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Get InspiredAsiaIndonesiaWest Nusa TenggaraBima

Bima

West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
City·Historical, Cultural, Vibrant
Bima
Photo by Satu Bungalows Lingkung from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Fatir Af from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Ida Mursyidah from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Fatir Af from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Ida Mursyidah from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Satu Bungalows Lingkung from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Fatir Af from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Ida Mursyidah from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Fatir Af from Google Places
Bima
Photo by Ida Mursyidah from Google Places

Bima is a bustling coastal city on the eastern side of Sumbawa Island in Indonesia's West Nusa Tenggara province. As the largest city on the island, Bima serves as a key economic and regional hub, attracting transmigrants from across Indonesia, including Java, Bali, and Lombok. The city boasts a rich cultural history, having been the capital of the Bima Sultanate from 1620 to 1958. Visitors can explore significant landmarks such as the Sultan Salahuddin mosque and the Sultan Salahuddin Museum, which was once the Bima Sultanate palace. The local Bima language is widely spoken, adding to the city's unique cultural tapestry.

Bima is a bustling coastal city on the eastern side of Sumbawa Island in Indonesia's West Nusa Tenggara province. As the largest city on the island, Bima serves as a key economic and regional hub, attracting transmigrants from across Indonesia, including Java, Bali, and Lombok. The city boasts a rich cultural history, having been the capital of the Bima Sultanate from 1620 to 1958. Visitors can explore significant landmarks such as the Sultan Salahuddin mosque and the Sultan Salahuddin Museum, which was once the Bima Sultanate palace. The local Bima language is widely spoken, adding to the city's unique cultural tapestry.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Largest city on Sumbawa Island.

  • Former capital of the Bima Sultanate.

  • Economic hub of Eastern Sumbawa.

  • Home to Sultan Salahuddin mosque.

  • Cultural diversity with transmigrants.

Before you go: Bima essentials

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites like the Sultan Salahuddin Museum.

  • Central downtown commercial zone for shopping and dining.

  • Cultural diversity due to transmigrants from Java, Bali, and Lombok.

Local Cuisine

Try traditional Bima dishes like 'Ikan Bakar' (grilled fish) and 'Nasi Kuning' (yellow rice).

Getting Around

Bima is accessible by road from Dompu and Sape, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas.

Best For

Exploring local culture and history.

Currency

IDR Rp

Average Cost

$40-$80 p/day

Languages Spoken

Indonesian, Bima

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites like mosques.

Language

While Bahasa Indonesia is widely spoken, learning a few phrases in the Bima language can enhance your experience.

Weather

The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to October.

Occasion Tags

Cultural Exploration, Historical Sightseeing, Local Experience

Best time to visit Bima

April-October

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Bima is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the city's historical sites.

Best Season

Summer

Summers can be hot, but it's a great time to enjoy the coastal scenery.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, ideal for a more relaxed visit.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a good time for cultural exploration without the crowds.

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Location

Bima, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
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Things to do in Bima

Prambanan Temple and Ramayana Ballet Show (VIP Seat with dinner)
From $110

Prambanan Temple and Ramayana Ballet Show (VIP Seat with dinner)

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Borobudur, Merapi Volcano and Prambanan Temple Private Tour
From $50

Borobudur, Merapi Volcano and Prambanan Temple Private Tour

4.8(102)
Duration: 12h
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Yogyakarta Bromo Ijen Bluefire Drop Off Bali
From $400

Yogyakarta Bromo Ijen Bluefire Drop Off Bali

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Duration: 72h
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Borobudur Full Climb Up And Prambanan ALL INCLUSIVE PRIVATE Tour
From $50

Borobudur Full Climb Up And Prambanan ALL INCLUSIVE PRIVATE Tour

5.0(168)
Duration: 10h
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From Yogyakarta: Bromo Sunrise & Ijen Volcano with Bali Drop-off
From $375

From Yogyakarta: Bromo Sunrise & Ijen Volcano with Bali Drop-off

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Duration: 72h
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta to Bali 5 Days Borobudur Bromo and Ijen Tour
From $750

Yogyakarta to Bali 5 Days Borobudur Bromo and Ijen Tour

Duration: 120h
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1 day Yogyakarta Tour Jomblang cave and Pindul Cave tubing
From $69

1 day Yogyakarta Tour Jomblang cave and Pindul Cave tubing

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Jakarta Half Day Shared Guided Tour Visit Monument and Old Town
From $47

Jakarta Half Day Shared Guided Tour Visit Monument and Old Town

5.0(3)
Duration: 5h
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Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near Bima

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Komodo National Park

4.6(7,1 K)
East Nusa Tenggara
National Park · Wild, Remote, Awe Inspiring