Sumatra

Sumatra happens to be the sixth largest island of the world. Sumatra was previously known as Swarna Dwipa. There is absolutely no dearth of Sightseeing places in Sumatra. West Sumatra has got many popular tourist destinations. Many people visit West Sumatra to have a glimpse of the natural environment, and the culture and history of the Minangkabau and Mentawai people. Sumatra is an island of plenty .Sumatra’s scenery, wildlife, natural resources, cultural diversity and extraordinary architecture makes this place worth visiting. The beautiful island of Sumatra is encircled by tropical forests all around. There is a lot of opportunity for trekking in Sumatra. Trekkers will love to trek in Sumatra as there are many unusual beautiful routes to choose from. The beaches of Sumatra are no less inviting. So one should plan a visit to the Beaches of Sumatra and explore the sea coast when on a trip to Sumatra.

• Lake Toba

The dream country of Indonsia is dotted with numerous islands each with its own unique features. Divided into nine provinces Riau, Jambi, Bengkulu, Bangka-Belitung, Lampung and South Sumatra,Sumatra in Indonesia is one such island which attracts tourists from different parts of the globe. Sumatra has got many popular tourist attractions and Lake Toba is only one of them. Sumatra is a haven for tourists who long for a relaxing vacation away from the din and bustle of city life.

Lake Toba is popularly referred to as the focus of Northern Sumatra. The picturesque landscape and beautiful scenery surrounding Lake Toba make the place all the more lovable. Lake Toba happens to be the largest lake in South East Asia surrounded by tall mountains .The large island of Samosir in nestled in the middle of the lake. A regular ferry is available from the mainland to Samosir in Lake Toba. The hospitable tribe, Toba Batak resides in the island of Samosir. One can have some interesting revelations about the traditions and culture of the Samosir tribe on visiting the island of Samosir. Lake Toba happens to be the largest lake in South East Asia and measures 100km in length. It is also one of the deepest and highest lakes in the world. A prehistoric volcanic explosion led to the formation of the lake. Today the encircling landscape of Lake Toba is extremely steep and productive. The Lake Toba is so very beautiful that The Dutch writer Rudy Kousbroek dubbed it as 'the most beautiful place on earth' Visitors love staying on the peninsula of Tuk Tuk on Samosir while on a tour to Sumatra and discover the enchanting beauty of the place.

• Bukittinggi

Bukittinggi is located on a hill and nestled among majestic mountains, green plantations and rice terraces. It happens to be one of the friendliest towns in Sumatra.Sumatra is also an ideal place to have day adventure trips. Mount Leuser National Park in Northern Sumatra is a popular tourist destination for hikers. One will get numerous opportunities to trek through the untouched habitat of the rainforest in Sumatra.

Fort De Kock and the Museum, at Bukittinggi, From Fort De Kock a footbridge takes one over the main street of Bukittinggi to the Museum and the Zoo. The museum has a wonderful collection of Minangkabau art and culture put on display for tourists. The Zoo is also a place one can visit, though it is not really well-kept.

Sianok Canyon, in Bukittinggi, Indonesia The Sianok Canyon or Ngarai Canyon covers an area of bout four kilometers southwest of the town of Bukittinggi, Indonesia. One can walk trough the canyon and climb up a small steep trial. It is quite a heavy climb, but leads to a flat green ricefield, that will lead to Kota Gadang, which is at about two hours walking distance from Bukittinggi, Indonesia.