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One of the most unusual religious sites on Lombok, Lingsar is a Hindu temple complex built beside Kemaliq, a sacred site associated with the Sasak Wetu Telu tradition. The two traditions share the same wider sacred complex, making Lingsar an important symbol of the island's Hindu and Muslim cultural coexistence. The complex includes the Hindu Pura Gaduh, the Kemaliq sanctuary and sacred springs. A pool containing sacred eels is traditionally associated with the site. Lingsar is also the setting for Perang Topat, an annual ceremony in which Hindu and Muslim participants throw rice cakes at one another in a ritual symbolising harmony and shared prosperity. Dress modestly and follow local instructions when entering the sacred areas.
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Taman Narmada
A historic royal garden and retreat built in the 18th century. The complex was designed to evoke the landscape of Mount Rinjani and contains gardens, pools and a Hindu temple. A sacred spring is traditionally associated with youth and longevity. The park is particularly lively on weekends, when local families come to picnic and swim. Allow 30-60 minutes.
Taman Mayura
A historic garden and water palace dating from the 18th century, built during the period of Balinese rule in western Lombok. Its large rectangular pool is surrounded by lawns and mature trees, making it a pleasant place to escape the traffic and heat of Mataram. The complex also contains several Balinese Hindu shrines, including Pura Jagatnatha. The site was involved in the fighting between Dutch colonial forces and the Balinese rulers of Lombok in 1894. Allow 20-40 minutes.
Pura Meru
\The largest Hindu temple on Lombok and one of the most important reminders of the island's Balinese heritage. Built in 1720, the temple is dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Its most striking feature is the three large thatched meru towers, with 11, 9 and 9 tiers respectively. The towers are associated with the three principal deities and with sacred mountains, including Rinjani. The temple's spacious courtyards and ornate gateways make it particularly worthwhile for visitors interested in Lombok's Balinese history and architecture. Visitors may need to wear a sarong or sash; these are normally available at the temple.
Islamic Center Mataram
The city's most prominent mosque and one of Mataram's most recognisable landmarks. The complex was completed and inaugurated in 2013 and combines modern Islamic architecture with Sasak and other local design influences. The main dome uses colours associated with Sasambo, referring to the Sasak, Samawa and Mbojo peoples of West Nusa Tenggara. The mosque is particularly impressive from outside and is illuminated after dark. As an active place of worship, visitors should dress appropriately and avoid visiting during prayer times unless specifically permitted.
Lombok Museum
The provincial museum provides a useful introduction to the history and cultures of Lombok and neighbouring Sumbawa. Its collections include archaeological and historical objects, traditional weapons, textiles and other ethnographic material, as well as manuscripts and examples of local arts and technology. Some information is in English, although coverage varies between displays. Allow 30-60 minutes. The museum has separate admission prices for Indonesian visitors and foreign visitors.
Kota Tua Ampenan
The historic western part of Mataram and the former main port of Lombok during the Dutch colonial period. The old streets contain surviving shop houses and other buildings reflecting the area's Arab, Chinese and European trading communities. It is best explored on foot, particularly in the late afternoon, when the old port area and nearby Ampenan beach make a pleasant place for sunset. There are also numerous small cafés and local food stalls. Allow 1-2 hours for a leisurely walk.