tangkahan tours

Welcome to The Real Hidden Paradise

The jungle ecotourism destination in North Sumatra.

Sounds of The Jungle – Tangkahan The Real Hidden Paradise, Indonesia.

Isabella bridge, Tangkahan

Tangkahan Eco Experience was created to empower and improve the welfare of humans, conservation and biodiversity as well as implement sustainable solutions that help us protect the pristine rainforest and support responsible eco-tourism.

Hectares of rainforests

Donate Clean Water for North Sumatra

Every family in North Sumatra deserves access to clean drinking water.

Support underprivileged families in North Sumatra with a water filter to help them save money and improve their health in this time of crisis.

Sumatran Elephants

Tangkahan is home to Sumatran elephant conservation herd. All 9 members of the herd are in good health and rescued form human elephant conflict in Banda Aceh. They are trained for patrolling the forest of Gunung Leuser National Park to prevent poaching of the remain wild population.

Explore Our Activities

Support the local community while having the time of your life! In Tangkahan you can experience different adventures such as jungle trekking, walking with the elephants, river tubing, chasing waterfalls, elephant feeding, and wild jungle camping. Occasionally, you can sign up for camping education as well as jungle workshops where you will learn all about jungle survival skills, wildlife, and vegetation.

Our Jungle Guides

Frequently Asked Questions About Tangkahan

How to get to tangkahan and when is the best time to visit.

Tangkahan is located in North Sumatra, on the border of Leuser National Park. From Medan, you will need to drive 3 hours by car or bus. Tangkahan is a good place to visit anytime, but throughout June, July, August, and September there is less rain, so there are usually a lot of visitors in these months. However, be aware that you are in a rainforest which means you can not avoid rain showers. Embrace the rain and allow yourself to experience the jungle in its full glory!

How long is recommended to stay and what to bring with me?

If you wish to explore Tangkahan fully, we recommend staying from 3-5 days. Even though Tangkahan is a great destination for a one-day trip, staying longer is a great opportunity for meeting the locals, have bonfire dinners, going on jungle trekking, walking through the forest with elephants, and tubing. If you are staying more than three days, our jungle guides will organize for you to visit Bukit Lawang, Batu Katak, and Batu Rongring and have a full jungle experience of a Langkat area.

Is camping possible?

Yes, you can come with your tents and camp or you can book our jungle guide to take you camping in the jungle. For solo camping, we advise staying in a village near the river.

Is it possible to interact with elephants?

Yes, the Tangkahan herd of elephants is used to interact with humans, but only in a presence of elephant guides- mahouts. Available activities with elephants are: feeding, bathing, and walk through the jungle. Elephant rides are not allowed. Please, be respectful towards all the wildlife in Tangkahan, and do not feed animals unless you got permission from mahouts and jungle guides.

Are there any volunteering opportunities available?

We appreciate every person and your willingness to help the Tangkahan community. At this time we are developing volunteering programs, so stay tuned! Meanwhile, the best way to support the community is to book your stay, jungle guide, and activities at Tangkahan since this is the way for the community to be and stay sustainable. We encourage you to support local artists as well by buying zero waste art and joining in live music performances. Everybody can support locals while having the time of your life. Last but not least, please keep Tangkahan clean. Thank you.

Welcome to responsible travel in North Sumatra  

+6282168127533 /  +6285362842725

Eco-Farming

[email protected]

Known as the 'Hidden Paradise' of North Sumatra.  Located on the border of the Gunung Leuser National Park, its home to a few Sumatran Elephants but offers forest, clean rivers and interesting geological marvels

Explore More

Tangkahan - The  Hidden Paradise

Tangkahan is an eco-tourism destination  located in North Sumatra and known as the 'Hidden Paradise' of the Gunung Leuser National Park, because it sits at the junction of two rivers:  the Buluh and Batang River.  

Just a three-hour  dr ive from Medan or a two-hour  drive from the tourist hub of Bukit Lawang,  i t's  very different from the lines of souvenir shops and guesthouses in Bukit Lawang.  Its  remote location is perfect for relaxing, visiting the hot spring and admiring the natural scenery.  

Tangkahan is famous for its herd of rescued Sumatra Elephants,  rescued from conflict situations in Aceh by the Elephant Response Unit. Now they live in a safe environment and are trained to patrol the forests with their mahouts. Visitors can also join the Elephants in the forest and bathing in the river. 

Although many visitors come to see the Elephants, Tangkahan has 17,000 hectares of virtually untouched forests with wild orangutans, waterfalls, caves and hot springs to explore. 

History  

The small village of Tangkahan was built after local people saw the damage they were causing by actively logging between 1980 - 1990. The community decided to stop illegal logging within the Leuser area and develop the area into a sustainable eco-tourism destination.

In 2001, the community decided and agreed on fixed regulations that prohibit illegal logging and the Tangkahan Tourist Institute was established. From this the Conservation Response Unit was formed where troublesome elephants have been rescued, trained and with a group of mahout's patrol and protect the local forests.

As an eco-tourism destination, Tangkahan never really flourished, which in a way, gave it its charm! However, the locals still depend on tourism for their income. What did draw many Asian, local and sometimes foreign tourists was the Elephants at the Conservation Response Unit (CRU). Before the Covid pandemic, much of the tourism income came from offering daily Elephants rides and washing. Since the pandemic, we are happy to say that they have stopped the Elephant riding. V isitors can still join the elephants for morning and afternoon bathing, but this is something we do not support due to the exploitation of the Elephants and the current worldwide scrutiny of it. 

Why Elephant Washing isn't Cruelty Free

If visitors would like to support the CRU and the Elephants, then we do offer the new experience of 'Walking with Elephants'. This is a hands-off experience, allowing you to follow and watch the Elephants walk through their natural environment. If visitors are still against this, then it is still possible to see the elephants by the river with their mahout and can see them also in their outdoor pen. If Elephants are not your thing, Tangkahan is still a great place to explore. We offer a variety of trekking options to see wild orangutans, waterfalls, caves and tubing activities. We are trying to develop more community-based tours as part of our Sustainable Action Plan . By joining these treks, you are supporting the local guides and economy. This continuous support keeps the local people from illegal logging and other illegal activities.

Bat Cave Trek and River Fun

Trek for 2-3 hours through the less explored part of the Gunung Leuser National Park enjoying the incredible scenery. The trek can quite challenging, passing many large trees and a chance observe any wild animals, like Orangutans or Gibbons. Arriving at the cave, guests will see many bats and pass through several caverns. At the end of the cave, there is a natural hot spring to relax in, if its not too hot! Guests then cool off with the thrill of tubing back down the river.

Duration: 6 hours

Start:  6-7am from Bukit lawang

Included: guide with motorbike, local guide, permit fee, tubing

Cost: 850,000 p/p

Group Size:  1 - 5

Fitness: Average

2 Day Cave Trek

Be a Caveman.....Trek in the jungle & sleep in a cave

Trek in the jungle for a full day, looking out for orangutans, gibbons, siamang or even a hornbill. The trek is quite challenging and no established trails. A true experience. The local guide will explain about the flora and fauna along the way. Lunch will be eaten at a suitable point before making your way to Goat Cave to spend the night. Here enjoy the waterfall, swim and relax. Enjoy dinner cooked over an open fire and the sounds of the jungle. Wake up to the sound of gibbons. After breakfast, guest will make their way back to the village.

Duration: 1.5 days

Start: 7am from Bukit lawang

Included: guide with motorbike, local guide, permit fee, food, fruit, camp equipment

Cost: ask for price

Waterfall and Tubing

Trek to see one of the waterfalls, swim, relax and eat lunch at the waterfall before river tubing back down the river.

