Banda Aceh
Introduction
Located on the island of Sumatra, Banda Aceh serves as the capital and largest city in the province of Aceh. You will find this coastal destination situated at a low elevation above sea level.
Before you go
Prepare for a tropical rainforest climate where you can expect consistent temperatures throughout your stay. You should pack for both wet and dry seasons, noting that while there are drier months from June through August, the region receives significant rainfall annually.
To navigate the local culture smoothly, keep these points in mind:
- Exercise caution by avoiding walking alone late at night.
- Be aware that Sharia law is enforced; alcohol is not permitted and violations can result in arrest and physical punishment by the Sharia police.
- Dress modestly by wearing a headscarf in public if you are a Muslim woman, and avoid Western-style swimsuits outside of Sabang.
- Maintain your awareness in crowded places to guard against rare instances of pick-pocketing.
Getting there
You can reach the region by air at Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport, where you can obtain a Visa on Arrival if you are a foreign traveler. Several airlines provide flights from cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Medan, and Penang. Once you land, buses are available to transport you from the airport toward the Grand Mosque.
If you prefer traveling by road, non-stop night buses run from Medan to Banda Aceh. You can choose between standard air-conditioned coaches or sleeper buses for your journey. Alternatively, smaller mini-buses offer a different route from the Medan area, though these journeys typically take longer. For those arriving by sea, ferries operate from Belawan Port near Medan, while local boats depart from Ulhee-lhee to reach nearby islands.
Getting around
You can navigate the city using becak, which are motorbike taxis, or by taking a labi-labi, a local public minibus. While locals previously overcharged due to an influx of wealth following the tsunami, prices have since stabilized.
- A friendly and knowledgeable local becak driver named Little John can provide transportation and speak both English and Japanese.
- He can also arrange motorbike rentals for your journey to Sabang island.
Where to stay
You can choose from a variety of accommodations that cater to different preferences for your stay in Banda Aceh. For those seeking convenience in the city centre, several options provide easy access to local amenities. Some establishments offer modern boutique experiences with spacious rooms and private terraces, while others provide basic, clean rooms located near bustling night food stalls. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere just outside the city centre, you can find cozy accommodations featuring reliable internet access.
Depending on your preference for location and atmosphere, you might consider these options:
- A riverside hotel within walking distance of the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque and Pasar Aceh market.
- A boutique hotel in town offering modern rooms and organized social gatherings like pasta parties or barbecues.
- Centrally located hotels providing basic accommodations with fans or air conditioning near local eateries.
- A cozy retreat just outside the city centre for a more relaxed stay.
- A homestay located further from the city centre for those seeking a simpler experience.
Food & drink
Start your morning with a bowl of nasi gurih, a staple rice dish cooked in coconut milk found in coffee shops throughout the city. You can find variety in the local cuisine at food stalls and Padang restaurants located across the undamaged part of town, while fruit carts are ubiquitous on the streets. For those seeking specific flavors, you can choose from high-quality Chinese dishes, Western-style steaks and hamburgers, or traditional Aceh fare served in air-conditioned dining areas. If you prefer a more international experience, some establishments offer pasta and pizza made with fresh local ingredients, while others serve Indonesian dishes or specialty items like the Sultan Burger.
Since alcohol is not permitted, your primary beverage of choice will be coffee. You can find several cozy spots to enjoy an espresso or latte, including a cafe offering various fruit juices where you can try a blend made from terung belanda fruit. For a more relaxed atmosphere, some coffee houses on the western outskirts offer soothing views of rice paddies. Other local spots provide a place to hang out with friends while enjoying local food like mie Aceh and fresh juice.
What to see and do
Explore the historical heart of the city at the Grand Mosque, a landmark featuring white walls and five onion-shaped domes set against an elegant green landscape. Nearby, you can visit the Aceh Museum to view cultural artifacts like ceramics, jewelry, and a large bell gifted by a Chinese Muslim admiral. For a glimpse into local history, visit the Cut Nya Dien House in the Lam Pisang area, which serves as a museum dedicated to a renowned female revolutionary. You can also find architectural beauty at Gunongan and Taman Putroe Phang, a whimsical space that was once a private retreat for royalty.
Experience the coastal atmosphere at Ulee Lheue, where you can watch the sunset over the sea or visit the site of the 2004 tsunami. In this area, you can see various vessels and monuments related to the disaster, such as the Apung 1 ship and a floating electric generator ship located inland. For those interested in local heritage, the village of Bitay contains a sacred mosque and grave, while the Kerkhof serves as a memorial for soldiers from the Aceh War. You can also explore the region's history by cycling or motorbiking along the west coast to see green hills and beaches.
- Masjid Raya Baiturrahman
- Cut Nya Dien House
- Gunongan and Taman Putroe Phang
- Aceh Museum
- Indonesian Airline Monument
- Kerkhof
- Ulee Lheue
- Bitay Village
Three days in Banda Aceh
Day one, you arrive at Sultan Iskandar Muda Airport and begin your stay in Banda Aceh. You can visit the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque to experience the local culture.
Day two, you explore more of the city while observing the local Sharia dress code. You might spend time near the area where several landmarks are located.
Day three, you prepare for your departure from Sumatra. Depending on your plans, you can travel toward other destinations like Sabang or head toward the port.