Top attractions and things to do in Batam
From sparkling beach life to ancient temples, Batam has something for everyone. Here are the top attractions and things to do in Batam.
#1 Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya
This striking Buddhist temple is one of the largest in Indonesia, and is known for its blend of traditional Buddist and modern architecture. The main prayer hall features a statue of the Maitreya Buddha, considered to be the future Buddha in Buddhist tradition. The statue is 25m tall and is surrounded by smaller statues of other Buddhist deities.
Maha Vihara Duta Maitreya is also a cultural hub that hosts various activities and events throughout the year, such as meditation classes, Dharma talks and Buddhist festivals. The temple’s vegetarian restaurant is worth sampling.
#2 Tua Pek Kong temple
This Chinese temple is one of the oldest and most revered spiritual sites in the city. It is dedicated to the deity Tua Pek Kong, who is said to protect sailors and fishermen. His statue is inside the main prayer hall.
The temple's architecture is a mix of Chinese and local Indonesian styles, and features colourful embellishments and intricate carvings. The temple is particularly popular during the Chinese New Year, when it hosts various events and celebrations.
#3 Barelang Bridge
The Barelang Bridge is a chain of six bridges connecting Batam, Rempang, and Galang. Each of the six has a unique design and spans different parts of the strait; the name "Barelang" is derived from the names of the three islands.
The Bareling Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction in Batam, with many visitors coming to admire the views of the strait and the surrounding islands.
#4 Nongsa Beach
Nongsa’s white sands, warm clear waters, lush greenery and stunning sunsets make for an unsurprisingly alluring combination. A few waterfront resorts here even have private beaches, where visitors can bask in a more exclusive experience.
Nongsa Beach is also a popular spot for water sports – kayaking, jet skiing and parasailing are all available.