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Weh Island, Pulau Weah or Sabang is unseen paradise located on the westernmost point of Indonesia namely northernward Sumatra. More for the nature lovers, this little volcanic island aaches onto part of Aceh province has pritine beaches and crackling seas with colorful coral reefs that are home to as least 173 fish species. Pulau Weh — Often overlooked by the popular travel circuit, this is a naturalist and snorkeler's paradise! This article will take you through Pulau Weh natural beauty, marine biodiversity, cultural heritage and a few pro tips to help your backpacking experience more memorable. It also covers the appeal of the island
The Natural Beauty of Pulau Weh's Coastal Landscapes and Beaches
Pulau Weh is home to several of Indonesia's most exquisite beaches, each combines peace and adventure in a unique way.
Gapang Beach : His calm turquoise sea that all the rumor of her pure white sand is a paradise for any water sport as well as relaxation. As the shore is lined with coconut palms, providing excellent cover and views.
Iboih Beach: It is also called Teupin Layeu, Iboih Beach referred sites capable for free diving and snorkeling. Known for its vibrant coral reefs and pristine blue seas, the beach is a popular draw with marine enthusiasts throughout the world. Just a short boat trip away is the neighboring Rubiah Island marine park, which teems with colorful fish and coral.
Sumur Tiga Beach: This beach is famous for having three freshwater wells and it features great spots to witness the sunrise as well some awesome sites of snorkeling. The beach is a good place to visit for those seeking solace as it has less hustle than Gapang and Iboih.
Volcano impacted landscapes
However if you look at the history of Pulau Weh, its volcanic past, then you see it has some spectacular landscapes including verdant forests and craggy cliffs, even hot springs.
The most notable geography in the island is its dormant volcano, Klawah. Reaching the peak of Klawah podcast offers epic views over all surrounding waters and field. This diversity is added to by several plant species that thrive on the volcanic soil.
Hot Springs: The natural hot springs are another of the island's main attractions. The natural thermal springs, filled with healing minerals in their warm waters are a popular spot for relaxation and wellness.
Falls of Water
Waterfalls are everywhere you look in the heart of island provide stunning photo ops and cool breaks.
Pria Laot Waterfall is surrounded by dense jungle and lies smack bang in the centre of the island. After a hike, swimming and chilling out in the natural pool made by waterfall are best ones.
Coral Reefs and Snorkelling, Diving
And if you like the sea, Pulau Weh is a very recommended place to go because of its fantastic diving and snorkeling spots.
With that repertoire, diving this island means having a considerable number of dive spots around the place, with their own traits and beauties when it comes to marine life. Some of the popular dive sites are Pante Peunateung, Batee Tokong and The Canyon. As part of the greater Pacific, these areas are home to a range of underwater habitats from sunken ships, coral gardens and steep walls and canyons.
Marine Biodiversity: The waters surrounding Pulau Weh are home to a plethora of colourful fish, reef sharks, manta rays and turtles. Due to highly developed coral reefs that enable an incredibly lively ecosystem, the underwater feel on this island is captivating.
Park Rubiah Marine
Near Iboih Beach there is a protected area, Rubiah Marine Park; which aims to preserve the marine biodiversity of this island.
The Marine Park is a popular site for snorkeling most notably the beautiful coral reef and abundance of marine life, truly paradise for all snorkeler!! The water is clear and shallow, so even beginner snorkellers can enjoy!
Conservation Programs: There are various programs that Rubiah Marine Park plays in marine conservation either to bounce back haremed ecosystem like coral reefs, or teaching the visitor how important is it.
Heritage Cultures
The People of Acehnese
Located in Aceh territory, the island of Pulau Weh is not just home to the robust Islamic communities and culture of the local people, known as Acehnese.
Traditional Music and Dancing: Pulau Weh provides you with the opportunity to encounter its classic Acehnese music as well dance acts are often happen on nearby parties or perhaps ripened celebrations. Accompanied by lively music and drums, it gives an idea of the region's cultural temperament through colourful dances.
The Food: Without a doubt, the highlight of every trip to Pulau Weh is that it was been in Acehnese food. The cooking of the region is characterized by more fresh ingredients and bold flavors. One of the most famous is mie Aceh noodles (a slightly sweeter, light red noodle dish in a warm but also sweet chicken curry and chunks type gravy) and nasi goreng fried rice.
Historical Places
Pulau Weh has a rich history, with several historical landmarks that offer us an insight into its earlier life.
