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Getting Around Palembang

Getting Around Palembang

Palembang South Sumatra, Indonesia Travel Guide

Public Transportation Systems

Palembang boasts Indonesia's first LRT system outside Jakarta. It connects Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Airport (PLM) to Jakabaring Sport City, passing through important areas near the Ampera Bridge. The Trans Musi Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) network operates air-conditioned buses.

The Ampera Bridge area serves as a central point for transfers between different modes of transport, making it a convenient starting point for exploring.

System Overview

  • LRT (Light Rail Transit): Modern system, connects airport to city.
  • Trans Musi BRT: Air-conditioned buses, dedicated and shared lanes.
  • Angkot (Minibus): Small, privately owned minibuses on fixed routes, local experience.
  • The Ampera Bridge area is a central hub for transfers.

Routes & Hubs

LRT operates on a single line from airport to Jakabaring. Stations include Ampera. Trans Musi routes cover major terminals and shopping centers.

Fares & Ticketing

LRT and Trans Musi use E-Money cards (Flazz, TapCash, etc.). Single tickets at LRT stations. Angkot: cash only (IDR 3,000-5,000).

Operations

LRT: ~06:00-20:00, 15-30 min frequency. Trans Musi: ~05:00-22:00. Angkot: throughout the day, often late evening.

Public Transport Tips

Efficient Navigation
  • Use Google Maps for route planning.
  • Carry an E-Money card for LRT and Trans Musi.
  • For `angkot`, understand your destination and wave them down.
Accessibility & Comfort
  • LRT stations feature elevators and ramps for accessibility.
  • Trans Musi buses are air-conditioned.
  • Angkot might be busy and are not designed for accessibility.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Options

Licensed Taxis

Look for Blue Bird Group taxis; they use meters.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Gojek and Grab are very much recommended for transparent pricing.

Payment Methods

Cash for taxis, cash or e-wallets (GoPay, OVO) for ride-sharing.

Safety Measures

Always verify the driver and vehicle details on apps. Avoid unlicensed taxis.

Personal Transportation

Exploring Palembang with rented vehicles.

Car Rentals

  • Valid national driving license and IDP are necessary.
  • Minimum age 21-23 typically.
  • Local agencies are available; renting with a driver is an option.
  • Major international car rental chains are less common.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Valid national motorbike license and IDP.
  • Helmets are legally required.
  • Traffic may pose a challenge to inexperienced riders.
  • Cost: IDR 70,000-150,000 per day.

Driving & Parking Guidelines

  • Drive on the left side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for car occupants, helmets for motorbikes.
  • Main roads are generally good; side streets may have potholes.
  • Parking at malls and major attractions, often for a fee.
  • Street parking can be challenging in busy areas.
  • `Bentor` (motorized trishaw) and `ketek` (river boats) are local options.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

Ampera Bridge Promenade, Jakabaring Sseaport City, Punti Kayu Recreational Forest.

Cycling Safety

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Safer in parks, Jakabaring, or less congested residential areas.

Guided Tours

No formalized walking or cycling tour operators widely advertised. Self-guided exploration is possible.

Specialized Transportation

Palembang offers a few unique transport experiences beyond standard options.

Unique Local Transport

  • Bentor (`Becak Motor`): Motorized trishaws for short distances; negotiate fare.
  • Ketek: Traditional wooden boats on the Musi River for tours and transport.
  • LRT: Palembang's unique Light Rail Transit system.
  • No hop-on-hop-off buses or cable cars.

River Exploration

  • Hire `ketek` for short trips, tours to Kemaro Island, or sightseeing.
  • Charter speedboats for faster river travel.
  • Ferries to Java from Bakauheni (Lampung), accessed by land from Palembang.
  • Immigration procedures not for Palembang seaports.

Transport Insights

Accessibility

Limited accessibility services. LRT and airport offer some features.

Sidewalks are uneven; older buildings may lack ramps.

Transport Hubs

Ampera Bridge area: central for LRT, Trans Musi, `angkot`, and river transport.

Kertapati Station for trains. PLM for flights.

Essential Apps

Gojek and Get are indispensable for getting around.

Download them upon arrival.

Commuting Considerations

Traffic & Congestion
  • Palembang traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours.
  • Motorbike density is high, requiring constant awareness.
  • Travel times may be longer than expected.
Cost-Effective Travel
  • Public transport (LRT, Trans Musi) is economical.
  • Ride-sharing apps offer competitive pricing.
  • Haggle over prices for `bentor` and `ketek`.

Safety Tips for Local Transport

  • Helmets are mandatory for motorbike riders and passengers.
  • Use reputable licensed taxis (e.g., Blue Bird) or ride-sharing apps.
  • Verify the driver details with ride-sharing apps.
  • Keep belongings secure in crowded `angkot` or buses.
  • Avoid driving motorbikes at night if inexperienced.
  • Pedestrians: use sidewalks, be aware of traffic.
  • Politically negotiate fares before starting journeys in `bentor` or `ketek`.
  • Report any safety concerns to authorities or app services.

Transport Summary

For most travelers, a combination of LRT, Trans Musi buses, and ride-sharing apps (Gojek/Grab) offers the most efficient and convenient ways to explore Palembang.

Efficient Options

  • LRT: Fast connection from airport to city attractions.
  • Trans Musi BRT: Affordable routes all over the city.
  • Gojek/Grab: On-demand motorbike and car services.
  • Download apps for seamless travel.

Unique & Local

  • Ketek boats: For authentic Musi River experiences and tours.
  • Bentor: Motorized trishaws for short, local trips.
  • Walking: Explore pedestrian-friendly areas and parks.
  • Self-guided city exploration on foot.

Transport Hubs

Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport PLM

Main gateway by air.

  • LRT connection to city.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing available.
  • Domestic and few international flights.
Ampera Bridge Area

Central hub for public and river transport.

  • LRT, Trans Musi, Angkot connections.
  • `Ketek` boat access.
  • Walking proximity to attractions.
Kertapati Train Station

For intercity train services.

  • Connections to Lampung and South Sumatra.
  • Taxi and ride-sharing services.
  • Offers a train with beautiful views journeys.

Important Travel Cautions

Traffic & Road Safety
  • Heavy traffic is common, particularly during rush hour.
  • High number of motorbikes requires constant vigilance.
  • Road conditions vary; be aware of potholes and unexpected obstacles.
Safety on Public Transport
  • Keep belongings secure on crowded `angkot` and buses.
  • Verify ride-sharing driver and vehicle details before boarding.
  • Agree on fares in advance for `bentor` and `ketek`.

Getting Around Takeaway

For the majority of visitors, a combination of LRT, Trans Musi buses, and ride-sharing apps (Gojek/Grab) offers the most efficient and convenient ways to explore Palembang.

Boat on the rivers (ketek) offer unique Musi River experiences.

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