Things To Do
in Mataram

Mataram is the capital city of West Nusa Tenggara province in Indonesia, located on the beautiful island of Lombok. Known for its rich culture, vibrant markets, and stunning natural surroundings, Mataram serves as a gateway for visitors exploring Lombok’s beaches and mountains. The city is home to diverse ethnic groups, historical sites, and delicious local cuisine.

With a warm tropical climate, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Mataram
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Mayura Water Palace, an iconic historical site surrounded by lush gardens and traditional Balinese architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Lombok Epicentrum Mall for lunch, followed by a visit to the Narmada Park, which showcases beautiful gardens and a replica of Mount Rinjani.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then visit the traditional night market in Mataram for shopping and street food.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to the nearby Pura Lingsar, a sacred water temple that reflects the harmony between Hindu and Wetu Telu Muslim communities.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sasak Cultural Village to learn about the traditional Sasak way of life and craftsmanship.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant in Senggigi while enjoying the sunset over the ocean.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Local Meal$2-5
🏨Budget Hotel$15-30
🚌Public Transport (Bus)$0.50
🍹Drink at a Bar$2-4
🛍️Souvenirs$1-10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and heritage sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine with diverse options.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger Indonesian cities.
  • Public transport can be infrequent and crowded.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for some tourists.
  • "Selamat Pagi" - Good Morning
  • "Terima Kasih" - Thank You
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Saya butuh bantuan" - I need help

Places to Visit in Mataram

Visit one of these nice places.

Mayura Water Palace

A picturesque site with traditional Balinese architecture and serene gardens, perfect for photography.

Narmada Park

Beautiful landscapes and historical structures provide a stunning backdrop for photos.

Senggigi Beach

Famous for its sunsets, this beach is ideal for capturing scenic coastal views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mataram

Mataram offers a delightful culinary experience with flavors that reflect its diverse culture and heritage, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Mataram Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ayam Taliwang

Grilled chicken marinated in a spicy sauce, often served with rice and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Sate Rembiga

Skewered beef marinated in local spices and grilled over charcoal, usually served with a peanut sauce.

Plecing Kangkung

A spicy salad made from water spinach, chili, and shrimp paste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pusat Oleh-Oleh Mataram

A market where visitors can find local snacks, souvenirs, and traditional foods.

Night Market (Pasar Malam)

A lively night market where you can sample various street foods, including satay, fried snacks, and fresh juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mataram has a tropical climate, with a distinct dry season from April to October and a wet season from November to March. Temperatures generally range from 25°C to 33°C throughout the year. The humidity can be high, particularly during the rainy season, which can bring heavy downpours, but also contributes to the region's lush greenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors should wear modest clothing, especially when visiting temples.

Respect Local Customs

Always greet locals politely and show respect during cultural ceremonies.

Use Your Right Hand

When giving or receiving items, use your right hand as the left hand is considered impolite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mataram is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious when using ATMs. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and use reputable transportation methods.

Tipping in Mataram

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities and beach excursions, with minimal rainfall.

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect frequent rainfall, which may affect outdoor plans, but it also brings lush landscapes.

Holidays (Eid, Christmas)

Local festivities may affect business hours, but it’s a great time to experience cultural events.

Tourist Season (July - August)

The peak tourist season can lead to crowded attractions but also enhanced local festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Mataram at Night

Mataram's nightlife is relatively laid-back compared to larger cities. Popular spots include local bars and cafes offering live music and cultural performances. The traditional night market is a vibrant place to experience local food and mingle with residents. For a more relaxed evening, visitors can enjoy beachfront dining in Senggigi.

Hiking in Mataram

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Rinjani

The second-highest volcano in Indonesia, offering challenging hikes with stunning views from the summit.

Bukit Pergasingan

A scenic hill hike that provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and rice fields.

Airports

How to reach Mataram by plane.

Lombok International Airport (LOP)

Located approximately 30 km from Mataram, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mataram is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, markets, and restaurants are located within walking distance. However, some areas may require transportation, particularly when visiting outlying attractions. Sidewalks are generally available, but be cautious of uneven surfaces.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Sasak People

The indigenous Sasak people are the majority ethnic group in Lombok, known for their unique customs, traditional houses, and weaving skills.

Balinese Influence

Due to proximity, there is a significant Balinese population that contributes to local culture, particularly in religion and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular among locals, with many communities participating in games and tournaments.

Sepak Takraw

A traditional sport similar to volleyball, using a rattan ball, popular among the local youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mataram is generally light compared to larger cities in Indonesia. However, congestion can occur during peak hours, especially near markets and schools. Public transportation options include buses and bemos (minivans), which are affordable but may be crowded. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available for more convenient travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mataram.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants provide vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary restrictions.

Halal Food

Most food in Mataram is halal, but always check for certification if you're concerned.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Mataram is decent, with several hospitals and clinics available for minor ailments and emergencies. International hospitals are located in nearby areas, offering a range of services for tourists. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide