Bali tends to get all the love in Indonesia, but those willing to venture slightly off the beaten path often add its smaller neighbour Lombok to their itineraries. The city of Mataram serves as a major government and commercial centre on the western side of this less travelled island.

Despite being a larger city of Lombok, Mataram has its share of historic and natural attractions. The 18th century water palace Mayura Garden is known for being the site of Dutch-Balinese battles in 1894. A little east of the city centre, the royally favoured Narmada Park acts as a relaxing escape. Highlights include a swimming pool, Hindu temple and the so-called “Youth Fountain”, supposed to grant long life to those who drink from it. Mataram is also close to the touristy Senggigi Beach.

The Lombok International Airport is centrally located on the island, near Praya. Like Bali, Lombok is devoid of public transport, but there are plenty of taxis and scooter rentals available. The drive from the airport to Mataram falls under an hour.

Mataram is a particularly diverse city. Most residents descend from the indigenous Sasak people, but there are also many residents representing Balinese, Javanese, Chinese and even Yemeni cultures. Most residents are Muslim, though many are Hindu and other religions are practised. There are surprisingly few religious tensions in the community and Mataram is quite a peaceful city.