I’ve heard some people say that Lombok is Bali some decades ago–before it struggles with overtourism for the past few years. But, I must say–Lombok is not Bali.
As a disclaimer, I have not made Bali as my home. In fact, I’ve been there for only a couple of times as a short-time tourist. I absolutely understand that my experience living in Lombok is incomparable with the trips I took in Bali.
However, these facts would help you understand why Lombok is definitely not Bali.
The Majority of Lombok People is Muslim
Let’s start this “Lombok vs. Bali” topic with one obvious fact: religion-wise, most people in Lombok are Muslim. Based on available data, 80% of the total population is Muslim. This somehow correlates with Lombok’s nickname as “The land with 1000 mosques”, which literally implies the island has over 1000 mosques built on its soil.
Meanwhile, as of 2024, Bali is home to 3.77 million Hindus–compared to its total population of 4.36 million. That is about 86.5% of the total population.
Sasak Tribe is Lombok’s Native
Orang Sasak is said to have migrated from Java, an island west of Bali. “Sasak” came from the terms “sak sak” or “sesek” which simply implies the activity of weaving.
One of the precious things Sasak people, especially their women, inherit is their knowledge in weaving traditional textiles. Indonesians call them as kain tenun. The craft is so beautiful it’s nearly impossible for you to compare it with other traditional fabrics–just because each of them has their own beauty.
A source even mentioned that every Sasak woman must master this skill as a requirement to get married. That somehow tells a lot about why every Sasak woman should teach their daughters of this artistry.
However, Balinese came from a different history. A number of sources records that Bali’s native people migrated from Majapahit Kingdom in Java. Bali Aga is claimed by several sources to be Bali’s first people, and most of them live in mountainous areas.
Pepper-like Sand is one of Lombok’s Beauty
Let’s assume that you have been to Bali, even for once. Either for a short escape or long stay because you just can’t stand leaving the Island of God. You sure have loved its white sandy beaches stretched so beautifully under the horizon.
But, have you ever felt pepper-like sand slip in your fingers as you are enjoying an afternoon walk along Tanjung Aan Beach in Lombok? If not, you surely need one.
I can’t stress enough how surprised and proud I am of myself once I get to feel this experience. It was simply love at first sight. I was amazed by the existence of the pepper-like sand and how it felt when my feet touched it.
Read More: Here’s The Ultimate Things To Do in Lombok
Lombok and Bali are both gorgeous and so giving–they bless you with beautiful beaches, majestic arts and exotic culture. So, consider yourself lucky and deeply blessed if you can get a taste of experiencing all of them.