Things To Do
in Bandar Lampung
Bandar Lampung sits on the southern coast of Sumatra as the capital of Lampung Province and a hub for commerce, culture, and access to nearby marine and jungle escapes. The city pairs busy markets and seafood streets with hillside viewpoints and coastal resorts, giving visitors a lively urban base with easy nature getaways. Nearby nature reserves and islands make it a popular starting point for wildlife Watching and snorkeling excursions.
Expect warm hospitality, flavorful seafood, and a relaxed pace that invites day trips to the surrounding coastline and national parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Krakatau Monument, where you can learn about the volcanic history of the region. Stroll through the nearby waterfront, enjoying the coastal breeze and watching fishing boats go by. Stop for a traditional Indonesian breakfast at a local warung, savoring dishes like nasi goreng or mie goreng.
Visit the Museum of Lampung to delve into the local culture and history, featuring artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the native Lampung people. After that, take a leisurely walk through the city center, exploring local shops and markets that showcase handmade crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy lunch at a café that specializes in local seafood, relishing the fresh flavors of the region.
As evening falls, head to the beach at Tanjung Setia for a stunning sunset view over the Indian Ocean. Afterward, dine at a beachside restaurant, sampling fresh grilled fish and other local specialties while listening to the sound of the waves. Conclude your day with a stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your adventure early with a drive to Way Kambas National Park, home to the endangered Sumatran elephants. Take a guided nature walk to explore the lush rainforest, and keep an eye out for various bird species and other wildlife. Enjoy a packed breakfast in the park, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Join an elephant sanctuary program where you can learn about the conservation efforts and even interact with these majestic creatures. After the program, embark on a thrilling boat ride through the park's waterways, observing the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this biodiverse environment. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the park.
Return to Bandar Lampung and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a local restaurant that serves traditional Lampungese cuisine. Savor dishes such as Pempek and Kerupuk, paired with refreshing drinks made from local fruits. End your day with a visit to a nearby market to experience the vibrant evening atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.5-2 |
| 🛍️Souvenir / small purchase | $5-20 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible coastal city with easy access to nature escapes
- Fresh seafood and flavorful local dishes at affordable prices
- Wide range of outdoor activities from beaches to wildlife reserves
- Traffic can be congested during peak hours
- Limited luxury and high-end dining options compared to larger cities
- Some areas, especially markets, can be crowded and hot
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Tolong" - Please / Excuse me
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
- "Maaf" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Bisa bantu saya?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Bandar Lampung
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lighthouse and viewing platform with sweeping views of the Sunda Strait and Bandar Lampung’s coastline, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
White-sand beach with turquoise waters and fishing boats; ideal for wide-angle coastal shots and golden-hour photography.
Wetlands and savanna landscapes suitable for wildlife photography, including elephants and exotic birds.
Coastal scenery and opportunities to photograph dolphins in their natural habitat on calmer mornings.
Food in Bandar Lampung
Bandar Lampung Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated in a tangy spice blend and served with rice and sambal.
Must-Try!
A Lampung specialty of marinated fish with a spicy shrimp paste sauce, typically eaten with rice.
A fiery, flavorful noodle dish featuring seafood or meat, vegetables, and a rich chili broth.
Fermented durian-based sauce used in some regional preparations; look for it in sauces and condiments.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling markets where you can taste fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for bargaining and immersion in local life.
Seafood grills and snack stalls along the waterfront offering quick bites and sunset dining.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and rural areas.
Always politeness first; some people may prefer not to be photographed.
Use the right hand for giving and receiving items—or greet with a handshake and a nod.
Safety
Tipping in Bandar Lampung
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist areas. Round up bills or leave small tips for good service at restaurants and hotels.
Cash in Indonesian Rupiah is widely preferred, especially in markets and street stalls. Some shops and larger restaurants accept debit/credit cards; in tourist zones mobile payments may appear at nicer venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Harsher afternoon heat is common, skies are typically clear, and coastal views are bright. Great for outdoor activities and beach days, though water logistics can get busy with tourists.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; lush greenery and dramatic skies for photography, but plan alternate indoor activities due to rain risk.
Bandar Lampung at Night
Hiking in Bandar Lampung
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible peak with forested trails and coastal views; suitable for day hikes with a guide.
Mountain ridge trails and protected forest areas offering challenging hikes and wildlife opportunities nearby.
Airports
How to reach Bandar Lampung by plane.
City airport serving domestic flights; easy taxi or shuttle access to central Bandar Lampung.
Major hub in nearby Palembang; useful for connecting to other parts of Sumatra and Indonesia.
Large international hub with widespread connections; typically reached by domestic flight from TKG or PLM.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Lampung people, along with other coastal communities and migrants from across Indonesia.
Significant presence of Javanese, Sundanese, Chinese-Indonesian, and other regional communities contributing to a diverse city culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime and spectator sport across the region; local clubs and street play in many neighborhoods.
Common recreational sport in schools and community centers.
Traditional Indonesian martial art practiced in communities and cultural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bandar Lampung.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many places; look for dishes centered on vegetables, tofu, tempeh, and rice. When ordering, specify tanpa terasi (without shrimp paste) and tanpa ikan/bumbu ikan if needed.