Things To Do
in Pangkalpinang

Pangkalpinang, the capital of Bangka Belitung province in Indonesia, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. The city is situated on Bangka Island and is famous for its tin mining industry. Visitors can explore beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and enjoy the local cuisine.

As a hub for both business and tourism, Pangkalpinang offers a unique blend of urban and natural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Pangkalpinang
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Pasir Padi Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a refreshing swim.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical Taman Merdeka and visit the nearby Vihara Dewi Kwan Im, a beautiful Buddhist temple that showcases stunning architecture.

evening
:

End your day at a local seafood restaurant, enjoying fresh catches while watching the sunset over the ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Bangka Botanical Garden to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna, and take a leisurely walk through the lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Head to the traditional market, Pasar Pagi, to experience local life and shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy an evening stroll along the waterfront and indulge in local street food from vendors offering a variety of dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
Cup of coffee$1-2
🚌Public bus fare$0.50
🛒Grocery shopping for basics$15-25
🏨Night at a mid-range hotel$30-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Transportation can be challenging without a vehicle.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat Pagi" - Good Morning
  • "Terima Kasih" - Thank You
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Berapa Harganya?" - How Much Is It?
  • "Di Mana Toilet?" - Where Is The Toilet?

Places to Visit in Pangkalpinang

Visit one of these nice places.

Pasir Padi Beach

A picturesque beach with white sands and clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Vihara Dewi Kwan Im

A stunning temple that offers beautiful architecture and vibrant colors for unique shots.

Bangka Botanical Garden

A lush garden filled with exotic plants and flowers, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pangkalpinang

Pangkalpinang is a culinary treasure trove that offers a delightful array of local dishes, fresh seafood, and unique flavors that reflect the region's rich heritage.

Pangkalpinang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Gangan

A traditional fish soup flavored with turmeric and spices, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Tepung Talam

A popular snack made from rice flour and coconut milk, often served as a sweet treat.

Bubur Sumsum

A rice flour porridge served with a sweet coconut sauce, commonly enjoyed for breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pasar Pagi

A bustling morning market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Street Food Stalls on Jl. Jendral Sudirman

A vibrant area filled with food stalls offering an assortment of local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pangkalpinang has a tropical climate characterized by high humidity and temperatures averaging 27-32°C (81-90°F) year-round. The dry season is the most pleasant time to visit, with less rainfall and sunny skies, while the rainy season can bring heavy showers, particularly in the afternoons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and respectfully.

Greetings

A polite handshake is common; greeting with 'Selamat Pagi' (Good Morning) is appreciated.

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pangkalpinang is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, be cautious at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. It's advisable to use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps for transportation.

Tipping in Pangkalpinang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some restaurants and shops accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

This is the best time to visit, with sunny weather and minimal rainfall.

Rainy Season (November - March)

Expect heavy rains and occasional flooding; it's advisable to bring waterproof gear.

Holidays (Eid, Christmas)

Local festivals may affect operating hours of businesses; plan accordingly.

Harvest Season

Around July to August, you can witness local agricultural practices and harvest celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Pangkalpinang at Night

Pangkalpinang offers a modest nightlife scene, featuring a few bars and lounges where locals and tourists alike can enjoy drinks and conversation. Live music performances are common, especially on weekends, and beachside cafes often stay open late, providing a relaxed atmosphere to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Pangkalpinang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bukit Bendera Trail

A popular hiking trail that leads to a hill offering panoramic views of Pangkalpinang and the surrounding areas.

Mount Maras Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards trekkers with stunning vistas and lush rainforest scenery.

Airports

How to reach Pangkalpinang by plane.

Depati Amir Airport (PGK)

Located 8 km from the city center, this airport offers domestic flights to major Indonesian cities and is the primary airport serving Pangkalpinang.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pangkalpinang is moderately walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. However, some parts of the city may require transportation, particularly when visiting more remote beaches or attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Malay Ethnic Group

The majority of the population, they have a rich cultural heritage and predominantly practice Islam.

Chinese Community

A significant minority that contributes to the local economy and culture, known for their unique festivals and culinary traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A favorite pastime among locals, badminton courts are found in parks and community centers.

Football

Football is widely played and followed, with local teams often competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pangkalpinang is generally light, but can become congested during peak hours. Public transportation options include buses and angkots (shared minivans), which are affordable and commonly used by locals.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pangkalpinang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes are vegetarian-friendly, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Halal Food

Islamic dietary laws are generally observed, making it easy to find halal food options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Pangkalpinang includes several clinics and hospitals, with basic medical services available. For serious health issues, larger hospitals in nearby cities may be necessary. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide