Things To Do
in Bima
Bima is a town located on the eastern coast of the island of Sumbawa in Indonesia. Known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs, Bima is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. The town is also known for its traditional weaving industry, producing intricate textiles using traditional techniques.
Bima has a rich cultural heritage, with many festivals and ceremonies celebrating the local traditions and customs.
- "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: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Pink Beach for swimming and sunbathing. The early sunlight makes the beach even more stunning.
After lunch, head to Sangiang Island for snorkeling and discovering vibrant marine life. Relax on the sands before heading back.
Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant with fresh catches of the day. Watch the beautiful sunset over the sea.
Visit the historical Bima Sultanate Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area. Take your time exploring the exhibits.
Head to the traditional market in the heart of Bima for local crafts and food. Experience the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Dine at a local warung while enjoying traditional Bimanese cuisine. Reflect on the day's explorations and local flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with stunning beaches and lush landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Opportunities for tourism-related business and investment.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including transportation and utilities.
- Potential language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
- Vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and agriculture.
Best Activities in Bima
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on a trek to Mount Tambora, an active volcano known for its breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails.
Relax and enjoy the beautiful white sandy beach of Wadu Matali, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach picnics.
Discover the underwater beauty of Paserang Island through snorkeling, where you can encounter diverse marine life and colorful coral reefs.
Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool beneath Tiu Teja Waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and serene atmosphere.
Places to Visit in Bima
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of a volcanic crater lake
Provides beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and traditional village life
Food in Bima
Bima Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sate Pusut is a must-try local dish in Bima, consisting of marinated skewered meat (commonly made from beef, fish, or chicken) grilled over charcoal. It's often served with peanut sauce and steamed rice. Visitors can savor this delicacy at Warung Makan Sate Pusut Bima, a popular spot among locals.
Must-Try!
Ares is a unique dish made from young palm fruit. The fruit is boiled and fermented to create a savory and slightly sour flavor. It's commonly enjoyed with rice and can be found at traditional eateries like Rumah Makan Ares Baru.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Pasar Wajo is a bustling food market in Bima where visitors can explore an array of local produce, spices, and freshly prepared street food. The market is a great place to sample authentic Indonesian snacks like bakso (meatball soup) and nasi goreng (fried rice) from various vendors.
For those seeking an immersive street food experience, Pasar Kuliner Dara is a must-visit. This vibrant market offers an assortment of regional dishes such as babi kecap (pork cooked in soy sauce) and lontong balap (rice cake with bean sprouts).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bima, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper language and gestures, and by seeking their advice and guidance in social interactions.
It is important to dress modestly in Bima, especially for women, to show respect for the local cultural norms and religious beliefs.
Greeting others with a handshake or a nod of the head is common in Bima, and it is important to use the appropriate greeting based on the person's age and social status.
Safety
Tipping in Bima
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bima, Indonesia, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected or required to leave a tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Bima, although some larger establishments may accept credit cards. It is advisable to carry cash in smaller denominations as it may be difficult to break larger bills.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Bima, Indonesia is during the dry season from May to September when the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. Expect warm temperatures and clear skies during this time.
During the wet season from October to April, Bima experiences heavy rainfall and higher humidity. Visitors can expect lush green landscapes but should be prepared for occasional downpours and limited outdoor activities.
Bima at Night
Hiking in Bima
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous volcano located about 60 km from Bima, known for its hiking trails and breathtaking views from the summit.
An active volcano situated to the east of Bima, offering challenging hiking opportunities and unique volcanic landscapes.
While a bit further away, this national park offers some of the most stunning hikes in the region, including the summit of Mount Rinjani, which is accessible from Bima.
A lesser-known hiking spot near Bima, featuring beautiful landscapes and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.
A scenic hiking spot that offers panoramic views of Bima and its surrounding areas, popular for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Aiports
How to reach Bima by plane.
The local airport in Bima, primarily serving domestic flights, but not an international airport.
Located in Bali, approximately 530 km from Bima, this is the nearest major international airport.
Located in Surabaya, around 740 km from Bima, it is one of the largest airports in Indonesia.
Located near Jakarta, approximately 1,340 km from Bima, this is the main international gateway into Indonesia.
Situated in Batam, around 1,160 km from Bima, serving both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Bima, traditionally engaged in agriculture and known for their unique cultural practices.
A local ethnic group with its language and customs, primarily located in the city of Bima and surrounding areas.
An ethnic group from the nearby Sumbawa Island, often involved in trade and cultural exchange.
A diverse group that includes people from various parts of Indonesia and other countries, contributing to the demographic mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Bima, often played in local leagues and community events.
A favored sport among the youth, with many clubs and tournaments organized throughout the year.
Various forms such as Pencak Silat are practiced, reflecting cultural traditions and promoting fitness.
An emerging sport in Bima, with increasing numbers of courts and youth participating in local competitions.
A popular team sport, often played recreationally on the beaches or in schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bima.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bimanese cuisine prominently features meat and fish, vegetarian and vegan-friendly options are available at select restaurants and cafes. Look for eateries offering dishes like sayur lodeh (vegetable stew) and tempeh-based preparations.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes such as nasi goreng and lontong. Additionally, grilled fish and steamed vegetables are generally safe choices for those seeking gluten-free options.