The capital of the Sriwijaya Empire from the 9th to the 11th centuries, Palembang is a multi-cultural city with a rich Hindu, Buddhist and Islamic heritage. Musi River, which splits the city into two, is a vital part of the city, leading to comparisons with other major river cities in the region. Palembang, however, is still relatively free of the usual tourist trap frenzy that accompanies other holiday spots.
PLACES OF INTEREST
1. Musi River Cruise
Take a boat under Ampera Bridge, across Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum, or in front of Benteng Kuto Besak for a cruise along Musi River, the lifeblood of civilisations in Palembang. Among the highlights is the 78-metre-high Ampera Bridge, popular for its beauty at sunrise and sunset.
2. Punti Kayu Forest Park
Enjoy a peaceful day at the natural forest and conservation park, where you can explore the 50-hectare pine forest, take a boat ride and end the day at the Fauna Museum!
3. Ki Gede Ing Suro Ancient Cemetery
Ki Gede Ing Suro was a noble who fled Demak in Java to Palembang. This explains why Masjid Agung (the Grand Mosque) resembles the mosque in Demak. Ruins of 8 buildings and 38 tombs can be found in the cemetery built in the mid-16th century.
4. Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum
The museum building is a former palace of the Palembang Darussalam Sultanate. Though other buildings of that era mainly used wood, the residence of the sultan was built with bricks. With the original structures still standing sturdy against the test of time, take in the timeless aura as you soak in its traditions and heritage!
5. The Nine-Floor Pagoda (Pagoda Sembilan Tingkat)
The Chinese Buddhist temple on Kemaro Island is the backdrop for a legendary cross-culture love story between Tan Bun An and Siti Fatimah.
6. Sriwijaya Kingdom Archaeological Park
Located in the hills west of Palembang is the burial ground for Palembang royalty, regarded as a highly sacred place. Bukit Siguntang is said to be where the demi-god Siperba descended, marking the beginning of the Malay race.
7. Fort Kuto Besak (Benteng Kuto Besak)
Visit the 18th century military fortress at night and you’ll see the spectacular view as it casts its reflection on the surface of the Musi river. The adjacent Plaza Benteng Kuto Besak is ideal for local activities, from relaxing strolls through the plaza to extreme sports.
8. Balaputradewa Museum
Named after a mighty Sriwijaya king, this traditional structure houses over 2,000 relics, replicas and artefacts that showcase the rich historical era. The museum is home to the Telaga Batu Inscription, which uses Pallava script in Old Malay language.
9. Great Mosque of Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin I
Home to the world’s largest wooden Quran, the large mosque was built with Chinese and European influences, adding to its magnificent splendour. The mosque can accommodate up to an astounding 15,000 worshippers at a time!
10. Pasar 16 Ilir
This riverside market is the real deal. Get the best prices in the city by bargaining hard for new and second-hand clothing, textiles, gold, and used books.
11. Kampung Kapitan
This heritage village on stilts reflects the blend of Palembang, Chinese and Dutch cultures.
12. Pempek
Also known as empek-empek, this fried fish-based delicacy is served with cuko (sweet vinegar). Various varieties are made with different ingredients. A must-try in Palembang!