Background

Lampung, Indonesia Travel Guide

Explore Lampung: Indonesia's treasure trove of natural wonders, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. Perfect for adventure lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Lampung, located on the southern tip of Sumatra, is a destination that promises an escape into natural beauty and cultural richness. The province boasts a diverse landscape, from pristine beaches and lush forests to active volcanoes and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can explore the unique flora and fauna of Way Kambas National Park, home to the endangered Sumatran elephants and rhinos. For those who love the ocean, Lampung offers incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities in places like Kiluan Bay and Pahawang Island. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs are teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to witness the playful dolphins around Kiluan Bay; it's an experience that will stay with you forever. Lampung is also rich in cultural heritage. Visit the traditional villages to experience the local way of life and witness traditional dances and ceremonies. The local cuisine is a delight, with dishes that burst with flavors of fresh seafood and spices. For adventure seekers, a hike up Mount Krakatoa offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment as you stand on one of the most famous volcanoes in the world.

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Lampung.

  • Best time to visit is during the dry season from April to October for optimal weather conditions.
  • Hire a local guide for exploring national parks and volcanoes for a safer and more informative experience.
  • Try the local specialty 'Seruit,' a delicious dish made of grilled fish and spicy sambal.
  • Pack light and breathable clothing as the climate can be quite humid.
  • Don't forget to bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to visit forests or rural areas.

Explore Lampung on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Lampung, mapped for you.

Lampung Essentials

  • Lampung is located on the southern tip of Sumatra Island in Indonesia. The nearest international airport is Radin Inten II International Airport (TKG) in Bandar Lampung. Flights from Jakarta take about an hour. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Merak in Java to Bakauheni in Lampung, followed by a bus or taxi ride. Train services from Palembang to Lampung are also available, offering a scenic journey through Sumatra's landscape.
  • Transportation options in Lampung include taxis, ridesharing services, and public buses. Ojeks (motorcycle taxis) are a popular and inexpensive means of getting around. For longer journeys, you can rent a car. Public buses and minibuses (angkot) cover most areas, but schedules can be erratic. For a unique experience, try a becak (pedicab) ride in the city.
  • The official currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants, and some shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas and local markets. ATMs are widely available in Bandar Lampung and other major towns. Always have small denominations for convenience in smaller transactions.
  • Lampung is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded places. Areas such as Teluk Betung and Panjang have higher crime rates targeting tourists, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and avoid displaying valuables.
  • In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Bandar Lampung has hospitals and clinics for medical emergencies. It's recommended to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies. Pharmacies (apotek) are available for minor health issues. For police assistance, visit the nearest police station or contact the tourist police.
  • Fashion: Do dress modestly; avoid revealing clothing, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; remove shoes when entering mosques and temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a handshake; use 'Bapak' (Mr.) or 'Ibu' (Mrs.) as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies; don't refuse food or drink offers as it can be seen as impolite.
  • To experience Lampung like a local, visit traditional markets such as Pasar Tengah in Bandar Lampung for fresh produce and local delicacies. Take part in local festivals like the Krakatau Festival held annually. Explore the Way Kambas National Park for wildlife sightings. Engage with locals; they are friendly and often willing to share stories and recommendations.

When is the best time to visit Lampung?

Temperature (°C)

Precipitation (mm)

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Lampung

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation
Eve, your Evendo local guide

Here are the phrases I use most often in Lampung. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

