Padang Vacations, Padang Vacation Reviews, Tourism Guide

Padang Vacation Guide

Padang is the capital of West Sumatra, about 1500 miles from Jakarta, 2 hours by plane from Jakarta or less than an hour from Singapore.

West Sumatra has witnessed the early times of the Republic of Indonesia, Padang and Bukittinggi (High Hills) being the important cities. Padang as the commercial city was a thriving trade center during the Dutch occupation in the 1800s. Bukittinggi is a cultural and hictorical center, once being the capital of Indonesia in the late 1940s before it was moved back in Jakarta. Both cities conserve historical sites like forts and literary sites. Be prepared to be amazed by the architecture of the traditional 'Rumah Gadang' (the Great House), with the unique rooftops imitating an ascending row of bullhorns.

Padang sits on the coastline that meets the Indian Ocean. Padang beach is truly something to see. The ocean waves are so strong they make you want to run and play with them until you realize the inside seam of your pants is full with sand splashed away by the waves.

If you are the nature-loving kind, you'll appreciate the waterfalls, canyons, lakes, and other beautiful geological places in Padang. You can visit the majestic waterfall in Lembah Anai (Anai Valley), just a couple hours north of Padang. The great volcanic range is also worth seeing.

Whatever you do, don't leave Padang without tasting the spicy, Padang food that is famous throughout Indonesia, including: soto, satay, and rendang.