Driving south from Senggigi you will come across 3 smallish towns - Mataram, Ampenan & Cakranegara which due to sprawl now almost merge forming one small city. Mataram is the capital of Lombok and it's main business district. There are several hotels, mostly melati hotels that cater to local business- men but one notable exception is the Sahid.

Although inland & without much scenery once you’re there and learn your way around, its an easy place to get fond of - and there’s much to see pertaining to the history and culture of Lombok in these three towns. As well there are several antique shops, art and crafts markets as well as traditional Taliwang style restaurants that are not to be missed.