Things To Do
in Taliwang
Taliwang is a small town located in the West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. It is known for its unique culinary dish called Ayam Taliwang, which is a spicy grilled chicken dish. The town has a laid-back atmosphere with friendly locals and beautiful natural surroundings.
Taliwang is also famous for its traditional Sasak culture and village life, offering visitors a glimpse into the local way of life.
- "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): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Sumbawa Besar Beach for a refreshing swim. Enjoy the sunrise with a cup of traditional Indonesian coffee.
Head to the nearby Bukit Taliwang for a hike while taking in stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit.
Return to Taliwang and savor a local dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Wind down by taking a leisurely stroll along the beach.
Visit the traditional village of Poto Tano and learn about the local customs and crafts. Engage in a workshop on traditional weaving.
Enjoy lunch at a local warung and sample authentic Taliwang chicken. Explore nearby markets for unique souvenirs.
Experience a cultural performance featuring traditional Sumbawan music and dance. Have a dinner with locals to deepen your cultural connection.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
- Beautiful landscapes and natural scenery.
- Delicious local cuisine, notably Taliwang grilled chicken.
- Warm and welcoming local community.
- Less crowded tourist destination compared to other Indonesian cities.
- Limited access to modern amenities.
- Infrastructural challenges in transportation.
- Potential language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
- Environmental concerns due to tourism impact.
- Seasonal weather fluctuations may affect travel plans.
Best Activities in Taliwang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to the summit of Mount Tambora, offering breathtaking views of the caldera and surrounding landscape.
Explore the stunning beaches near Sumbawa Besar, such as Lakey Beach, Maluk Beach, and other hidden gems for surfing, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Visit local villages to experience the traditional Sasak culture, interact with locals, and learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life.
Tours
Uncover the best of Taliwang with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Taliwang
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and ocean, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
A hilltop area known for its breathtaking views and ideal for capturing beautiful sunset shots over Taliwang.
Provides picturesque views of Taliwang and the surrounding area, allowing visitors to take memorable photos.
Food in Taliwang
Taliwang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled chicken dish marinated in a spicy mixture of shrimp paste, chili, garlic, and lime juice, often served with plecing kangkung (water spinach in spicy sauce). Must-try at Warung Makan Taliwang Irama in Taliwang town or Pasar Taman Ayu in Sumbawa Besar.
Must-Try!
A refreshing salad of water spinach doused in a fiery sambal sauce, typically enjoyed alongside grilled dishes. Best sampled at Pasar Taman Ayu market or local warungs.
A traditional dish made from mashed eggplant mixed with chili, shallots, and tomatoes, offering a spicy and tangy flavor profile. Look for it at Pasar Taliwang or small eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Taliwang better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where visitors can savor a variety of Sasak specialties such as Ayam Taliwang, Pelecing Kangkung, Beberuk Terong, and fresh seafood dishes. Adventurous eaters can explore the diverse array of street food stalls offering local snacks and sweet treats.
This market is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Sasak flavors. It's an excellent place to sample local dishes, including Beberuk Terong, alongside traditional snacks and refreshments.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Taliwang, it's important to show respect towards elders. This can be shown through polite language, gestures, and following traditional customs related to interactions with older members of the community.
When visiting Taliwang, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending traditional ceremonies. This means covering shoulders and knees and avoiding clothing that may be considered too revealing.
Taliwang has unique cultural traditions, and it's important to observe and show respect for these customs. This includes participating in local ceremonies, respecting sacred sites, and being mindful of traditional practices.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Taliwang with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Taliwang
Ensure a smooth experience
In Taliwang, it is not a common practice to tip for everyday services such as dining, transportation, or other routine services.
Payments in Taliwang are mostly conducted in cash, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards may be accepted in some larger establishments or hotels, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Taliwang.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Taliwang is during the dry season when you can enjoy clear skies, sunny weather, and lower humidity. This is also the ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration.
During the wet season, Taliwang experiences heavy rainfall and higher humidity. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather. It's also a time when some accommodations and attractions may offer lower prices.
Taliwang at Night
Hiking in Taliwang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A monumental active volcano located on the island of Lombok, offering stunning views and challenging hikes.
A local hiking spot with beautiful landscapes, suitable for beginners and families.
Not far from Taliwang, this majestic mountain provides thrilling trekking opportunities for more experienced hikers.
Famous for its historical eruption in 1815, it offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views from the summit.
A moderate trail that leads to a picturesque waterfall, perfect for a scenic day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Taliwang through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Taliwang by plane.
The nearest international airport, located approximately 150 km from Taliwang. It serves several domestic and international flights.
Located in Bali, approximately 200 km from Taliwang. It is one of the busiest airports in Indonesia, serving numerous international destinations.
Located in Surabaya, approximately 500 km from Taliwang. It is the second-busiest airport in Indonesia and offers a range of domestic and international flights.
Located in Jakarta, about 1,100 km from Taliwang. It is the primary airport serving the capital city of Indonesia and is the largest in the country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Sasak people are the majority ethnic group in Lombok, including Taliwang, with a rich cultural heritage.
Balinese individuals primarily inhabit the nearby island of Bali but have a significant presence in Lombok, contributing to the cultural landscape.
Sumbanese people are originally from the island of Sumba, with smaller communities present in Lombok, including Taliwang.
Javanese immigrants and their descendants form a notable demographic group in Lombok, including in Taliwang.
Batak people from Sumatra have migrated to various parts of Indonesia, including Lombok, leading to a diverse cultural influence.
The Soul of Taliwang
Discover the essence of Taliwang through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular team sport in Taliwang, often played in local leagues and tournaments.
Widely played recreationally and competitively, badminton is a favorite sport among the youth.
Various forms of martial arts, including traditional Indonesian styles, are practiced and celebrated in Taliwang.
A common sport in schools and communities, volleyball enjoys popularity in both indoor and beach versions.
Gaining popularity especially among younger generations, basketball is played in schools and neighborhood courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taliwang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sasak cuisine prominently features seafood and poultry, many eateries in Taliwang and Sumbawa Besar offer vegetarian and vegan versions of local dishes, such as substitutions for Ayam Taliwang with tempeh or tofu. Warung Kopi Sumbawa is a notable establishment that provides dedicated options for vegetarians and vegans.
Individuals with gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like Pelecing Kangkung and certain grilled seafood items, as they are often prepared without gluten-containing ingredients. It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when dining out to ensure a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Taliwang with these cultural adventures.