The Museum Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat (West Nusa Tenggara State Museum) is in the Ampenan district of Mataram, in a building that was once part of the colonial administrative complex. The collection covers the natural history and human cultures of the islands of Lombok and Sumbawa — geology, traditional textiles, Sasak weaving, musical instruments, and objects from the various religious and ethnic communities that have shaped the region.
The textiles are the standout: Lombok and Sumbawa produce distinctive ikat and songket fabrics, and the museum has a good selection showing regional variations. The displays are not lavishly produced, but the content is informative and useful if you plan to spend time exploring the island beyond Mataram.