A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sukhothai vs. Lombok for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Sukhothai or Lombok?

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 Sukhothai and Lombok can help you decide which place is right for you.

Sukhothai

Sukhothai is a world class, historical, and cultural city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Sukhothai travel costs.

Lombok

Lombok is a peaceful, laid back, and cultural island. Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Lombok travel costs.

Sukhothai and Lombok: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sukhothai or Lombok?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lombok. Although Sukhothai and Lombok are popular destinations, Lombok has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lombok is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Sukhothai attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and historical sights. Lombok is more touristy than Sukhothai and is known for its striking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and local culture. It is also well known for Mount Rinjani. Sukhothai is famous for its world class historical ruins and its history as the first capital of Siam.

How is Sukhothai different from Lombok?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sukhothai or Lombok?

Sukhothai is great for its historical sights. Also, Lombok is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Sukhothai. Although many visitors overlook Sukhothai, the Sukhothai Historical Park is one of the area's most impressive historical and cultural sights. There are countless historical landmarks both within the old walled city and in the surrounding area.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Lombok. The island has many traditional villages that let you glimpse the fascinating Sasak Tribe's culture. This is the largest tribe on the island and it makes up about 85% of the island's population. Sasak Sade Village is large and popular to visit. A visit offers a unique experience and helps you understand more about the island's culture.

Is the Food Better in Sukhothai or Lombok? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Sukhothai and Lombok can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Sukhothai. Tourists visit specifically to try the area's famed spicy noodle dish - kuaytiaw Sukhothai. The city is filled with a range of dining options, from noodle joints to Thai eateries, as well as tourist-friendly restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lombok. The island is considered world renowned for its Halal cuisine, and there are many popular local dishes that you should try. Ayam Taliwang is a grilled chicken dish, Satay Rembiga is grilled meat served over rice, and Bebalung is a soup that's made with goat or cow ribs.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Nightlife?

Both Sukhothai and Lombok have nice vibes after the sun sets.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Sukhothai. This is more of a historical area than a nightlife destination, but you'll find tourist-oriented bars where you can grab a cold beer, or local cafes with live music.

Lombok has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While the island is quieter than nearby Bali, it does still have an active nightlife scene. In particular, head to the areas around Senggigi Beach and Kuta Lombok for the most active bars and live music. With the more populated tourist areas and hotels come the more active clubs, bars, and evening entertainment.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Resorts?

Lombok is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Lombok. The island is filled with luxury resorts, villas, and hotels. You'll want to think about your priorities before booking your hotel. There areas that are better for beaches, hiking, culture or sightseeing, and each has its own personality and style.

Sukhothai is not a resort destination.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Lombok is not to be missed. The island is surrounded by clear waters and colorful coral, making it a superb snorkeling and diving destination. For some of the best dive spots head to the Gili Islands. Around the island you'll find places where you can see turtles, colorful fish, and possibly even Hammerhead Sharks.

Sukhothai is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Beaches?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Lombok is a very popular vacation destination. Kuta, Senggigi, and the Gili Islands offer some of the area's best beaches. Many beaches have white sand, clear water, beautiful snorkeling, or fun surfing. Mawun Beach and Pandanan Beach are among the most beautiful beaches, while Selong Belanak Beach is very photogenic with its water buffalo. Tanjung Aan Beach has surfing and Kuta Beach Lombok is the most popular beach, but not among the best.

Sukhothai is not a beach destination.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for its Old Town?

Sukhothai is great for its old town. However, Lombok does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Sukhothai. The Sukhothai Historical Park is an impressive World Heritage Site. There are 21 historical sites and four large ponds within the old walls. Outside of the walls there are another 70 sites within a 5 kilometer radius.

Lombok does not have a historic old town.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Hiking?

Lombok is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Lombok. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but the most well known is the three day hike to the peak of Mount Rinjani. This is the large and active volcano on the island. The hike is truly beautiful and spectacular, but it's also a challenging climb and the difficulty level should not be underestimated.

Sukhothai is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sukhothai or Lombok?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Sukhothai and Lombok.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Sukhothai. There are a number of markets and handicraft studios nearby. Check out Tra Phang Thong Market for local foods and products or Suntree Thai Weaving for handwoven items. There's also Suthep Sangkalok where you'll find traditional ceramics.

Lombok is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many traditional markets and villages around the island where you can buy Sasak crafts. These items are characterized by bright colors and elaborate patterns. You'll find pottery, fabrics, clothing, and hand-woven baskets.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok More Beautiful?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Lombok is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The island is filled with stunning beaches, beautiful waterfalls, and colorful marine environments.

Sukhothai is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Families?

