Ampenan, is once the bustling trade center of Lombok, is now a quiet yet fascinating town filled with colonial-era architecture and multicultural charm. Though no longer a business hub, this coastal town still holds many stories of the past, waiting to be discovered.

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A Glimpse Into the Past at Ampenan

Back in the 19th century, the Dutch East Indies developed Ampenan into a major business district. It had everything: a bank, cinema, market, houses of worship, trade offices, middle-class housing, and official Dutch residences. The colonial buildings are known for their thick walls and Dutch architectural style, many of which still stand today.

Ampenan was officially established as a key administrative and trade area through Staatblad No. 181 in 1895, making it the beating heart of Lombok’s economy.

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The Port That Connected Lombok to the World

In 1924, the Dutch built a major port in Ampenan, turning it into a gateway for Lombok’s exports—rice, cattle, and horses. The port even became a departure point for pilgrims heading to Mecca, replacing the older port in East Lombok.

British explorer Michael McMillan even wrote about Ampenan (which he called “Ampanam”) in his book A Journey to Java, highlighting its strategic location and importance in trade.

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From Bustling Hub to Quiet Heritage Town

Ampenan’s golden era began to fade when Japanese forces occupied Lombok and moved the island’s center of government to Mataram. Things quieted even more in 1977, when port operations shifted to Lembar, leaving behind a town rich in history but lacking modern relevance.

Still, Ampenan never truly died. It continues to pulse with life through its communities and historic streets.

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A Walk Through Ampenan Old Town

Start your walk at the Ampenan Bridge and head down Jalan Pabean toward Pantai Ampenan (Boom Beach). The atmosphere is timeless—rows of Dutch-era buildings, most worn but still sturdy. Many have been repurposed as shops or offices.

Along Jalan Niaga, some buildings have been transformed into creative spaces under the “Ampenan Huis” program, hosting local art and cultural events every weekend.

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A Living Mosaic of Cultures

One of Ampenan’s most unique features is its ethnic diversity. Communities here reflect Indonesia’s rich cultural mix: Kampung Arab, Kampung Melayu, Kampung Bali, Kampung Tionghoa, Kampung Bugis, and more.

Each group has preserved its traditions. The Bugis are mainly fishermen, the Arabs and Chinese are shopkeepers, while Sasak locals run food stalls near the beach. Visit Vihara Bodhi Darma, a temple built in 1804, across from the Muslim-majority Kampung Melayu, to see religious harmony in action.

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Sunset and Street Food at Ampenan Beach

As the sun sets, head to Pantai Ampenan, where locals gather to relax by the sea. The view of Mount Agung in Bali across the water is a sight to remember. Try seafood snacks and street food from nearby vendors while enjoying the ocean breeze.

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Don’t Leave Without Trying the Local Food

End your day with a taste of traditional Lombok dishes like:

• Plecing Kangkung
• Sate Bulayak
• Ayam Taliwang
• Sate Tanjung

You can also stop by the legendary Ramayana Restaurant, operating since 1976, known for its classic iced desserts such as es campur, es buah, es kacang hijau, and es teler durian.

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Reviving a Forgotten Heritage

Ampenan is one of 43 cities in Indonesia recognized as part of the Indonesian Heritage City Network (JKPI). The Mataram city government is actively revitalizing the area, repainting old buildings and adding classic-style streetlights—all without changing the original architecture.

Plans are even in place to restore the former Dutch Trading Bank building to support the area’s growing role as a cultural and historical destination.

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Ampenan may no longer be Lombok’s economic center, but its old soul still whispers stories of the past. A walk through this historic town is a journey through time—full of architecture, cultures, and flavors that reflect Indonesia’s layered history.