Payakumbuh, Indonesia
Region: West Sumatra
Geographic Coordinates: -0.233300, 100.633000
Temperature Range: 22.0°C to 32.0°C (72°F to 90°F)
Climate: Tropical climate with wet and dry seasons.
Population: 125608
Language: Indonesian
Payakumbuh is a city situated in the West Sumatra province of Indonesia, Located about 120 km north of Padang, The capital city of West Sumatra. The city has a population of around 120, 000 people and is known for its beautiful scenery, Rich cultural heritage, And delicious cuisine. The name Payakumbuh means field of victory in the Minangkabau language. The city boasts traditional architecture that showcases the unique style of Minangkabau culture. One popular tourist attraction in Payakumbuh is Harau Valley with stunning rock formations that rise up to 150 meters high.
Visitors can hike through lush forests and enjoy breathtaking views while exploring this natural wonder. Another attraction is Batu Sangkar Palace built during the reign of King Adityawarman in the 14th century showcasing traditional Minangkabau architecture where visitors can learn about local history and culture. Payakumbuh also offers visitors an opportunity to taste some authentic Minangkabau cuisine such as Rendang – a spicy beef dish cooked with coconut milk and spices; Sate Padang – skewered meat served with spicy peanut sauce; and Nasi Kapau – rice served with various side dishes such as fried chicken or fish curry.
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage sites, Payakumbuh hosts several annual festivals such as Tabuik Festival which takes place during Muharram (the first month on Islamic calendar). During this festival, Locals parade through town carrying large replicas of boats made from bamboo which are then set ablaze at sunset. Overall, Payakumbuh offers visitors an opportunity to experience Indonesian culture at its finest with stunning scenery, Delicious food options along with historical monuments showcasing unique architecture and local traditions.
- Harau Valley
- Taman Bundo Kanduang Park
- Tabek Patah Waterfall
- Lubuak Bulan Lake
- Sianok Canyon
- Kelok 44 Bridge
- Singkarak Lake
- Mount Marapi
- Lembah Anai Nature Reserve
- Gadang Clock Tower
- Payakumbuh is a city that boasts of a diverse range of industries and businesses.
- Its fertile land has made it an ideal location for agriculture, with rice, vegetables, fruits, coffee, and spices being the major products.
- In addition to agriculture, the city also has a thriving textile industry that produces traditional fabrics such as Songket and Batik.
- The food processing sector is another significant industry in Payakumbuh. Several companies specialize in producing snacks and traditional Indonesian delicacies.
- The city’s handicrafts are renowned for their quality and craftsmanship. Handicraft products made from bamboo, rattan, wood, and other natural materials are popular among tourists.
- Retail businesses are also prevalent in Payakumbuh with many shops selling clothes, electronics, groceries, and other household items.
- The tourism industry is also flourishing with several attractions such as Harau Valley waterfall and Lubuak Gadang cultural village attracting visitors from all over the world.
- Finally, education plays a vital role in Payakumbuh’s economy with many educational institutions ranging from primary schools to universities providing education across various fields of study including engineering and medicine among others.
- Payakumbuh was founded in 1669 by Tuanku Imam Bonjol, a Minangkabau prince.
- During the Dutch colonial period, Payakumbuh was a hub of resistance against Dutch rule and renowned for its strong anti-colonial sentiments.
- In 1945, Payakumbuh played an essential role in Indonesia’s struggle for independence from Dutch colonialism.
- Some notable figures from Payakumbuh are Tuanku Imam Bonjol, who led the opposition against Dutch colonialism and is now an Indonesian national hero; Muhammad Saleh Akbar, a former governor of West Sumatra and Indonesian politician; and Ria Miranda, an Indonesian fashion designer.
- The city is famous for its traditional Minangkabau architecture and cuisine such as rendang (a spicy meat dish) and nasi padang (a rice dish served with various side dishes).
- Museum Adityawarman: This museum displays the cultural heritage and history of West Sumatra.
- Istana Pagaruyung: A replica of the original Palace built by Minangkabau kingdom in the 17th century.
- Taman Bundo Kanduang Park: A park that showcases traditional Minangkabau architecture and culture.
- Pasar Raya Payakumbuh: The central market of Payakumbuh is a great place to experience local life and buy fresh produce.
