West Sumatra is home to over 4 million
Minangkabau people - the only group of people in
Indonesia that have a
matrilineal culture.
The Minang are known for their strong business sense, firm adherence to islam and their poetic style dialect. These days many of the Minang people live outside of
West Sumatra but they still consider it their homeland. Minang (Padang) restaurants are a common sight in almost every city in Indonesia, and there are even some in European and American cities.
West Sumatra features volcanic highlands, coastal plains and a string of virgin jungle islands.
West Sumatra is dominated by
Bukit Barisan, two parallel ranges of mountain peaks with a wide valley in between.
Mount Kerinci is the second highest mountain in Indonesia after
Mount Jaya in
Papua. There are also two lakes,
Lake Maninjau in the
West of Bukit Tinggi and
Lake Singkarak in the South East.
The provincial capital of
West Sumatra is
Padang, a small town with less than a million people. There is an old colonial waterfront where small cargo vessels still dock in the southern part of the city, along the
Batang Arau River. From the hill on the other side of the river visitors can enjoy the splendid view of the waterfront and the city.
The beautiful land, hospitality of the people and unique tradition make
West Sumatra the second most visited province in
Sumatra after
Nort Sumatra.
Places Of Interest
Port of Teluk Bayur
Bukittinggi
Literally means High Hill, this town is situated at 1,000 meters above sea level.
Bukittinggi is one of the most attractive town to visit in
Western Sumatra. Foreign and local visitors come for its culture and tradition, and as well as the hospitality of
Minangkabau people.
Anai Valley
The Anai Valley is beautifully surrounded by a dense tropical forest and it offers a magnificent view. It is a great photo stop for those who come to
West Sumatra. Far bellow the valley run crystal clear waters of the
Anai River.
Jam Gadang
Jam Gadang or Big Clock was built by Dutch in 1827 and since then has become landmark of
Bukittinggi. The tower is Uniquely designed with a typical
Minangkabau style roof and situated in the centre of the city.
Ngarai Sianok (Sianok Canyon)
Sianok Canyon is a steep, colorfull valley that surrounded by 100 meter cliffs. It has many tunnels and caves made by the Japanese during the World War II. The pathway leads to
Koto Gadang which is renowned for its fine silver filigree and hand embroidery.
Padang
Padang, the capital of West Sumatra is known as the homeland of the Minangkabau. This small city has some Dutch colonial buildings and several other places of interest.
Adityawarman Museum
This museum was buil in 1974 and is named after the former king of Minangkabau. The cultural products of West Sumatra are on display here such as arts and crafts, sculptures and traditional wedding dresses.
China Town
Kampung China or China Town is truly worth a visit. This China Town in padang is not only the site of Chinese Buddhist temple and traditional Chinese herbalist but of some old Dutch colonial building as well.
Home of Minangkabau Tribe Tour
Duration : 7 Hours 30 Minutes
09:00 Teluk Bayur, Departur
09:30 - 09:45 Chinese temple
10:00 - 10:15 Kiambang
10:45 - 11:00 Anai Valley
12:20 - 13:45 Bukittinggi
13:50 - 14:00 Lunch
14:30 - 15:00 Fort de Kock
15:30 - 16:00 Sianok Canyon
16:00 Teluk Bayur, Arrival pier
Source: Cruising Indonesia by Ministry of Culture and Tourism Republic OF Indonesia
Related Post:
* Maninjau Lake
* Sianok Canyon
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