawangan and Meno.

Tonight

From £21 per night

Next weekend

From £39 per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency Rp 1,000,000 = £49.71
Language Indonesian
Average weekend price £68 per night
Average weekday price £65 per night
Typical stay 2 nights

Gili Trawangan reviews

What other travellers say about Gili Trawangan

10

Gili Trawangan is a great place to get away for a weekend or...

12 September 2024

Gili Trawangan is a great place to get away for a weekend or a week. The island has a great atmosphere and doesn't allow any cars or scooters, so it was a lot of fun riding around the island on bikes or just walking on the beach. There are a lot of little bars and restaurants and many are right on the beach. It has a very active nightlife if you want to be in that area of the island, but we stayed at Cocana resort which is on the sunset side, so spectacular sunsets on the beach and a great place to just kick back and relax.

Scott
Scott Japan
8.0

The early morning prayer call from the local mosque was...

8 September 2024

The early morning prayer call from the local mosque was disturbing, and at various times during the day. Both in bed and on the beach this could not be escaped, sadly! Great cafes on the beach along the walk from the ferry. The seafood at the Night Market was amazing and good value. Lots of bands playing along the beach at night, great atmosphere. We stayed 3 nights but needed 5 at least. Travel light as it makes the ferry trips easier. The sea can be rough so take a seasick tablet and a large bottle of water with you. Don’t expect the aircon to work on the ferry or in your transport to the port or you could be disappointed 🙄.

Christine
Christine Australia
10

I loved exploring the island by bike, snorkeling with sea...

2 September 2024

I loved exploring the island by bike, snorkeling with sea turtles, and enjoying the delicious seafood. The nightlife was hopping, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Highly recommend for a relaxing and fun getaway!

Johannes
Johannes Germany
10

Les habitants étaient incroyablement amicaux et accueillants...

2 September 2024

Les habitants étaient incroyablement amicaux et accueillants, ce qui m'a permis de me sentir comme à la maison. J'ai hâte de retourner à Gili Trawangan et d'explorer davantage cette magnifique île. Il existe de nombreuses possibilités de baignade, de plongée avec tuba, de plongée sous-marine et de sports nautiques.

Johannes
Johannes Germany
6.0

Great for party people/having a good time on a budget.

30 August 2024

Great for party people/having a good time on a budget. Personally wouldn’t recommend it for romantic honeymooners who want peace and quiet, unless you’re staying at a v nice resort away from the noise!

Fuller
Fuller
6.0

It was way too busy, we were getting pushed and shoved on a...

22 August 2024

It was way too busy, we were getting pushed and shoved on a snorkeling tour so never saw the statues properly and couldn’t even take a photo due to the amount of people kicking and pushing. We were taken to an island called Gili air but forced to eat at a place which had been set in advance. This place was clearly not popular, and we were all told not to walk off after alighting from the boat. The food was disgusting and three people from our group were sick later.

lloyd-mostyn
lloyd-mostyn Australia

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