Belimbing

West Sumatra


Belimbing, a village southeast of Batu Sangkar, is comprised of one of the largest surviving collections of traditional architecture in the highlands. Many of the homes are 300 years old and in various states of decay, including one that's set aside as a heritage site (entry by donation). Most owners have built modern homes nearby and use the relics for ceremonial purposes.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby West Sumatra attractions

1. Grand Palace of Pagaruyuang

9.24 MILES

In the village of Silinduang Bulan, 5km north of Batu Sangkar, the heartland of the red Tanah Datar clan of Minangkabau, is this epic palace, a replica of…

2. Istano Silinduang Bulan

10 MILES

Near the Grand Palace in Silinduang Bulan, 5km north of Batu Sangkar, is the much smaller and lower-key, but equally ornate, Istano Silinduang Bulan. It's…

3. Gunung Marapi

13.56 MILES

The smouldering summit of Gunung Merapi (2891m), one of Sumatra’s most active volcanoes, looms large over Bukittinggi around 16km to the east. If Merapi…

4. Conservatorium of Traditional Music

14.5 MILES

Ethno-musicologists make the pilgrimage to the town of Padangpanjang, 19km south of Bukittinggi, to this university where Minangkabau dance and music are…

5. Pandai Sikat

16.28 MILES

Pandai Sikat ('Clever Craftsmen') is famous for songket weaving and building decorations carved out of wood. The village is 13km south of Bukittinggi…

6. Gunung Singgalang

18.09 MILES

Climbing dormant Gunung Singgalang (2877m) is a more adventurous undertaking than Gunung Merapi. Highly recommended English-speaking guide Dedi (0813 7425…

7. PT Songket Bernhard Bart

19.46 MILES

Handicraft and textile fans should not miss this place near Simpang Bukit Batabuah, 7km southeast of Bukittinggi. Dedicated to revitalising the…

8. Koto Gadang

22.33 MILES

Silversmiths occupy several old Dutch houses in Koto Gadang, 5km from Bukittinggi. Catch a westbound angkot (3000Rp) or take an hour’s walk from Taman…