Overview
Takengon sits in the misty highlands of Central Aceh, a remote town famous for its Takengon Sumatra Coffee and the stunning Laut Tawar Lake. Unlike the chaos of Sumatra's coastal cities, this highland hub offers cool temperatures, fishing villages along the lake shore, and a weekly Sunday gathering where the whole region converges to relax and party.
Nature
Before you go
Coffee
Takengon Sumatra Coffee is the famous local product—buy at the market or small stores. Coffee houses in town serve espresso from 8,000 Rp.
Food
Fish from Laut Tawar Lake is the local specialty. Street food at the bus station serves basic Indonesian dishes from 10,000-20,000 Rp.
Money
Rupiah (IDR) is used. ATMs may be limited—bring sufficient cash from Banda Aceh or elsewhere before arriving in Takengon.
Transport
Motorcycle taxis (ojek) are the main way to get around Takengon—very cheap, just agree on a price before riding. The town itself is walkable.
Weather
Highland location means cooler temperatures than coastal Sumatra. Rain is possible year-round; bring a light rain jacket.