Gili Islands are a Vision of Paradise in Indonesia

Image by Angela Jeyarajah / Flickr

The Gili Islands are a group of three very small and breathtaking islands; Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air, located in Indonesia near Lombok island.

The Gili Islands are a vision of paradise and each island has its own special character. Gili Trawangan, the biggest one of them three is the most popular one with a fun nightlife and plenty of restaurants and accommodations. Gili Air has the strongest local character and is the most overlooked of the three in terms of development. Gili Meno is the smallest of them three and by far the most peaceful and under developed.

Image by Bruno Ideriha / Flickr

However, they all have a point in common – the prohibition of motorised transport. Meaning, the only way to get around is by feet, by bicycle or on horse carriage.

Getting To The Islands
Island Hopper Boats or Speed Boats are the preferred mode of transportation to the three islands.

Gili Trawangan (Gili T)
It is possible to go from one side of the island to the other in two hours, walking. Being identified as a great holiday destination for all families, Gili T has lots of activities that will make people enjoy their holiday to the fullest.
Funny fact: there has been a recent introduction of ATM machines on Gili T to be found at two different hotels; Coral Beach and Hotal Villa Ombak. You can finally withdraw money, which wasn’t possible before or on the two other islands.

Gili Meno
Gili Meno is considered as the ‘Honeymoon’ destination and most visitors are attracted to it for the total escapism. Being the smallest island of the three, Gili Meno, makes it possible to walk around the island along the beach or paths in less than two hours. There are not too many activities to be found on Gili Meno, which is part of its appeal and popularity.

Image by Sébastien Boulet / Flickr

Gili Air
Gili Air is the perfect destination for a tropical island explorer. A lot of visitors prefer the atmosphere of Gili Air and the feeling of really being part of a close knit community. Gili Air does not have the full on party vibe of its big brother, Gili Trawangan, but it still has enough entertainment to keep a traveler smiling.