Japanese Bunker: Pulau Weh was taken over by the Japanese during World War II and put a whole lot of bunkers across the island. These bunkers can be entered by visitors and are overgrown with vegetation, providing an interesting insight into the military history of this unique island.
Lighthouses of the Past: Historical lighthouses on the island have been used by mariners since generations to guide them through dangerous waters like those surrounding our very own Malacca Strait. Popular landmarks for photography, these two lighthouses boast breathtaking views of the wide open sea that surrounds them.
Adventures and Activities
Trekking & Hiking
Pulau Weh has some great trekking through diverse terrain.
The interior of the island is covered with dense rainforest, and thus provides a sanctuary to many species of animal and plant life. You can discover this strange ecology on guided forest walks, where sightings of rare birds and monitor lizards are not uncommon as playful monkeys flit around in the dense vegetation.
Trail Running by the Ocean: There are rocky shores, secluded coves and scenic lookout points all along Salt Spring's coastline. Indeed, walks along the beach will bring you back only a few beaches and rock captivation that has not been discovered.
Aquatic Sports
For the adventure seekers, Pulau Weh offers up a range of water activities as well as diving and snorkelling on offer.
Kayaking: The island might be accessed by your self and a kayak whereas having fun with widespread exercise that offers visitors the possibility to get to some of the remote areas along the shoreline. Most beaches offer kayak rentals, and some have guided tours as well.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Taking advantage of the calm waters surrounding Neuss, SUP is a fun and approachable activity. SUP board rentals are available at many big beaches, and the sport is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
angling
Fishing is part of daily life in Pulau Weh, and guests can join in too.
Fishing trips tailored to you: guests can have a go at traditional fishing methods, with local fishermen explaining the most effective ways ofcatching fish. The show is also an opportunity to try fresh fish caught in the mountains, as a unique cultural experience.
Sport Fishing (Big game): For those in search of some more excitement, sport fishing trips targeting larger marlin, tuna and barracuda can also be arranged. These tours deliver deep-sea fishing thrill and are great to lengthened time anglers.
Lodging and Eating Facilities: Pulau Weh gives a total range of convenience so as to fit most spending plans and inclinations.
Luxury Resorts: From hotels with extra space to beautiful views you'll be absolutely captivated by, luxury resorts on Pulau Weh provide the best options for visitors and guests who require that extra standard of comfort.
Mid-Range Hotels : These types of accommodation properties feature standard amenities coupled with comfortable rooms at budget prices. The best feature of these hotels is that they are near to some tourist destinations and beaches where the tourists generally visited by them.
Budget travelers have the choice to stay in several guesthouses and homestays that offer cheap accommodations with a chance for cultural exchange. An authentic way to experience and comprehend the culture of islands is by staying at local homes.
Eating
The culinary scene of Pulau Weh is one which mirrors its colourful cultural development and natural bounty.
Must Try Seafood Delights: Signature of Pulau Weh's culinary culture - as it is surrounded by the ocean, seafood gastronomy is a must. Newly caught lobsters, crabs or prawns, and inshore-caught seafood are commonly seen on the menu at restaurants. Other common foods include grilled fish, seafood satay and tropical fruit-based salads.
Aceh Special: Voters can sample a menu that includes kuah pliek u (a traditional Acehnese vegetable and coconut milk curry), ayam tangkap, fried chicken cooked with chilli paste and nasi gurih --nasu lemak covered in rich spiced sauce of meat. The meals these are offered in absolutely sing with the punchy, pungent spices which make Acehnese food among Indonesia's very best.
BEACHSIDE DINING: A number of restaurants and cafes on the island are located right smack on the beach or just steps from it, promising picturesque views along with a chilled-out vibe. Enjoy snacking to mouthwatering meals by the beach all while taking in incredible views of this island.
Getting There: The largest airport close to Pulau Weh is Sultan Iskandar Muda International Airport in Banda Aceh. You can get there by ferry from Banda Aceh. The ferry journey takes approximately 45 to hour.
By sea: Ferries ply between Banda Aceh at Ulee Lheue port to Pulau Weh. The third option is flying, which might actually take the shortest amount of time between two points but the only way to see that beauty? Departures may vary so it would be best to see the ferry schedule before your arrival.
best Season to Go: Pulau Weh is best visited between April and october as a result of the federalist, bright weather that reigns across now. You may go hiking, diving or snorkeling outside.
Wet Season: November- March : There is more rainfall at this time of year, which may golf.