Madura has been known as the Salt Island. Not many people know that the island that is connected to Surabaya via the Suramadu Bridge also has a myriad of enchanting natural attractions. One of them is Gili Labak. Gili Labak deserves to be nicknamed "hidden paradise."
This tourist destination is perfect for anyone who likes the silence and beauty of the unspoiled sea. Its remote location and unknown to many people makes this place untouched by humans. Gili Labak is the name of a small island in Madura.
Administratively, this island is included in the area of Kombang Village, Talango District, Sumenep Regency. The island, which is located in the eastern part of Madura Island, used to be called Pulau Tikus. It is said that this island is a nest for rats. It would take a strong intention and a fair amount of effort to reach this remote island. If departing from Surabaya by car, you should leave around midnight or early morning.
With this, you will avoid traffic jams and arrive in the Sumenep area around 06.00. Upon arrival in Sumenep, just head straight to Kalianget Harbor to cross to Gili Labak. The location of Kali Anget District itself is actually right across from Talango Island, about 500 meters away. However, the trip from Kalianget to Gili Labak takes about two to three hours by fast boat. It is better if you visit this island during the rainy season. Because, in this season, the ocean waves around Madura are known to be ferocious. Tourists are not recommended to do snorkeling because it is dangerous.
Conversely, during the summer, the sea conditions are more tame so that many activities can be done by travelers with a longer time. The beauty of the sea can be seen more clearly. One of the reasons that Gili Labak has earned the nickname “hidden paradise” is its very clear blue sea. From its surface, you can see various types of fish and beautiful coral reefs. This makes Gili Labak waters very suitable for snorkeling activities.
Unfortunately there is no recommended diving spot around Gili Labak. In addition, the majority of coral reefs there are still young with relatively limited biodiversity. In addition, the Gili Labak area still lacks infrastructure, facilities and public services, because it has not been exposed much and has not been visited by many tourists. There are no inns, let alone resorts. The number of food vendors is also very limited. Apart from its remote location, the small number of people living on this island is one of the reasons. Only about 35 families live on this island.
Another downside is the very small island area. The area is only about 5 hectares. You can get around it on foot in under an hour, without much to do. However, if you want to feel the sensation of an impressive natural tourism, especially for those of you who want to enjoy an atmosphere of solitude, you can camp there. The island's calm and lonely atmosphere makes this island ideal for these activities.
source : tribuntravel_1001indonesia
