Gili Islands

The Gilis belong administratively to Gili Indah village in North Lombok Regency. For a long time they were sparsely populated fishing and farming islands, and tourism began with backpackers and divers drawn by the reefs. Today about five thousand people live permanently on the three islands, predominantly Muslim, with Gili Air the most populated.

A local ordinance keeps motorised traffic off the islands, which is why cidomo and bicycles remain the main transport. The islands were shaken by the major Lombok earthquake of August 2018, which caused heavy loss of life on Lombok and structural damage on the Gilis; they have since rebuilt and welcomed visitors back.

The islands' Sasak and other Indonesian residents are mostly Muslim, and mosques and the call to prayer are part of daily life. Halal food is widely available, and many restaurants serve Indonesian and seafood dishes. Swimwear belongs on the beach; cover up in villages and shops. During Ramadan, some venues adjust hours and nightlife is quieter, which some visitors prefer.