Mataram, A Quaint City of Religion and Attractions
As the capital of West Nusa Tenggara province, Mataram, Indonesia serves as the province's center of business, government, and education. It is unsurprisingly packed with over 400,000 residents, the majority of which are the indigenous people of Sasak. The West Lombok Regency borders it, although the regency has no administrative rights over the city today. There is an abundance of hotels and transient rooms in the town, so no need to worry about staying overnight.
Best Time to Visit
February promises visitors with nothing but festivities, warm temperature, and cheap Mataram, Indonesia hotels. Tourism is relatively slow by this time of year, although can be pretty packed once the Bau Nyale Festival begins by the last week of the month. The event is dedicated to the Nyale sea worms, which appear only once a year, and is considered good luck. People starts flocking to the city come March.
What to Do & Area Attractions
If you're into both relaxation and local culture, head straight to the Mayura Temple Park, where you can learn more about the city's religion, all while enjoying the scenic beauty around. The Pura Meru, a Hindu temple in the city, is also worth a visit as the place is packed with splendid architecture and religious artifacts. If you're more of an indoor explorer, drop by the Mataram Mall and delight yourself in the local goodies found here. Afterward, stay at the Hotel Santika Mataram and Lombok Raya Hotel, both of which are within 10 minutes of the three attractions.