Sumatra is a huge Indonesian island located southwest of Southeast Asia and east of Java. Just a few miles across the important Straits of Malacca from Singapore and Malaysia, the island is characterized by mountains and plateaus in the west, while the east features wide, flat, swampy lowlands and brown, meandering rivers. Despite undergoing rapid development in recent decades, Sumatra remains a wild and scenic place with stunning landscapes and beautiful locations. Offshore, you’ll also find islands with some of the world’s best surfing spots.
Geographical Overview of Sumatra
Sumatra is the world’s fifth-largest island, covering 473,605 square kilometers and stretching 1,100 miles long. Nearly bisected by the equator, the island accounts for 24.7% of Indonesia’s land area. The Bukit Barisan mountain range runs northwest-southeast along the west coast, home to around 100 volcanoes, including 15 active ones. Many of these peaks exceed 3,000 meters, with Gunung Kerinci being the highest at 3,805 meters — the tallest mountain in Indonesia outside Papua.
Gunung Leuser National Park
Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra is a protected jungle area teeming with wildlife. Visitors can encounter tigers, rare birds, lizards, and orangutans. Despite significant deforestation in the lowlands, large forested areas remain in the highlands, offering one of the highest concentrations of large animals in Asia. The park features rivers, hills, natural caves, valleys, and rural landscapes, making it a prime ecotourism destination.
Tangkahan: The Hidden Paradise
Tangkahan, located within the utilization zone of Gunung Leuser National Park, spans 3,837.77 hectares and blends natural forest with oil palm, rubber, and citrus plantations. This ecotourism gem lies between Namo Sialang Village and Sei Serdang Village. Known as “The Hidden Paradise in North Sumatra”, Tangkahan offers a serene escape with a combination of natural beauty, fresh air, and diverse tourist activities.
Ecotourism Activities in Tangkahan
Tangkahan offers unforgettable ecotourism experiences. You can enjoy the stunning landscapes, fresh air, and a variety of recreational activities. One highlight is observing the wild elephants that roam the area. Exploring the wild here lets you truly experience local culture — meet the friendly locals, savor authentic cuisine, take local transport, and stay in local accommodations.
Tangkahan Elephant Sanctuary
The Tangkahan Elephant Sanctuary is a riverside haven where you can wash and play with semi-wild Sumatran elephants in their natural environment. The sanctuary is situated on the edge of the Gunung Leuser National Park, one of the most important and threatened rainforests in the world. The lush jungle is home to rare animals, making this an enriching and memorable experience.
How to Get to Tangkahan
To visit Tangkahan, fly into Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) in Medan, North Sumatra. There are daily flights from major cities like Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Jakarta. From Medan, it’s about a 3-hour drive to Tangkahan. If you’re coming from Bukit Lawang, a popular orangutan trekking hub, Tangkahan is just a 2-hour drive away.
Why Visit Sumatra?
Sumatra is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. The island offers incredible biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re exploring the volcanic peaks, trekking through lush national parks, or visiting hidden gems like Tangkahan, Sumatra delivers an unforgettable experience.
Ready to explore the wild beauty of Sumatra? Plan your unforgettable adventure with a trusted Sumatra Tour Operator and experience nature, culture, and wildlife like never before!
A true hidden paradise in North Sumatra for nature lovers
