Palembang - Discovering Indonesia

Travelling to Palembang

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Palembang, 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 Palembang 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 Palembang, 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 Palembang for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Palembang

Palembang is a city located on the eastern coast of the Indonesian island of Sumatra. It is the capital city of South Sumatra province and has a population of approximately 1.7 million people. Palembang is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, particularly its role as the center of the Srivijaya Empire, one of the most powerful empires in Southeast Asia between the 7th and 13th centuries. The city is also renowned for its culinary delights, including pempek (a type of fish cake) and tekwan (a fish soup dish). Palembang is home to several attractions, including Ampera Bridge, Musi River, and Kuto Besak Fort.

What to visit in Palembang

Sure, here is a list of the must-visit tourist attractions in Palembang, Indonesia along with some information about each of them: 1. Ampera Bridge - This is the most iconic landmark in Palembang, spanning over the Musi River. It is a cable-stayed bridge with two towering pillars on each end and a hanging bridge in between. The bridge is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying scenic views of the river and the city skyline.
2. Kuto Besak Fortress - This historical site was built during the reign of Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin I in the 18th century. It used to be a fortress to protect the city from Dutch colonial forces. Now, it has been turned into a museum with various collections related to the city's history and culture.
3. Musi River - The longest river in Sumatra island, the Musi River flows through Palembang and is a vital part of the city's identity. You can take a boat ride along the river in the afternoon to see the city and its surroundings from a different perspective.
4. Punti Kayu Park - A popular recreational park located in the northern part of Palembang. It has a lake, gardens, playgrounds, and lots of food stalls. A great place to relax and enjoy some fresh air.
5. Kemaro Island - This small island is located in the middle of the Musi River and is accessible by boat. It has a Chinese temple, pagoda, and a statue of the princess who legend has it, was buried here. The island is a peaceful spot to visit and take in the scenery.
6. Palembang Icon Mall - The largest mall in Palembang, it has a wide range of stores, from international brands to local boutiques. It also has a cinema complex, food court, and arcade center. A great indoor activity to do in case of rain or heat.
7. Kambang Iwak Park - A beautiful park located on the banks of the Musi River, it has a large pond filled with lotus flowers and a fountain. It also has a playground and food stalls. A perfect place for a picnic.
I hope this information helps you plan your visit to Palembang, Indonesia. Enjoy your trip!
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Palembang.

When to go on holiday to Palembang

The best time to visit Palembang is between June and September, as this is the dry season with less humidity and more sun. The temperature during this time ranges from 25°C to 30°C, making it pleasant for outdoor activities. However, you should be aware that this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of May and October, when the weather is still good but with fewer tourists. The wet season in Palembang runs from November to April, which can be quite humid with frequent rain showers and sometimes floods.

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

How to get to Palembang

Palembang is a city in the south of Sumatra Island, Indonesia. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By plane: Palembang has an international airport, the Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport, which is located about 10 km from the city center. There are several airlines that operate flights to Palembang, such as Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, Sriwijaya Air, and AirAsia.
2. By bus: Palembang is well-connected by bus from other cities in Sumatra. Main bus terminals are Alang-Alang Lebar Bus Terminal, Karya Jaya Terminal, and Terminal Sukarami.
3. By train: Palembang also has a train station called Kertapati Station, which serves trains from several cities in Sumatra such as Bandar Lampung, Medan, and Padang.
4. By car: You can also drive to Palembang from other cities in Sumatra. The main road is the Trans-Sumatra Highway. It takes approximately 12 hours to drive from Jakarta to Palembang.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Palembang!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Palembang, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Palembang

