Mataram, Lombok’s capital city, is known for its lavish royal palaces, temples, intriguing markets and leafy parks. It provides a gateway to many other destinations around the island, but also features plenty of cultural and historical attractions of its own.
Learn about the island’s fascinating history and local culture at the Museum Negeri. Discover the museum’s collection of ethnographical and heritage items such as masks, fabrics and traditional weaponry.
Visit Mataram Mall, home to four floors of boutique shopping, electronics stores, small stalls and cafés. For an older Indonesian market experience, head to the marketplace and small shops at Cakranegara. Browse through stores selling fine jewellery, pearls and gold, or sporting goods, fabrics and traditional crafts.
Stop by the Mayura Water Palace, the Balinese royal court’s administrative centre dating back to the late 18th century. The grounds feature a large man-made lake and lotus pool, where you can relax by the waterside. Explore the floating pavilion that once held court hearings and meetings.
Find Pura Meru, the largest temple on the island, across the road from the palace. Discover the ornate designs in this Hindu temple, dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Wander through three courtyards and find over 30 shrines to the gods.
Visit Narmada Park in Lembuak, an expansive garden which once served as a royal playground. The park features a magnificent Hindu temple, swimming pool, some small lakes and lush gardens. Contemplate by the park’s “Fountain of Youth”, named for the supposed life-giving properties of the spring water that flows from Mount Ringani. Narmada Park is approximately 10 kilometres (6 miles) east from Mataram.
Mataram is located on Lombok’s western side and is 39 kilometres (24 miles) from Lombok International Airport. The city is easy to discover by shuttle bus, taxi or hired cars and motorcycles. Minibuses, known as a “bemo” and horse-drawn carts, called a “cidomo” are also readily available in Mataram.
