Mataram - Discovering Indonesia

Travelling to Mataram

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Mataram, a pretty good destination in Indonesia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Mataram and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Mataram, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Indonesia, here's everything to know about Mataram for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Mataram

Mataram is a city located on the island of Lombok in Indonesia. It is the capital city of the West Nusa Tenggara province and has a population of approximately 450,000 people. Mataram is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches and natural scenery, and is often used as a starting point for visitors who want to explore the nearby Gili Islands. The city has a warm and tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C throughout the year. Some popular tourist attractions in Mataram include the Mayura Water Palace, the Narmada Park, and the Lingsar Temple.

What to visit in Mataram

1) Pura Meru: It is a 18th-century Hindu temple with three towering pagodas constructed in the shape of Mount Meru, which is considered sacred in Hinduism.
2) Taman Mayura: Also known as the "Water Palace," it is a historic complex with a large artificial lake and a garden surrounded by a moat.
3) Senggigi Beach: A popular beach area in Mataram with stunning sunset views, white sand beaches and clear waters, it is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
4) Lombok Epicentrum Mall: One of the biggest shopping malls in Mataram, it has a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and a cinema.
5) Pura Batu Bolong: A unique temple located on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean, it offers a magnificent view of the coastline and is a popular spot for sunset watching.
6) Narmada Park: A beautiful park with a series of terraced gardens, it is a peaceful place with a large central pond and a replica of Mount Rinjani, the highest peak in Lombok.
7) Bukit Selong: A beautiful hill located in Central Lombok, it is perfect for hiking and offers breathtaking views of rice paddies, jungle, and hills.
8) Kebun Raya Lombok: Also known as the Lombok Botanical Garden, it is home to a range of indigenous flora and fauna, including orchids and rare birds.
9) Museum NTB: A museum located in the heart of Mataram, it showcases the history, culture, and traditions of Lombok and its neighboring islands.
10) Ampenan Old Town: A historic district in Mataram with a rich colonial history, Ampenan Old Town is a perfect place to explore traditional markets, historic buildings, and local culture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Indonesia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Mataram

The best time to visit Mataram, Indonesia is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, you can expect sunny weather and warm temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the beaches and outdoor activities. The wet season is from October to April, which could make it hard to travel and enjoy outdoor activities due to heavy rainfall and flooding. It is best to avoid the rainy season if possible.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Mataram

Mataram is the capital city of the Indonesian province of West Nusa Tenggara. Here are some ways to get to Mataram: 1. By flight: You can fly to Lombok International Airport (LOP) which is the closest airport to Mataram. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Mataram. The flight time from Jakarta to Lombok is around 2 hours.
2. By ferry: You can take a ferry from Bali to Lombok which will take you to the Lembar Port. From there, you can take a taxi or public transport to Mataram.
3. By road: If you're already in Lombok, you can rent a motorbike or car and drive to Mataram. The distance between Lombok and Mataram is approximately 25 km.
4. By bus: You can take a bus from Bali to Mataram. There are regular bus services from Bali, but the journey may take a long time due to traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Mataram, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Mataram

Mataram is the capital city of the West Nusa Tenggara Province in Indonesia, here are some typical foods: 1. Ayam Taliwang: a grilled chicken dish marinated in spicy chili sauce and served with a side of plecing kangkung (water spinach salad) 2. Nasi Balap Puyung: a rice dish mixed with shredded chicken, fried tempeh, eggs, and sambal (chili paste) 3. Sate Rembiga: a skewered beef dish marinated in sweet soy sauce and served with a peanut sauce 4. Plecing Kangkung: a water spinach salad with tomato, chili, and shrimp paste dressing 5. Bebalung Soup: a flavorful soup made from beef ribs boiled with herbs and spices 6. Nasi Campur: a rice dish served with various side dishes such as meat, eggs, vegetables, and sambal 7. Sate Bulayak: a skewered chicken or beef dish wrapped in a rice cake and served with peanut sauce 8. Soto Ayam: a chicken soup dish with vermicelli noodles, vegetables, and a spicy broth 9. Pepes Ikan: a grilled fish dish wrapped in banana leaves and mixed with spices such as lemongrass, chili, and tamarind 10. Es Alpukat: an iced avocado shake mixed with condensed milk, sugar, and ice.
You can find general info about typical foods in Indonesia here.

