Gili Trawangan is one of the famous trio in the northwest of Lombok, Indonesia. It is also the largest of the three Gilis, rising about 30 meters high above the sea level. The name “Trawangan” itself derived from an Indonesian word, “terowongan”, which means “tunnel.” It holds its name since there is a cave tunnel which was built there when Japan occupied Indonesia during World War II.
Some of the first inhabitants of this island were farmers and fishermen from Sulawesi. Before more humans came to settle, Gili Trawangan was an island covered in forest and inhabited by deer.
Since Gili Trawangan is the largest of the three islands, it is also the most developed area for tourism. Locals and expatriates roam around here for a fun holiday every year or whenever possible. The eastern part of this island is the most developed, full of a settlement, recreation, and accommodation.
The diving business is also huge in the east of Gili Trawangan. Since motorized vehicles are not allowed here, you get to sniff much fresher air around. To explore the island, you can either walk or rent a bicycle. They are cheaper, healthier, and they cause no pollution as well.
Not only diving, but you can also do snorkeling here. Enjoy the abundance marine life underwater, including the beautiful-looking corals there. Since eco-tourism is the largest source of income in Gili Trawangan, make sure you keep the environment clean by not littering. For example, not leaving used plastic bags in the ocean.
If you would like to visit the other two Gilis, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, you can also use boats and speedboats. If you have never ridden a speedboat before, make sure you learn how to do it before you get on one. Many travelers will say that while you are on Gili Islands, why not visit all of them each?
Staying in Gili Trawangan:
Gili Trawangan relies heavily on tourism. Although it is indeed the largest of the three, it is still a small island. You do not have to worry about finding any resorts or bungalows to stay in because there are plenty of them in this part of Gili Islands. All you must do is research them online first, list down, and compare before coming to a final decision.
Most of these Gili Islands accommodation, including resorts and bungalows, have swimming pools and restaurants. For example, Pondok Windy, which is only a two-hour boat transfer from Lombok Airport. Here, you get to do off-the-shore snorkeling, sunbathing, and swimming.