Manado

Manado is the largest city in and main gateway to Northern Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Manado Halal Explorer

The capital of the province and the former stronghold of the Dutch (called Menado during the Dutch colonial time) and the cultural center of the Minahasa people, for a long time Manado prospered through trade with the nearby Philippines and the spice trade with the rest of the world. Alas and the bombings of World War II and the suppression of a local insurgency in the 1950s flattened most of Manado's older buildings. While by Indonesian standards still relatively prosperous, most visitors will be rather less impressed and head straight to the islands and reefs of nearby Bunaken. Unlike much of the rest of predominantly-Muslim Indonesia, Christianity is the dominant religion in Manado.

Weather

Mostly sunny throughout the year and the wet season usually starts from September until March/ April. During its hottest days, it can reach up to 32C. In the highlands of Tomohon, Tondano, Kawangkoan it is cooler but sunny nonetheless.

Travel to Manado

Manado is quite far from the rest of Indonesia and most visitors arrive by plane.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Manado

Manado's Sam Ratulangi Airport (IATA Flight Code: MDC) An airy, modern facility last expanded in 2001. The airport fields some international Flights to Singapore (Silk-Air, 4x weekly, 3h) with visa on arrival feasible, but Air Asia no longer operates.

If you want to make a call in the airport, please have your cell phone ready, don't count on the public phone.

There are also frequent Flights to Jakarta (Garuda, Lion Air 3h, 600,000+Rp) and Makassar (1.5h). Other flights include Surabaya(East Java), Balikpapan (Kalimantan), Denpasar (Bali), Ternate (North Maluku), and Sorong (Papua). A taxi from the airport to central Manado takes about 30 minutes and costs Rp 80,000 (bargaining may be necessary). There are also frequent mikrolets leaving from Terminal Paal 2 [paal doo-ah costing 2,300 Rp that take about the same amount of time.

Departure tax from Manado is Rp 300.000 for international flights and Rp 70,000 for domestic flights. The terminal has an Internet cafe in the public area and the standard array of restaurants (KFC, Es Teler 77) and gift shops inside, but note that there is nothing once past immigration.

How to get around in Manado

The main ways of getting around are ojek/ompreng, moped taxis that can be a bit scary, or with Mikrolets (mikros) and the blue mini buses that you jump on just standing by the street. They all have a certain route and within a day one should figure out how it works.

Best way to travel in Manado by a Taxi

There are several taxi operator here : Bluebird, Taxi Kokapura, Trust, Celebrity. The most reliable one is Bluebird and the blue taxi. It is the most trusted taxi operator in Jakarta and other cities in Indonesia. The Manado office phone number is (0431) 861234.

By Angkot (Angkutan Kota)

Also known as mikrolets or bemos. Angkot is the typical Indonesia's cheapest way of transportation inside the city. Most of cities in Indonesia have this Angkot, as well as Manado. Angkot is a shuttle van of 8-10 passengers. The cost is charged on per trip basis, which is Rp. 4,000 (as of Oct 2023).

Compared to angkots in other cities in Indonesia that have side-facing seats and the ones in Manado come with all front-facing seats. Manadonese are known for being picky and would only take the good-looking and full music angkots.

By rental car

Manado Rental Car around Rp. 500,000 per day, already included Driver and Gasoline, or Self Drive roughly Rp.300,000.- per day. For Central Information tel +62 852-4022-0620 or +62 431-892-979.

CV. Sinar Berkat Rent a Car Manado, has been operating since 1995 has various types of care. Reservation can be made through email at or mobile at +62 818 834 726 or +62 431 8876. The service includes pick up and drop at the airport.

By ojek

Ojek is motorcab taxi (pronounced "O - jack"). Ojek is also a typical affordable land transportation in Indonesian cities. In Manado, ojek rate is not fixed, and depends on the distance and is negotiation. For a very short distance (+/- 1 km.), it will be around Rp. 4,000.

By transportation-sharing app

Transportation sharing app like Grab and Go-Jek are already a commonplace in Manado. You can even take it to go to Tomohon (give the driver a little bit extra, considering the worst case that the driver needs to go back to Manado without passenger).

What to see in Manado

Ban Hin Kiong is the oldest Chinese temple built in Manado during the Qing Dynasty perioid in China (1644-1911). It is a house of worship for the Tridharma followers from Manado and the region.This Temple is located at D.I. Panjaitan Street in Manado, which is the center of the city’s China Town. There are some shrines and temples, homes and interesting shops run by Chinese. The temple is easily reached by public transport, by mikrolet or taxis. Visitors can also rent a vehicle or motorcycle to tour China Town.
Bukit Kasih 45 kilometers south of Manado. 5 kilometers from Kawangkoan. One of popular tourist destinations in North Sulawesi. Go to the top of the Hill by climbing 2435 stairs to see an amazing view of nature. There are many natural thermal spas (Muslim Friendly) around this area. Get your feet relax. Nearby, you can visit Watu Pinabetengan, an animism site
Modoinding. Agrotourism place, where all kind of vegetables and spicy came from, to supply the demands of East part of Indonesia and the area is about 900-1,200 metres above sea level. The place is cool and you will find Modoinding valley with Moat Lake with "Bukit Doa" on the east, very stunning location. There is also Ambang National Park where you can see Golden Owl as favorite for Bird Watching activity. About 180 kilometers from Manado. You also able to stay in the community house, Traditional Minahasan wooden house with IDR 200.000, approx 20USD a night for the small house with western toilet and shower.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Manado

