DK Travel - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Bali and Lombok

Inspire / Plan / Discover / Experience

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t Sunrise over Mount Rinjani, Lombok

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t Beach on Lombok withcolourful umbrellas.

Two neighbouring islands nestled in the Indonesian archipelago, blessed with natural wonders, rich in culture and history and with an astonishing heritage of arts and crafts, this double-destination offers something for everyone.

Bali and Lombok have a wealth of natural beauty to savour. Serrated coastlines frame hinterlands of lush, jungle-draped mountains and ancient volcanic calderas with shimmering crater lakes. Trek in the West Bali National Park, snorkel or dive the calm waters off Balis north and east coast, surf the Bukit Peninsula or explore the beautiful nature of Nusa Penida island. In Lombok, relax on unspoiled, white-sand beaches, surf the southern breaks, escape to the Gili Islands, trek Mount Rinjani and visit the mountain villages of Sembalun and Senaru.

Although only 35 kilometres (22 miles) of sea separates these islands, the cultural distinctions between the predominately Hindu Bali and the largely Islamic Lombok are considerable, yet each beckons with its own fascinating traditions, festivals, music, dance, theatre and arts and crafts. Enjoy Balis sophisticated international restaurants, shopping and nightlife in Seminyak, vegan cafs in Canggu and art museums and holistic healers in Ubud. For a quieter experience, head to the resorts of Senggigi and Kuta in Lombok. On both islands there are plentiful opportunities for bartering in markets or indulging in a relaxing massage at a spa retreat.

This guidebook breaks the islands down into easily navigable chapters, full of expert knowledge and insider tips. Weve picked out themes and created detailed itineraries and colourful maps to help you plan the perfect trip. Whether youre on a flying visit or an extended adventure, this Eyewitness guide will ensure you experience the very best these two islands have to offer.

Canang Sari devotional flower offerings, Bali.

Mount Batur at sunrise, Bali.

Indonesian chicken satay dish.

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From the tropical climate and the cuisine to the friendly people, rich cultures, artistic traditions, beaches and natural wonders, there is so much to love about these two beautiful islands.

t Balis Valley of the Kings is one of the prettiest sites on the island. Descend through rice terraces to ancient shrines carved out of rock overlooking the .

Discover Reasons to Bali and Lombok

t From volcanoes, rainforests, lakes, river gorges and rice fields to cliffs and beaches, the islands stunning natural landscapes are home to abundant flora and fauna.

Discover Reasons to Bali and Lombok

t Catch a performance of Balis chiming gamelan percussion music, with its heavy bronze gongs, playful bamboo pipes, metallophones, drums, cymbals and flutes.

Discover Reasons to Bali and Lombok

t High on the edge of a cliff above the ocean, this 11th-century temple glows with the radiance of the setting sun and will leave you with a powerful memory of spiritual .

Discover Reasons to Bali and Lombok

t Trekking to the summit of volcano to see its crater lake and watch the sun rise behind the mighty Gunung Agung is a truly unforgettable experience.

Discover Reasons to Bali and Lombok

SPAS

t Spas in Bali and Lombok continue to sprout, grow and blossom like lotus flowers, offering traditional and modern body-soothing .