What to do there?
What to do there?
Padang was a Dutch historical harbor town. The main attraction of the city is the colourful Dutch old town and old harbour in Muaro River, and also its old Chinatown. The city is also the home of the delicious Padang local food and the town is full of restaurants and street stalls. Expect to do a lot of food hunting around town if you are a foodie to discover Asian favourite cuisines and local Indonesian dishes that are unique to Padang itself. Some of the food spots are relatively easy to reach and navigate by yourself.
Although Padang is mostly visited by tourists as an access point to Bungus Bay, the surfing sites of the Mentawai Islands, the inland hills of Bukittinggi, and the Kerinci Seblat National Park situated in Padang, Indonesia offer plenty of exciting experiences and activities for travellers. Off the coast from Padang are many beautiful islands which can be visited for snorkeling, fishing or just relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
The Mentawai Islands are one of the most consistent surf destinations in the entire world. Its broad exposure towards the vast, southern Indian Ocean provides these majestic islands with remarkable consistency and quality. There are great waves in this area year round. However, the most ideal time to surf in the Mentawai Islands is during the dry season from late March to early November, and during the southern hemisphere season, when the Indian Ocean produces attractive waves for advanced surfers.
Diving in Padang is truly dreamy if you are an underwater junkie. Head to Pasumpahan Island for a memorable diving trip! Known due to its amazing visibility, there’s plenty to discover from its vast underwater topography to its marine life that cannot be found anywhere else. What makes this West Sumatra capital so unique to divers is the visits from its resident dolphins and whales, and you will struggle to find any place that’s quite like it! Some points in Pasumpahan Island which is famous for its diving sites including Snake Island, Sirandah Island, Gosong Island and Pandan Island.
At the present date, the only way to hike to the summit of Mount Merapi, is from the village of Selo on the north side of the volcano. The other route in the south slope starting from Kaliurang, is closed to visitors because considered too dangerous. If you don't have your own transportation, the village of Selo is accessible by bus from the cities of Solo and Yogyakarta.
Although Padang is mostly visited by tourists as an access point to Bungus Bay, the surfing sites of the Mentawai Islands, the inland hills of Bukittinggi, and the Kerinci Seblat National Park situated in Padang, Indonesia offer plenty of exciting experiences and activities for travellers. Off the coast from Padang are many beautiful islands which can be visited for snorkeling, fishing or just relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
The Mentawai Islands are one of the most consistent surf destinations in the entire world. Its broad exposure towards the vast, southern Indian Ocean provides these majestic islands with remarkable consistency and quality. There are great waves in this area year round. However, the most ideal time to surf in the Mentawai Islands is during the dry season from late March to early November, and during the southern hemisphere season, when the Indian Ocean produces attractive waves for advanced surfers.
Diving in Padang is truly dreamy if you are an underwater junkie. Head to Pasumpahan Island for a memorable diving trip! Known due to its amazing visibility, there’s plenty to discover from its vast underwater topography to its marine life that cannot be found anywhere else. What makes this West Sumatra capital so unique to divers is the visits from its resident dolphins and whales, and you will struggle to find any place that’s quite like it! Some points in Pasumpahan Island which is famous for its diving sites including Snake Island, Sirandah Island, Gosong Island and Pandan Island.
At the present date, the only way to hike to the summit of Mount Merapi, is from the village of Selo on the north side of the volcano. The other route in the south slope starting from Kaliurang, is closed to visitors because considered too dangerous. If you don't have your own transportation, the village of Selo is accessible by bus from the cities of Solo and Yogyakarta.
What to see there?
What to see there?
Padang Old Town, or Padang Lama, is the old part of Padang lined with colonial Dutch buildings that are still intact along Batang Arau River. Famously known as the Chinatown of Padang, the harbor along the river was once a very important port until the 19th century. Here in the Chinatown, take the opportunity to observe old heritage buildings including an old Buddhist temple with unique Chinese architecture which aged over 200 years old.
Across Batang Arau River is Padang Hill, the first settlement before Padang developed into a town. Padang Hill is the largest prehistoric site in Southeast Asia, featuring a 900m high hill which is home the historical Padang stones and monuments. Just east is Pasar Batipuh and Pasar Gadung which was formerly a great marketplace known in the city. The buildings now are used as warehouses for spices.
