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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.

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Most popular time to visit October-December
Cheapest time to visit January-March
Local currency Rp 1,000,000 = $61.13
Language Indonesian
Average weekend price $91 per night
Average weekday price $91 per night
Average stay 2 nights

Gili Trawangan reviews

What other travelers say about Gili Trawangan

10

The place is amazing, words can’t describe the feeling and...

August 28, 2025

The place is amazing, words can’t describe the feeling and vibe of this cityyy! Must go and stay for atleast 3/4 days. This island runs on horse carts and cycles! The party scene is lit! Scubaa- outstanding

Isha
Isha India
8.0

Gili T has lots of potential, but at the moment it feels a...

July 26, 2025

Gili T has lots of potential, but at the moment it feels a bit overcrowded and overexplored. Things are a bit dirty and messy outside the beach clubs. Access inside the land is poor. Boat access is a bit chaotic.

Manuel
Manuel United Kingdom
4.0

Not the location for me with my wife more for the younger...

July 22, 2025

Not the location for me with my wife more for the younger backpackers type. Would not recommend. No sandy beach. Difficult to get in to the sea for swimming / snorkelling. If you stay on the sea front it looks fine but as soon as you venture off the front the. Island is not the best in terms of cleanliness.

Neil
Neil United Kingdom
8.0

There are no cars on Gili T.

July 22, 2025

There are no cars on Gili T. Only bicycles, e-bikes and horse carts. But it can get very busy (human traffic) in the SE of the island. You can walk/run/cycle around the entire island in less than an hour. Terrain is pretty flat. Snorkeling is a must do, particularly to look for the Gili Meno turtles. Food options are plentiful but the taste may not be as good as on Lombok Island. All in all, a lovely & relaxing stay!

Mui4
Mui4 Malaysia
10

More popular than the other Gili islands, but yet, not too...

July 13, 2025

More popular than the other Gili islands, but yet, not too crowded. It has enough places to suit all kinds of people--young and want to party? Head to the harbour. Want quiet beach-side luxury or other experiences, head to the other parts of the island. Great for snorkelling or diving. Just be mindful of the rough ferry ride over from Bali.

Sandhya Kannan
Sandhya Kannan India
10

Beautiful beaches

July 6, 2025

Beautiful beaches Beautiful people Beautiful sunsets No cars Travel by legs, bicycle or horse and trap. The horses work hard but I was informed they work half a day then are fed and rested, yes I know it's not ideal but I saw no mistreatment Go on a boat trip with Abdul next to Scallywags Pint of guiness in the irish bar We left ubud as the weather was consistently rain. I know it's a tropical island and I'd expect some rain but we live in the UK and we came to escape it. Gilli T outweighed my expectations. Having travelled to many carribean destinations and comparing them the people on the island make this place what it is.

Sharon
Sharon

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