West Sumatra is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes. In this Minangkabau land, many lakes are formed from volcanic eruptions, one of which is Lake Singkarak. The beauty of Lake Singkarak is well-known throughout the country and even internationally. Sobat Pesona is likely familiar with the largest international cycling event in Indonesia, the Tour de Singkarak (TdS). As the name suggests, Lake Singkarak is not only a symbol but also part of the racecourse for the Tour de Singkarak.
There are many ways to enjoy the beauty of Lake Singkarak, one of which is through a tourist village located on one side of the lake. This village is called Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu, situated in Nagari Sumpur, Batipuh Selatan District, Tanah Datar Regency. It is located about 92 km north of Padang City, approximately a 2.5-hour drive by land from Padang.
As one of the 50 finalists in the 2021 Anugerah Desa Wisata Indonesia (ADWI), Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu has many attractions. Here are five exciting activities you can do when visiting Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu.
1 | Stay in a Rumah Gadang
Rumah Gadang, the traditional Minangkabau house, is a unique and iconic structure. While you've likely seen it in photos or videos, have you ever stayed in one? If not, you should try sleeping in a Rumah Gadang. In Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu, there are about 70 original Rumah Gadang, with three of them converted into homestays. Here, you can spend the night while exploring the cultural ornaments inside.
2 | Enjoy the Nature of Tanah Minang
Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu is blessed with pristine natural surroundings. Sobat Pesona can enjoy fresh air while gazing at the vast rice fields, try trekking to Puncak Tubia, follow the river streams, refresh under a waterfall, and, of course, enjoy a scenic view of Lake Singkarak from the hilltop.
3 | Experience Traditional Arts
In addition to its natural attractions, Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu offers a deep dive into Minang culture. You can experience the rich Minang atmosphere through its wood carvings, building structures, as well as traditional music, dance, and martial arts performances.
4 | Catch Bilih Fish
Lake Singkarak is home to the endemic Bilih fish (Mystacoleucus padangensis), which is a food specialty in the area. If you visit, you’ll have the chance to see the traditional way of catching Bilih fish, using fishing rods or manual nets. The fish can be fried, made into "pangek," "singgang," or "bilih basantan," which are local traditional dishes.
5 | Taste Various Minang Delicacies
When it comes to food, Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu offers a variety of delicious dishes. Of course, the famous rendang is a must-try. However, the rendang in this village has a unique twist with a slight sweetness, while still rich in savory spices. Other special dishes include "rebon," "singgang sumpu," "pangek sumpu," "pangek sasau," and "singgang."
The village’s culinary offerings impressed the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, during his visit as part of the 2021 ADWI evaluation. He encouraged the village to build a "storytelling" aspect around its food, enhancing its appeal and culinary potential.
Excited to experience this tourist village? Support the recovery of the tourism and creative economy sector by getting vaccinated and following the 6M health protocols: wearing a mask correctly, washing hands with soap, maintaining distance, avoiding crowds, limiting mobility, and avoiding communal meals so you can safely enjoy your visit to Kampuang Minang Nagari Sumpu!
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