A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dewa Sanzan vs. Gili Trawangan for Backpackers, Food, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dewa Sanzan and Gili Trawangan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dewa Sanzan

Dewa Sanzan is a sacred, remote, and traditional religious site. Visitors also love the hiking and museums. See Dewa Sanzan travel costs.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is a idyllic, laidback, and tropical island. The beauty of Gili Trawangan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Gili Trawangan travel costs.

Dewa Sanzan and Gili Trawangan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Gili Trawangan than Dewa Sanzan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Gili Trawangan is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Dewa Sanzan is more popular for its museums and attractions and hiking. Gili Trawangan is more touristy than Dewa Sanzan and is known for its beautiful water and impressive scuba diving. Also, Gili Trawangan is famous for beautiful beachfront setting. Dewa Sanzan is well known for its traditional religion, three sacred mountains, and the Shukubo Pilgrim Lodges.

How is Dewa Sanzan different from Gili Trawangan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Gili Trawangan and Dewa Sanzan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

Dewa Sanzan is very good for its museums and history. However, Gili Trawangan is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Dewa Sanzan offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. This is a sacred religious site that is at the heart of the Shugendo folk religion. The religion combines Buddhist and Shinto traditions and there are several temples in the area including the most sacred sights at Yudono-san, Haguro-san, and Gas-san, as well as the Churenji and Dainichibo Temples.

Gili Trawangan offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of art and cultural museums on the island, but most people spend their time soaking up the idyllic setting.

Is the Food Better in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Gili Trawangan has a huge number of terrific restaurants. As the largest and one of the most touristy of the Gili Islands, you'll find a wide range of cuisines. There's everything from Mexican to Greek available. You'll also find plenty of tropical fruits and some local Indonesian cuisine as well.

Dewa Sanzan may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. In your guesthouse you'll be given "Shojin cuisine", which is the traditional cuisine that has been handed down through the generations. It is strictly vegetarian and is heavily influenced by whatever vegetable is currently in season in the area. Traditionally, the cuisine focused on sustenance and not taste, but for the purposes of hospitality, the dishes are more flavorful than is typical in the traditional cuisine.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Nightlife?

Gili Trawangan is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Gili Trawangan is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This is the "party island" of the Gili Islands. It has a wild nightlife scene that is particularly popular with backpackers. There are tons of beach bars that have live music, DJs, and nightly parties. There are also regular boat parties. The party scene is pretty well coordinated across the bars, and one bar will stay open late each night while the others close around midnight. This keeps the partygoers concentrated in one location and keeps the energy high for everyone.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Dewa Sanzan. This is a religious site that is remote and focused on mountain worship and devotion. Nightlife is non-existent in the area.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Resorts?

Gili Trawangan is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Gili Trawangan makes a nice vacation spot. The island was long known for its backpacker vibe which included poorly concentrated beach huts. More recently there's been an upswing in upmarket accommodation, particularly on the quieter western and northern sides of the island.

Dewa Sanzan is not a resort destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Gili Trawangan is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Gili Trawangan is not to be missed. Snorkeling and diving are a highlight on the island, and a big draw for many visitors. The island is small, with a large concentration of tourists, so if you book a boat trip, you'll likely be surrounded by others. This doesn't mean you won't be able to enjoy colorful fish, a magical undersea world, and the occasional sea turtle.

Dewa Sanzan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Beaches?

Gili Trawangan is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Gili Trawangan is a very popular vacation destination. The island is filled with white sand beaches, most of which have restaurants and beachside bars nearby. One of the busiest beaches is near the port, but a quieter area is nearby Surf Point. The sunset side of the island is perfect in the evening when the sun starts to dip below the horizon, but the beaches on that side aren't as great as the other side of the island.

Dewa Sanzan is not a beach destination.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Hiking?

Dewa Sanzan is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dewa Sanzan. Experienced hikers can climb Mt. Gassan and Mt. Yudono in one day and do Mt. Haguro separately. For Mt. Gassan, you'll want to take the bus to the 8th station and climb from there.

