Palembang
Srivijaya's city on the banks of the Musi
From KNO
1 hr 30 min
Airlines
Garuda · Lion · Batik Air
IATA Code
PLM
About Palembang
Palembang is one of Indonesia's oldest cities, the former capital of the Srivijaya Kingdom that once controlled Southeast Asian trade routes. The wide Musi River bisects the city, with Jembatan Ampera as its icon. Pempek is the must-bring souvenir from this city. From KNO about 1.5 hours.
What to Explore
Highlights in Palembang
Highlight 1
Ampera Bridge
Jembatan Ampera is the most recognized symbol of Palembang — an iconic red bridge spanning 1,177 meters over the Musi River, connecting Seberang Ilir in the north and Seberang Ulu in the south. Built between 1962–1965 using Japanese war reparation funds and inaugurated by President Soekarno, the bridge originally had a lift tower at its center to allow large ships to pass the Musi River — the lifting function was discontinued in 1970 due to traffic congestion. The most dramatic view of Ampera Bridge is at sunset when the sky turns orange and the bridge's silhouette reflects off the wide Musi River surface. Enjoy the best view by taking a tourist boat from the pier below the bridge — from the water you can see the full structure while watching the still-active river traffic of barges and motorboats.
Highlight 2
Jakabaring Lake
Jakabaring Lake is the heart of the Jakabaring Sport City integrated sports complex — an international-standard sports complex built for the 2004 National Sports Week (PON) and later massively expanded for the 2018 Asian Games. This man-made lake spanning dozens of hectares is surrounded by jogging tracks, green parks, and various modern sports venues including an aquatic stadium, rowing arena, and velodrome. During the 2018 Asian Games, the area served as one of the main venues and introduced Palembang to the Asian sports stage. Today Jakabaring Lake has become a favorite public space for Palembang residents — mornings are busy with runners and cyclists, afternoons become a family relaxation spot enjoying a gentle breeze by the lakeside while watching the reflection of the evening sky on the water. The area also frequently hosts major sports events and city festivals.
Practical Info
Best Time
Jun – Sep
Currency
IDR (Rp)
Language
Indonesian, Palembang Malay
Airlines
Garuda · Lion · Batik Air
Travel Tip
Try pempek right in Palembang — it tastes entirely different from pempek sold elsewhere, especially the kapal selam version.
Ready to fly to Palembang?
1 hr 30 min from Kualanamu — direct and simple.