More info coming soon

Duration: 5 hours

Start: 8am from Bukit lawang

Included: guide with motorbike, local guide, lunch, fruit, tubing 

Cost: 700,000

Group Size: 1 - 5

Fitness: Low

Walk with Elephants

Get up closs to Sumatran Elephants in their natural habitat without the touristic activity and scrutinised activity of riding them. Enjoy a 3-hour experience with first watching the Elephants bath then a 2-hour trek walk with the Elephants and their mahouts in the jungle 

Duration: 3 - 4 hours

Start: 9am or 1pm

Included: transport with guide, elephant activity, permit fee

Cost:  from 1,400,000 idr p/p

Group Size: 1 - 4

Fitness: Low 

Note: If there is more than 2 people taking any of these activities, we recommend hiring a car for the day, as the cost can be shared and will be cheaper. 

Any of these Tangkahan activites can be enjoyed as part of the Orangutan & Elephant Tour, or they can be combined with the Sumatra Eco-Explorer Tour

Tangkahan – The Elephant Paradise

Peaceful jungle retreat in gunung leuser national park.

Tangkahan  well-known as the hidden paradise of Gunung Leuser National Park, is an Eco Tourism area in the Langkat district of North Sumatra. The peaceful jungle retreat is located along the Kualsa Buluh River next to the dense rainforest, just 2.5 hours far from Bukit Lawang driving on a bumpy road through Palm oil plantations and rural villages. It is the perfect place to lay back from strong traveling and spend a memorable time with seven rehabilitated adult  Sumatran elephants  and a few small calves.

The tiny, remote village Tangkahan was practically built on the logging trade in the 1980s and 1990s, because the people became aware of the damages by such activity. They collectively decided to stop illegal logging and transform the area into a functional, self-sustained ecotourism destination. So in April 2001 the community banded together to form the  Tangkahan Tourist Institute (Lembaga Pariwisata Tangkahan – LPT) and fixed regulations prohibiting the exploitation of the surrounding rainforest. So the Conservation Response Unit (CRU) was born – a team of Sumatran elephants and their mahouts that helps safeguard the national park to protect it from encroachment.

Even if you only observe the elephants on your day trip to Tangkahan (from a distance of about 50 meters, without touching the animals!), you are supporting this region. EcoTravel’s Tangkahan Adventure does not include any activities or direct interaction with the elephants but helps the animals as well as the villagers in and around Tangkahan!

However, for an extra charge EcoTravel guests can book a voucher for the daily bathing ritual and help washing the elephants in the Buluh river (up to 1 hour) . Another option is to join “Angon Gajah” (up to 3 hours). We have launched this very special elephant experience in Tangkahan on October 1st 2017: “Walking With Elephants” or “Angon Gajah” is a tour developed for visitors who want to be close to elephants in their natural environment. This 3-hour tour gives EcoTravel guests the chance to spend time with the mahouts, help wash the Sumatran elephants in the river and walk alongside the elephants as they explore their natural jungle habitat. Note: CRU/LPT Tangkahan does not offer this tour as a private tour, other travellers will also join the trek! All Tangkahan activities are not operated by our team, but only arranged by us! Note: Our EcoTravel team does NOT offer elephant riding!

Although elephant activity is under worldwide criticism we are still supporting the locals in Tangkahan as well as this ecotourism project as it is unique for Indonesia. To remove the elephant activity option from our program for guests who want to get closer to the animals would weaken the CRU/LPT and is not an option for the time being. 

Tangkahan – The Epic Insider’s Guide to Sumatran Jungle Paradise

The village of Tangkahan in the Langkat Regency of North Sumatra is aptly dubbed, “The Hidden Paradise.”

Although only an hour’s drive from the much-hyped tourist hub of Bukit Lawang, with its semi-wild orangutans,  Tangkahan is a world away from Bukit Lawang’s lines of souvenir shops and well-trodden jungle trails.

Operating as an ecotourism destination for the last 20 years, Tangkahan has never really ‘taken off.’ This is a struggle for the locals who depend on tourism for their income but a treat for those who discover this remote and breathtakingly beautiful jungle community.

Tangkahan is our second home. Agung worked and lived here as a ranger and guide for seven years, and we have spent many years enjoying the quiet life in this village.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about the Hidden Paradise of Tangkahan: how to get there, where to stay, what to do and more!

This blog was updated in December 2023.

Visit Tangkahan With Us!

The history of tangkahan village, north sumatra.

Famous for shrugging off the mantel of illegal logging and poaching in only one generation, this tight-knit Karonese community realized that there was no future in destroying their jungle home. Instead, they worked together to protect it, creating a team of rangers and turning to ecotourism to provide for their children and grandchildren.

Tangkahan village was built on illegal logging, with wildlife poaching thrown in for good measure. However, around 20 years ago, the community agreed to give it up and protect their natural bounties, focusing instead on ecotourism.

Of course, it wasn’t a simple process, but these changes led to the Tangkahan of today, where there is a healthy respect and reverence for mother nature.

How to Get to Tangkahan

Perched on the edge of the Gunung Leuser National Park, Tangkahan is a reasonably short drive from Medan. Unless you get stuck in traffic, a new highway cuts the travel time from four hours to less than three.

A brand-new asphalt road replaces the clay ruts and makes for a smooth ride. Once, you’d be jostled around in a 4-wheel driver, crawling your way through palm oil plantations. Now, the smooth, gently curved tarmac leads you through the trees to the stunning village. 

How to Catch a Bus to Tangkahan

There are no fancy tourist buses heading this way. Don’t expect air conditioning, and bear in mind that smoking is allowed inside the local buses. The journey may be slow with lots of stops, and can be rather noisy and bumpy.

From Kuala Namu Airport

If you are heading to Tangkahan by bus from the airport, you’ll need to first jump on a bus to the Pinang Baris bus station in Medan city. It’s about a one-hour trip, depending on traffic. At around 40,000 IDR per person, these buses are pretty fancy, with air conditioning and sometimes even wifi!

Buses heading to Tangkahan depart from the Pinang Baris bus station.

Unfortunately, many tourists experience problems with this station. There are “guides” there that will give incorrect information and overcharge. Forewarned is forearmed!

We recommend skipping the bus station and heading to a more common pick-up spot up the road outside Mawar Bakery.

Look for the bus (more like a small van) that clearly says Tangkahan on the front. There have been occasions where tourists have been sent to Bukit Lawang instead!

Don’t pay anyone except the driver, and only pay once you’re on the way or you arrive in Tangkahan. There will be people trying to tell you that you can’t get on the bus until you pay them – this is incorrect.

It should cost around 50,000 per person (including your luggage).

Driving to Tangkahan

The fastest, most comfortable way to get to Tangkahan is to hire a car with a driver. The cost is around 800,000 IDR.

Your guesthouse can help you book – if you’re stuck, contact us and we can recommend some great drivers.

Shared taxis don’t tend to head to Tangkahan as it’s not one of the more popular tourist destinations.

How to Get From Bukit Lawang to Tangkahan

There is a back road from Tangkahan to Bukit Lawang. Once, it was rather extreme and bumpy. Now, it’s been freshly repaired and asphalted, so takes around 45 minutes instead of the previous 2 hours! A car with a driver will set you back around 500,000 – 600,000 IDR.

There’s no traffic other than herds of cows. 

If you’re after a quicker, lower-budget journey and don’t have too much luggage, hire a motorbike and driver. The price will be 200,000 – 300,000 IDR.

You can book drivers/cars/motorbikes through your accommodation, or ask us for recommendations.

Where to Stay in Tangkahan

Accommodation in Tangkahan is affordable and there’s plenty of it. All the guesthouses and lodges you’ll find here are great, with super-friendly staff and guides to make you feel right at home

However, bear in mind that you are in the jungle! At most places, there is no hot water (not that you’ll need it in the tropical heat!) or air conditioned rooms.  Most do come with fans, which you’ll find are enough to keep you cool at night.

Most rooms have mosquito nets and western toilets, and the majority of guesthouses have their own restaurants.

Most of the places to stay are across the bridge in the central village area, although there are many new spots popping up on the main road that heads to the Tangkahan Elephant Centre past the village.

If you stop in the main parking area and head down the path to the left, you’ll come to a bridge. You may need to pay a small fee to cross.

