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Mataram is the capital of Lombok. The town actually consists of four
different towns Ampenan, Mataram, Cakranegara (Cakra) and Sweta. Ampenan has
most of city sights, including Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat museum, which
gives a good overview of the culture of Lombok. Cakra is the best place for
eating, sleeping and shopping. It also has the Water Palace, which is worth
a visit and the largest temple of Lombok, Meru Purse. Mataram is the
administrative centre and Sweta the transport connection of the whole
island.
As a center of government administration, Mataram has many large, impressive
public buildings and substantial houses. The city also has transportation
and shopping facilities. The main square is used for art exhibitions,
theater, dance, and wayang kulit (Puppet Theater) performances. In other
parts of Mataram, there are a variety of old-style markets and neighborhoods
featuring traditional craftwork like basket ware and gold- and
silver-threaded sarongs, or wraparound garments.
Ampenan port was once Lombok's main port, but it now relies mostly on
fishing vessels. Cakranegara has significant Balinese and Chinese
populations; the Chinese have been brought by the Dutch to provide cheap
labor.
Although officially three separate towns, Ampenan, Mataram and Cakranegara
actually run together, so it is difficult to tell where one stop and the
next starts. There are banks, travel agents, mall, interesting shops,
traditional markets and few things to see, but the town is not a major
attraction. |
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Cakranegara
The main commercial centre of Lombok has a thriving Chinese and Balinese
Community. Most of the shops and restaurants are run and owned by Chinese.
Ampenan
Once was the main port of Lombok. Old buildings with mix population of
Chinese, Arabs, and Melayu. You can find many local restaurants with great
Chinese and Sasak foods.
We recommend you to do at least 5 hours to enjoy
this tour.
For further information and prices, please
kindly contact us |
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