Things To Do
in Bengkulu
Bengkulu is a province located in the southwestern part of Sumatra island in Indonesia. It is known for its beautiful beaches, lush tropical forests, and historical landmarks. The provincial capital, also named Bengkulu, is a bustling city with a mix of colonial architecture and modern amenities.
Bengkulu is a popular destination for eco-tourism and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, diving, and birdwatching.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Fort Marlborough, the largest fort built by the British in Southeast Asia. Take in the historical architecture and enjoy the coastal views.
After lunch, explore the nearby Museum of Bengkulu for insights into local culture and history. Don’t miss the fascinating artifacts and exhibits.
Wind down your day with a stroll along Pantai Panjang beach, watching the sunset. Enjoy local street food from vendors lining the beach.
Head early to the Bengkulu Botanical Garden for a chance to see the Rafflesia Arnoldii, the world's largest flower. Make sure to have a local guide to help spot it.
Post-flower spotting, relax in the garden, enjoying the lush surroundings and diverse plant life. Grab lunch at a nearby café offering local cuisine.
Spend your evening at the local market, trying street food delicacies. This is a great way to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bengkulu at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with beaches, mountains, and lush forests.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, including traditional dance and crafts.
- Less crowded compared to major tourist destinations, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
- Affordable cost of living, including food and accommodation.
- Diverse wildlife and opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities.
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities in some areas.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed, leading to challenges in transportation.
- Fewer international dining and shopping options compared to larger cities.
- Occasional natural disasters, such as earthquakes and flooding.
- Limited English proficiency among locals, which may pose communication challenges for tourists.
Best Activities in Bengkulu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches such as Panjang Beach, Tapak Paderi Beach, and others for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water activities.
Visit the Bukit Kaba Nature Recreation Park or the nearby Mount Kaba for trekking amidst beautiful natural surroundings and stunning views.
Discover the unique caves in Bengkulu such as Lubuk Selawah, Tabang Kemadian, and others for an adventurous underground experience.
Enjoy underwater exploration at destinations like Pulau Tikus, a small island with pristine waters and diverse marine life.
Visit the enchanting waterfalls like Curup Embun and Curup Aik Manis for serene natural beauty and relaxation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bengkulu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bengkulu
Visit one of these nice places.
This historic fort offers beautiful views of the city and the Indian Ocean, as well as opportunities for great photography.
The long sandy beach of Pantai Panjang is a popular spot for stunning sunset views and great photo opportunities.
Bukit Cinto hill provides panoramic views of Bengkulu and the coast, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Bengkulu
Bengkulu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pempek Lenjer is a signature dish of Bengkulu, consisting of fish cake served with a tangy, sweet and sour sauce. It can be found at various street food stalls and local eateries throughout the city.
Must-Try!
Pindang Ikan Patin is a traditional fish dish where freshwater patin fish is cooked in a savory and sour broth. It is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts and can be found at numerous seafood restaurants along the coast.
Mie Cakalang is a noodle dish featuring smoked skipjack tuna, mixed with noodles and aromatic spices. It's a popular comfort food and can be savored at local eateries and food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bengkulu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pasar Minggu is a bustling market in Bengkulu, offering a wide array of street food ranging from grilled seafood to traditional snacks. It's an excellent place to immerse in the local food culture.
Pasar Bengkulu is another vibrant market known for its street food, where visitors can sample local delicacies such as Kerupuk (crackers), Bakso (meatball soup), and various grilled fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bengkulu, it is customary to greet people with a smile and a handshake. It is also important to use the appropriate greeting based on the person's age and status, such as using formal language and showing respect to elders.
Respecting elders is a fundamental cultural norm in Bengkulu. This includes using polite language, showing deference, and seeking their guidance and approval in decision-making processes.
In Bengkulu, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending traditional events. Wearing conservative and respectful attire shows consideration for the local cultural values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bengkulu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bengkulu
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bengkulu, Indonesia, tipping is generally not expected or required. However, it is appreciated if you receive exceptional service at upscale restaurants or hotels.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Bengkulu, but major credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and stores. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bengkulu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Bengkulu is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and the skies are clear. Visitors can expect warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city and its surroundings.
During the wet season, visitors can expect frequent rainfall and high humidity. While the lush green landscapes are a sight to behold, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. However, this season offers a unique opportunity to experience Bengkulu's natural beauty in a different light.
Bengkulu at Night
Hiking in Bengkulu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot with a peak that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail is moderate in difficulty and surrounded by lush vegetation.
This national park features a variety of hiking trails with unique flora and fauna. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a more adventurous trek.
While primarily known as a beach destination, the coastal trails provide excellent hiking opportunities with beautiful ocean views and the chance to explore the coastal ecosystem.
A lesser-known hiking destination that offers challenging trails and breathtaking views from the summit. Ideal for experienced hikers seeking a quiet adventure.
This spot features trails through traditional villages and lush rice fields, allowing hikers to experience local culture while enjoying mild hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bengkulu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bengkulu by plane.
Located in Palembang, South Sumatra, approximately 313 kilometers from Bengkulu. It serves as an international gateway to the region.
Located in Padang, West Sumatra, about 426 kilometers from Bengkulu. It is one of the major international airports in Sumatra.
Located in Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, approximately 1,000 kilometers from Bengkulu. It is the largest and busiest airport in Indonesia.
Situated in Medan, North Sumatra, around 960 kilometers from Bengkulu. It serves as a key international hub for northern Sumatra.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Bengkulu, predominantly settled in urban areas and involved in various sectors including trade and agriculture.
A significant minority group, primarily residing in rural areas and known for their agricultural practices.
An ethnic group from West Sumatra, found in smaller numbers in Bengkulu, often engaged in trade and cultural exchanges.
Indigenous inhabitants of Bengkulu, with a rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.
A minority group involved mainly in commerce and trade, contributing to the local economy.
Includes smaller communities from various regions of Indonesia, adding to the cultural diversity of Bengkulu.
The Soul of Bengkulu
Discover the essence of Bengkulu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Bengkulu, often played in local leagues and communities.
Badminton is widely played in Bengkulu, with many clubs and tournaments organized for enthusiasts.
Basketball has a growing following in Bengkulu, featuring various local teams and competitions.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and community events, with both indoor and outdoor variations.
This traditional martial art is popular in Bengkulu and often practiced in cultural and competitive settings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bengkulu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Bengkulu cuisine emphasizes seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian options such as Sayur Lodeh (vegetable stew) and Gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce). Additionally, some establishments are receptive to accommodating vegan requests upon prior notice.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs can enjoy dishes like grilled seafood, fresh fruit, and steamed rice, which are commonly available and devoid of gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bengkulu with these cultural adventures.