Make your way to Bukittinggi in the Minangkabau Highlands and explore the vast culture and other popular tourist attractions in Padang. Some of the places of interest that you should try and visit here to get a taste of Padang including Jam Gadang Clock Tower, Ngarai Sianok Canyon, Lake Singkarak, Japanese Tunnel Bukittinggi and Bung Hatta Palace. To shop for unique gifts such as embroidered handicrafts or Muslim prayer wear, check out Pasar Atas Bukittinggi and bargain your way to get the best price. It is also another great place to try local food at some of the local stalls and restaurants available here.
Famed for its heritage and cultural attractions, Padang is also home to the Pagaruyung Palace - a royal palace owned by the former Pagaruyung Kingdom. Located in Tanjung Emas, it was built with a unique Minangkabau architecture which can be easily noticed by the sharp and curvy edged roofs. With three floors, there’s plenty of cultural and history to learn here too. Alternatively, visit the Adityawarman State Museum located in the city of Padang to explore the preserved artifact collections relating to the unique Minangkabau and Mengtawai culture.
Explore Padang’s exquisite nature in Lake Maninjau, a large crater lake with several villages bordering it. It is a great place to relax, experience local rural lifestyle and watch the sunsets. The lake also supports swimming, canning, and fishing. The villages themselves are small and great for escaping the hectic pace of Padang. Alternatively, visit Anai Valley, a nature reserve located in Nagari Singgalang district. If you go from Padang to Bukittinggi, you will pass a beautiful waterfall near this place. The waterfall height is about 35 meters. It is part of Batang Lurah River flow from Singgalang Mount toward Anai Valley and definitely worth exploring to find some peace in the greenery.
Nyarai Waterfall or also known as The Green Canyon among the locals, is one of the most favorite tourist attractions that was just discovered in Sumatra over a year ago. Nyarai Waterfall is located in the middle of Gamaran Protected Forest, Lubuk Alung, Padang Pariaman District, West Sumatra. The fresh clear water flows among the river stones from Bukit Barisan and falls 7-8 meters down trapped into an approximately 10m wide pool that was naturally formed among giant rocks on each side. The color could turn really green sometimes as the jungle reflection mixed with the sunlight through its clear water.
Across Batang Arau River is Padang Hill, the first settlement before Padang developed into a town. Padang Hill is the largest prehistoric site in Southeast Asia, featuring a 900m high hill which is home the historical Padang stones and monuments. Just east is Pasar Batipuh and Pasar Gadung which was formerly a great marketplace known in the city. The buildings now are used as warehouses for spices.
Make your way to Bukittinggi in the Minangkabau Highlands and explore the vast culture and other popular tourist attractions in Padang. Some of the places of interest that you should try and visit here to get a taste of Padang including Jam Gadang Clock Tower, Ngarai Sianok Canyon, Lake Singkarak, Japanese Tunnel Bukittinggi and Bung Hatta Palace. To shop for unique gifts such as embroidered handicrafts or Muslim prayer wear, check out Pasar Atas Bukittinggi and bargain your way to get the best price. It is also another great place to try local food at some of the local stalls and restaurants available here.
Famed for its heritage and cultural attractions, Padang is also home to the Pagaruyung Palace - a royal palace owned by the former Pagaruyung Kingdom. Located in Tanjung Emas, it was built with a unique Minangkabau architecture which can be easily noticed by the sharp and curvy edged roofs. With three floors, there’s plenty of cultural and history to learn here too. Alternatively, visit the Adityawarman State Museum located in the city of Padang to explore the preserved artifact collections relating to the unique Minangkabau and Mengtawai culture.
Explore Padang’s exquisite nature in Lake Maninjau, a large crater lake with several villages bordering it. It is a great place to relax, experience local rural lifestyle and watch the sunsets. The lake also supports swimming, canning, and fishing. The villages themselves are small and great for escaping the hectic pace of Padang. Alternatively, visit Anai Valley, a nature reserve located in Nagari Singgalang district. If you go from Padang to Bukittinggi, you will pass a beautiful waterfall near this place. The waterfall height is about 35 meters. It is part of Batang Lurah River flow from Singgalang Mount toward Anai Valley and definitely worth exploring to find some peace in the greenery.
Nyarai Waterfall or also known as The Green Canyon among the locals, is one of the most favorite tourist attractions that was just discovered in Sumatra over a year ago. Nyarai Waterfall is located in the middle of Gamaran Protected Forest, Lubuk Alung, Padang Pariaman District, West Sumatra. The fresh clear water flows among the river stones from Bukit Barisan and falls 7-8 meters down trapped into an approximately 10m wide pool that was naturally formed among giant rocks on each side. The color could turn really green sometimes as the jungle reflection mixed with the sunlight through its clear water.
