Things to do in Palembang

Palembang, the unassuming city nestled in the south of Sumatera island in Indonesia is a thriving industrial city but many are unaware of its tourism potential. Palembang, a name that reminds us of the Srivijaya empire in the 13th century conjures an image of a bustling port, therefore a must-do activity is for one to experience a unique boat trip down the Musi river, the widest river in Palembang. Not only one can see a steady stream of boats navigating along the river, the trip will also give visitors a glimpse of floating restaurants and shops on both sides of the river with dwellers busy carrying on their daily activities. A quick guide of things to do in Palembang.

Where to Visit

The Musi River

The river flows right through the city, dividing the city into two, the Ulu bank and Ilir bank. The city is connected with the Ampera Bridge, which is a popular spot to catch the sun rising and setting on the city.

Limas Traditional House

These ornate wooden houses are built on stilts and come complete with hand-carved columns, doors and window frames. Limas houses are built along riversides but are not facing the waterfront to allow daily household activities to be conducted in private. This must-see architecture usually comes in 15-20m in width and 30-60m in length.

State Museum

The museum which was established in 1977 houses a collection of over 2,000 relics and antiquities originating from the province itself and one can find interesting ancient items on display including household utensils, hunting tools, a bridal room and preserved animals of the region.

Pulau Bangka

The island lies east of Sumatera which can be reached by boat is famous for producing tin. One should visit this island for its white sandy beaches specifically Matras Beach, located north of Pangkal Pinang, the island’s capital. Beach and sun lovers should not miss this spot!

The areas around Pulau Bangka is also one of the newly found migratory paths for whales and at least nine species of whales have been sighted in the surrounding areas.

Pulau Bangka is also a good diving destination as it attracts various types of fishes and has a floor of beautiful corals. Some of the diving sites to look out for are Bangka Island Pinnacles, Bangka Strait, Lihaga Island and Talisei Island.

Pulau Belitung

Adjacent to Pulau Bangka is Pulau Belitung, is an un-spoilt island perfect for those looking for an island adventure. Visitors are advised to bring their own beach/diving equipments as facilities may be scarce but the friendly locals are willing to help. This island is definitely worth the trouble!

Tenang Waterfall

There are many waterfalls of various sizes flowing through this province and one should not miss the Tenang waterfall, the biggest in the region with a height of 90m.

The Bukit Barisan mountain range hosts a trail of adventures comprising its highest peak, Gunung Kerinci (3,805m) and the mountainous terrain of Kerincci Seblat. One can find meandering rivers, soothing hot springs, scenic waterfalls and beautiful landscapes that capture one’s imagination.

Where and What to Shop

Pasar 16 Ilir

This multi storey bazaar situated near Masjid Agung is a good place to buy traditional Palembang textile called Songket, which can be found in the form of clothes, shoes, purses, cushion covers, calligraphy, handicrafts and many more. Indonesian artists are touted to craft some of the finest wood-carvings to be found in the world. Visitors are welcomed to bargain!

What To Eat

The staple food in most parts of Indonesia is rice with spices and hot chilli peppers as the essence of most cooking, and Palembang diet is no different. There is a must-try traditional food called Pempek, which is a fried fish cake and is eaten with a sweet vinegar called Cuka.

With Indonesia as the largest archipelago in the world with over 17,500 islands, Palembang poses great potential as the gateway to many smaller islands untouched by development located next to the mainland and it is also the gateway to some of the richest tropical rainforests found in South Sumatera. It is also a great attraction for visitors who are looking for jungle trekking adventures.

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