Lombok

Hoofden van Lombok, 1870-1890

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75 ct diamond Lombok treasure Museum Volkenkunde Leiden

Lombok 1894 J. Hoynck van Papendrecht 1858 1933

Joko Widodo Lombok Earthquake damage

Gunung Rinjani from Gili Air 1

Lombok is an island in West Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia. It forms part of the chain of the Lesser Sunda Islands, with the Lombok Strait separating it from Bali to the west and the Alas Strait between it and Sumbawa to the east. It is roughly circular, with a "tail" (Sekotong Peninsula) to the southwest, about 70 kilometers across and a total area of about 4,514 square kilometers. The provincial capital and largest city on the island is Mataram.

Geography

Lombok is located east of Bali and west of Sumbawa, part of the Lesser Sunda Islands. Its terrain is dominated by the centrally located Mount Rinjani, an active volcano which rises to 3,726 meters, making it the second highest in Indonesia. The area around the mountain is a designated national park, Mount Rinjani National Park, which is a popular destination for trekking. The island has a variety of landscapes, from the lush forests surrounding Rinjani to the arid areas in the south and east. Lombok's coastline offers a range of beaches, from white sandy beaches in the south like Kuta to the black sand beaches of the north.

Culture

Lombok's culture is a blend of Balinese, Javanese, and Sasak culture. The majority of the population are ethnic Sasak who practice Islam, making the island's culture and traditions distinct from the predominantly Hindu Bali. Traditional weaving, pottery, and woodcarving are important aspects of the local culture. The island is also known for its traditional music, dance, and the Sasak martial art of Pencak Silat.

Tourism

Tourism is an important part of Lombok's economy, with the island being known for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and trekking opportunities. The Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air), located off the northwest coast of Lombok, are especially popular for their diving and snorkeling, as well as for their relaxed atmosphere and nightlife. South Lombok is famous for its pristine beaches and is becoming a popular destination for luxury tourism. The development of the Mandalika resort area, with its racing circuit that hosts international events, is expected to further boost tourism on the island.

Economy

The economy of Lombok is largely based on agriculture, with rice, soybeans, coffee, tobacco, cotton, cinnamon, and vanilla among the key crops. Fishing and livestock farming are also important. In recent years, tourism has grown to become a significant sector, contributing to the island's economy and development. The government has been investing in infrastructure and facilities to support this growth, including improvements to the international airport and the development of the Mandalika resort area.

Transport

Lombok is served by the Lombok International Airport, which offers domestic and international flights. The island has a road network that connects major towns and tourist destinations. Public transport on the island includes buses, minibuses (bemos), and taxis. There are also ferries that connect Lombok with Bali and Sumbawa, and boats to the nearby Gili Islands.

Environmental Issues

Lombok faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, water scarcity, and waste management issues. The growth of tourism and the development of new resorts have also raised concerns about their impact on the island's natural resources and ecosystems. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices and to protect the environment, including initiatives to preserve coral reefs and reduce plastic waste.