When is the best time to go there?
When is the best time to go there?
March - October
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Solo , Couple , Friends , Family , Group
What to eat?
What to eat?
Nasi Padang, Soto Padang, Sate Padang, Minang Rendang, Dendeng Balado, Sambal Cabe Ijo, Pisang Salai
Where to eat?
Where to eat?
Soto Garuda, Lamun Ombak, Puncak Kiambang, RM Aie Badarun, Restoran Sari Raso, Ikan Bakar Pak Tri’s, Rumah Makan Sederhana Padang
Useful local terms
Useful local terms
People of Padang commonly speak and understand the national Indonesian language or Bahasa Indonesia. However, they have their own Minangkabau dialect where some terms may differ from the national language. For example:
- How are you?: Baa kaba kini?
- What is your name?: Sia namo sanak?
- My name is…: Namo ambo...
- Thank you: Tarimo kasih
- How much is this?: Bara hargonyo?
- Where are you going?: Pai kama?
- Oh my god!: Onde!/Aduh!
- Money: Piti
- Expensive: Maha
- Nearby: Dake
- Faraway: Jauwah
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Padang is home to one of Indonesia’s large population, with over 1 million and counting residents. Expect major cities and areas open to tourists to be crowded as it can’t be avoided!
- Bring along a pair of slippers and raincoat for your trip here as it rains often in Padang. The roads flood quite easily as the city is still in the process of repairing the damage from the massive earthquake of recent years.
- Padang is also a conservative city, with Muslims being the major population here. When entering religious sites, it is advisable to respect the holy places by wearing less revealing clothes.
- There are a lot of restaurants all over the city. Common Padang-style restaurants will serve you all of the local dishes on the table and you will pay only for those you have eaten.
- Car rental is the best and most convenient option if you are looking to spend a few days in Padang. The price usually comes with a driver that can also be your guide. It can be hassling to drive here on your own since the road signs can be a bit confusing.
Being the capital city of West Sumatra, Padang is an urban-Indonesian sprawl between the majestic Indian Ocean and the Minangkabau hills.
Being the capital city of West Sumatra, Padang is an urban-Indonesian sprawl between the majestic Indian Ocean and the Minangkabau hills.
What to do there?
What to do there?
Padang was a Dutch historical harbor town. The main attraction of the city is the colourful Dutch old town and old harbour in Muaro River, and also its old Chinatown. The city is also the home of the delicious Padang local food and the town is full of restaurants and street stalls. Expect to do a lot of food hunting around town if you are a foodie to discover Asian favourite cuisines and local Indonesian dishes that are unique to Padang itself. Some of the food spots are relatively easy to reach and navigate by yourself.
Although Padang is mostly visited by tourists as an access point to Bungus Bay, the surfing sites of the Mentawai Islands, the inland hills of Bukittinggi, and the Kerinci Seblat National Park situated in Padang, Indonesia offer plenty of exciting experiences and activities for travellers. Off the coast from Padang are many beautiful islands which can be visited for snorkeling, fishing or just relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
The Mentawai Islands are one of the most consistent surf destinations in the entire world. Its broad exposure towards the vast, southern Indian Ocean provides these majestic islands with remarkable consistency and quality. There are great waves in this area year round. However, the most ideal time to surf in the Mentawai Islands is during the dry season from late March to early November, and during the southern hemisphere season, when the Indian Ocean produces attractive waves for advanced surfers.
Diving in Padang is truly dreamy if you are an underwater junkie. Head to Pasumpahan Island for a memorable diving trip! Known due to its amazing visibility, there’s plenty to discover from its vast underwater topography to its marine life that cannot be found anywhere else. What makes this West Sumatra capital so unique to divers is the visits from its resident dolphins and whales, and you will struggle to find any place that’s quite like it! Some points in Pasumpahan Island which is famous for its diving sites including Snake Island, Sirandah Island, Gosong Island and Pandan Island.
At the present date, the only way to hike to the summit of Mount Merapi, is from the village of Selo on the north side of the volcano. The other route in the south slope starting from Kaliurang, is closed to visitors because considered too dangerous. If you don't have your own transportation, the village of Selo is accessible by bus from the cities of Solo and Yogyakarta.
