10 Natural Tourism in West Sumatra with Amazing Natural Beauty
Discover the natural beauty of West Sumatra through various amazing tourist destinations, from Sianok Canyon to Gadih Ranti Waterfall, which offer an unforgettable experience.
West Sumatra, nicknamed “The Land of a Million Charms,” does have a variety of attractions, from delicious cuisine, rich culture, to stunning natural beauty.
This province attracts travelers from various regions with its different and charming natural beauty. If you are planning a vacation to West Sumatra, here are ten recommendations for natural tourist attractions that are ready to pamper your eyes and heart.
1. Sianok Canyon
Sianok Canyon is one of the natural wonders located in Agam Regency, West Sumatra. This canyon is famous for its stunning scenery, separated between Bukittinggi City and Kota Gadang.
With steep walls as high as 100 to 120 meters, this canyon stretches for 15 kilometers and is surrounded by green rice fields and winding rivers.
Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Sianok Canyon from Panorama Park in Bukittinggi. To reach this place, you can use a private car or rent an andong. After exploring the canyon, don’t miss visiting Kota Gadang which is famous for its silver crafts.
2. Harau Valley
Harau Valley, located near Payakumbuh, is often referred to as the Yosemite of Indonesia. The valley has high cliffs that rise between 100 and 500 meters and is surrounded by cascading waterfalls.
With an area of 669 hectares, Harau Valley is a conservation area that is also a habitat for various animals, such as gibbons, monkeys, and various species of birds.
The serene atmosphere and spectacular views make Harau Valley an ideal place for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature.
3. Lake Maninjau
Lake Maninjau is a volcanic lake located 38 kilometers west of Bukittinggi City. With an area of 100 km² and a depth of up to 480 meters, this lake offers stunning views, especially when viewed from Puncak Lawang.
In the surrounding area, you can visit farming and fishing villages and interact with the locals. One of the main attractions is the journey through Kelok 44, a winding road that offers green views of rice fields and forests.
The fresh and pollution-free air around Lake Maninjau makes it a perfect place to unwind.
4. Lake Singkarak
Lake Singkarak is the largest lake in West Sumatra and the second largest in Sumatra after Lake Toba. With an area of about 107.8 km², this lake can be reached from three cities: Padang, Solok, and Bukittinggi.
The beauty of Lake Singkarak lies in its blue water and the magnificent mountain views around it. This is an ideal place to enjoy the stunning natural scenery while doing activities such as fishing or going around by boat.
5. Twin Lakes
Twin Lakes, located in the highlands east of Padang, consists of two lakes, namely Upper Lake and Lower Lake. The cool atmosphere with temperatures between 14 to 16 degrees Celsius makes it an ideal place to relax.
These two lakes are naturally formed and surrounded by dense forest. Visitors can explore the beauty of the lake by renting a boat or making this area an interesting hiking and camping location.
6. Lubuk Bulan Waterfall
Lubuk Bulan Waterfall offers stunning natural beauty with a flow of water falling from a height of 50 meters into a natural pool below. This waterfall is famous for its hidden cave located nearby, which is often referred to as “Lost Water” by the locals.
The peaceful atmosphere around the waterfall makes it a perfect place to relax while listening to the sound of flowing water, as well as taking pictures with a beautiful natural backdrop.
7. Guguak Sarai Hill
Guguak Sarai Hill is an ideal destination for extreme photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. With a height of around 800 meters above sea level, this hill offers a stunning panorama of rice fields and rows of hills.
The path to the top of this hill was built by local residents and although it looks challenging, it only takes 15 to 20 minutes to reach it. The beauty of the scenery presented will spoil your eyes and provide an unforgettable experience.
8. The Lauik Sea
Sitinjau Lauik is a famous climb located on the Padang-Jambi Highway, Lubuk Kilangan, Padang City. Known for its sharp turns and steep uphill paths, Sitinjau Lauik offers stunning natural views.
This route is a national route used by various types of vehicles, including heavy vehicles. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful natural scenery while feeling the challenge of traveling through this incline.
9. Sea Lake Lives
Known as the Virgin Lake, Laut Tinggal Lake is a hidden gem located at the peak of Mount Malintang. Surrounded by enchanting greenery, this lake offers a peaceful setting away from the crowds.
Although swimming is not possible due to its high sulfur content, the views are breathtaking and make it worth a visit. Only a handful of outdoor enthusiasts know about the lake, making it an exclusive location to enjoy.
10. Gadih Ranti Waterfall
Gadih Ranti Waterfall is a beautiful 50 meter high waterfall that falls into the pool below. The unique attraction of this waterfall is that it has several levels that form separate water flows. Around it, creeping green plants add beauty and create a cool atmosphere.
This waterfall also has a bathing pool called Gadih Ranti, which according to legend is the bathing place of the local queen. This place is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
West Sumatra offers a variety of amazing natural attractions, from the spectacular Sianok Canyon to the refreshing beauty of Lake Maninjau. Each location has a unique attraction that is ready to pamper visitors and create unforgettable memories.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste delicious local cuisine and interact with the local people, so that your experience in West Sumatra is even more memorable. Ready to explore the natural charm that awaits in West Sumatra?