Day Trip to Bunaken: Manado is famous throughout the region for its diving areas. Bunaken is one of the well-known national marine park in Indonesia. 30 minutes boat ride. See its article for more information.
Day Trip to Tangkoko National Park: Home of tarsiers and macaques, about 50 kilometers from Manado. 1-2 hours ride. See its article for more information.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Manado

Manado Town Plaza (Mantos) - Jl. Piere Tendean, Kota Manado, Sulawesi Utara 95114 GPS 1.472629,124.831886 - Hours: 10AM Monday - 10PM. The biggest shopping center in Manado. You can find various Western stuff here.
Mega Trade Center (MTC) - GPS 1.480396,124.834816. the shopping place for electronics and bulk purchase. Similar to Mangga Dua ITC in Jakarta or Makassar Trade Center.
Megamall - GPS 1.484395,124.834444. shopping center with two blocks, connected by a bridge.
Manado Inter Money Changer, located in front of Bahu Mall, next to Bank Tabungan Negara (BTN), Jl. W. Monginsidi No:62 Bahu Link: III Manado, Ph: +62 431-866676 & +62 431-866677.

Halal Food & Restaurants

Manadonese food is famous throughout Indonesia for two things: the Minahasa eat absolutely anything, and the flavour of choice is very spicy. Sugar is used little if at all, with flavour added through lemon and herbs. Being Christian and the Minahasa also often marinate hala Meat in and favour Beef. More exotic protein options include cats, forest rats, fruit bats and dogs and the last of which is the obligatory centerpiece of any wedding ceremony or Christmas feast. Classic dishes include:

ikan mas bakar rica, grilled spicy fish cooked in traditional style, using a piece of coconut shell as a way of cooking. Grilled together with chilli, that poured in the fish while cooking.
ikan mas goreng, fish fried till the soft bone is crunchy.
ayam rica-rica, grilled Chicken topped with a fiery red chili-and-onion paste
ikan mas woku balanga, fish simmered in herbs
perkedel milu, corn fritters
tinutuan (or bubur manado), a goopy porridge of Rice, pumpkin, Noodles and random vegetables — doesn't look very attractive, but it can be tasty and, for once, not spicy.
miedal, very similar to tinutuan (same sauce), but using Noodles instead of Rice.
biapong, a chinese-style bun dumplling. what is called 'bao' in Chinese, is called biapong here. different fillings available.

Dutch settlement here has also brought in a few surprising influences, notably:

brenebon (bruine bonesoep), a rich red kidney bean soup, comes in two version, savory (as a side dish) and sweet (for desserts)
klappertaart, a Asian-style coconut cake
Fresh grilled fish is served every morning in a small warung near the harbour dock to Bunaken. The place is very basic, but don't mind the look. Just ask around for warung ikan bakar and hope someone helps you.

Bambuden Seafood Restaurant @Sario, Jl. Pemuda No:2 Sario Manado, Ph: +62 431-852459 / 864096 / 9197772. Well-known locally for grilled & fried fish, and also offers a variety of seafood dishes.

Kawan Baru Restaurant and Cafe - Indonesian food.

Raja Sate BBQ & Asian Resto, Jalan Boulevard (near Mega Mall), tel. +62 431-3327380 or +62 431-846679,. Asian cuisine, with an emphasis on satays and barbequed seafood.

Warong Rica Rica A seafood restaurant located at Bahu Mall Bay street Cafe. Local seafood with panoramic sea views.

Pizzas Hut The usual pizza from a well known chain

Kafe Excelso - Best place for coffee and light Snacks.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Manado

Manado - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Manado, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Manado. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Manado and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Manado. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Manado. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inManado: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Manado.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Manado: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Manado, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Manado.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Manado, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Manado, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Manado and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Manado, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Manado, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Manado without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Manado is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Manado.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Manado is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Manado, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Manado Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Manado is Sulawesi's other bustling center of business and tourism. And with demand to match and the prices here are higher than elsewhere in Sulawesi. However, if you are willing to pay up, luxury options that you haven't seen since Makassar are available here.

Hotel Ahlan - Stuffy, unappealing, dilapidated. Double room w/out air-con and with stuffy shared bathroom, but cheap.

Metropolitan Inn - Located on the quiet side of the river, this popular place has good-value single rooms at 120,000 Rp (outside bathroom) and doubles 180,000 Rp (inside bathroom), both include breakfast. Wifi is available in the lobby, 10,000 Rp one-time fee for the duration of your stay.