Gili Trawangan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

Gili Trawangan is a decent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its shopping areas.

If you're looking to go shopping, Gili Trawangan has some nice offerings. You'll find most things you need on the island, but this isn't a place people usually shop for fun.

Dewa Sanzan has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This is a sacred sight that is devoted to worship and a simple life. As such, shopping in not available in the area with the exception of a couple of convenience stores.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan More Beautiful?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Dewa Sanzan is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Gili Trawangan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Crystal blue waters and white sand beaches make this an idyllic island paradise. The setting is perfect for hanging out by the water and soaking up the island vibe.

Dewa Sanzan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Families?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Gili Trawangan is very family-friendly. There are many kid-friendly activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. There are also glass bottom boat tours and a great laidback island vibe that kids and adults alike will enjoy. Do note that this is one of the more popular islands for backpackers, so there is a big party scene.

Dewa Sanzan is not such a family-friendly religious site. The remote location make this a challenging place to access. It's a religious destination and its sacred and historic past is often lost to children. Out of respect for the strict religion, this site is best visited as an adult.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Couples?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Gili Trawangan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. White sand, blue water, and a true tropical island paradise make this a wonderful honeymoon destination. It's one of the more energetic of the Gili Islands, so if you're looking for a calm retreat, there may be better options, but it still has wonderful resorts and great diving.

Dewa Sanzan is a good religious site for couples to visit. Couples who want to do something that's a bit different from mainstream Japan will appreciate a visit to this religious site.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Gili Trawangan is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Dewa Sanzan is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Gili Trawangan is extremely popular for backpackers. It's the most popular of the Gili Islands for backpackers so you'll find tons of hostels and a great nightlife scene. The energy is high and the scenery and idyllic beaches are wonderful.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dewa Sanzan. This is an off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers, and it can be difficult to reach by public transit. Once you're there, if you want a traditional experience, you can stay at a Shukubo Pilgrim Lodge.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Gili Trawangan is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its public transit.

Gili Trawangan has some public transit options. Many tourists enjoy getting around the island by cidomo, which are horse-drawn carts. Otherwise, walking or biking are your best options.

Public transit is generally limited in Dewa Sanzan. There is public transit from Tsuruoka Station to Mt. Haguro and the accommodation in the area. There are also buses to the top of Mt. Haguro, Mt. Yudono, and Mt. Gassan 8th Station.

Is Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan a more walkable city?

Gili Trawangan is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Dewa Sanzan is lacking in options for its ease of walking around.

Gili Trawangan is a very walkable island. While it's the largest of the Gili Islands, it still small enough to walk around in about two hours and it's relatively easy to explore on foot.

Dewa Sanzan is generally not very walkable. Everything is very spread out so walking can be challenging. Experienced hikers will enjoy hiking to each of the three shrines.

For even more information, also check out Is Dewa Sanzan Worth Visiting? and Is Gili Trawangan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Gili Trawangan or Dewa Sanzan?

How long in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

It's fun to spend time in either Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Gili Trawangan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Dewa Sanzan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gili Trawangan.

Families should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Dewa Sanzan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Gili Trawangan, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Dewa Sanzan. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Gili Trawangan that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gili Trawangan than Dewa Sanzan if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Gili Trawangan.

One day in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

In Dewa Sanzan, you'll find museums. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laidback island of Gili Trawangan. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

Dewa Sanzan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the laidback destination of Gili Trawangan. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dewa Sanzan. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The idyllic island of Gili Trawangan offers scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Dewa Sanzan or Gili Trawangan?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the religious site of Dewa Sanzan. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Gili Trawangan. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Japan, The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan, The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dewa Sanzan and Gili Trawangan, we can see that Dewa Sanzan is more expensive. And not only is Gili Trawangan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Gili Trawangan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Gili Trawangan and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dewa Sanzan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dewa Sanzan than you might in Gili Trawangan.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Dewa Sanzan Expensive? and Is Gili Trawangan Expensive?.