Happy TravellerWelcome to Bukittinggi, the charming city located in the Minangkabau Highlands of West Sumatra, Indonesia. With a population of 121,028 in 2020 and an area of 25.24 km2, Bukittinggi is the third largest city in West Sumatra. The city is situated 930 m above sea level, providing a cool climate with temperatures ranging from 16.1° to 24.9 °C. Bukittinggi is known for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering local cuisine. Join us as we uncover the many treasures of Bukittinggi and reveal why this enchanting destination should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
History:
The city has its origins in five villages that served as the basis for a marketplace. It was known as Fort de Kock in colonial times in reference to the Dutch outpost established here in 1825 during the Padri War. The fort was founded by Captain Bauer at the top of Jirek hill and later named after the then Lieutenant Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies, Hendrik Merkus de Kock. During the Japanese occupation of the Dutch East Indies in World War II, the city was the headquarters for the Japanese 25th Army, the force that occupied Sumatra. The city was officially renamed Bukittinggi in 1949, replacing its colonial name. From 1950 until 1957, Bukittinggi was the capital city of a province called Central Sumatra, which encompassed West Sumatra, Riau and Jambi. In February 1958, during a revolt in Sumatra against the Indonesian government, rebels proclaimed the Revolutionary Government of the Republic of Indonesia (PRRI) in Bukittinggi.
Tourism:
Bukittinggi is a popular tourist destination due to its climate and central location. The city is also a popular shopping destination due to cheap textile and fashion products, especially for Malaysians. The best way to see Bukittinggi is by motorbike, car, or by foot (trekkings). Attractions within the city include:
1. Ngarai Sianok (Sianok Canyon)
2. Lubang Jepang (Japanese Caves) — a network of underground bunkers and tunnels built by the Japanese during World War II
3. Jam Gadang — a large clock tower built by the Dutch in 1926
4. Pasar Atas and Pasar Aur Kuning are traditional markets downtown
5. Taman Bundo Kanduang park. The park includes a replica Rumah Gadang (literally: big house) with the distinctive Minangkabau roof architecture) used as a museum of Minangkabau culture and a zoo
6. The Dutch hilltop outpost Fort de Kock is connected to the zoo by the Limpapeh Bridge pedestrian overpass
7. Museum Rumah Kelahiran Bung Hatta (Museum of Bung Hatta Birthplace), the house where Indonesian founding father Mohammad Hatta was born, now a museum
8. Janjang Koto Gadang also known as Great Wall of Koto Gadang. It is like a miniature of Chinese great wall, with hundred-step stairs connects Taman Panorama and Koto Gadang village.
Notable nearby destinations include Lake Maninjau, Lake Tarusan, Kamang Cave, and Tarang Cave.
Transportation:
Bukittinggi is connected to Padang by road. Up until the early 1980s, there was a railway service from Padang Panjang that used to serve the city. For inner-city transport, Bukittinggi employs a public transportation system known as Mersi (Merapi Singgalang) and IKABE that connect locations within the city. The city preserves the traditional horse-cart widely known in the area as Bendi, although the use is limited and more popular with tourists, both domestic and foreign.
Administrative districts:
Bukittinggi is divided into three districts (kecamatan), which are further divided into five villages (nagari) and 24 kelurahan. The districts are tabulated below with their areas and their populations at the 2010 Census and the 2020 Census.
1. Guguk Panjang (6.98 km2, 38,758)
2. Mandiangin Koto Selayan (8.56 km2, 41,238)
3. Aur Birugo Tigo Baleh (9.70 km2, 41,032)
Sister cities:
Seremban, Malaysia
Bukittinggi is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Bukittinggi has something to offer everyone. Come and experience the magic of Bukittinggi for yourself!
