Understand

Gili Gede, a secluded island in West Nusa Tenggara, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Although small and isolated, this island offers a surprising amount of electricity and sustains its inhabitants through fishing and tourism. While the dominant language spoken by locals is Sasak, the absence of a large tourist presence may make it challenging to find English speakers.

Gili Gede, which translates to "big island," is situated on the southwestern tip of Lombok in Sekotong. It lies approximately 550 meters off the Lombok coast, near the port of Tembowong. As the largest among the Sekotong Islands, Gili Gede stands out among the cluster of "secret Gili's" in the region, offering a wide range of accommodation and tourist options.

With its elongated shape, spanning 4km in length and 1.6km at its widest point (known as the dog nose), Gili Gede invites exploration. While most of the island can be explored on foot, some areas are more conveniently accessed by small local fishing boats. Its total area covers 3.2km2, and it boasts three main villages with approximately 1000 inhabitants.

Gili Gede is blessed with proximity to Desert Point, an internationally renowned surf break famous for its incredibly long left-hand waves. Surrounded by prestigious diving sites such as Sekotong Bay and Belongas Bay, Gili Gede serves as a perfect launchpad for thrilling diving and surfing adventures.

This captivating island is nestled within a sheltered bay, making it an excellent destination for leisurely boat cruises and sailing. Gede enjoys a delightful climate, with only four months of rainfall and a balmy water temperature of 28 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

On clear days, Gili Gede offers breathtaking views of both Mt. Rinjani and Mt. Agung. With its turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches, Gili Gede is a paradise waiting to be discovered. If you seek tranquility and relaxation, this laid-back island is the perfect spot to unwind and recharge.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing