Welcome to Gili Trawangan (or Gili T) one of my favourite little islands in the world!

Gili T is one of three islands known as the Gili Islands. Gili T is the largest and most happening island; followed by Gili Meno (the second island) and finally Gili Air (the third island). The Gili Islands are sandwiched between Bali and Lombok in the Indonesian archipelago.

There are countless experiences waiting for you on Gili Trawangan, where the island’s beauty is simply mesmerising! From exhilarating snorkeling alongside vibrant fish and graceful turtles each day to savoring mouthwatering dishes and witnessing unforgettable sunsets, you’ll find yourself utterly captivated—it’s a place you’ll never want to leave!

How to get to the Gili Islands

My trip to Gili T was courtesy of an almost two hour bus ride from Kuta to the harbour town of Pantai Lebih on the East Coast.  From here I took a high speed ferry crossing to Gili T.  The ferry takes around an hour and a half. I used  Gili Fast boat Bookings to locate a ferry boast. The fast boat costs around 492,240IDR (GB£22/US$30).   

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The boat will dock on the beaches at Gili Trawangan then sail’s to Gili Air (the third of the three islands), before heading back to Bali island.

On the breathtaking Gili Islands, you will discover a magical experience: no motor vehicles are allowed! This enchanting paradise invites you to explore its beauty in a truly unique way—by hopping on one of the charming horse-drawn carts or renting a bicycle, which is an absolute blast! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

There’s an abundance of bike hire shops scattered along the vibrant main strip by the docks, but I was thrilled to find that most hotels generously provide bikes for their residents! Just a heads up – Gili T can become downright bustling at peak times when the fast boats arrive, and it’s astonishing how this quaint island, barely more than 2 miles in circumference, can feel so alive!

Where to stay?

There is an abundance of accommodation on Gili T, catering to every budget, ensuring your stay is unforgettable. The northern part of the island is an absolute paradise for snorkelling enthusiasts and those yearning for breathtaking sunsets.

I had the pleasure of staying at the enchanting 3* BELUKAR RESORT. The accommodations are exquisitely decorated bungalows, each gazing upon the shimmering swimming pool. At approximately £60 per night, including a delightful breakfast, the experience is truly a steal.

After arriving at the harbour, I eagerly rented a bicycle for two days and pedaled my way to the hotel, a delightful journey that took around just 15 minutes, filling my heart with the spirit of adventure.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

The Gili Islands are known for amazing scuba diving, snorkelling, and beautiful underwater life. This should be number one on your list of things to do. Head to the North of the island where the waters are calmer and crystal clear.

Top tip:  Keep a look out for the anchored diving boats.  They will give a great indication to the best dive sites.  For diving with the turtles make sure you spend some time on Gili Meno.

Swings and Sunsets

Of all my travels in South East Asia, I strongly believe that the sunsets in the Gili Islands are by far the most beautiful.

All along the West side of Gili T you will find swings in the Ocean.  Make sure you allow time for one of these shots!

Gili Trawangan Night Market

You absolutely must experience the enchanting Gili Trawangan night market at least once while you’re on this stunning island! The food is not just fresh and cheap; it’s a delightful explosion of incredible flavours that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!

The night market is not terribly big and really is more of a food market as to the literal sense of a market selling trinkets and souvenirs. Near to the market is a lovely restaurant located more or less on the beach named Natys.  Here you can choose fresh seafood, chicken or beef dishes, or mixed meat kebabs all served by a buffet style island of salad, pasta, potatoes and vegetables.

Rent a bike…

Gili T is not a huge island and can be walked in 2.5 hours. There are no cars or motorbikes on the island, so you will see everyone riding around on bicycle. This island is a great place to take a leisurely ride and see the entire place. The island is flat so is easily ridden, however, the roads are full of pot-holes and can often change from tarmac to cobbles to sand.

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If you take your bike out at night, be aware that the lack of street lighting can turn your ride into an exhilarating adventure. I found myself relying on the torch app on my mobile phone, illuminating the path ahead with a vibrant glow as I navigated through the darkness.

Outdoor Cinema

Once the sun sets at various points along the beach you will find open air cinemas. Films are projected onto a screen with bean bags to sit on. Most of the places are free, but the movie on the beach at Pearl Beach Lounge costs 50,000IDR (GB£2.85).

Most of the movies are played at 7:00 P.M and 9:00 P.M.  It is a great way to spend a night for those who do not feel like partying.

Star Gazing

There is little in the way of street lighting on Gili Trawangan it offers an incredible glimpse of the night sky. Living in the Northern hemisphere I am not subject to seeing the stars of the Southern hemisphere and star gazing is a great way to pass the time.

I was utterly thrilled to behold the Southern Cross, that mesmerising constellation proudly displayed on the Australian flag! For those with a keen photography eye, adjusting the camera lens to a slow shutter speed unveils the breathtaking beauty of our very own galaxy—the Milky Way—transforming a simple snapshot into a celestial masterpiece!

Whatever your reasons for visiting these islands you will not leave disappointed. The islands offer a great escape form the hustle of Bali and Lombok. If you have time ensure you spend a few days exploring all three islands. That was my only regret.

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