Batusangkar literally means ‘stone cage’. However, don’t be overly concerned by the daunting sound of the name, it is known locally as the ‘city of culture’, and is a wonderful place to spend some time.
One of the biggest reasons to visit Batusangkar is to see Pagaruyung. Batusangkar was once the heart of the Minangkabau kingdom and home to the Royal family. Pagaruyung, a replica of the palace (the original burnt down.. as did a later replica), is one of the best and most impressive examples of Minangkabau architecture, known locally as Rumah Gadang, in the whole of West Sumatra, and is definitely worth a visit.
There is plenty of parking available across the road from the palace, and a ticket for the visit is 15,000 idr per person.
The ticket gives you access to the palace and grounds; there are numerous photo opportunities, and even a chance to dress up in traditional Minangkabau wedding costume (available to both adults and children).
For anyone who likes a bit of history (guilty), or secretly enjoys wondering around National Trust properties, Rumah Gadang is for you. There is now an interactive display available in the main hall from which a good amount of information on the site can be gained, however don’t expect to be given too much information and instead enjoy looking around the three floored house and gardens, perhaps imagining what life would have been like living there as part of the royal family…
Jen is an English girl who found herself in Sumatra one day and never went back. A wife, mother, traveler and book worm, she has lived in Padang long enough to speak the language and unearth plenty of useful hints and tips for the weary traveler…