Here, you can choose from several different accommodations: some have rooms and restaurants with gorgeous river and jungle views. Prices range from 150,000-350,000IDR per night.

If you continue down the road past the central visitor’s centre area for a few minutes (towards the Elephant Centre), you’ll come to a handful of other accommodations perched on the side of the river overlooking the jungle. You’re pretty spoiled for choice in Tangkahan, so take your pick!

Here are a few of our top picks.

Just across the river from the Visitor’s Centre, Mega Inn is the largest accommodation in Tangkahan, with more than 20 rooms.

There’s a nice restaurant, and it’s close to the river, hot springs and waterfall.

Basic rooms start from 150,000 IDR, and all have mosquito nets, fans and western toilets.

This is a great choice if you’re hoping to meet up with other travellers.

WhatsApp: +62 823-7030-4774 Email: [email protected] Website

Bambu River Guesthouse

Bambu River was the first guesthouse ever built in Tangkahan, way back in 1998. 

Run by local Wak Youn (locally known as Black Tiger)and his English wife Jane, this is a beautiful haven in the main guesthouse area on the side of the Buluh River. (You’ll need to cross the bridge and follow the picturesque path until you see the signs).

In this tropical garden paradise, you’ll find 11 bungalows all with modern bathrooms, terraces, linen, towels, mosquito nets, and beautiful river/jungle views.

There are also family-sized bungalows.

Room rates start at 250,000 IDR.

Bambu River is a beautiful peaceful haven to stay in – and the food is delicious. Wak Youn is an excellent cook – you’ll be dining on traditional Indonesian meals made with fresh, local ingredients, but Western meals are also available.

WhatsApp: +62 812-6412-0932 Email: [email protected] Website

Linnea Cottage

Linnea Cottage is in a gorgeous spot alongside the Buluh River and overlooking the National Park. Cross the bridge down from the central parking area, and follow the concrete paths past all the other accommodations until you reach this spot.

The rooms here are cute, clean and comfortable, with Western toilets, showers, mosquito nets and fans. 

A large restaurant overlooks the river, and steps lead directly down to the riverbank, so it’s easy to swim in the pristine river whenever you feel the need! You can sit in the restaurant with a coffee or juice and watch the monkeys and monitor lizards do their thing. Often, you’ll hear the call of wild gibbons from the jungle.

The food here is excellent, with a range of local and Western dishes. Rini is an incredible cook and provides a lovely warm welcome. Even better, you’re mere steps away from the hot spring and waterfall.

WhatsApp: +62-821-6340-7440

Jungle Lodge

Across the river from the Visitor’s Centre and a five-minute walk along some pretty paths is Jungle Lodge. The restaurant here has stunning river and jungle views, and steps lead directly to the Buluh River.

It’s handily located right next to the natural hot spring and a small waterfall perfect for showering under.

Some rooms have balconies overlooking the river and jungle. Prices start from around 150,000 IDR.

Rooms are basic but clean – and the location is pure paradise.

WhatsApp: +62 813- 7633 -4787

Tangkahan Inn

Just a few minutes down the road from the Visitor’s Centre, Tangkahan Inn sits above the Batang River and is only a five minute walk from the CRU Elephant Centre.

It’s a tight-knit, family-run spot overlooking the jungle, with a spacious, vine-covered restaurant and basic (but sizeable) rooms. This is the spot we usually stay in when spending time in Tangkahan.

Riverside or jungle rooms start at around 200,000 IDR per night. Rooms come with fans, balconies, western toilets and mosquito nets.

The best thing about Tangkahan Inn is the warm welcome you’ll get and the friendly, family vibe. There’s also a quiet, rocky river shore area below the accommodation where you can swim in the river or just relax and gaze across at the jungle.

WhatsApp: +62-852-0640-8090

Terrario Tangkahan

Terrario is a fair step up from the other guesthouses in Tangkahan. This is a luxury private retreat lodge – owned by an Indonesian celebrity, no-less!

Set away from other accommodations, Terrario is a beautifully designed villa owned by Indonesian actor and wildlife lover Nicholas Saputra. It is managed by Tangkahan locals.

This is an exquisite place to stay, with a minimalist design that enhances the beauty of its rainforest adjacent location.

There are three bedrooms: 1 Double, and 2 Twins.

Unlike most places in Tangkahan, Terrario even offers the luxury of a hot shower!

Room prices start at around 1,750,000 IDR Per night including breakfast (for 2 people).

There is no restaurant nearby, but you can have an extra private of a private cook to cater to you, or order meals to be delivered. 

This spot has a minimum two-night stay period and a maximum of three people. Contact and book at the email address below.

Email: [email protected]

Rumah Ati Tangkahan

Rumah Ati is another newer addition to the guesthouses at Tangkahan.

This is a beautiful private villa unlike any other. It’s a 100 year old traditional house reimagined and reborn into the jungle of Tangkahan – and it’s just gorgeous.

With views of the jungle, this is the ultimate home away from home – a real paradise retreat.

This 1 bedroom house has a balcony and terrace, and even Wi-Fi – quite a rarity in Tangkahan! 

The upstairs, open plan area is the sleeping room, while the downstairs is open-air dining and a closed kitchen. The kitchen is fully stocked with a fridge, freezer, stove, water, spices, coffee and tea.

The bathroom is beautiful, and even has a bath! 

Prices start from 500,000 IDR per person per night (less for children 2-12).

For enquiries and reservations, contact via WhatsApp: +62-822-1386-7532

Tangkahan Eco Glamping

Love the idea of camping but not the reality of rock hard floors and jungle toilets?

Welcome to Tangkahan Eco Glamping!

This is such a great idea: spacious canvas tents with full-sized beds, terraces, a jungle restaurant and incredible jungle views. And right by a beautiful river too!

Tangkahan Eco Glamping is located beyond the main village, right on the border of the Gunung Leuser National Park. 

You’ll need to do an easy 20-30 minute hike to reach the location, but from there, it’s all relaxation, peace, and quiet.

You’ll have a team of awesome local guides cooking for you and keeping you entertained, with plenty of activities to add into you itinerary if you can drag yourself away from this little piece of paradise.

All this perfection doesn’t come cheap though – there’s quite a lot involved to cater for guests in style when outside of the village, not to mention the need for your hosts to stay at your beck and call for the duration of your stay.

Prices start at around 650,000 IDR per person (including breakfast and dinner).

Check out prices and make your reservation here:

Booking.com

WhatsApp: +62 823 7786 8561

About the Jungle in Tangkahan

Like many communities in Sumatra, Tangkahan is literally stuck between a rock and a hard place. The village is squished between endless acres of palm oil plantations and the pristine beauty of the Gunung Leuser National Park – part of the Leuser Ecosystem that stretches north into Aceh and covers more than one million hectares.

Aside from the incredible fauna found here, the jungle itself is spectacular, particularly when you head away from the still recovering, previously logged secondary forest and head to the hills.

The jungle is lush, intriguing and full of life, from the super-sized ants marching below your feet amongst the weird and wonderful fungi to the impressive parasitic ficus (fig) trees choking the life out of the rainforest giants.

The Leuser Ecosystem is undoubtedly one of the most important conservation areas left on the planet. Like most natural areas remaining, it faces numerous threats.

Jungle Trekking in Tangkahan

When you head into this part of the national park, you are heading into the real jungle. There are no semi-wild animals here, so if you’re expecting to have macaques rifling through your backpack or want to hand-feed an orangutan, you’re really barking up the wrong fig tree.

However, if you want to experience the incomparable rush of seeing true-blue, wild-born and wild-living orangutans, gibbons, leaf monkeys, hornbills and more, this will so be your cup of teh manis.

There’s nothing like it: as you slowly walk through the jungle amongst the cacophony of insects and bird calls, you hear the subtle snap of a branch somewhere above. Your guide puts a finger to their lips, motioning you to be quiet as you carefully tiptoe forward through the undergrowth, holding your breath in anticipation.

