Palembang, Indonesia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Palembang, Indonesia? If you're planning to go to Palembang, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Palembang, Indonesia

Based on the climate and weather in Palembang, Indonesia, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Palembang, Indonesia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Palembang, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Palembang, Indonesia by month

January

If you visit Palembang during January, you are likely to notice that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Palembang is extremely hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

Traveling to Palembang in March, you will notice that it is consistently hot and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Palembang is really hot and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in this region is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June is really hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Palembang can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Palembang can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Palembang is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Palembang is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you visit Palembang during November, you are likely to notice that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December for Palembang is really hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Indonesia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Palembang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you intend to check out the must-see Masjid Agung Palembang, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Palembang tourism authority.

If you go to the Museum Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Palembang, Indonesia

Palembang, the capital city of South Sumatra Province of Indonesia, is a bustling metropolis, rich in history and culture. This city has so much to offer tourists, from majestic historic landmarks, scenic waterways, and vibrant cultures to enjoy. Here are the top tourist attractions in Palembang, Indonesia.

1. Ampera Bridge

The Ampera Bridge is the most iconic landmark in Palembang, Indonesia. It’s a proud symbol of the city's uniqueness and a significant transportation hub for the community. The bridge spans the Musi River, connecting two sides of Palembang. It's a spectacular sight, especially at night, when that bridge lights up with impressive lights.

2. Kemaro Island

Kemaro Island is a tiny island of the Musi River, located just a few minutes by boat from Ampera Bridge. The island is famous for its historical and religious value, featuring a 9-story Pagoda named Pagoda Avalokitesvara. It's a peaceful, scenic area with fresh air, breathtaking sights, and soothing vibes, perfect for a one-day trip from the hectic city.

3. Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum

The Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum is one of the most significant heritage sites in Palembang, Indonesia, brimming with historical insights and activity. This museum has a wonderful collection of artifacts, old photos, models, and various kinds of items related to the Palembang’s history, heritage, culture, and customs. It's an excellent place to learn about the riverside city and the Sumatran archipelago.

4. Kuto Besak Fortress

Kuto Besak Fortress, also known as Benteng Kuto Besak, is a historical fort turned museum located in the heart of Palembang, Indonesia. It was built during the reign of Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II in the 1780s, possessing an essential role and strategic position in various historical events of the city. The fort is now an excellent place to learn about the city's rich history, featuring various artifacts and educational exhibits.

5. Musi River

Musi River is an essential waterway in Palembang, Indonesia, stretching from upstream to the east of the city until the coast of the South China Sea. It is lively and frequently offers a variety of sights and sounds. Visitors can enjoy the river by taking a boat tour, Indonesian delicacies, unique bridges, and passing through historic landmarks. There’s no lack of charming scenery and cultural experiences on this river.

6. Balaputradewa Museum

The Balaputra Dewa Museum is one of Palembang's most famous museums that stands out among the city's other heritage sites. The museum is famous for its collection of old heirlooms, historical objects, unique collections of local art, crafts, textiles, handicrafts, and more. It's an excellent place to learn about the city's past and get an insight into the local arts and crafts.

In conclusion, Palembang is a unique and historical city with loads of cultural significance and natural beauty. While in Palembang, visitors can explore various cultural, naturalistic, historical landmarks and experience the essence of the city's unique culture.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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