Table of Contents
Introduction
Harau Valley Indonesia is a beautiful place located at the center of the province of West Sumatra which shows the beauty of Indonesian natural scenery. And this deep and picturesque rocky arcade with cliffs, waterfalls and greenery is a peaceful and at the same time exciting place and can be considered a paradise for tourists. Although many tourists visit Bali and other nearby attractions, there is no reason why Harau Valley should not also be among the prime attractions for any traveler. What is still left to be guided, promoted and discovered in this wondrous valley?
The Allure of Harau Valley
A Natural Wonderland
Harau Valley Indonesia, stretching to 1000 hectares of rich green planted land around Harau is just another heaven showing off tall limestone cliffs rising up to 200m high. These cliffs are draped with lush green creepers and potherbs of the tropics confirming the beautiful scenery for anybody who may be there. A network of hiking trails conducive for trekking snakes through the vast valley from rice paddies to the midst of forested tracts to give travelers a digital feel of the natural balance.
Another point of interest for the valley is the Harau Waterfall, called in Indonesian ‘Air Terjun Harau’. This splendid waterfall flows from these beautiful walls of the cliffs and also attracts photographers as well as nature enthusiasts. The water dripping from the falls lion also offers a nice break from the tropical heat, making them nice for a picnic or even a swim.
Cultural Richness
Harau Valley Indonesia is however not only magnificent in the sceneries but it has several cultural importance that surround it. The Minangkabau community is predominant in this region and their culture is still very much alive. People can interact with the locals, feel their energy in the process of discovering the above mentioned attractions. Some parts of Minangkabau valley are iconic with Minangkabau traditional houses with a horn shaped roof.
Tourists can also watch cultural activities and other performances such as traditional dance and music and other foods which are performed to celebrate certain events. Tasting the Minangkabau specialty meals like rendang and nasi kapau will definitely gently offer a peek into the lifestyle and culture of the people of Harau Valley and not just an eyes feast.
Activities to Enjoy in Harau Valley Indonesia
Hiking and Trekking
Trekking lovers will be excited to get to know that Harau Valley Indonesia provides a number of hiking and trekking routes. Some of the trails are easy to moderate whilst others are for the rugged and more experienced hiker. There is one famous trek that takes people to the Harau cliffs, namely the MLi Gitet standing tall, which offers a splendid view of the valley and the terrains around it. The noises and views of the tropical forest surround you all the time and quite often you hear the playback of exotic birds’ songs.
Rock Climbing
The tall walls of the Harau Valley Indonesia have become a magnet for rock climbers as well. As there are many different ways to climb the columns, everyone can walk through the difficult level for a specific type of climb, as well as feel the excitement of climbing these giants. The vistas from the top act as incentives to those people who take the challenge up to reach the top.
Visiting Local Villages
This is inconceivable when touring at the Harau Valley Indonesia since some of the beautiful villages as mentioned above deserve a stop over. You can spend some time walking around local settlements and it will be quite interesting to see how the Minangkabau really live. Meet welcoming strangers who might be warmed up to recall their history, culture and artistic skill. You may see young people crafting beautiful little trinkets or even farmers working on their rice paddies giving one a glimpse of just how the people have been living off the land for generations.
Photography and Wildlife Observation
For photography enthusiasts, Harau Valley is a dream come true. The diverse flora and fauna, Harau Valley Indonesia, for photographers or.ones with sensitive cameras, is like a dream that turns out to be real. Add to this the fact that the flora and fauna differ considerably from those found in Europe and the amazing scenery and it means that photographic opportunities are practically limitless. Make sure to take a camera along because you are going to discover out of the beaten track places and take some excellent photos from vantage points.
Due to the favorable number of tourists, they enjoy the wildlife of Harau Valley Indonesia also. The region contains many kinds of birds such as the Sumatra green pigeon and hornbill birds. It is easy to find birdwatching in the valley, quite a serene activity through which one can get close to nature.
The Journey to Harau Valley
Getting There
Accessibility to Harau Valley is very challenging. The nearest major city is Bukittinggi about 60 km away from town through the main road of Sarabau. The Harau Valley can be accessed by hiring a local driver or by using public minibus accessible from Bukittinggi. The journey also provides a gorgeous countryside view such as Minangkabau house and terrace rice field.
For those interested in moving further afield from Harau Valley, a combination with a visit to the world famous Baliem Valley in Papua is recommended. While Baliem Valley stands out with cultural richness and tribal heritage of the region, the Harau Valley offers a different view on the region – green, serene and very Indonesian.
Accommodation Options
Accommodation in Harau Valley; travelers can find affordable rooms for rent all the way to expensive hotels. Most of these accommodations are established within the scenic areas of the valley hence enabling early morning views. Staying as a homestay is also advised in order to make the trip even more memorable, since it gives snaps into the life of the Minangkabau or the Sumatrans in general.
Best Time to Visit
It is much advisable to visit Harau Valley during the dry season, which falls during the months of May, up to September. This is perhaps the most ideal time of the year, because the rainfall is relatively low and it is not too cold. But if you fancy more lavish vegetation and greener outlooks then one should visit the falls in the rainy season.
Embrace the Experience
Harau Valley is one place that has been overlooked but is a perfect place to tour. It has a great opportunity to become one of the center’s of attraction for travelers and players in the tourism industry of Indonesia. This unique valley that we visit with our four-wheel vehicles is more than just a scenery of nature, but it has many opportunities for the support of ecotourism.
Conclusion
Thus, we may conclude that Harau Valley is one more remarkable tourist destination that combines the stunning nature and cultural heritage. Regardless of whether you are interested in scenic views of fantastic cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls or the customs of the inhabitants of this region and exciting extreme tourism, then this valley is for you. If you are an adventurer, or quite the opposite, a nature and history lover or even a fan of leisure, Harau Valley is definitely an amazing destination to make unforgettable memories in Minangkabau.
So, when planning your next trip make sure you include Harau Valley at your list of things to visit. And while you are at it do not forget to visit the Baliem Valley it is even more unique than the places above. Both valleys provide astounding sceneries and diverse culture of Indonesia that would make every explorer want to see them.
For More Routes Info: Click Here.
FAQs
How do I get to Harau Valley from Bukittinggi?
Alternatively local drivers may be hired or you can travel by minibus from Bukittinggi to Harau Valley which is approximately 60 kilometers. It brings out beautiful avenues of the countryside.
What is the best time to visit Harau Valley?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from May through September because the weather is cool and dry and the worst part of the rains falls December through March.
Are there accommodation options in Harau Valley?
Yes, there are a range of places where tourists can stay in Harau Valley, including guest houses and homes and resorts which afford a spectacular view at the stunning rocks formation of the valley.