Then you see it (or rather, your eagle-eyed guides spot it), the flaming orange hair of an orangutan high above. If you’re lucky, he or she will stick around and check you out for a while, giving you the chance to marvel at this amazing person of the jungle.

The reality of Tangkahan is that there is no guarantee you will see any of the captivating mammals that call Gunung Leuser home, but if you do, it’s an experience you will never forget.

If you want the surety of seeing an orangutan, tiger, or elephant, go to a zoo. If you want the chance to have the unrivalled, goosebump-inducing experience of sharing space with a truly wild animal, visit Tangkahan.

Animals you’re likely to encounter : giant ants, a plethora of insects, colourful butterflies, numerous geckos and lizards, squirrels, woodpeckers, macaques, Thomas leaf monkeys, sun bear scratchings, wild elephant footprints, orangutan nests, the calls of gibbons

Animals you’ll encounter if you’re lucky : orangutans, siamangs, white-handed gibbons, rhinoceros hornbills, snakes (moon snakes, vipers, cobra, pythons), monitor lizards.

Animals you’ll encounter if you’re super-duper lucky : slow loris, civet cat (musang), wild pigs, jungle peacocks, tiger footprints, wild elephants, sun bears.

Things to Do in Tangkahan

Explore, rivers, waterfalls and hotsprings.

Tangkahan village sits alongside two stunning rivers (sungai): Sungai Buluh and Sungai Batang. As such, there are numerous waterfalls to check out.

Unlike many busy tourist destinations in Indonesia, you will often have the waterfalls to yourself, depending on the time of year and where you go.

Buluh is our top pick to explore and the best spot for swimming. Even in rainy season, it usually stays clear, whereas the Batang River can rise and become brown pretty quickly with a bit of rain.

As you head upstream in Sungai Buluh, the river becomes narrower and starts to run through gorgeous canyons. Although you can explore a little by yourself, I’d recommend asking one of the local guides to take you if you want to adventure any further.

The guides can show you Memory Waterfall and help you navigate upriver to a great spot for swimming, including a pretty lofty jumping spot up the canyon if you’re brave enough. This spot is total eye candy, with the emerald green river framed by pristine jungle.

If you’re not a strong swimmer, jump on board a ‘bun’ (inflated tyre). Your guide will swim you upriver and you can tube back.

Within easy rich of accommodations and the visitors centre is the small waterfall – Air Terjun Garut – a great spot to take some shampoo and have the best shower of your life.

Further afield are Gelugur waterfall (unfortunately this had an epic landslide and isn’t good for swimming nowadays, but still worth checking out), and the smaller waterfall, Lau Buluh Kitik, with a fantastic swimming hole underneath – you’ll need guides to reach these.

Need a good soak after all that trekking? There are two natural hot springs in Tangkahan. One is right on the edge of the Buluh River, near most of the accommodations, the second can be reached via a 30-45-minute walk through some community land to the Batang River.

You can visit the smaller one without a guide but may need to ask for help locating it; it’s just a small, cave-like crevice across the river, you can squeeze yourself into the crack for a hot soak or sit just outside the opening for a more tepid mix.

Go Jungle Trekking in Tangkahan

The experienced guides and rangers of Tangkahan are real jungle experts. Most of them have grown up in or near the village; the jungle is their backyard playground and it shows. Any one of these passionate, fun, talented guides can accompany you into the jungle, whether you are after a brief day trek or something a bit more adventurous.

While merely wandering through the jungle is an awe-inspiring, unforgettable experience, there are some key places of interest you can include on a trek, including some of the waterfalls and hot springs mentioned above.

You can arrange family-friendly day treks, overnight treks, or longer multi-day treks deeper into the Gunung Leuser National Park.

Tangkahan Bat Cave

A few hours through the jungle will bring you to the bat cave. This is a labyrinthine cavern full of twist, turns, crevices and deep dark holes – but your guide could walk it in their sleep. They know the best way to lead you safely through.

You’ll see hundreds of tiny bats in their home environment, and if you’re lucky the odd frog and snake. Take the short way through at about 15 minutes if you’re nervous, or go a bit deeper for about a 30-40-minute trip.

Goat Cave – Gua Kambing

Unlike the bat cave, the goat cave isn’t a place for exploring. It is, however, an awesome place to spend the night. Trek for half a day to reach this stunning, shallow cave that lies behind a small waterfall, perfect for showering under.

It’s all set up for a bit of camping – the guides will prepare air beds complete with mini tents and cook you an amazing jungle dinner/breakfast.

Go River Tubing in Tangkahan

No trip to Tangkahan is complete without going river tubing. It’s a fantastic way to finish a hot day’s trek, with many of the treks designed to end with you sitting in an inflated tyre, gently cruising back to the village.

It’s an incomparable experience to gently float down the river, surrounded by jungle – the ultimate in peace and serenity.

Safe for all ages and capabilities, the river is calm – with only a few areas of gentle rapids – and your guide/s will keep control of the tube for you and be on hand to point out the wildlife on the way.

Other than tubing back from trekking, you can tube from Tangkahan to one of several waterfalls, or take a longer cruise to Pulau Tujuh – Seven Islands.

Don’t miss out on the chance to have an included lunch; the food is incredible and will be set up jungle style when you arrive at your picnic destination – complete with ferns and flowers.

Meet the Tangkahan Elephants

Tangkahan’s biggest drawcard for many tourists is its Elephant Conservation Response Unit (CRU). Although there are several of these located throughout Sumatra, this is the only one open to tourists.

The elephants here have all been rescued from life-threatening conflict situations. Unable to stay in the wild, the next best alternative was to set up these CRUs as a safe place for them to live out their lives.

The herd of elephants at Tangkahan have a home base across the river at the far end of the village. Every day their mahouts take them into the jungle to roam, exercise and eat. They have daily opportunities to act out natural behaviours such as bathing in the river, foraging in the jungle, and hanging out as a herd.

When not strolling in the jungle, they spend their time in a large concreted area adjacent to the river and jungle. Occasionally they are chained; this is usually during feeding time to allow everyone to get their fair share of supplementary fruit and veg without bullying or food stealing.

Previously (and unfortunately), elephant riding was on offer here. But recently, this has been taken off the menu, which is fantastic news.

Instead of riding, there is the chance to “Walk with the elephants” through the edge of the jungle.

Sadly, elephant washing is still on offer. This is something we do not support and would encourage animal lovers to avoid.

If you’re not sure why elephant washing is bad, this article from Expedia provides some excellent insight:

Why Washing Elephants Still Promotes Suffering

If you choose not to support the elephant centre, don’t write off Tangkahan completely: this is still a fabulous destination to explore with so much to offer!

Enjoy a Chilled Evening Listening to Local Musicians

Like most areas in Sumatra, the locals of Tangkahan adore their music. You’ll be hard pressed to go anywhere without being in earshot of someone strumming guitar and singing.

What’s more, like the local Batak Toba culture, Batak Karo seem to all be born with incredible singing voices, not to mention the ability to play the guitar skillfully.

While traditional Karonese songs are usually all about love and heartbreak – as are the majority of Indonesian songs – there are many great local tunes. Want to sing along? All good, everyone knows an impressive array of popular English songs too. You’ll spend many a long evening sitting around in your restaurant of choice while groups of people serenade you.

What's the Weather Like in Tangkahan

Being on the edge of the rainforest gives Tangkahan a more humid, wetter climate than other areas.

Dry season loosely falls between May and September, with wet season from October to May.

Dry season in Tangkahan is not dry; it still rains, just less! The rivers will be lower and clearer – but not so good for tubing because you hit your bum on the rocks.

During wet season, it sometimes pours all day but you’ll also see sunny days – it’s a bit of a gamble. The river is higher and muddier as it rushes out of the jungle.

It’s toasty warm and muggy year-round, with the rainstorms offering cool relief. Daytime temperatures are around 28-30 degrees.

The busiest months that see the most tourists in the village are July and August. It’s never crowded here, even in high season.