    • HelloHalo
      [ha-lo]
    • GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
      [se-la-mat ting-gal]
    • YesIya
      [ee-ya]
    • NoTidak
      [tee-dak]
    • Please/You're welcomeSilakan
      [si-la-kan]
    • Thank youTerima kasih
      [te-ri-ma ka-si]
    • Excuse me/SorryMaaf
      [ma-af]
    • How are you?Apa kabar?
      [a-pa ka-bar]
    • Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?
      [ba-ik. dan ka-mu]
    • Do you speak English?Apakah kamu bisa Berbahasa Inggris?
      [a-pa-kah ka-mu bi-sa ber-ba-ha-sa in-gris]
    • I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
      [sa-ya tee-dak me-ngerti]
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, silakan
      [sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, si-la-kan]
    • I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
      [sa-ya tee-dak ma-kan da-ging]
    • Cheers!Selamat minum!
      [se-la-mat mi-num]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, silakan
      [sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, si-la-kan]
    • Help!Tolong!
      [to-long]
    • Go away!Pergi dari sini!
      [per-gi da-ri si-ni]
    • Call the Police!Panggil Polisi!
      [pang-gil po-li-si]
    • Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
      [pang-gil dok-ter]
    • I'm lostSaya tersesat
      [sa-ya ter-se-sat]
    • I'm illSaya sakit
      [sa-ya sa-kit]
    • I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
      [sa-ya in-gin mem-be-li]
    • I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat
      [sa-ya han-ya me-li-hat]
    • How much is it?Berapa harganya?
      [be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
    • That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
      [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
    • Can you lower the price?Bisakah anda menurunkan harga?
      [bi-sa-kah an-da me-nu-run-kan har-ga]
    • What time is it?Jam berapa?
      [jam be-ra-pa]
    • It's one o'clockJam satu
      [jam sa-tu]
    • Half past (10)Setengah (10)
      [se-ten-gah]
    • MorningPagi
      [pa-gi]
    • AfternoonSiang
      [si-ang]
    • EveningSore
      [so-re]
    • YesterdayKemarin
      [ke-ma-rin]
    • TodayHari ini
      [ha-ri i-ni]
    • TomorrowBesok
      [be-sok]
    • 1Satu
      [sa-tu]
    • 2Dua
      [du-a]
    • 3Tiga
      [ti-ga]
    • 4Empat
      [em-pat]
    • 5Lima
      [li-ma]
    • 6Enam
      [e-nam]
    • 7Tujuh
      [tu-juh]
    • 8Delapan
      [de-la-pan]
    • 9Sembilan
      [sem-bi-lan]
    • 10Sepuluh
      [se-pu-luh]
    • Where's a/the...?Di mana ...?
      [di ma-na]
    • What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
      [a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?Bisakah kamu menunjukkan (di peta)?
      [bi-sa-kah ka-mu me-nun-juk-kan di pe-ta]
    • When's the next (bus)?Kapan bus berikutnya?
      [ka-pan bus be-ri-kut-nya]
    • A ticket (to ....)Sebuah tiket (ke ...)
      [se-buah ti-ket ke]

History of Lampung

  • Lampung's history dates back to the early kingdoms, namely the Tulang Bawang Kingdom, which flourished around the 7th century. Due to its strategic location along the Sunda Strait, Lampung became a crucial maritime hub, connecting the Indian Ocean with the Java Sea. The area was part of the Srivijaya empire, a dominant maritime power in Southeast Asia, known for its extensive trade networks and cultural exchanges.

  • Lampung saw the arrival of Islam in the 13th century, brought by traders and missionaries from Gujarat, India, and the Middle East. The spread of Islam significantly influenced the cultural and social fabric of the region. By the 16th century, Islam had become the dominant religion, and many local customs and traditions were adapted to fit Islamic teachings.

  • In the 17th century, the Dutch East India Company (VOC) began to establish control over Lampung, primarily to secure the lucrative pepper trade. The region was officially incorporated into the Dutch East Indies in the 19th century. Dutch colonial rule brought significant changes to Lampung's society, economy, and infrastructure, including the introduction of forced cultivation systems and the establishment of plantations.

  • During the Indonesian National Revolution (1945-1949), Lampung played a crucial role in the struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule. The region saw several battles and acts of resistance led by local fighters and national heroes. The revolution ultimately resulted in Indonesia's independence, and Lampung became an integral part of the newly-formed Republic of Indonesia.

  • In the mid-20th century, the Indonesian government initiated the transmigration program to alleviate population pressure in Java and Bali by relocating people to less densely populated areas like Lampung. This program significantly altered the demographic composition of Lampung, bringing in people from diverse ethnic backgrounds and fostering a multicultural society.

  • Lampung is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional dances, music, and crafts. The Siger crown, a traditional Lampungese headdress, symbolizes the region's cultural identity. Traditional ceremonies, such as the Begawi wedding ceremony, showcase the unique customs of the Lampungese people. The local language, Lampungese, is still spoken and preserved through various cultural initiatives.

  • Lampung has experienced significant natural disasters, including the devastating eruption of Mount Krakatoa in 1883, which had a profound impact on the region's landscape and population. Despite such challenges, the people of Lampung have shown remarkable resilience, rebuilding their communities and preserving their cultural heritage.

  • Today, Lampung is a vibrant province known for its natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. The region has developed into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich history, cultural festivals, and natural attractions such as Way Kambas National Park, which is home to the endangered Sumatran elephant and rhinoceros.

Neighbouring Regions of Lampung

The closest regions to Lampung, if you have time for more than one.

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



Explore More of Indonesia

Looking beyond Lampung? Discover Indonesia for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.

Explore Indonesia

Select Currency