Lake Singkarak

Description

The majestic Lake Singkarak (Danau Singkarak) is an enormous crater lake set within a dramatic volcanic landscape. Spread over two districts; Solok and Tanah Datar, the lake is a massive 1000 hectares. It is the widest lake in Sumatra and the second biggest lake on the island, after Lake Toba. A world of silent calm, breathtaking vistas and spectacular views awaits here. Here you can embrace the remote natural beauty that Indonesia is so famous for.

Locally Lake Singkarak is famous for its Bilih fish which is a species of fish that only lives in this lake. This fish is especially unique as it can’t survive anywhere but Lake Singkarak, not even in an aquarium.

To Do

Bring your camera and capture the view of this beautiful lake. The best view of the lake is from the Solok-Bukittinggi main road, where visitors often stop to stock up on photos of the magnificent scenery.

The Tour di Singkarak is a major international cycling event, attracting teams from around the world who come to West Sumatra to battle it out in a grueling cycling competition. Racing through the regions most beautiful scenery over six days, riders finish the tour at the beautiful Lake Singkarak.

Test your nautical knowledge and explore the beauty of Lake Singkarak by boat. Boats are available for hire from vendors at the Lake.

Relax with a swim in the pristine waters of the lake. Several areas are suitable for swimming so take the opportunity to take dip in one of the most scenic swimming holes in the world.

Throw a line in and try your luck fishing. Test your skills and try to capture the famous bilih fish.

If you drive to the lake, on your way you will pass through the charming hilltop village of Balimbing (the name means starfruit).

To Stay

There are many hotels near Lake Singkarak such as those along Solok-Bukittinggi main road and in the Tanah Datar district.

The town of Umbilin is on the shore of the lake, its collection of hotels and restaurants make it a convenient place to stay. Boats can be rented from here and it is a good place for swimming, hiking and relaxing.

To Eat

The bilih fish is famous for its unique and delicious taste. This fish can be served in variety of ways including fried, flavored with chili, or boiled. So whatever your tastes, the restaurants surrounding the lake will surely be able to come up with a way to serve this fish that you will find delicious.

To Buy

At several points around the lake, visitors can buy souvenirs associated with Lake Singkarak and handicrafts representing Minangkabau culture.

Get Around

The most convenient way of getting around here is to drive. Lake Singkarak can also be reached by public transport.

Get There

Lake Singkarak is located 70 km from Padang, 20 km from Solok and about 36 km from Bukittinggi.
From Minangkabau international airport, you can take a rented car or a public minibus plying the Padang-Solok route and then take other transportation to the lake. This journey will take you passed the Sitinjau Laut area which is famous for its sharp curves and steep canyons.