We recommend avoiding a visit during key holiday periods. Christmas, New Year’s and Idul Fitri see ridiculous crowds visiting this humble village. Check ahead to make sure you time your visit to avoid these few days. 

For an in-depth look at the weather and climate in Sumatra, check out our in-depth guide – The Best Time to Visit Sumatra.

Restaurants and Food in Tangkahan, Sumatra

Most of the accommodations have their own restaurant attached. All have the standard Indonesian fare but many have Western options too: think spaghetti, toasted sandwiches, and French fries.

In the visitor’s centre area there are a couple of warungs (small restaurants) serving delicious local food at great prices. And don’t forget the local “juice bar” where you can get freshly pulped fruit of your choice.

Beer is widely available throughout the village, but you won’t find wine or spirits here unless you bring it yourself.

Karo Culture and the Community Spirit

Tangkahan remains a small, close community. The majority of residents are Karonese (one of the six native Batak tribes found in Sumatra). Everyone seems to be everyone’s brother from another mother.

This is a place that will make you feel welcome instantly. If you’re doing it right, you’ll feel like you have a second family by the time you leave.

Like the other Batak cultures, Karonese people have their own unique language, music, food, costumes and architecture. However, you won’t see any traditional style houses in Tangkahan; you’ll need to go to the heart of Karoland in Berastagi/Tanah Karo for that.

Because Tangkahan is still a relatively small tourist destination, it retains its respect and consideration for guests. You won’t have hordes of guides trying to sell you their guesthouse, treks, or transportation when you arrive.

Instead, expect a lot of smiling faces who are generally interested in you and want to give you a special experience in their village.

This means riverside lunches or restaurant tables painstakingly decorated with leaves and flowers and a welcoming community ready to help you with anything you need.

Karo culture is friendly, welcoming and definitely capable of humour and fun. But there is still a traditional air of respect and politeness. also maintains a certain level of respect and politeness.

Bikinis are not the swimwear of choice in this village. Respectful guests will swim in shorts and singlets or t-shirts, and not wander around the village or guesthouse in next to nothing.

Amenities in Tangkahan

ATMs and Banks

There is no ATM in Tangkahan. The nearest one is around an hour away in Batang Serangan – if it’s even working! Make sure you bring enough cash with you.

The nearest pharmacy is 30 minutes away in Titi Mangga; the nearest big hospital is even further afield in Binjai. However, most tourists will want to head back to the bigger hospitals in Medan for anything serious.

If you have aches and pains from trekking, ask a local to point you in the direction of a masseuse. There are a few in the village who practice traditional medicine and work miracles.

Electricity

Although Tangkahan has power, power-cuts are common. Most accommodations have generators for use in the evening if needed.

There’s no police station in Tangkahan but this is an extremely safe area. There is zero theft or crime, particularly against tourists. The tight-knit community will take care of you as if you are family.

The visitor’s centre offers free wifi if you need to connect. However, being a remote jungle village, it’s pretty slow and often doesn’t work! There is some 4G connection in the area; buy a local sim on the way and load it with data if you absolutely must stay connected.

Your Essential Sumatra Travel Toolkit

TRAVEL INSURANCE : An absolute necessity whether you’re travelling for a week, a month or a year. For flexibility and affordability, we highly recommend SafetyWing. Click here for SafetyWing plans and prices

MONEY MANAGEMENT : Grab a free Wise account to easily store and switch currencies, send money all over the world, and withdraw from ATMs throughout Indonesia. We would be LOST without this amazing tool. Sign up for a free Wise account

FLIGHT FINDER : Nothing beats Skyscanner for sourcing the best flights to, from, and around Sumatra. Filter your search according to the cheapest or fastest options. We use this every time we fly. Find flights with Skyscanner

BOOKING ACCOMMODATION : We always use Booking.com when we travel throughout Sumatra and beyond. Easily find your ideal guesthouse, hotel or resort. Search Booking.com

NEED HELP?  Looking for guides, drivers, or any other travel advice? We’re always happy to help. Email us – even if just to say hi!

FIND THIS BLOG HELPFUL?

We create all our content for free, to help travellers like you have the time of their lives in this amazing place. If you’d like to support us to keep creating Sumatra content, you can make a small, one-time donation at the secure link below. Terima kasih! (Thank you!)

Buy Me a Coffee

These blogs are awesome too - have a read!

11 Best Things to do in Medan, North Sumatra

50 Unforgettable Things to Do in Lake Toba

17 Mouthwatering Restaurants in Tuktuk Lake Toba

Batu Katak: The Epic Guide to North Sumatra’s Hidden Gem 2024

This post has 9 comments.

Thank you for this insight guide, very helpful. Would you have recommendations on a good guide in Tanghakan

Hi – so glad you’re finding the site helpful! We certainly can recommend a good guide in Tangkahan. If you can send us an email to: [email protected] and I’ll give you the details.

Thanks Joy! I’m sure you will love it as much as we do!

Great overview of this beautiful village. Can’t wait to visit.

this was so so so helppful! thanks guys xx

You’re welcome! Always happy to help 😉

Pingback: Top 6 Places to see Orangutans in Sumatra | We are Sumatra

great information, thanks very much. Looks like a lovely place to visit. Our trip to Sumatra starts end Oct, we cant wait !!

So happy you found it useful! Feel free to get in touch if you need any more info – it’s hard to squeeze it all in 🙂 I’m sure you will love it there, such an incredible destination!

Share your thoughts with us Cancel reply

Our site is a work of love and will always be in progress. Sumatra is an enormous island and we haven’t even come close to scratching the surface, but we are determined to delve deep and keep learning, growing and exploring.

This blog is Copyright © 2024 by Exploring Sumatra. All rights reserved.

Want to know when we post new blogs?

Don't miss out subscribe now.

Tangkahan Travel Guide: Elephant Trekking in the Jungles of Sumatra

The village of Tangkahan in the jungle of Sumatra stole my heart in seconds, though getting here is a true adventure. Tangkahan is on the border of the Gunung Leuser National Park and is the little sister of the more famous Bukit Lawang . Let’s take a closer look at this jungle paradise where you can visit an elephant sanctuary, go jungle trekking, and river tubing.

Tangkahan From Medan

To get to Tangkahan from the city of Medan, you can take a bus from the Pinang Baris bus station. There are two buses scheduled a day, one leaving at 10 am and the other at 1 pm. Don’t expect any luxury during this bus trip and simply try to enjoy the adventure. In the bus, you will be packed in between the local villagers, school kids, bags of rice and even chickens. The bus ride takes around 5 hours but not to worry, the bus does get emptier on the way and in the meantime, you can enjoy the surroundings. Arriving at this little peaceful village in the middle of the jungle is truly rewarding and worth the effort. Welcome to Tangkahan!

The bus ride should cost Rp. 25.000, but to get this price you have to be alert. Don’t let yourself get tricked into buying a ticket from some random person approaching you at the bus station. You can just pay for your ticket in the bus, directly to the bus driver. For those who are not on a tight backpackers budget, you can also opt to rent a private car and driver with air-conditioning.

Tangkahan From Bukit Lawang

You can visit Tangkahan on a day trip from Bukit Lawang. It will be a rocky road through the raw landscape of north Sumatra either on the back of a motorbike or by car. I really enjoyed the ride from Tangkahan to Bukit Lawang by motorbike, despite the bumpiness. I wouldn’t go back and forth in one day though, as both places deserve a longer stay.

Upon Arrival

The emerald blue river that rushes through this little jungle village is absolutely stunning, fringed by the lush tropical greenery of the rainforest. This is exactly what I had been hoping for! To get to the other side of the river, I had to hop on a local bamboo raft but I believe it has been replaced with a suspension bridge. Bringing a backpack is easier than a suitcase when it comes to crossing the river! The ambiance is so peaceful! You can see monkeys sitting high up in the treetops, not interested in humans at all. You truly find yourself in the unspoiled jungle of Sumatra.