Rex Hotel Very basic room. Staff can help you arranging transport to Gorontalo or Pulau Bunaken.

Sinar Berkat Stay Located in the downtown where suitable for budget or backpacked travelers that need to lay back and enjoy the city. The rooms have a bed, air-con and bathroom.

Hotel Central - Opened in 2004 and the sheen of newness is fading fast, but the rooms are clean and functional with air-con and hot water.

Hotel Minahasa - A nice family-run place on Sam Ratulangi. They are used to tourists, as well as being the main place that academics in the area stay in, so you are apt to meet someone who could really fill you in on the local scene. The drawback is the monotonous breakfasts.

Hotel Regina - Big rooms with AC, tv and bathrooms with hot water. The best option on this street of Lonely planet recommended cheapies.

Hotel Wisata - Another popular business hotel. All rooms have AC, hot shower and TV and the difference in room quality is really a matter of the size of the room and the date of the furniture and the size of the bed.

Villa Wantik - Homestay with nice views.

Aston Manado City Hotel - Aston Manado - Enjoy a beautiful hotel in the very heart of Manado that combines exceptional service and attention to detail to ensure a most memorable stay. The delightful Aston Manado City Hotel offers over 100 rooms and suite with dramatic views of the city skyline. Experience the best restaurants, entertainment, and shopping, as well as the city’s fines attraction, all within easy walking of the hotel.

Hotel Gran Central Manado - the most strategies hotel in town, located in the centre of the city with 65 room price from Rp 750.000
Sintesa Peninsula Hotel - Located in the very heart of the city of Manado,just 30 minutes from Sam Ratulangi International Airport. Featuring 150 spacious and modern superior rooms, studios, corner suites, deluxe suites, sintesa suites and a presidential suite and the luxurious standards of accommodation will rival those of any major city in South East Asia and combined with extensive Conference, Seminar and Banqueting facilities

Hotel Sedona - Was perhaps a 5-star resort 20 years ago. It is 20 minutes drive from Manado City. Some rooms feature view of the sea, others the garden. While it has been through a downward phase, it is under new management and is very nice. They provide good access to Bunakin via a 30 minutes boat ride. It is up to 3-4 stars now, and with more business, looks like it will continue to improve.

Hotel Santika Manado - Often cited as the only resort facing Bunaken island, offers a wide range of accommodation options ranging from deluxe, bungalow and suite, all over looking the beautiful sea.

Hotel Aryaduta Manado (former Ritzy Hotel) - Offer rooms equipped with air-conditioning, TV with cable channels, coffee/tea maker, and Internet access. Some of its facilities and services include the Cakrawala Coffee Shop, a swimming swimmingpool and the lobby lounge, private massage and room services.

Grand Puri Shabby, tired and out of the way.

Quality Hotel - A short walk from the Mega Mall with restaurant services, wonderful staff and rooms.

Mapia Resort & Spa - Located on Kalasey beach, 30 minutes from the airport. Boutique Resort in a beautiful tropical garden resort with Indonesian/Italian cuisine. Diving operated by Celebes Divers as on the sister location Onong Resort on Siladen Island. Both resorts have 24/7 electrical power and all cottages are air-conditioned.

Tasik Ria Resort & Spa Manado - Boutique resort with 34 rooms in a peaceful and scenic palm fringed backdrop, ideal for divers & non-divers, families and adventure seekers.

Telecommunications in Manado

Telco : Cell, Net

There are 3 main providers of GSM cellular services in Manado : Telkomsel, Indosat / Satelindo and XL (Axiata co). As per November 2010, Telkomsel provides EDGE, 4G WCDMA, 3.5G HSDPA. Indosat only GPRS,EDGE. XL up to 4G. Please note that high bandwidth cell service mainly works in downtown area of Manado.All 3 of them carries Blackberry services.

Prepaid GSM SIM cards dan CDMA RUIM cards can be cheaply purchased (approx 1 USD) at almost every supermarket along with their reload vouchers, ranging from approx 50C US (Rp 5000) to approx 17 USD (Rp 100K).

Internet Cafe

If you want to go online cheaply then go to Ocean internet cafe, at the 3rd floor of Samudera minimarket located in the Megamas shopping center area on the Manado boulevard. The rate is approx 50C US (Rp 5000) hourly and the bandwidth speed is good. It is open from 1000 to 2200.

Consulates in Manado

Philippine Consulate General -Jl. 17 Agustus No. 30A Tanjung Batu, Manado 95119 Tel. +62 431-862-181

News & References Manado

Travel Next

Tangkoko National Park near Bitung: Home of The Big-eyed Tarsius Monkey (the smallest monkey in the world).
Tomohon, a small city, surrounded by 3 active volcanoes: Mount Lokon, Mount Mahawu and Mount Masarang. Located around 45 minutes from Manado, Tomohon is a very nice place to stay for its cold climate (around 20 degree Celsius).
Gorontalo then a boat ride to the Togian Islands.
Ambon and the center of Maluku (what used to be the Spice Islands)