Bukit Batu

A small riverside town that serves as a gateway to the Bukit Tigapuluh National Park and traditional Malay culture experiences. The town provides access to jungle treks, wildlife spotting, and encounters with indigenous communities.

Things to do

• Bukit Tigapuluh National Park Trekking — Multi-day jungle expeditions through primary rainforest to spot orangutans, tigers, and other endemic wildlife in this 323,000-hectare protected area.
• Indragiri River Boat Tour — Scenic river cruises along the Indragiri River to observe traditional fishing methods, riverside settlements, and migratory bird species.
• Sungai Buluh Orang Utan Sanctuary Visit — Guided visits to rehabilitation centers and natural habitat areas where rescued orangutans are observed and protected within the national park.
• Orang Asli (Orang Rimba) Community Encounters — Educational meetings with indigenous forest communities to learn traditional hunting, foraging, and medicinal plant knowledge.
• Waterfall Hiking at Tesso Nilo — Moderate jungle hikes to cascading freshwater falls and natural pools within the Tesso Nilo ecosystem near Bukit Batu.
• Night Jungle Safari — Nocturnal wildlife spotting expeditions to encounter slow lorises, flying squirrels, owls, and other creatures active after dark.

Food to try

• Ikan Bakar (Grilled River Fish) — Freshly caught Indragiri river fish marinated in turmeric, garlic, and chili, then grilled over charcoal and served with sambal.
• Gulai Kepala Ikan (Fish Head Curry) — Rich coconut-based curry made with fish heads, traditional spices, and local herbs that is a Malay coastal and riverside specialty.
• Nasi Kuning (Turmeric Rice) — Fragrant yellow rice cooked with coconut milk, turmeric, and lemongrass, commonly served at local gatherings and warungs.
• Udang Sambal (Spicy Shrimp Paste) — Small river shrimp cooked in fiery sambal belacan with lime and bird's-eye chilies, reflecting the region's love of bold flavors.
• Soto Ayam Riau — Regional chicken soup with turmeric, galangal, and traditional spices served with yellow rice and hard-boiled eggs.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for Sacred Jungle Spaces — Local communities and guides consider parts of the forest sacred; ask permission and follow guide instructions about restricted areas to honor indigenous beliefs.
• Dress Modestly and Practically — Wear long sleeves, pants, and closed shoes for jungle activities to respect local customs and protect against insects and thorns.
• Greet with 'Selamat Pagi' and Accept Tea — Morning greetings and accepting offered tea or coffee from locals or your guide is an important gesture of respect and community acceptance.
• Photography Etiquette with Indigenous Groups — Always ask for explicit permission before photographing Orang Rimba or Malay villagers, as many prefer privacy and may request payment.