A Saman dance presents an Acehnese tradition in a very tangible form: boys and young men sit in close rows, on their heels or kneeling. The dance is part of the cultural heritage of the Gayo people in the province of Aceh on Sumatra and is performed to celebrate national and religious holidays. Posture, formation and occasion together shape the image of this tradition.
A landmark and its history
Masjid Raya Baiturrahman is one of Aceh’s most important attractions and the landmark of Banda Aceh. It symbolizes the history and faith of the Acehnese. The Baiturrahman Grand Mosque was originally built in the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Iskandar Muda. Today’s mosque has seven black domes and eight minarets. Here, the traditional account of its origins and distinctive architectural features stand side by side.
Two museums, different perspectives
The Aceh Tsunami Museum is located on Jalan Iskandar Muda in Banda Aceh. Its building draws on the traditional form of an Acehnese stilt house; its projecting chimney evokes a ship. The museum features an electronic simulation of the Indian Ocean earthquake. It also displays images of those who died, along with stories and accounts from survivors. The simulation and personal accounts offer different perspectives on the event.
The Museum Aceh takes a broader look at Acehnese society: it presents its history, culture, art, customs and Islamic values. It is also one of Indonesia’s oldest and most important museums. If you are choosing between the museums, their different themes can help: the Aceh Tsunami Museum focuses on the earthquake and survivors’ accounts, while the Museum Aceh highlights various aspects of society.
Fort history and trails
Benteng Indrapatra is located in the village of Ladong, in the Masjid Raya district of Aceh Besar Regency. The fort was built during the Lamuri Kingdom, and visitors can learn about its history there. The focus here is on the historical connection to a kingdom.
The village of Ketambe is considered the official entrance to Gunung Leuser National Park. At Lawe Gurah in Ketambe, a trekking trail runs from the Gurah area to a hot spring near the Alas River. The route is estimated to be 5 km long and usually takes about two hours. If you are planning this hike, check trail conditions before setting out, as they can change.
Coffee processing in the Gayo Highlands
In the Gayo Highlands of Aceh, visitors can harvest coffee beans and process them using traditional methods. If you are interested in local produce, this activity offers a hands-on look at two steps that take place before the finished cup: harvesting and processing. Its focus differs from that of the historic buildings and museum exhibits.
Snorkeling and trekking on Pulau Rubiah
Pulau Rubiah is a destination for snorkeling and diving. The island also offers an easy trekking trail where visitors can explore nature. Snorkeling equipment and boats are also available for rent on Pulau Rubiah. Since these offerings can change locally, check current availability before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Banda Aceh, Sabang, Kota Sabang, Simeulue Timur, Gorontalo, East Kalimantan, West Sumatra, Bali.
Return to the main travel overview: Indonesia.
