Bukit Lawang is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Indonesia, on the eastern side of Gunung Leuser National Park which is one of the three National Parks in the UNESCO listing for Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra. With its name literally means “door to the hills”, Bukit Lawang is an Orangutan sanctuary, therefore, many people come for trekking in hope to have sightings of the rare Sumatran Orangutans.
Bukit Lawang Orangutan sanctuary in Sumatra provides a heaven for endangered species to live in their natural habitat. Sumatran Orangutan faces the critical danger of extinction. And Bukit Lawang, which is also part of Mount Leuser National Park is the place to protect orangutans in wildlife.
This ecotourism is celebrated for its jungle adventure, also makes the main east point to enter Mount Leuser National Park which is home to large species from flora to fauna. Bukit Lawang used to be a rehabilitation center for orangutans who have been illegally captured before being reintroduced to their natural habitat.
Most times in the year would be a decent for a visit to Bukit Lawang. You may want to take note of rainy seasons at the end of the year but the rain is mainly only in the evening or at night, so do not worry about it impeding your trip. You may want to check out local Indonesian public holidays, which means that many local tourists will crowd the village, especially on weekends.
The sanctuary was established in 1973 as a rehabilitation center for orangutans that had been orphaned or confiscated from the illegal pet trade. It provides a safe environment for these primates to learn the skills necessary for survival in the wild.
The sanctuary is located near the Bohorok River and covers an area of approximately 100 hectares. It includes a feeding platform where visitors can observe the orangutans as they come to feed on fruits that are provided by the sanctuary staff. Visitors can also participate in guided treks through the surrounding forest to observe wild orangutans in their natural habitat.
The Orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang is an important conservation effort for the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan, which is facing threats such as habitat loss and poaching. It also plays an important role in educating visitors about the importance of conservation and the need to protect these iconic primates and their habitat.
Why You Should Consider Visiting Bukit Lawang and the Orangutan Sanctuary
Bukit Lawang, a village located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, is home to an amazing sanctuary that protects and conserves one of the most intelligent and fascinating animals on the planet: the orangutan. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Bukit Lawang and the Orangutan Sanctuary:
1. See Orangutans Up Close and Personal
The main reason to visit Bukit Lawang is to witness the majesty of the orangutan in its natural habitat. The Orangutan Sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating primates. Visitors can observe the orangutans as they come to feed on fruits provided by the sanctuary staff, and some lucky visitors may even have the chance to see wild orangutans during guided treks through the surrounding forest.
Read Also : The Beauty of Bukit Lawang: A Must-Visit Destination for Nature Lovers and Wildlife Enthusiasts
2. Contribute to Conservation Efforts
By visiting the Orangutan Sanctuary in Bukit Lawang, you are supporting important conservation efforts to protect the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan and its habitat. The sanctuary provides a safe environment for orangutans that have been orphaned or confiscated from the illegal pet trade, allowing them to learn the skills necessary for survival in the wild. Your visit to the sanctuary contributes to these efforts and helps to raise awareness about the importance of conservation.
3. Explore the Beauty of the Rainforest
Bukit Lawang is located within the Gunung Leuser National Park, which is a biodiverse region of Indonesia. The sanctuary provides an opportunity to explore the beauty of the rainforest and observe the many other species of animals that can be found in the area, including Sumatran tigers, elephants, gibbons, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. Guided treks through the forest offer a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the rainforest.
4. Experience Local Culture and Cuisine
Visitors to Bukit Lawang have the opportunity to experience local culture and cuisine. The village is home to the Batak people, who have a rich cultural heritage and a unique cuisine that is different from other regions of Indonesia. Visitors can sample local dishes such as Arsik and sip on Tuak, a traditional Batak palm wine.
Bukit Lawang is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife conservation, rainforest exploration, and experiencing local culture and cuisine. The Orangutan Sanctuary in Bukit Lawang provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating primates while contributing to important conservation efforts. Plan your visit to Bukit Lawang and discover the beauty of this Indonesian paradise.
Read Also : Why Bukit Lawang Should Be on Your List Instead of Bali
Other Species of Animals In Bukit Lawang
Apart from the orangutans, there are many other species of animals that can be found in this area, including:
- Sumatran tigers
- Sumatran elephants
- Siamangs (a type of gibbon)
- Thomas leaf monkeys
- Pig-tailed macaques
- White-handed gibbons
- Sun bears
- Clouded leopards
- Civets
- Hornbills
In addition to these, there are also many species of reptiles, insects, and other small mammals that can be found in Bukit Lawang and its surrounding forests. The biodiversity of this region is what makes it such an important area for conservation and why the sanctuary has been established there to protect the habitat of these animals.
Bukit Lawang Jungle Trekking
Bukit Lawang is one of the best place for jungle trekking as not only you get to bask in the natural jungle that is full of wild flora and fauna that will wow nature enthusiasts. You may have a chance to sight the Orangutans in their natural habitat, though not guaranteed, but possible if you follow your guides’ advises. There is also a nice waterfall on the way to relax and swim. During the trek your guides will also provide you with nice Indonesian food and fruits!
At Jungle Inn, we organize unique and unforgettable ethical trekking striving to respect and preserve the unique ecosystem biodiversity of the Gunung Leuser National Park and especially protect the endangered Sumatran Orangutans.
Our eco-friendly day tours and activities aim to support local people traditional activities. Our commitment is to preserve the rainforest and protect it’s amazing wildlife while benefiting positively to local people. We are devoted to have a low impact on the rainforest but a great impact on the local community of Bukit Lawang!
Our team of experienced English-speaking guides, certified by the Indonesia Tourist Guides Association will be glad to share their knowledge with you. They strictly follow the Gunung Leuser National Park guidelines, our own ethical jungle rules and do their best to keep the jungle clean and the wildlife safe!
Muhammad Bing Keulana is a prominent traveler and writer who spent a lifetime exploring the world and documenting his experiences. He is a true adventurer, always seeking out new and exciting experiences. His love for exploration is matched only by his passion for writing
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