Is Mataram an expensive destination for tourists?

Mataram is not generally considered an expensive destination for tourists compared to other destinations in Indonesia such as Bali or Jakarta. However, the cost of your trip will depend on your travel style, budget, and preferences. Accommodation and transportation in Mataram are generally affordable, and there are plenty of cheap food options available. Entrance fees to tourist attractions such as temples and museums are also usually reasonable. Overall, Mataram is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the culture and beauty of Indonesia without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Mataram

Mataram is the capital city of the province of West Nusa Tenggara in Indonesia and the most convenient areas to stay to visit Mataram are: 1. Cakranegara: This area is the busiest and most developed part of Mataram and has plenty of accommodation options, restaurants, and shops. It is also close to some of the city's main attractions, such as Mayura Water Palace and Meru Temple.
2. Pejanggik: This area is located in the western part of Mataram, close to the airport. It is a quieter area with several budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses.
3. Ampenan: Ampenan is the oldest area of Mataram and presents a mix of traditional and modern vibes. It is close to the beach, several restaurants, and shops, making it an excellent option for travelers.
4. Senggigi: Senggigi is not exactly within Mataram city limits, but it is the most popular tourist destination in Lombok, which is a neighboring island of Bali. It has a fabulous beach, plenty of accommodation options, and is a good base for exploring Mataram.
You can check hotel prices at Mataram here:
Booking.com

Is Mataram a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Mataram is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other place in the world, it is always important to take basic safety precautions when traveling, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keeping your valuables secure. Additionally, it is important to respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of cultural differences. Overall, Mataram is a beautiful destination with friendly locals and plenty of attractions to enjoy.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Indonesia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Mataram.

What type of travelers will enjoy Mataram the most?

Mataram, Indonesia can be a great destination for a variety of travelers. Here are some types of travelers who may enjoy it the most: 1. History and Culture Buffs: Mataram is home to several historical and cultural attractions, including the Mayura Water Palace and the Pura Meru Temple.
2. Beach Lovers: Mataram is also located near several beautiful beaches, such as Senggigi Beach and Kuta Beach, which offer surfing, snorkeling, and diving opportunities.
3. Adventure Seekers: Mataram is located near several natural attractions, such as Mount Rinjani and the Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls, which offer hiking and trekking opportunities.
4. Couples: Mataram can be a romantic destination for couples, especially if you stay at a resort with plenty of amenities or take a sunset stroll along the beach.
5. Families: Mataram can be a fun destination for families with children, especially if you visit the nearby Lombok Elephant Park or take a family-friendly snorkeling tour.
Overall, Mataram can be enjoyed by a wide variety of travelers, although it may not be the best choice for young partygoers seeking a lively nightlife scene.

How to get around Mataram

The most common ways to move around Mataram are by motorcycle taxis (locally referred to as ojek), local buses, mikrolets (small public vans), and taxis. Additionally, renting a car or a scooter are also options. However, it's important to note that traffic and road conditions can be challenging, particularly during peak hours.

What to see around Mataram

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Mataram: 1. Gili Trawangan: a beautiful island known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It's only a short boat ride away from Mataram.
2. Pura Lingsar: a unique and interesting Hindu temple that also serves as a holy site for local Muslims. It's located in Lombok's western foothills, about an hour's drive from Mataram.
3. Narmada Park: a beautiful park featuring a stunning artificial lake, picturesque gardens, and intricate Hindu sculptures. It's located just a few kilometers east of Mataram.
4. Senggigi Beach: a long stretch of beach with white sands, turquoise waters, and plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants. It's located about 20 minutes north of Mataram.
5. Bukit Merese Hill: a popular hiking spot that offers spectacular views of the coast and surrounding hills. It's located about an hour's drive from Mataram.
For every travel information about Indonesia you can click here.

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