Things To Do
in Manggar
Manggar is a small coastal town located on the eastern coast of the island of Belitung in Indonesia. The town is known for its picturesque beaches, clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets. Manggar is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Visitors can also explore nearby islands, go snorkeling or diving, and sample local cuisine.
- "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 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the stunning beaches of Manggar. Enjoy the soft sand under your feet and take in the beautiful sunrise.
Visit local stalls for delicious seafood and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Spend some time swimming or sunbathing in the warm sun.
As the sun sets, find a beachside café to relax with a drink. The sound of the waves and the colors of the sunset make for a perfect evening.
Begin with a hearty breakfast followed by a trek in the nearby hills. Immerse yourself in the lush green surroundings and spot local wildlife.
After the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint. Take time to relax and appreciate the breathtaking views.
Return to Manggar and dine at a local restaurant. Enjoy traditional Indonesian dishes while reflecting on your adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and forests.
- Warm and welcoming local community.
- Opportunities for fishing and other water-based activities.
- Accessibility to nearby tourist attractions in East Kalimantan.
- Limited infrastructure and public services.
- Potential language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
- Vulnerable to natural disasters such as flooding.
- Economic dependence on local industries, which may be unstable.
- Challenges related to access to healthcare and education facilities.
Best Activities in Manggar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Manggar is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, making it an ideal destination for snorkeling and diving. You can explore the diverse marine life and vibrant underwater landscapes.
Enjoy the serene beaches in Manggar for some relaxation. Whether it's sunbathing, beachcombing, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the coast, the beaches offer a tranquil escape.
Manggar is known for its scenic natural environment, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring nature trails. Experience the lush landscapes and unique flora and fauna of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Manggar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Manggar
Visit one of these nice places.
Batu Layar Hill offers stunning panoramic views of the coastal region and is a popular spot for photography.
Puncak Gunung Gajah provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great location for capturing sunrise and sunset shots.
Food in Manggar
Manggar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fish marinated in a blend of spices and served with sambal (spicy chili paste). Best enjoyed at seaside warungs (small restaurants) like Warung Ikan Bakar Sari Laut.
Must-Try!
Fried rice cooked with belacan (shrimp paste) and served with a selection of fresh vegetables and a side of crispy fried shallots. Try it at Warung Makan Nasi Goreng Bu Endang.
A spicy and tangy yellow curry dish made with fish or prawns, turmeric, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass. Look for it at Pasar Terapung (floating market) or local authentic restaurants like Warung Lempah Kuning.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Manggar's famous floating market where you can find an array of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local snacks like fried bananas and lemang (glutinous rice cooked in bamboo).
A bustling morning market offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies like otak-otak (grilled fish cake) and serabi (coconut milk pancakes).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Manggar, it is important to show respect for elders through proper greetings and listening attentively when they speak.
It is customary to observe local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering a home and participating in community events and ceremonies.
It is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending gatherings, by covering shoulders and knees.
Safety
Tipping in Manggar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Manggar, Indonesia, tipping is not a common practice. It is not customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. However, if someone wishes to show appreciation for exceptional service, a small tip may be given, but it is not expected.
Payment in Manggar, Indonesia is commonly done in cash. Credit card acceptance may be limited to more established businesses in tourist areas. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling to Manggar, as ATMs may not be widely available outside major towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Manggar is during the dry season, from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally dry and pleasant, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Manggar.
During the wet season, from October to April, Manggar experiences higher levels of rainfall. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the rainy weather. However, this time of the year is perfect for witnessing the vibrant natural beauty of Manggar.
Manggar at Night
Hiking in Manggar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking spot along the coastline, offering beautiful views of the ocean and opportunities for beachcombing.
A popular hiking area with sandy trails and a chance to see local wildlife, as well as stunning views of the sea.
A moderate hiking trail that leads to a hilltop offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and sea.
Accessible by boat, this island features nature trails where hikers can explore tropical flora and fauna.
A protected area with various trails ideal for hiking, focusing on the preservation of local wildlife and plants.
Aiports
How to reach Manggar by plane.
Located in Palangkaraya, Central Kalimantan, this airport serves as a major gateway for the region.
Located in Purbalingga, Central Java, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated in Surakarta, Central Java, this airport serves as a hub for central Indonesia and includes international flights.
Located in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, it is one of the largest airports in the region, handling both domestic and international traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Javanese are the largest ethnic group in Indonesia and have a significant presence in Manggar, characterized by their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
The Buginese are known for their maritime culture and are prominent in Manggar, contributing to the region's fishing and trade industries.
Though primarily from West Java, the Sundanese can also be found in Manggar, adding to the cultural diversity of the area.
The Chinese community in Manggar has a long history and plays an important role in local commerce and trade.
Various other smaller ethnic groups reside in Manggar, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Manggar, played by many at various levels from local clubs to school teams.
Badminton is widely played in Manggar, with many enthusiasts participating in both casual and competitive matches.
Volleyball is a common sport in Manggar, often played on beaches and in local courts, attracting both men and women.
Traditional Indonesian sports, including various local games and competitions, reflect the culture and heritage of Manggar.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manggar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Though seafood is prevalent, several eateries in Manggar offer vegetarian nasi goreng (fried rice), gado-gado (vegetable salad with peanut sauce), and sayur lodeh (vegetable stew).
While vegan-specific dishes may not be widely available, many places can accommodate by preparing vegetable-based stir-fries, tofu dishes, and tempeh-based meals on request.
Gluten-free choices like rice-based dishes and fresh seafood are abundant. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.