Although Padang is mostly visited by tourists as an access point to Bungus Bay, the surfing sites of the Mentawai Islands, the inland hills of Bukittinggi, and the Kerinci Seblat National Park situated in Padang, Indonesia offer plenty of exciting experiences and activities for travellers. Off the coast from Padang are many beautiful islands which can be visited for snorkeling, fishing or just relaxing on the white sandy beaches.
The Mentawai Islands are one of the most consistent surf destinations in the entire world. Its broad exposure towards the vast, southern Indian Ocean provides these majestic islands with remarkable consistency and quality. There are great waves in this area year round. However, the most ideal time to surf in the Mentawai Islands is during the dry season from late March to early November, and during the southern hemisphere season, when the Indian Ocean produces attractive waves for advanced surfers.
Diving in Padang is truly dreamy if you are an underwater junkie. Head to Pasumpahan Island for a memorable diving trip! Known due to its amazing visibility, there’s plenty to discover from its vast underwater topography to its marine life that cannot be found anywhere else. What makes this West Sumatra capital so unique to divers is the visits from its resident dolphins and whales, and you will struggle to find any place that’s quite like it! Some points in Pasumpahan Island which is famous for its diving sites including Snake Island, Sirandah Island, Gosong Island and Pandan Island.
At the present date, the only way to hike to the summit of Mount Merapi, is from the village of Selo on the north side of the volcano. The other route in the south slope starting from Kaliurang, is closed to visitors because considered too dangerous. If you don't have your own transportation, the village of Selo is accessible by bus from the cities of Solo and Yogyakarta.
What to see there?
What to see there?
Padang Old Town, or Padang Lama, is the old part of Padang lined with colonial Dutch buildings that are still intact along Batang Arau River. Famously known as the Chinatown of Padang, the harbor along the river was once a very important port until the 19th century. Here in the Chinatown, take the opportunity to observe old heritage buildings including an old Buddhist temple with unique Chinese architecture which aged over 200 years old.
Across Batang Arau River is Padang Hill, the first settlement before Padang developed into a town. Padang Hill is the largest prehistoric site in Southeast Asia, featuring a 900m high hill which is home the historical Padang stones and monuments. Just east is Pasar Batipuh and Pasar Gadung which was formerly a great marketplace known in the city. The buildings now are used as warehouses for spices.
Make your way to Bukittinggi in the Minangkabau Highlands and explore the vast culture and other popular tourist attractions in Padang. Some of the places of interest that you should try and visit here to get a taste of Padang including Jam Gadang Clock Tower, Ngarai Sianok Canyon, Lake Singkarak, Japanese Tunnel Bukittinggi and Bung Hatta Palace. To shop for unique gifts such as embroidered handicrafts or Muslim prayer wear, check out Pasar Atas Bukittinggi and bargain your way to get the best price. It is also another great place to try local food at some of the local stalls and restaurants available here.
Famed for its heritage and cultural attractions, Padang is also home to the Pagaruyung Palace - a royal palace owned by the former Pagaruyung Kingdom. Located in Tanjung Emas, it was built with a unique Minangkabau architecture which can be easily noticed by the sharp and curvy edged roofs. With three floors, there’s plenty of cultural and history to learn here too. Alternatively, visit the Adityawarman State Museum located in the city of Padang to explore the preserved artifact collections relating to the unique Minangkabau and Mengtawai culture.
Explore Padang’s exquisite nature in Lake Maninjau, a large crater lake with several villages bordering it. It is a great place to relax, experience local rural lifestyle and watch the sunsets. The lake also supports swimming, canning, and fishing. The villages themselves are small and great for escaping the hectic pace of Padang. Alternatively, visit Anai Valley, a nature reserve located in Nagari Singgalang district. If you go from Padang to Bukittinggi, you will pass a beautiful waterfall near this place. The waterfall height is about 35 meters. It is part of Batang Lurah River flow from Singgalang Mount toward Anai Valley and definitely worth exploring to find some peace in the greenery.
Nyarai Waterfall or also known as The Green Canyon among the locals, is one of the most favorite tourist attractions that was just discovered in Sumatra over a year ago. Nyarai Waterfall is located in the middle of Gamaran Protected Forest, Lubuk Alung, Padang Pariaman District, West Sumatra. The fresh clear water flows among the river stones from Bukit Barisan and falls 7-8 meters down trapped into an approximately 10m wide pool that was naturally formed among giant rocks on each side. The color could turn really green sometimes as the jungle reflection mixed with the sunlight through its clear water.
