Palembang - A City of Sights and Delights

PALEMBANG, Aug 21 (Bernama) – This city, which is co-hosting the Asian Games 2018 with Jakarta until Sept 2, has so much to offer, being one of the oldest cities in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. With a population of over 3.5 million and a rich history, this capital of South Sumatra is also wooing its many visitors during this period with its many sights and culinary delights. Ampera Bridge pulls in the crowds The scenic surroundings around the Sungai Musi and the Ampera Bridge area is a major attraction for visitors to Palembang. Tourists and shutterbugs never miss an opportunity to snap photos as they take in its breathtaking beauty against the backdrop of mountains that come alive, especially during sunrise and sunset. The vicinity around the bridge, including Pasar 10 Ulu, is crowded with both locals and foreigners who flock there to buy all kinds of items. The river banks of Sungai Musi are dotted with food outlets and restaurants where patrons can dine while watching the many boats and barges shuttling its waters. Indonesia’s first LRT eases travel for athletes, officials The light rail transit service (LRT) in Palembang, Indonesia’s first, has made it easier for athletes officials and volunteers to get to the Asian Games venues without being stuck in the city’s traffic congestion known locally as “macet”.  The South Sumatra LRT facility was opened in time for the 18th Asian Games. It connects Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II International Airport with the Jakabaring Sports Complex, and runs every 30 minutes. Although it is not fully operational, the 24.5km journey from the airport offers spectacular sights of the city. It also runs parallel to the Ampera Bridge, a major landmark of the city. However, the LRT operates only up to 7.30 pm, compared to other major cities, including Kuala Lumpur, where travel times are until midnight. In addition to the LRT,  motorcycles are a popular mode of transport and mostly booked through Grab and Go-Jek applications. Not-to-be-mIssed street fest  Jalan Jenderal Sudirman, a major thoroughfare in this city, is closed every Friday and Saturday for a street festival that allows local residents to showcase their talents and sell their wares. The two-kilometre stretch is closed for entertainment activities and for stalls selling a wide variety of food and drinks.  The activities include snake shows, performances by singers and musicians and street artists offering portrait shots and paintings. (photoBERNAMA) -- BERNAMA