The town of Ubud, set in the hills of Bali, is considered a center of traditional crafts and dance. The surrounding landscape, characterized by tropical forests and terraced rice fields dotted with Hindu temples and shrines, is among the most famous in Bali. It is regarded as an ideal base for exploring the island’s interior. Some of the most significant sites in the area include the Sacred Monkey Forest, where hundreds of macaques can be observed roaming freely; the famous Tegalalang rice terraces; and important temples such as Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi.
Train
Day 4 — Ubud → Lombok
Lombok is an Indonesian island located east of Bali, famous for its pristine beaches, majestic mountains and traditional culture. Less touristy than Bali, Lombok offers a more authentic and tranquil experience for those seeking a tropical retreat. Lombok's beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, with white sand and turquoise waters that invite relaxation and water activities. Beaches such as Kuta Beach and Tanjung Aan are particularly renowned for their natural beauty and the quality of the waves for surfing. Beyond the beaches, Lombok is dominated by the majestic Mount Rinjani, an active volcano that offers adventurous trekking opportunities. Climbing to its summit is an epic experience that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding region and ocean. Lombok's culture is rich and diverse, with a strong influence from the Sasak culture, the island's native ethnic group. Visitors can explore traditional villages, attend religious ceremonies and discover local handicrafts such as ikat cloth and ceramics. Cultural highlights include traditional temples such as Pura Lingsar and Pura Meru, which reflect the deep spirituality of the local people. Lombok is also known for its traditional festivals and celebrations, which offer visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the island's cultural life. Lombok's cuisine is delicious and varied, with local dishes reflecting the use of fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. Dishes to try include ayam taliwang (spicy grilled chicken), plecing kangkung (kangkung vegetables seasoned with spicy sauce) and nasi balap Puyung (rice with meat and seasoned sauces). In summary, Lombok is a tropical island that enchants visitors with its natural beauty, authentic culture and delicious cuisine. It is an ideal place for those seeking a quieter and more authentic experience than the crowded tourist destinations, offering a wealth of opportunities to explore and discover.
Train
Day 7 — Lombok → Gili Meno
Gili Meno is one of the three Gili Islands located off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. It is the quietest and least developed of the three islands, offering a peaceful retreat and relaxing atmosphere for visitors seeking a heavenly getaway. One of Gili Meno's main attractions is its breathtaking natural beauty. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, providing the perfect place to relax, snorkel and soak up the tropical sun. The coral reefs around the island are rich in marine life, offering visitors the opportunity to see a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles and colourful corals. Gili Meno is also known for its quiet and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike its larger sisters, Gili Trawangan and Gili Air, Gili Meno is less developed and does not have a lively nightlife. This makes it a popular choice among honeymooners, solo hikers and travellers seeking peace and tranquillity. Besides its beaches and crystal-clear waters, Gili Meno also offers some interesting activities for visitors. There are hiking trails on the island, allowing visitors to explore its wilderness and spot tropical birds and other wildlife. In addition, the island is home to a sea turtle sanctuary, where visitors can see giant tortoises and contribute to conservation efforts. Although Gili Meno is less developed than the other Gili islands, it still offers a variety of accommodation, including beach bungalows, luxury resorts and cheaper guesthouses. There are also restaurants and cafes on the island serving local and international cuisine, giving visitors a variety of options for eating and drinking.