Across Batang Arau River is Padang Hill, the first settlement before Padang developed into a town. Padang Hill is the largest prehistoric site in Southeast Asia, featuring a 900m high hill which is home the historical Padang stones and monuments. Just east is Pasar Batipuh and Pasar Gadung which was formerly a great marketplace known in the city. The buildings now are used as warehouses for spices.
Make your way to Bukittinggi in the Minangkabau Highlands and explore the vast culture and other popular tourist attractions in Padang. Some of the places of interest that you should try and visit here to get a taste of Padang including Jam Gadang Clock Tower, Ngarai Sianok Canyon, Lake Singkarak, Japanese Tunnel Bukittinggi and Bung Hatta Palace. To shop for unique gifts such as embroidered handicrafts or Muslim prayer wear, check out Pasar Atas Bukittinggi and bargain your way to get the best price. It is also another great place to try local food at some of the local stalls and restaurants available here.
Famed for its heritage and cultural attractions, Padang is also home to the Pagaruyung Palace - a royal palace owned by the former Pagaruyung Kingdom. Located in Tanjung Emas, it was built with a unique Minangkabau architecture which can be easily noticed by the sharp and curvy edged roofs. With three floors, there’s plenty of cultural and history to learn here too. Alternatively, visit the Adityawarman State Museum located in the city of Padang to explore the preserved artifact collections relating to the unique Minangkabau and Mengtawai culture.
Explore Padang’s exquisite nature in Lake Maninjau, a large crater lake with several villages bordering it. It is a great place to relax, experience local rural lifestyle and watch the sunsets. The lake also supports swimming, canning, and fishing. The villages themselves are small and great for escaping the hectic pace of Padang. Alternatively, visit Anai Valley, a nature reserve located in Nagari Singgalang district. If you go from Padang to Bukittinggi, you will pass a beautiful waterfall near this place. The waterfall height is about 35 meters. It is part of Batang Lurah River flow from Singgalang Mount toward Anai Valley and definitely worth exploring to find some peace in the greenery.
Nyarai Waterfall or also known as The Green Canyon among the locals, is one of the most favorite tourist attractions that was just discovered in Sumatra over a year ago. Nyarai Waterfall is located in the middle of Gamaran Protected Forest, Lubuk Alung, Padang Pariaman District, West Sumatra. The fresh clear water flows among the river stones from Bukit Barisan and falls 7-8 meters down trapped into an approximately 10m wide pool that was naturally formed among giant rocks on each side. The color could turn really green sometimes as the jungle reflection mixed with the sunlight through its clear water.
When is the best time to go there?
When is the best time to go there?
March - October
Who should I travel with?
Who should I travel with?
Solo , Couple , Friends , Family , Group
What to eat?
What to eat?
Nasi Padang, Soto Padang, Sate Padang, Minang Rendang, Dendeng Balado, Sambal Cabe Ijo, Pisang Salai
Where to eat?
Where to eat?
Soto Garuda, Lamun Ombak, Puncak Kiambang, RM Aie Badarun, Restoran Sari Raso, Ikan Bakar Pak Tri’s, Rumah Makan Sederhana Padang
Useful local terms
Useful local terms
People of Padang commonly speak and understand the national Indonesian language or Bahasa Indonesia. However, they have their own Minangkabau dialect where some terms may differ from the national language. For example:
- How are you?: Baa kaba kini?
- What is your name?: Sia namo sanak?
- My name is…: Namo ambo...
- Thank you: Tarimo kasih
- How much is this?: Bara hargonyo?
- Where are you going?: Pai kama?
- Oh my god!: Onde!/Aduh!
- Money: Piti
- Expensive: Maha
- Nearby: Dake
- Faraway: Jauwah
Insiders’ tips
Insiders’ tips
- Padang is home to one of Indonesia’s large population, with over 1 million and counting residents. Expect major cities and areas open to tourists to be crowded as it can’t be avoided!
- Bring along a pair of slippers and raincoat for your trip here as it rains often in Padang. The roads flood quite easily as the city is still in the process of repairing the damage from the massive earthquake of recent years.
- Padang is also a conservative city, with Muslims being the major population here. When entering religious sites, it is advisable to respect the holy places by wearing less revealing clothes.
- There are a lot of restaurants all over the city. Common Padang-style restaurants will serve you all of the local dishes on the table and you will pay only for those you have eaten.
- Car rental is the best and most convenient option if you are looking to spend a few days in Padang. The price usually comes with a driver that can also be your guide. It can be hassling to drive here on your own since the road signs can be a bit confusing.
