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Culture in Mataram

Mataram, Lombok's biggest city, is located to the east of the island, where visitors can explore the remains of the old Balinese kingdom, exquisite Hindu temples and sample the best of local Indonesian culture.

Pura Meru is Mataram's biggest Hindu temple. It is thought to date to the 18th century and tourists admire its typical Indonesian temple architecture all year round. Like all Hindu temples, Pura Meru is made up of of three main shrines, two of which are used for serious worship and the other for ceremonial celebration like traditional Hindu dancing and singing.

Other temples worth visiting on the outskirts of Mataram include Lombok's holiest temple, Pura Lingsar, and the entirely different Chinese Buddhist temple, Po Hwa Kong.

Inside the island's bustling city is another hidden paradise, the 18th-century Mayura Park of the Kareng Asam Balinese dynasty. Densely lined with mangosteen trees, the park, both beautiful and tranquil, features a large central pool where you will find yet another beautiful Hindu temple.

The chaotic and colourful old town of Ampenan is certainly worth a visit. Located around the seaport of Mataram, Ampenan still bears the hallmarks of Dutch colonisation. Plenty of the town's old architecture remains and food lovers will enjoy the town's traditional Kebun Roek markets. Here you can find warungs and kaki lima (hot food carts) selling tasty and inexpensive local snacks.

Exploring the outdoors

To the north of Lombok you can find the impressive Mount Rinjani, Indonesia's largest volcano located inside its own dedicated national park. At 3726m in height, Lombok's highest peak is a main attraction for both casual walkers and serious trekkers. On the volcano's northern side is a hot spring and at the centre is Segara Anak, Mount Rinjani's enormous and beautiful crater lake.

The nearby Gili island archipelago is easily accessible from Lombok by ferry for those looking to experience remote island living. Surfers and scuba divers will love the area's crystal clear water and array of tropical fish, while other activities include fishing, glass bottom boat trips, sailing and yoga.