Where to stay & what to eat

There are several guesthouses to stay at in Tangkahan, all basic but perfectly comfortable and very affordable, too. The bungalows are surrounded by nature and the rooms are simple but just wonderful – I could live there! You will hear the sounds of the jungle at night, enjoy it or wear earplugs 🙂 The shower is cold, but who needs a hot shower anyway in such a warm tropical country. Electricity is only available in the evening from 6 pm to 11 pm.

I stayed at Megan Inn, in a traditional bungalow that overlooks the river. The guesthouses most recommended at the moment are Green Lodge Tangkahan  and  Tangkahan Bambu River Guesthouse . Both have family rooms available as well.

Don’t expect any fancy restaurants in the village of Tangkahan. The guesthouses serve simple food like a good local nasi goreng and fresh juices. Perfectly fine to keep your belly happy during your stay. Breakfast is usually included with your stay.

Things to do in Tangkahan

Though the village of Tangkahan is very small, there are lots of things to do. At the same time, it is an amazing place to relax, find peace of mind and connect with nature. The unspoiled rainforest that surrounds you, the sounds of nature and the beautiful river rushing through creates the most idyllic setting. Yet the tourism highlight ofTangkahan has become a popular tourist destination to see, wash and ride elephants. Most tourists come for a day-trip from Bukit Lawang.

Visit the Elephant Camp

The elephant sanctuary in Tangkahan is the perfect place for eco-tourism. For me, just seeing the elephant up close was already an unforgettable experience. That was enough for me, but you can also wash them, feed them and go on an elephant jungle trek. Elephant jungle treks range from a short one-hour ride (Rp. 650.000) to a 4-day adventure (the longer ride takes you towards the village of Bukit Lawang).

On a trek the elephant caretakers will teach you everything there is to know about elephants. You will even learn to ride the elephant all by yourself. In addition to the trekking you can also wash the elephants. The elephant bathing sessions are held two times a day (from 8.30 am to 9.30 am and 3.30 pm to 4.30 pm). The price should be Rp. 100.000.

Jungle Trekking

Though the chances of seeing orangutans in Tangkahan are much smaller than in Bukit Lawang, jungle trekking in this part of Gunung Leuser National Park is really nice! The rainforest is different here and you will see less tourists during your jungle trip.

River Tubing

River Tubing is also great fun! The river will lead you down to a waterfall where you can swim in the crystal clear, refreshing water. On the way you can admire the rainforest, the surroundings and the monkeys sitting high up on the tree tops. After my river adventure we walked back through the traditional village where I got to see a glimpse of local life. My guide climbed into a tree to get me a fresh young coconut and it was delicious!

Caving and Hot Springs in Tangkahan

The other two main activities to do around Tangkahan are caving (an adventurous 3-hour trekking through the jungle will lead you to the Kalong Cave, home to lots of fruit bats. It’s a fun trip, though it helps if you like bats) and a visit to the hot springs. The springs are by the river.The local guide will be happy to get you there. It is quite a unique experience to sit in hot water by the riverside in the jungle!

Sampai Jumpa

After a wonderful stay in Tangkahan, it is time to continue your travels in Sumatra. Don’t worry, there are plenty of interesting things to see around the island. See you again or Sampai Jumpa as the locals would say. Enjoy your trip!

Have you visited the village of Tangkahan? What was your experience? Share your stories in the comments below.

Next post Liveaboard: Tiger Blue

Previous post adventure in the jungle of sumatra: jungle trekking in bukit lawang.

About the Author

Related posts, a short but memorable visit to lake toba.

Lake Toba: Travel Guide to Samosir Island

Kerinci Seblat National Park: Last Refuge of the Sumatran Tiger

Leave a reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Pin It on Pinterest

Telephone :

+62 813-6012-3045

[email protected]

Tangkahan Elephant

More detail information Tangkahan Elephant

Through the concerted efforts of the local community and the support of Flora and Fauna International (FFI), Tangkahan has evolved into a self-sustained haven for elephants. These majestic creatures, once entangled in conflicts at the borders of the national park, have been rescued and now freely roam the area, actively assisting forest rangers in their noble mission to safeguard the wilderness. Witness the grace of these elephants as they engage in their daily routines, from patrolling the forest to indulging in refreshing river baths.

Your visit to Tangkahan Elephant not only allows you to witness the triumph of conservation but also actively supports the local initiative. Immerse yourself in the crystalline waters of the Kualsa Buluh River, rejuvenate in the natural hot springs, and savor local cuisine at quaint restaurants or with a riverside BBQ. Each moment spent here contributes to the preservation of this biodiverse paradise.

Tailor your trip to match your preferences and create an adventure that suits your desires. Whether you are a nature enthusiast seeking a unique experience or a conservation advocate eager to contribute, Tangkahan Elephant offers an unforgettable journey for everyone.

Don’t miss this compelling opportunity to connect with nature, support conservation efforts, and create lasting memories. Contact us now to start planning your Tangkahan Elephant adventure. Let the allure of Tangkahan Elephant sweep you off your feet, leaving you mesmerized by the beauty of nature and the indomitable spirit of these incredible creatures.

Bukit Lawang Dusun 5 Kabupaten Langkat Sumatra, Medan, 20774

Tour Package

Explore Sumatra Treking

Related Posts

Berastagi Escapade

Lake Toba & Samosir Island

• Adventure Holidays & Special Tours

• Destinations
• Discover North Sumatra

Table of Contents

Tangkahan-Sumatran Elephants In Gunung Leuser National Park

The Sumatran Elephant In Tangkahan

Today, the Sumatran Elephant is almost extinct. Only in a few places they can still be seen in their natural environment. Most elephants can be found in the elephant training center in Way Kambas near Bandar Lampung in South Sumatra. In addition, the elephants can also be seen in Tangkahan in North Sumatra . In Tangkahan , at the edge of the Gunung Leuser reserve, lies in an impressive jungle area where beautiful jungle treks can be made. In addition, the World Wild Life Fund keeps elephants that can be seen and washed.

The Sumatran tiger and elephant in literature

In the 1920s, former governor Westenenk of the East Sumatra district published a book named Waar Mensch en Tijger Buren Zijn (Where Man and Tiger are Neighbours), in which, besides extensive stories about the Sumatran tiger, he described elephants who were in these years to be found all over Sumatra. The following quote is from his book:

‘Just at the moment when she reached for the durian fruit, along the tree, something which looked like a giant snake came down and approached her. She looked up and saw that it was an elephant trunk. The naughty eyes of the elephant seemed to be lighting up, and subsequently she began to see another animal and one more .. Without knowing it she had wandered into a herd of elephants… She began to scream out of fear which in turn shocked the elephants and sparked a thundering chaos. In the kampong, the children suddenly scared up and everybody was shocked and silent…They followed the herd.. deep in the mountains they heard the well-known roaring and falling of trees…. The herd passed by and at a short distance from the herd.. six cows appeared. A young bull with little ivory; sociable ear flapping and with deep, sounds, the company slowly strolled along…’

Tours To Tangkahan

Book an exclusive tour with tri jaya tour & travel to see the sumatran elephant in tangkahan on sumatra.

From Medan it is about 6 hours driving to Tangkahan. It is not possible to return to Medan the same day. We can arrange a simple accommodation for you in Tangkahan. Contact us and ask for the possibilities and prices so that we can organize this unforgettable trip for you.

THE BEST Tangkahan Tours & Excursions

Tangkahan tours.

• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Private Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Rieno Leedya

• KOMODO FLORES
• RAJA AMPAT & PAPUA
• Indonesia Birding
• Leisure & Wellness
• Educational Trip

• LOMBOK & GILI
• CUSTOMIZED TOUR
• T r i b e s
• BOAT CHARTER

Tangkahan Tour & Bukit Lawang

Home • Tour Package • Tangkahan Tour & Bukit Lawang

The Bukit Lawang and Tangkahan tour start from Kualanamu airport of Medan. It is recommended if you can arrive by morning flight and our local guide will pick you up to start your 3 – 4 hours driving to Tangkahan. The distance is about 93 km away from Medan via Binjai and Batang Serangan. More than halfway will be on a bad road condition, bumpy road – that will slower the car .

