This bustling port was once made famous by a popular song of the same name, sung by Ernie Djohan in the 60’s. Teluk Bayur is the reason Padang became an important transport hub, as the port is known as the largest and busiest port on the western coast of Sumatra. Last recorded tremors were the 2010 Mentawai Earthquake which occurred with a magnitude of 7.7 Richter scale.

During the 20 th century many transmigrants from Java, Batak, Madura, and other regions also come to this place to settle and coexists with the locale.ĭue to its location between the two major intercontinental plates and also the Great Sumatran Fault, Padang is extremely prone to earthquake, as is the whole West Sumatra. There are 3 main ethnic groups native to this area, the Minangkabau, Mentawai, and Nias. Padang is also known for the Minangkabau traditional house’s distinctive architectural style, the Rumah Gadang.

In fact, almost every other major city in Indonesia have a Padang Restaurant. Padang is also known for its culinary delight, the local food in here is popularly known all over Indonesia for its unique spicy taste with amazing sauces and broths. There are many backpackers passing through this city, therefore, the number of budget accommodations is quite high. It is strategically located in the heart of West Sumatra and connected to a port, which makes it an excellent transit point for people who want to visit neighboring islands and regions. Known as a trade hub since the 16 th century, Padang has grown to become the largest city on the west coast of Sumatra and act as a capital for the West Sumatra province, Indonesia.

Padang sumatra