Mataram is the capital and main city of the Indonesian island of Lombok. Being a centre of government administration in Indonesia, Mataram has many impressive public buildings and wealthy residential houses. The city has many squares, the main one of which is often used as a dance and arts performance area, as well as the old style entertainment of puppet theatre. There are also traditional markets held frequently in the city, selling a wide array of crafts, silverware and Indonesian style clothing. 

There are fine restaurants in which to sample local cuisine and the city is close to the port of Ampenan, ensuring that fresh fish is always available.