Tangkahan Tour

Upon arrival in Tangkahan, then directly to the lodge to keep your stuff that you don’t need during the 2 days Tangkahan jungle trekking . All the stuff you do not need during in the jungle you can leave at the lodge. We will prepare 1 luggage room with lock to keep all your stuff.

On the 2nd day of your Tangkahan tour, you will be taken deeper in to the jungle of Gunung Leuser National Park. During the jungle trekking you will have a chance to see wild Orangutan, Thomas Leaf Monkey’s , Gibbons, Deer, Macaques, and other wildlife.

• Related Blog
• Start your 2 days jungle trekking to the Leuser National Park and hunt the wild orchid, see the amazing Ficus tree and observe varieties of flora and fauna. If you are lucky, have a chance to see Gibbons, Orangutans, Thomas Leaf Monkey’s, Deer, or Macaques.
• Overnight around the Goa Kambing (Goat Cave) area – or other appropriate spots.
• Dinner and explore more things near the campsite and if you are lucky, meet the nocturnal animals. 
• Breakfast and continue trekking in the jungle for 6 to 7 hours and hunt the wild orchid.
• Trek deeper into the jungle of Mt. Leuser National Park. Along the track, have a chance to see Gibbons, Orangutans, Thomas Leaf Monkeys, Deer, Macaques, and other wildlife.
• In the afternoon out of the jungle by riding on inner tubes along the Batang Serangan River, the inner tubes have been modified to ensure your safety. It will feel like dancing on the river swell using an inner tube.
• Arrive at the finish point and directly walk back to your lodge.
• Dinner will be at the lodge.  (Accommodation: Mega Inn Lodge River view).

NOTE: The accommodation in this area is very standard accommodation. No air-conditioned (fan is available), no hot shower, and bed with mosquito net. Please bring your own toiletries.

For a more upscale accommodation option, try Terrario Resort, which consists of three villa bedrooms with complete facilities. The minimum stay in this resort is two days, but you will experience the perfect blend of adventure and comfort.

• Breakfast at the lodge.
• Leave Tangkahan for Bukit Lawang, another part of the Mt. Leuser National Park.
• Transfer by Jeep to Baharok area for 2.5 hours with distance is around 84 Km but note that the road condition is also bad. Pass along rubber and palm oil plantation and some small villages on the way.
• Arrived at Bukit Lawang drop stuff you don’t need in the jungle to the hotel and start the 2 days adventure to explore the other part of Leuser National Park.
• Start the journey, trekking in the Leuser National Park.
• Overnight at the campsite and have dinner. 

Note: Before trekking or overnight in the jungle, please re-pack your stuff. All the stuff you do not need during in the jungle you can leave in the luggage room at your hotel.

• Breakfast and continue to explore the national park deeper for Sumatran Orangutan, the beautiful hornbill, sun bear, Siamang “the black gibbon”, birds, and many kinds of flora and fauna. Learn and see the edible plant and medication plant along the track.
• In the afternoon, end the adventure and check in to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
• Breakfast and check out from the hotel
• Journey to Medan Airport to catch the flight back home or to continue your trip in other city.

Content not Available

• Jungle Adventure in  Tangkahan Elephant Sanctuary Tangkahan elephant sanctuary in the heart of Mount Leuser national park   takes travelers to experience jungle trekking, elephant bathing, and river tubing.  read more
• Tailor Made Program
• Flexible Departure Date
• Private Trip

Related Tour

Bukit lawang orangutan trek, pacu jawi west sumatra bull race, sumatra overland tour, way kambas national park tours, wild orangutan tour at ketambe, elephant volunteer program.

BALI OFFICE

• Jalan Danau Poso no 77, Sanur Denpasar - 80227
• + 62 (361) 472 00 20
• [email protected]

JAKARTA OFFICE

• Jalan Guru Serih no. 38, Kalisari, Pasar Rebo Jakarta - 13790
• +62 (21) 22 32 75 18
• [email protected]
• Testimonial

ETHICAL TREKKING PIONEER IN BUKIT LAWANG

Tangkahan Tour, Hot springs & Waterfall

Discover the hidden paradise of tangkahan.

Discover the hidden paradise of Tangkahan! At only 2,5 hours from Bukit Lawang, Tangkahan is an eco-tourism destination fighting against illegal logging and offering the possibility to explore its wonderful lush green surroundings. Start your day by exploring the jungle and chase waterfalls. Tube down the river until the stunning waterfall before lunch. After a freshly cooked lunch at this beautiful location, head to the hot springs and take a refreshing swim in the Buluh river. Then make your way to the viewpoint before exploring another waterfall and relax by the river ! If you want to extend the experience, spend a peaceful night in a partner guesthouse located in an idyllic area.

INFORMATION

Duration : one day (7-8 hours) Intensity level : low Group size : minimum 2 people Departure Time : at 09:00 am

What to bring : your camera, comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit, flip flops or sandals, one change of clothes, plastic bag, towel, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, bottle of water

1,100,000 IDR - 66€ - 76$ PER PERSON

*for a day tour for minimum 2 people

1,600,000 IDR - 100€ - 117$ per PERSON

*for a 2 days tour for minimum 2 people

FIND THE experience THAT SUITS YOU BEST

Go on a day trip!

Explore all the idyllic hidden spots of Tangkahan in only one day with a local guide from the area: waterfalls, natural swimming pool, hot springs, viewpoint... From 65€ / person

Spend a night there!

Extend your experience in Tangkahan and spend a night there, get an extra free day there and return to Bukit Lawang whenever you want.  From 100€ / person

1 Day TOUR ITINERARY

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up at your guesthouse around 9:00 am and take you to your car. Your driver will take you to Tangkahan in 2.5 hours through our bumpy and unsurfaced jungle roads. On the way you will witness the destruction our wonderful rainforest through the  endless landscapes of palm oil plantations with the Gunung Leuser National Park in the background. A sad and unforgettable scenery!   Tangkahan is a small village on the border of Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra. It is situated at the junction of 2 rivers, the Buluh River and the Batang River. Tangkahan is a good example on how community based eco-tourism can stop illegal logging, improve livelihood of local people. The CRU/LPT Tangkahan. Lembaga Pariwisata Tangkahan (LPT) is a local organization formed with the purpose to develop eco-tourism as a new form of livelihood and in this way prevent illegal logging. As regards the CRU (Conservation Response Unit), it is a team of Sumatran Elephants saved from illegal poaching and their mahouts that helps safeguard the national park to protect it from encroachment. As elephant activity is under worldwide criticism we have decided to not promote the elephant washing activity organized by the CRU anymore as we are not sure about how the elephants are treated/trained and as the organization is still offering a riding activity. If you want to visit the CRU and it's elephants we recommend you to do some research before and to consider the "Walk with the Elephants activity", a trek through the jungle where you walk BESIDE them. 

You will start your discovery by crossing the Buluh River through a huge wooden bridge and discover the natural and unspoilt environment of Tangkahan. Then you'll walk for roughly 1 hour through the jungle to reach the incredible waterfall of Tangkahan! You'll swim and take a revitalizing shower under the waterfall. You'll tube back along the river before lunch. Then you'll enjoy either your traditional lunch at a nice local restaurant in Tangkahan or a freshly cooked lunch at the riverbank! During the afternoon you'll chill out at the Buluh River. Perfect occasion to take a refreshing swim in the river and to enjoy at the hot springs. 

On the way back to Bukit Lawang, you will cross undeveloped areas so take the time to observe the everyday life in rural villages.

End of the day, your guide will bring you back to your guesthouse around 6:00 or 7:00 pm. 

1,100,000 IDR / PERSON

*for 2 people minimum

Tour includes : transport from Bukit Lawang by private car, driver, English speaking local guide, all entrance permits for the national park, tickets for crossing the Buluh River, lunch, tube, stop at the hot springs, several waterfalls and viewpoint. 

