Lembar is noticeably different than its close neighbor, Bali. The northern part of the island is mountainous and lush with tall trees and shrubs, and the south is arid and covered by savannas. Large Asian mammals are absent and replaced instead by marsupials, lizards, cockatoos and parrots. Lembar experienced strong Balinese influences, but has retained a unique identity. The indigenous people of Lembar, the Sasaks, are predominantly Muslim and have a strong, distinguished tradition. Famous for its ikat hand-woven textiles, the island has exceptional charm and is relatively undiscovered.