Heritage & monuments
Baba and Mai
Baba and Mai Statue
Located at Lalla Rookh Square in Nieuw Amsterdam, this monument honors the first Hindustani immigrants who arrived in Suriname aboard the ship Lalla Rookh. The site consists of sculptures depicting the figures of Baba and Mai alongside a representation of the ship. Travelers visit this location to learn about the history of immigration and the cultural heritage of the Hindustani community in the region.
Getting There
The statue is situated within the central area of Nieuw Amsterdam. From the city center (Centrum), it is a short walk of approximately 300 meters, taking roughly 5 minutes on foot.
Visit Duration
Because the attraction is a public monument in an open square, most visitors spend between 20 and 40 minutes here to view the sculptures and read the historical context.
When to Visit
The monument is outdoors and accessible at any time. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon is advisable to avoid the midday tropical heat. The site does not typically experience heavy crowding, though it may be busier during local cultural commemorations.
Nearby Attractions
Due to its central location, the statue can be easily combined with other nearby points of interest:
- Garden of Palms (0.2km)
- Surinaams Museum (0.2km)
- Centrum (0.3km)
- Independence Plaza (0.3km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors