Whether on land or at sea, Lombok offers you a wealth of activities. From hiking on the slopes of the Rinjani volcano to water sports on turquoise seas, horseback riding along the beach—your vacation in this volcanic island with its diverse landscapes promises to be both active and relaxing.

History

According to the epic poem Nagarakertagama, written in 1365 by court poet Prapanca under the reign of King Hayam Wuruk (1350–1389), Lombok was one of the "tributary lands" of the Majapahit kingdom. According to legend, a prince from the eastern Javanese monarchy founded the old villages of Sembalun and Bayan. Majapahit and Javanese roots remain present in the Sasak dialect, the common language on Lombok.

During the second half of the 16th century, Islam was introduced to Lombok by Sunan Prapen, one of the successors of Susuhunan Ratu of Giri. According to the Badad Lombok or the chronicle of Lambok, he organized a military expedition to Sumbawa and Lombok to spread the new faith. The manuscript Petung Bayan cites the king of Bayan as the first lord to convert. From the beginning, the new religion was characterized by syncretism between Hindu-Buddhism, Islam and animism.

In the 1630s, the king of Gelgel of Bali set out to conquer Sumbawa and Lombok. However, the Sultanate of Gowa, then in full expansion in the south of Sulawesi island, blocked his plans. By the end of the 17th century, Lombok became a refuge for Makassar and Bugis soldiers seeking to escape their king's authoritarianism.

The first Dutch arrived at Lombok in 1674 and settled in the east of the island. The western part remained under the authority of the Balinese kings of Karangasem. At the dawn of the 19th century, the Dutch campaign against Karangasem was in full swing, with the support of Lombok's new ruler. But the conquerors desired complete control of the island of Lombok.

In 1891, the king of Lombok ordered his Muslim Sasak subjects to launch a campaign in Bali, triggering a revolt to the benefit of the Dutch. Under the pretext of intervention, the Dutch launched an attack on Lombok in 1894 and emerged victorious after numerous battles. For the Balinese, the war ended in puputan (collective suicide). Dutch occupation of Lombok lasted from 1894 to 1942.

Among the significant events in Lombok's history is the eruption of Mount Samalas. It was one of the most important volcanic explosions recorded by scientists in the last 7,000 years. This event is also cited in the Badad Lombok.

Today

Located in the Sunda Archipelago, Lombok is primarily known for its Rinjani volcano, whose last eruption dates back to 1994. However, the region boasts other attractions, starting with its fine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and varied landscapes. Agriculture is among the main activities of the island's inhabitants. The land proves favorable for many crops, including rice, coffee, corn, cotton and tobacco.

In the south, villages have preserved their authenticity, shaped by unspoiled landscapes far from tourist resorts. Although the beaches are magnificent, this part of Lombok remains untouched by mass tourism. The few vacationers who venture here have the privilege of discovering atypical seabeds harboring unique fauna and flora. The western part of the island is the preferred destination for tourists on a trip to Lombok. This is surely due to the proximity of the Gili Islands, perfect bubbles of escape to indulge in island living. To the north, Mount Rinjani dominates the landscape. The ocean's blue gives way to mountain scenery dotted with waterfalls and rice paddies. Once there, lace up your hiking boots and join the ranks of trekkers for an ascent of the volcano! With its many facets, Lombok brings happiness to both budding adventurers and enthusiasts of water sports or relaxation.

Before you leave, take a look at the local craft shops. While shopping, you'll stumble upon pottery typical of the Sasak people, basketwork, and more. Of course, culinary delights await you too. Local chefs will delight your taste buds with traditional dishes made from fish, shellfish and locally grown produce.

Climate

Lombok enjoys a hot and humid tropical climate marked by a rainy season from October to April. The dry season occurs in July and August.

By air, Lombok receives flights from Indonesia and Singapore. If you choose to travel by sea to the island, ferries make the crossing between Padangbai in Bali and Lembar in Lombok. From Sumbawa, you can also take the boat from Poto Tano to dock at Labuhan.

On Lombok, transportation comes in many forms to facilitate your travels: buses, motorcycles, taxis, etc. Car rental is also among the available services. However, be careful on the road, as the roads are often narrow and in poor condition.

What to do in Lombok?

• Escape into the heart of rice paddies and traditional villages
• Undertake the ascent of Mount Rinjani
• Explore by horseback along white sand beaches
• Go diving to discover marine fauna and flora
• Taste local cuisine
• Shop in craft boutiques, etc.