- Rumah Kelahiran Buya Hamka: The birthplace of famous Indonesian writer and Islamic scholar Hamka has been turned into a museum showcasing his life and works.
- Lubang Jepang Monument: A monument commemorating the forced laborers who were made to build Japanese tunnels during World War II.
- Galeri Seni Payakumbuh: An art gallery that showcases local artists’ works in various mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography etc.
- Air Terjun Harau (Harau Waterfall): A scenic waterfall located near Payakumbuh that attracts many tourists for its natural beauty and hiking trails.
- Bukik Sileh Nan Panjang (Panorama Hill): A hilltop viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape including rice paddies, mountains etc.
Note – Due to COVID-19 pandemic situation visiting these places might not be possible at present times as most tourist places are closed or have restricted entry with safety measures taken by respective authorities.
- PS Payakumbuh is a football club that was founded in 1953 and currently plays in the Liga 3.
- PBVSI Payakumbuh is a volleyball club that represents the Indonesian Volleyball Association (PBVSI) in local and national competitions.
- PB Porda Sumbar is a basketball team that represents West Sumatra Province in the National Sports Week (PON).
- Perbasi Payakumbuh is a basketball team that competes in various local tournaments.
- KONI Payakumbuh oversees all sports activities and events at the city level.
These teams have different histories, achievements, and fan bases but share one common goal: to promote sportsmanship, teamwork, and healthy competition among athletes of all ages and backgrounds.
- Tabuik Festival is an annual event in Payakumbuh that commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein. The festival features a procession, music, dance, and the burning of effigies.
- Pekan Kebudayaan is a week-long cultural event that showcases traditional arts and crafts, food, music, and dance from various regions in Indonesia.
- Festival Rujak Ulek celebrates Payakumbuh’s famous dish rujak ulek which consists of mixed fruits with a spicy peanut sauce.
- Pawai Budaya is a parade that displays traditional costumes and dances from different ethnic groups in Indonesia.
- Festival Danau Singkarak takes place near Lake Singkarak where boat races, fishing competitions, music performances and cultural exhibitions are held.
- Tari Topeng Betawi Festival is a mask dance performance originating from Jakarta that is performed during special events or celebrations such as weddings or religious ceremonies.
- Gawai Dayak Festival is celebrated by the Dayak people who are indigenous to Kalimantan Island in Borneo; this festival involves traditional dances and rituals to thank their gods for a bountiful harvest season.
- Rendang Sapi: A spicy beef dish cooked with coconut milk and spices.
- Sate Padang: Grilled skewered meat served with a spicy sauce made from chili, garlic, and peanuts.
- Nasi Kapau: A rice dish served with various side dishes such as curried beef, fried chicken, and vegetables.
- Rumah Makan Pak Datuk: A popular restaurant in Payakumbuh that serves traditional Minangkabau dishes such as Rendang Sapi and Sate Padang.
- Restoran Piai Basamo: Another popular restaurant known for its delicious Nasi Kapau and other Minangkabau specialties.
- Warung Mak Itam: A small eatery that serves authentic local dishes at affordable prices.
- Restoran Bundo Kanduang: Known for its flavorful Rendang Sapi and other traditional Minangkabau delicacies like Gulai Kambing (lamb curry).
- Taman Kota Payakumbuh (Payakumbuh City Park) is a well-liked public park featuring jogging tracks, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Air Terjun Harau (Harau Waterfall) is a picturesque waterfall located in the nearby village of Harau that offers hiking trails and swimming opportunities.
- Taman Wisata Alam Bung Hatta (Bung Hatta Nature Park) is a nature park with camping grounds, hiking trails, and bird-watching opportunities.
- Kolam Renang Paya Kambih (Paya Kambih Swimming Pool) is a public swimming pool that provides swimming lessons and water aerobics classes.
- Lapangan Sepak Bola GOR H Agus Salim (H Agus Salim Sports Field) is a sports field for soccer matches and other outdoor activities.
- Sungai Batang Arau Rafting Adventure offers an exhilarating rafting adventure along the Batang Arau River that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Gunung Marapi Trekking Adventure involves a challenging trek up Mount Marapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit.
