The largest city in the highlands, Bukittinggi grew up around a Dutch post, Fort de Kock, built in 1825 during the Paderi conflict. This attractive, bustling town was the birthplace of many Indonesian intellectuals, cabinet ministers and diplomats-including Mohammad Hatta, the nation's first vice president.

Although less than a degree south of equator, Bukittinggi has a cool climate due to its elevation -900 meters above sea level. It rains frequently, but may tourists nevertheless find this to be the most hospitable city in Sumatra- everything is within walking distance, food and lodgings are good, there is lots to see and the residents are very friendly.

A Walking Tour
Bukittinggi's principal landmark is the Jam gadang ("Great Clock")- a clock tower with a miniature Minang house on top overlooking the main square. Visible from many point for and exploration on foot. On Saturdays and Sundays, the lively Pasar Atas central market next door spills out into the streets. All kinds of fruits, vegetables, spices and meats (except pork) are sold in open-air stands run by assertive Minang ladies. There are sections for everything-brightly colored plastic wares seem to be the main attraction. Bargaining is a popular social activity here rather than a test of wills or an attempt to cheat the unwary traveler. Keep your sense of humor, and bargain hard if you are buying.

From here, walk up Bukittinggi's "main street" Jalan Ahmad Yani, which is lined with antique and souvenir shops, restaurants, coffee shops and offices. To get a good view of the town and the surrounding area, climb up Jl.Cinduamato to Taman Bundo Kanduang Park at the top of the hill, where a zoo and museum are located. The name of the park refers to the legendary "Great Mother" symbolic of the matrilineal Minang. The zoo is crowded on Sundays, when it is the principal place in town to see and to be seen.

The Museum in the parks is housed in a traditional Minang Rumah Gadang complete with thatched roof and flanking granaries. Inside are examples of wedding costumes and tanduk headdresses in the shape of buffalo horns. A small fortune in fine gold jewelry is on display; for several centuries this area was the archipelago's leading producer of the precious metal. The museum also displays old matchlock rifles used against the Dutch, as well as antique musical instruments.

How to get there:
By Taxi (ca.Rp.125.000,-) or by Public Bus (ca.Rp.8000) from Padang. The Padang's Public Bus Terminal is located at Jalan Raya By Pass Air Pacah.

Interesting Places:
Sianok Grand Canyon, japanese Tunnel, Fort de Kock, Zoo, Museum, Clock Tower (Jam Gadang), Traditional Market (Pasar diatas & Pasar dibawah).