South Sumatra Province Travel Guide
South Sumatra Province is mostly flat, fertile land with countless rivers meandering across the region. Visitors will find both natural wonders and cultural attractions in abundance in this beautiful part of Indonesia.
At the center of the province is the capital Palembang, the gateway to South Sumatra, blessed with a rich heritage based around ancient trade. Lying on the banks of the Musi River, which is spanned by the impressive Ampera Bridge, are three museums visitors can enjoy - a great way to soak up the culture of this ‘Venice of the East’.
It is certainly worth taking a river cruise along the Musi to experience waterfront life in this unique part of Indonesia. Other cultural sites in the province include Bukit Siguntang, an ancient holy site for Buddhists.
Nature is another major feature of South Sumatra. Sembilang National Park is home to Sumatran tigers and is a paradise for bird watchers. More adventurous travelers can explore the remote expanses of Kerinci Seblat National Park.
Perhaps the most popular natural site is Mount Dempo, the highest peak in South Sumatra. The summit can be reached conveniently by car, or hikers can enjoy a walk along its slopes. The Napal Licin Caves are another natural marvel, as are the many lakes and waterfalls in the region.
South Sumatra can easily be reached by air via the province’s four main airports at: Palembang, Pangkal Pinang, Bangka and the Belitung Islands. All of these destinations have direct flights from Jakarta, Padang, Medan and Batam that take little more than an hour to reach Palembang.
Air-conditioned buses also run to Palembang from across Sumatra, and ferries from Java and Bali provide another regional way to reach the province.