Tour excludes : breakfast, dinner & bottle of water 

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

2D/1N TOUR ITINERARY

You will start your discovery by crossing the Buluh River through a huge wooden bridge and discover the natural and unspoilt environment of Tangkahan. Then you'll walk for roughly 1 hour through the jungle to reach the incredible waterfall of Tangkahan! You'll swim and take a revitalizing shower under the waterfall. You'll tube back along the river before lunch. Then you'll enjoy either your traditional lunch at a nice local restaurant in Tangkahan or a freshly cooked lunch at the riverbank! During the afternoon you'll chill out at the Buluh River. Perfect occasion to take a refreshing swim in the river and to enjoy at the hot springs. 

End of the afternoon your guide will take you to your accommodation located at the river bank and overlooking the green lush jungle. You will have time to relax at your balcony, enjoy a refreshing drink at the panoramic view restaurant or take a walk along the river!  Choose one of the delicious homemade meals from the restaurant for dinner before enjoying a good night of sleep with the sounds of the jungle!

Wake up with the Gibbons singing the next morning. After a yummy breakfast at the panoramic restaurant of your accommodation overlooking the lush jungle, you will start a second day of discovery!  This second day will be a free one! You spend this day on your own and you will have time to do whatever you want : relax at the guesthouse, discover rural villages, go for a walk, swim in the river... You will spend a chilling day there. Let us know the day before at what time you'd like to be picked up. You will meet your driver at your accommodation and he will take you back to Bukit Lawang. It will take 2 to 3 hours to go back to Bukit Lawang.

If you'd rather go back to Medan directly please let us know and we will tell you our rate.

1,600,000 IDR / PERSON

2  Days Tour includes: transport from Bukit Lawang by private car, driver, English speaking local guide, all entrance permits for the national park, tickets for crossing the Buluh River, lunch x 2, tube, stop at the hot springs, several waterfalls and viewpoint, 1 night in a basic double bedroom at a local guesthouse,  & transport back from Tangkahan to Bukit Lawang by private car.

2 Days Tour excludes : breakfasts, dinners & drinks

Our Mission : Shaping a better future for amazing rainforest, its amazing wildlife and the local community of Bukit Lawang

1 CHARITY SUPPORTED WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

10% OF OUR BENEFITS donated

EVERY TOUR WITH US IS A DIRECT DONATION TO CAUSES THAT WE CARE ABOUT

Local seamstress.

Back to Activities Options

• Bukit Lawang
• 4 Nights/ 5 Days Bukit Bukit Lawang-Tangkahan-Berastagi
• Special Jungle Trek Six Days
• Chinese (Simplified)

About Tangkahan

Tangkahan is a small village located in the Langkat regency of North Sumatra, Indonesia. The village is situated in the heart of the Gunung Leuser National Park and is surrounded by dense rainforest and beautiful rivers. It is known for its natural beauty and eco-tourism activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Tangkahan is its elephant sanctuary, which was established to provide a safe and natural environment for former logging elephants. Visitors can take part in various activities such as bathing and feeding the elephants, as well as they walk together  through the jungle. The sanctuary also offers opportunities to learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect the elephants and their habitat.

In addition to the elephant sanctuary, Tangkahan is also a great place for trekking, camping, and river rafting. There are several trails through the jungle, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, that lead to beautiful waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. The Batang Serangan River is a popular spot for rafting, offering both thrilling rapids and peaceful stretches where visitors can take in the natural beauty.

Jungle Inn Tour Packages

We are Offering

Tangkahan tour.

Tangkahan Tour with Jungle Inn is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience the natural beauty and culture of Tangkahan in a hassle-free way. Jungle Inn offers several tour packages that include accommodation, meals, and a range of activities and tours.

One of the most popular packages is the Jungle Trekking and Elephant Bathing Tour. This package includes a guided jungle trek through the Gunung Leuser National Park, where visitors can explore the lush rainforest and spot exotic wildlife such as orangutans and hornbills. After the trek, guests can enjoy a refreshing bath with the elephants at the Tangkahan Elephant Sanctuary.

Jungle Inn also offers Unique tour packages, allowing visitors to tailor their experience to their interests and preferences. Guests can choose from a range of activities such as bird watching, village tours, and cultural experiences, and the friendly staff at Jungle Inn will help you create a personalized itinerary.

Get Our Social Media :

Copyright © 2021 Jungle Inn Bukit Lawang

• Moscow Tours
• Customized tours
• Moscow for kids
• Evening activities
• Moscow evening activities
• St Petersburg evening activities
• Day trips out of Moscow
• Golden Ring tours
• St Petersburg tours
• Russian tour destinations
• Package tours
• Moscow highlights
• Travel Tips
• Upcoming group tours
• Moscow events

The wonders of Moscow metro

Request form

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website, and to facilitate providing you with services available through our website. By continuing to use our website, you accept our use of cookies, the terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service . I agree

• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

Moscow Metro Underground Small-Group Tour - With Reviews & Ratings

Moscow metro underground small-group tour.

• See more images

Tour Information

Key Details

• Mobile Voucher Accepted
• Free Cancellation
• Duration: 3 Hrs
• Language: English
• Departure Time : 10:00 AM
• Departure Details : Karl Marks Monument on Revolution Square, metro stop: Square of Revolution
• Return Details : Metro Smolenskaya
• If you cancel at least 4 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
• Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.

Go beneath the streets on this tour of the spectacular, mind-bending Moscow Metro! Be awed by architecture and spot the Propaganda , then hear soviet stories from a local in the know. Finish it all up above ground, looking up to Stalins skyscrapers, and get the inside scoop on whats gone on behind those walls.

Know More about this tour

We begin our Moscow tour beneath the city, exploring the underground palace of the Moscow Metro. From the Square of Revolution station, famous for its huge statues of soviet people (an armed soldier, a farmer with a rooster, a warrior, and more), we’ll move onto some of the most significant stations, where impressive mosaics, columns, and chandeliers will boggle your eyes! Moreover, these stations reveal a big part of soviet reality — the walls depict plenty of Propaganda , with party leaders looking down from images on the walls. Your local guide will share personal stories of his/her family from USSR times, giving you insight into Russia’s complicated past and present. Then we’re coming back up to street level, where we’ll take a break and refuel with some Russian fast food: traditional pancakes, called bliny. And then, stomachs satiated, we are ready to move forward! We’ll take the eco-friendly electric trolleybus, with a route along the Moscow Garden Ring. Used mainly by Russian babushkas(grannies) during the day, the trolleybus hits peak hours in the mornings and evenings, when many locals use it going to and from their days. Our first stop will be the Aviator’s House, one of Stalin’s Seven Sisters, followed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs — and you’ll hear the legends of what has gone on inside the walls. Throughout your Moscow tour, you’ll learn curious facts from soviet history while seeing how Russia exists now, 25 years after the USSR.

Local English-speaking guide

Pancake snack and drink

Additional food and drinks

Tickets for public transport

Souvenirs and items of a personal nature

Tips and gratuities for the guide

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking

Dress standard: Please wear comfortable shoes for walking. For your Urban Adventure you will be in a small group of a maximum of 12 people

Traveler Reviews

This tour exceeded our expectations. Nikolai (Nick), our tour guide, was very knowledgeable, thorough, and has a great personality. He didn't take shortcuts and really covered everything that was on the agenda in great detail. We saw beautiful metro stations and learned the history behind them, including many of the murals and designs.

We did the tour with Anna her knowledge and understanding of the History surrounding the metro brought the tour alive. Well done Anna!

This tour was amazing!

Anna was a great tour guide. She gave us heaps of interesting information, was very friendly, and very kindly showed us how to get to our next tour.

Amazing beauty and history.

An excellent tour helped by an absolutely amazing guide. Anna gave a great insight into the history of the metro helped by additional material she had prepared.

great tour and guide - thanks again

great will do it again, Miriam ke was very good as a guide she has lived here all here life so knew every interesting detail.a good day