Lampung

Description

Ancient Chinese travel chronicles refer to a place in the most southerly part of Sumatra called “Lampung” or “place of southerly winds”. This shows that Lampung has been there for quite a while.

The province is generally flat with the highest mountains of Gunung Pesagi, Tanggamas, Seminiung, Sekincau and Raya all being dormant volcanoes. Bandar Lampung, the Provincial capital, was formerly two separate towns, Tanjungkarang and the port of Teluk Betung, which after the infamous eruption of Krakatau were both completely covered in volcanic ash. In the course of development, however this town have merged together to become one single city.

History

Some relics show that Lampung was once a part of Sriwijaya kingdom until 11th century. After that, Lampung became a part of Melayu kingdom. Some megalithic remains in Pugungraharjo are believed to  be more than 1,000 years old. This shows some influences of Hinduism and Buddhism.

The fertile land of Lampung is famous for yielding pepper. No wonder the sultanate of Banten was anxious to get ahold of this area. Dutch East India Company managed to claim it until late 17th century. Dutch began transmigration to this area to overcome densely populated areas in Java. Most of the migrants.

Entry

Domestic airlines have daily flights from Jakarta. Rajabasa bus terminal is one of the busiest in Sumatra, with a constant flow of departures. The trip from Jakarta takes eight hours, which includes crossing Sunda Strait between Merak in java and Bakaheuni Lampung by ferry. Three trains run from Palembang daily.

People & Culture

Lampung has become a melting pot because of the people who have migrated there over the years. Some originated from Java, most have never ever set foot to Javanese land, content to be in Lampung.

Cuisine

Influenced by neighboring provinces, Lampung people enjoy cuisine of all sorts. Most notably West Sumatran spicy food, that can be found almost anywhere. Palembang style food are also served in many places. Try sayur asam--sour vegetable soup, one of the specialties here.

Tourism Office

Jl. Jend. Sudirman No. 2

Bandar Lampung

Phone. (62-721) 26430

Fax. (62-721) 266184