Why Lombok Could Become Indonesia’s Next Big Tourism Star

LOMBOK – Bali may still be Indonesia’s biggest tourism name, but Lombok is increasingly showing the signs of a destination ready to become the country’s next major tourism star.

One of the clearest signals is coming from The Mandalika. During the first half of 2026, the tourism area recorded 685,844 visitor arrivals, up 17.39 percent from the same period a year earlier. Average accommodation occupancy also increased from 44.94 percent to 50.95 percent.

The growth is strengthening Mandalika’s position as more than a beach destination. It is increasingly being developed as a hub for sport and lifestyle tourism.

International motorsport is one of its biggest engines.

The Indonesian MotoGP will return to the Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit on October 9–11, 2026, with organizers targeting 145,000 spectators, 15.7 percent more than last year’s attendance.

But Lombok’s potential extends far beyond its racing circuit.

More Than a Racing Circuit

The island offers a combination of beaches, mountains, small islands, local culture and adventure tourism.

Mount Rinjani, rising 3,726 meters above sea level, is one of Lombok’s most recognizable natural landmarks. Meanwhile, the Gili Islands - Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air - offer snorkeling, diving and tropical escapes.

Mandalika itself is surrounded by beaches including Kuta, Tanjung Aan, Gerupuk and Seger, while Merese Hill provides sweeping views of the coastline.

A New Gateway to International Travelers

International connectivity is also improving.

In July 2026, Lion Air launched a direct Lombok–Kuala Lumpur service. The route strengthens access between Malaysia and Lombok while giving travelers additional connections to international destinations through Kuala Lumpur.

For international tourism, accessibility matters. Even spectacular destinations struggle to compete globally when reaching them is complicated.

Lombok’s Muslim-Friendly Advantage

Lombok has another increasingly important advantage: Muslim-friendly tourism.

In September 2026, West Nusa Tenggara underwent an Indonesia Muslim Travel Index (IMTI) 2026 assessment examining facilities such as halal restaurants, prayer facilities, sanitation, accessibility and tourist services. Mandalika was among the areas assessed.

The provincial government has also been strengthening Muslim-friendly tourism as part of its strategy to improve the region’s competitiveness.

The development comes as Indonesia’s tourism sector continues to grow. The Ministry of Tourism reported 8.98 million international tourist visits between January and July 2026, up 5.23 percent from the same period last year.

Lombok now has beaches, mountains, culture, international motorsport, improving connectivity and a growing Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem.

Bali may still be Indonesia’s most recognizable tourism brand.

But Lombok is increasingly looking like the country’s next big tourism star.