Location: West Sumatra
Top Things to do in West Sumatra
The 10 Best Things to Do in West Sumatra, Indonesia
West Sumatra (Indonesian: Sumatera Barat, abbreviated to Sumbar, Jawi: سومترا بارايق, Minangkabau: Sumatera Baraik) is a province of Indonesia. It lies on the west coast of the island of Sumatra. The latest official estimate for January 2014 shows a population of 5,098,790. West Sumatra is sub-divided into 12 regencies and seven cities. It has relatively more cities than other provinces in Indonesia, except Java province. Its capital is Padang.
Restaurants in West Sumatra
1. Harau Canyon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 152 reviews
Reviewed By SurfingWild - Bandung, Indonesia
This one of the famous places to visit in West Sumatra, although to be honest, the canyon and rock cliffs themselves are not all that outstanding but the surrounding countryside with workers in rice fields was definitely interesting. Yes, this massive rock formation stands out above the flat lands surrounding it, but there are more interesting places to visit in West Sumatra. I enjoyed seeing the rice field workers, and especially the drive. A long way to go for this location and perhaps an hour is enough to spend at the canyon and another hour to explore the traditional houses, people and way of life..
2. Pagaruyung Palace
Overall Ratings
4 based on 225 reviews
Reviewed By Noseason
Amazing to see how the palace was built without nails and that the beams that support the minangkabau building are slanted. This design is to withstand the earthquake that are prevalent in Indonesia. Very colourfull and intricate carvings and one can feel the granduer of the ruler sitting in the centre palace and be able to view whos coming to meet him from his throne.
You need about 45 minutes to go through the palace.
3. Lake Maninjau
Overall Ratings
4 based on 323 reviews
Reviewed By Danny T - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
This is a huge lake and you can snap countless pictures here and still not be bored by it. The scenery is breathtaking and you can "enjoy" the steep 44 turns and 600 metres elevation. Make sure you enjoy your meal in one of the local restaurants. It is something not to be missed when you visit Bukittinggi. It is definitely worth the arduous trip.
4. Sianok canyon
Overall Ratings
4 based on 304 reviews
Reviewed By SurfingWild - Bandung, Indonesia
Sionak Canyon is a beautiful canyon that can be viewed from the main town square of Bukittinggi. It is very impressive and can actually be accessed by walking down a steep path from the town centre down to the river bed, however, only do this if you are fit as the walk is a little tough. One of the unusual features is that of Takuruang Hill which is an isolated rock that stands vertically someway down the canyon and can be seen when crossing a small bridge just out of town. Behind the hill are jungle covered hills. This is a really exciting place to see and to explore.
5. Pulau Pagang
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 112 reviews
Reviewed By sophiahartono - Jakarta, Indonesia
I visited this island as additional trip when I had a vacation on Cubadak island. This island actually has stunning beauty, with the white sand, beautiful waves, beautiful rock formations and so on. I hope the government or the locals will take care of the island better.
6. Bukittinggi Clock Tower
Overall Ratings
4 based on 553 reviews
Reviewed By Lita K - Yogyakarta
The clock is given by Dutch queen to Bukittinggi. Only two machines of clocks are in the world. One is Bigben London and Bukittinggi Clock.
You can walk around and enjoy the sightseeing. You will find people doing jogging or sport around the clock. You can buy gifts around too.
7. Istana Pagaruyung
Overall Ratings
4 based on 79 reviews
Reviewed By zarikh z
Very tradisional building used to homed the royal family of Minang. Surrounding is huge, Its called Istana Basa which literally translated as Gigantic Castle. The name stood for itself as the building is in fact huge. The architectural very much stay true to the Minang heritage, it was build leaning outside and the ceiling was made as if it was from Tim Burton movie ( if u got what i mean). You can rent tradisional Minang costume at the price of 150,000 idr ( which is much cheaper then other place) and hired photographer to take ur pic ( But beware some of the picture might be blurred) better to take a pic yourself. Overrall, very good experienced.
8. Kelok Sembilan
Overall Ratings
4 based on 96 reviews
Reviewed By Darnel-HDI - Jakarta, Indonesia
Kelok means turn sembilan is nine so it is the Nine Turns. It is situated in the narrow valley and before there was narrow and steepy road with nine 180 degree turn. Now a megastructure bridge was built. This fly over bridge is maybe the most wonderful one in Indonesia. There are many visitors want to see but there is no designated place to stop there.
9. Japanese Cave
Overall Ratings
4 based on 179 reviews
Reviewed By Harley_Rider_883 - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Our experience here was marred by the "tourist guide" whom wanted to charge exorbitant "fees" on top of the entrance fees. When we declined, they threatened us that we might face "trouble" in the tunnel. We took off and did not explore further
10. Anai Valley Waterfall
Overall Ratings
4 based on 281 reviews
Reviewed By Concierge3725 - Manila, Philippines
I am amazed at the number of beautiful Waterfalls this country possessed. Anai Valley Waterfall is of no exception. There are lots of roadside stalls next to the waterfall, that made life so much easier if you are hungry or want to purchase some local souvenirs. The water current of this waterfall is strong and it is definitely the perfect spot for some beautiful pictures. This is a must stop from Padang en route to Bukittinggi and vice versa.
