Where?
Batusangkar is the former capital of the Minangkabau kingdom, and is situated North East of Padang.
Why Visit?
Known locally as the ‘city of culture’, Batusangkar has a lot to offer the curious traveler, from the finest example of Minangkabau architecture at Pagaruyung palace to the exhilarating Pacu Jawi cow races.
Top tip; Batusangkar is the home of the traditional Kawah Daun; a hot drink made from the leaf of the coffee plant and often drank out of coconut shell halves. A favorite spot of ours to enjoy this is Tabek Patah on the road to Payakumbuh; you can sip your Kawah Daun whilst enjoying a beautiful panoramic view. Otherwise, ask anyone in the city (more luck can be had with the over 40’s) and they’ll happily point you towards their favorite spot for a cuppa.
How to get there?
There are buses from Aur Kuning in Bukittinggi, which take about an hour to reach Batusangkar. Alternatively, the trip from Padang takes about two hours – buses are available and we are currently looking into where these leave from.
Where next?
Sawahlunto! This beautiful little town, surrounded by hills, is located about an hour and a half away from Batusangkar. Public transport is available from the city center.
Where to get more information?
I hope you’ve found this article helpful. Use the search bar at the top of the page to find our articles on a specific place, or alternatively peruse the rest of the site to find out about some of the other great destinations in West Sumatra. If you have any questions, leave a comment below, or send us an e-mail at westsumatratraveler@gmail.com – we look forward to hearing from you!
Jen is an English girl who found herself in Sumatra one day and never went back. A wife, mother, traveler and book worm, she has lived in Padang long enough to speak the language and unearth plenty of useful hints and tips for the weary traveler…