Lombok is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Lombok is a very family-friendly destination. The island is filled with natural beauty, waterfalls, beaches, swimming spots, traditional villages and wildlife. This makes it an idyllic destination for families, whether you're traveling with toddlers or older kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sukhothai. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Sukhothai Historical Park and other nearby temples. The less touristy side of this area makes it great for families who need a break from Thailand's tourist crowds. It's also a fun place to explore by bike.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Couples?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for romance. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Lombok has plenty to offer. The island has grown into a world renowned honeymoon destination. It has a more laid back vibe than nearby Bali, and you'll find pristine beaches and a tropical paradise. There are luxury hotels, stunning natural settings, and plenty of romantic or adventurous activities.

Sukhothai makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For couples who want to get away from the tourist crowds, this cultural and historical area is filled with temples and interesting sights.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lombok is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sukhothai is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Lombok. This island is often compared to Bali 30 years ago. It's a much quieter island, but there are still bars and towns that attract a crowd. If you're looking for a party, then you'll likely still be able to find one, but if you want a laid back retreat, that's available as well.

It's common for backpackers to visit Sukhothai. For many backpackers, its not part of the typical Southeast Asian tourist trail, but for some, that is the appeal.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sukhothai is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lombok is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Sukhothai offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tuk tuks and local shuttle buses around the town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lombok. The island is spread out, so many visitors prefer to hire a car of motorbike. There are also public buses, minibuses, and taxis available.

Is Sukhothai or Lombok a more walkable city?

Sukhothai and Lombok are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Sukhothai is generally not a very walkable city. This isn't the most walkable area, and the historical sites are spread out so you'll really need a bike, motorbike, or some other form of transportation to get around.

Lombok is generally not very walkable. There are towns on the island that are relatively walkable and there are hiking and walking paths in different places.

For even more information, also check out Is Sukhothai Worth Visiting? and Is Lombok Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lombok or Sukhothai?

How long in Sukhothai or Lombok?

Sukhothai and Lombok both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lombok than Sukhothai because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Sukhothai, and 10-14 days is enough time in Lombok.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lombok than Sukhothai 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 Lombok.

One day in Sukhothai or Lombok?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Sukhothai. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Lombok. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Sukhothai or Lombok?

Sukhothai is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the stunning destination of Lombok. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Sukhothai or Lombok?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sukhothai. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the peaceful island of Lombok. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A week in Sukhothai or Lombok?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Sukhothai. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Lombok is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one week exploring. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Indonesia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Indonesia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sukhothai and Lombok, we can see that Sukhothai is more expensive. And not only is Lombok much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lombok would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lombok 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 Sukhothai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sukhothai than you might in Lombok.

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

When is the best time to visit Sukhothai or Lombok?

Both destinations experience a warmer climate with nice weather most of the year. Instead of summer and winter seasons, they usually have a rainy season and a dry season.

Should I visit Sukhothai or Lombok in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Sukhothai and Lombok. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Sukhothai year-round. Lombok attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

May to September in Lombok is the dry season. Sukhothai gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Sukhothai usually receives more rain than Lombok. Sukhothai gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

In the summer, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Lombok. Typically, the summer temperatures in Sukhothai in July average around 29°C (84°F), and Lombok averages at about 26°C (79°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Lombok in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Sukhothai as well as Lombok. Sukhothai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. The warm climate attracts visitors to Lombok throughout the year.

Also, October to April in Sukhothai is the dry season. May to October in Sukhothai is the rainy season. November to April in Lombok is the rainy season. It's quite rainy in Lombok. Sukhothai receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Sukhothai usually gets more rain in October than Lombok. Sukhothai gets 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

In October, Sukhothai is generally around the same temperature as Lombok. Daily temperatures in Sukhothai average around 28°C (83°F), and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Lombok in the Winter?

Both Lombok and Sukhothai are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Sukhothai throughout the year. Plenty of visitors come to Lombok because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In January, Sukhothai usually receives less rain than Lombok. Sukhothai gets 7 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Sukhothai. Sukhothai usually receives more sunshine than Lombok during winter. Sukhothai gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Lombok receives 188 hours of full sun in the winter.

Sukhothai is cooler than Lombok in the winter. The daily temperature in Sukhothai averages around 25°C (77°F) in January, and Lombok fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

Should I visit Sukhothai or Lombok in the Spring?

Both Lombok and Sukhothai during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Sukhothai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Lombok year-round.

October to April is the dry season in Sukhothai. May to October is the rainy season in Sukhothai. May to September is the dry season in Lombok. November to April is the rainy season in Lombok. Sukhothai usually gets less rain in April than Lombok. Sukhothai gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lombok receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

The heat can be very extreme in Sukhothai. In the spring, Sukhothai is a little warmer than Lombok. Typically, the spring temperatures in Sukhothai in April average around 32°C (89°F), and Lombok averages at about 28°C (82°F).

Typical Weather for Lombok and Sukhothai