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Lombok, the small island on the eastern side of Bali is just being slowly discovered by the world of global tourism. Lombok Island has been so named because of its famous chili peppers. It is also a place where there is a harmonious blend of two distinct cultures, the Hindu Balinese and the Sasak Muslims. Though the island is separated by Lombok Strait it is very near Bali, only a distance of 45 km. But the difference between Lombok and Bali is huge, for one this island is much drier than Bali and secondly, from this island a very distinct flora and fauna are seen. Lombok is divers’ joy. There are several points in and around this island, which are much frequented by both the amateur and the seasoned divers from all over the world. Manta Point, Lombok is one such dive spot which is becoming popular day by day. The island is not the same throughout its length and breath. The northern side of the island is mountainous and has a huge green cover which includes tall trees and small shrubs. The southern side of the island is just the opposite, it is very dry and is similar to a Savannah landscape. The highest point in the island is an active volcano much revered by the locals, Mt. Rinjani. The crater lake and the hot springs dotting the slopes are thought to have healing properties. Lombok has three small islands known as Gili Trewangan (furthest from mainland), Gili Meno and Gili Air which all have more than one fabulous diving spots. Manta Point is a diving site in the south of Gili Trewangan and is really special because of the giant manta rays. Manta rays are actually extremely flat type of fish without any bones, they have only cartilages. Manta rays are also known as giant manta for it is the largest of the ray species and is nearly 25 feet across its pectoral fins. Tropical seas find a plethora of Manta rays and coral reefs are the best places to spot them. Mantas have “horns” which are used in putting plankton, small fish and water into the ray’s very wide mouth. Mantas generally eat plankton and fish larvae and small organisms which are found in abundance during the rainy season in Manta Point. Simply because of this, it is possible to spot Mantas in a diving expedition in the Manta Point. Reef sharks are predators of Manta Rays, so even if no ray is seen, it is possible to spot the sharks and sea turtles. All in all, Manta Point Lombok, offers divers many attractions to make it absolutely irrestible.
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