If you’re thinking about traveling to Indonesia and only considering Bali as your destination, you might be missing out on some incredible experiences! While Bali is undoubtedly beautiful and full of culture, there are many other places in Indonesia that are worth exploring. Main advantages of choosing Bukit Lawang instead of Bali is the opportunity to escape the crowds and experience the beauty of nature.
One such place is Bukit Lawang, a small village located in the north of Sumatra. Bukit Lawang is most famous for its orangutan sanctuary, where you can see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. But that’s not all – Bukit Lawang is also home to stunning jungle scenery, beautiful waterfalls, and a vibrant local culture.
If you’re looking for a different kind of travel experience than what you might find in Bali, Bukit Lawang is definitely worth considering. It’s a bit more off the beaten path, but that’s part of what makes it so special. So why not broaden your horizons and add Bukit Lawang to your Indonesia itinerary?
Why You Should Consider Traveling to Bukit Lawang Instead of Bali
Are you planning a trip to Indonesia and considering only Bali as your destination? While Bali is undoubtedly beautiful and full of culture, there are many other places in Indonesia that are worth exploring. One such place is Bukit Lawang, a small village located in the north of Sumatra. In this article, we will explore why you should consider traveling to Bukit Lawang instead of Bali.
1. Orangutan Sanctuary
Bukit Lawang is most famous for its orangutan sanctuary. The sanctuary is located in Gunung Leuser National Park, which is one of the largest national parks in Southeast Asia. You can see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat, and even go on a trek with a local guide to spot them. It’s an unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss.
Bukit Lawang is home to an orangutan sanctuary that was established in 1973. The sanctuary was created to help rehabilitate orangutans that had been rescued from captivity and to provide a safe environment for them to live in the wild.
The orangutan sanctuary is located within the Gunung Leuser National Park and covers an area of approximately 100 hectares. Visitors to the sanctuary can take guided tours to see the orangutans in their natural habitat and learn about the efforts being made to protect these endangered animals.
The sanctuary is home to several dozen orangutans, many of which were orphaned or rescued from the illegal pet trade. The goal of the sanctuary is to rehabilitate these orangutans and prepare them for release back into the wild. Visitors can see the orangutans up close as they swing through the trees and interact with each other.
The sanctuary also has a feeding platform where visitors can watch the orangutans being fed. This is a unique experience that allows visitors to see the orangutans up close and learn about their behavior and habitat.
Overall, the orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang is an important conservation effort that is helping to protect these amazing animals from extinction. Visiting the sanctuary is a great way to learn about the orangutans and their habitat, as well as to support the ongoing conservation efforts.
Read also : The Beauty of Bukit Lawang: A Must-Visit Destination for Nature Lovers and Wildlife Enthusiasts
2. Jungle Scenery
Bukit Lawang is also home to stunning jungle scenery. You can explore the park by hiking through the jungle, crossing rivers, and visiting waterfalls. You’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. It’s a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with the natural world.
Bukit Lawang is known for its stunning jungle scenery and is a popular destination for ecotourism and wildlife enthusiasts. The Gunung Leuser National Park, which is located just outside of Bukit Lawang, is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Sumatran orangutan and the Sumatran tiger.
Visitors to Bukit Lawang can go on guided jungle treks and see the wildlife and beautiful scenery up close. There are several trekking routes available, ranging from short and easy hikes to more challenging multi-day treks. Along the way, visitors can see a variety of plant and animal life, including towering trees, exotic birds, and playful primates.
For those who want to get even closer to nature, there are also opportunities for river tubing and white-water rafting on the nearby Bahorok River. This is a thrilling way to experience the jungle scenery while also enjoying some adventure. Overall, the combination of the stunning jungle scenery and the unique local culture make Bukit Lawang a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to North Sumatra.
3. Local Culture
Bukit Lawang is a small village, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. You can learn about the local culture by visiting the traditional market, where you can find local handicrafts and try local cuisine. You can also attend a traditional dance performance or visit a local village to learn more about their way of life. Another important aspect of the local culture in Bukit Lawang is the traditional culture of the Karonese & Melayunese people.
In addition to their music and dance, the Karonese & Melayunese people are also known for their traditional clothing. Karonese & Melayunese people also have their own traditional cuisine, which is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes. Some of the most popular Karonese & Melayunese people dishes include Gulai, a spicy fish dish, Arsik and many more that is cooked with spices and herbs.
Overall, the local culture in Bukit Lawang is a unique and vibrant mix of traditional Karonese & Melayunese customs and modern influences. Visitors to the village can experience this culture firsthand by attending traditional music and dance performances, sampling the local cuisine, and exploring the traditional architecture of the area.
Read Also : Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking : Embark on an Adventure of a Lifetime
4. Off the Beaten Path
If you’re looking for a different kind of travel experience than what you might find in Bali, Bukit Lawang is definitely worth considering. It’s a bit more off the beaten path, but that’s part of what makes it so special. You’ll be able to experience a more authentic side of Indonesia and get away from the crowds of tourists.
There are several off-the-beaten-path activities in Bukit Lawang that are worth exploring.
- Trek to the hidden waterfalls: There are several hidden waterfalls in the jungle surrounding Bukit Lawang that can be reached by trekking off the beaten path. These waterfalls offer a peaceful and scenic retreat from the more popular tourist attractions.
- Attend a traditional Karonese ceremony: The Karonese people have a rich cultural heritage and often hold traditional ceremonies and festivals. Attending one of these events is a great way to experience the local culture and learn more about the Karonese way of life.
- Visit the nearby coffee plantations: The highlands around Bukit Lawang are known for their coffee plantations, which produce some of the finest coffee in Indonesia. Visitors can take a guided tour of the plantations and learn about the coffee-making process.
- Explore the nearby villages: There are several traditional villages near Bukit Lawang that offer a glimpse into the local way of life. Visitors can explore these villages and learn more about the customs and traditions of the Karonese people.
In conclusion, Bukit Lawang is also a great destination for eco-tourism. The town and surrounding areas are committed to sustainable tourism practices and responsible conservation efforts. By visiting Bukit Lawang, you can support these initiatives and help to protect the local environment and wildlife. Additionally, Bukit Lawang offers a more peaceful and laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling tourist crowds of Bali. Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic and immersive experience that is focused on nature and culture, Bukit Lawang should definitely be on your list.
While Bali is undoubtedly beautiful and worth visiting, there are many other places in Indonesia that are just as incredible. Bukit Lawang is one of those places, with its orangutan sanctuary, stunning jungle scenery, friendly locals, and off-the-beaten-path location. So why not broaden your horizons and add Bukit Lawang to your Indonesia itinerary? You won’t regret it.
Alfath Dewantara (Alde) is a passionate advocate for Bukit Lawang and Indonesian travel. As a manager of Jungle Inn & Restaurant, Alde is dedicated to providing guests with an unforgettable experience.