A few hours drive from Padang in western Sumatra is an area called Bukittinggi. Its high above sea level and incredibly rugged. The road from Padang to Bukittinggi is narrow and constantly in the process of being fixed up. The traffic load is immense with many large trucks coming and going from the highlands. It is possible for traffic to be held up for hours as a result of accidents which are common .
Danau Atas
There are four incredibly beautiful lakes which were formed as a result of past volcanic activity, which is ongoing today, and the movement
Of the tectonic plates which meet under Sumatra.
Danau singkara
The land is intensely cultivated with vegetable gardens, rice padi, cinnamon, clove and tea plantations. The soil is fertile and of course there is a surfeit of water so everything grows. Wherever you look there are plots of tomatoes, spring onions, shallots, chillies, cabbage and cauliflowers.
cinnamon tree- kayu manis
Here also you will find the famous durian. Its durian season and there are durian everywhere. It is definately an aquired taste and durians can taste vastly different ! I have yet to discover one that I can say, ‘ yes this is amazing ‘. A work in progress for myself!
Oh yes this is perfect!
Lake Maninjau is famous for its incredible views of the mountains…..glorious does not describe it!
The town or city of Bukittinggi also has its attractions: wonderful padang food, beautiful views, markets that sell everything and their very own version of Big Ben.
The food was amazing and indescribably delicious!
The buildings are distinctive. This is a picture of the hotel where we stayed. Notice the roof line. Its a classic Sumatran roofline designed to represent the horns of the kerbau ( I think in english its ox. Maybe someone knows ?)