Palembang, located on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, has a unique cuisine that is influenced by the city's Chinese, Malay, and Javanese cultures. Some of the typical foods of Palembang along with a short description for each of them are: 1. Pempek: Pempek is a savory fish cake made from a mixture of ground fish, tapioca starch, and spices, served with a sweet and sour sauce made of palm sugar, vinegar, and chili.
2. Tekwan: Tekwan is another fish cake soup dish that is made with fish balls, mushrooms, and a flavorful broth. It is typically served with slices of cucumber and fried shallots.
3. Laksan: Laksan is a type of noodle dish that is made with rice flour, served with a curried coconut milk sauce, shredded chicken, boiled egg, and cucumber.
4. Mie Celor: Mie Celor is a type of noodle soup dish that features a rich and flavorful broth made from shrimp, coconut milk, lemongrass, and tamarind. The noodles are typically served with boiled eggs, shrimp, and fried shallots.
5. Pindang Patin: Pindang Patin is a type of soup made with a freshwater fish called patin, which is cooked in a sour and slightly spicy broth made from tamarind, chilies, and turmeric.
6. Kerupuk: Kerupuk is a type of crispy cracker made from various ingredients, including fish, shrimp, and cassava flour. It is typically served as a side dish or snack and is very popular throughout Indonesia.
7. Es Kacang Merah: Es Kacang Merah is a sweet dessert made from red beans, shaved ice, sweet syrup, and condensed milk. It is a popular dessert in Palembang and is enjoyed during hot weather.
You can find general info about typical foods in Indonesia here.

Is Palembang an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in Indonesia, Palembang is slightly more expensive for tourists. However, it still remains a relatively affordable destination. The cost of accommodation, transportation and food is generally lower compared to Western countries. You can find affordable accommodation options in budget hotels or homestays, and local cuisine can be enjoyed at street vendors or local restaurants for a reasonable price. However, if you plan to visit tourist attractions or engage in activities such as adventure sports or shopping, you may need to budget a little higher.

Where to find accomodation in Palembang

For visiting Palembang, it is highly recommended to find accommodations in the areas of Jakabaring or Palembang City Center. These areas are centrally located and provide easy access to the major tourist attractions such as Ampera Bridge, Kemaro Island, Musi River and others. Additionally, both areas offer a wide selection of hotels and guesthouses catering to all budgets.
You can check hotel prices at Palembang here:
Booking.com

Is Palembang a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Palembang is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always important to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions such as not carrying large sums of money or valuable items, avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night, and being aware of your surroundings. It is also a good idea to follow the advice of local authorities and stay informed about any potential safety risks or travel advisories. Overall, tourists can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Palembang with sensible precautions.
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 Palembang.

What type of travelers will enjoy Palembang the most?

Palembang is a city that has something to offer to all types of travelers, couples, young people and families alike. Couples will enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the city, with its beautiful riverside promenades, stunning temples, and delicious local cuisine. Young people looking for fun will enjoy the vibrant nightlife, featuring bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Families will find that there are many family-friendly activities, such as visiting the amusement park or taking a boat ride on the Musi River. Additionally, there are many museums, cultural sites and outdoor activities such as visiting the Kuto Besak Fortress, Pulau Kemaro Island, and the famous Ampera Bridge.
Overall, Palembang is a great destination for all types of travelers and offers a range of activities and experiences to suit all interests.

How to get around Palembang

In Palembang, the most common mode of transportation is by car or motorcycle. There are also buses and taxis available for hire. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak hours. Some popular apps for ride-hailing services in Indonesia that can be used in Palembang include Gojek and Grab. For shorter distances, walking or renting a bicycle may also be an option.

What to see around Palembang

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Palembang: 1. Ampera Bridge: This iconic bridge is the symbol of Palembang and offers stunning views of the Musi River.
2. Kemaro Island: Located in the middle of the Musi River, this small island is known for its Chinese temple and cultural festival.
3. Kuto Besak Fort: Built during the Dutch colonial period, this fortress now serves as a museum with exhibits on Palembang's history.
4. Punti Kayu Park: This park has plenty of greenery, walking trails, and a large lake for boating and fishing.
5. Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum: This museum showcases the life and accomplishments of the beloved Palembang sultan.
6. Pasar 16 Ilir: This bustling market is a great place to experience local culture and buy traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
7. Musi River Cruise: A leisurely boat ride along the Musi River offers picturesque views of Palembang's skyline and surrounding nature.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful. Let me know if you need any more assistance.
For every travel information about Indonesia you can click here.

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