Things To Do
in Subulussalam

Subulussalam is a charming city located in the Aceh province of Indonesia, known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding region, including mountains, forests, and rivers. The city is inhabited by a mix of ethnic groups, predominantly the Acehnese, who are known for their hospitality and unique traditions.

Subulussalam's vibrant local markets and traditional foods offer a glimpse into the daily lives of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Subulussalam Nature Park for a morning hike amidst the lush greenery and stunning views.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to enjoy lunch, sampling traditional Acehnese dishes, and explore local crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset view at the nearby riverbank, followed by dinner at a local restaurant serving fresh seafood.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local waterfalls, where you can swim and relax in the natural pools.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the cultural sites in Subulussalam, including traditional Acehnese homes and museums.

evening
:

Conclude with a visit to a local café for dessert, enjoying local pastries and coffee while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$2
Coffee$1
🍺Local Beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences with friendly locals.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable travel costs compared to other regions.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • Transportation can be challenging outside of main areas.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Subulussalam

Visit one of these nice places.

Subulussalam Nature Park

A stunning location with vibrant flora and fauna, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Riverbank at Sunset

The riverbank offers picturesque sunset views, reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky.

Traditional Acehnese Houses

The unique architecture of local homes provides a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Acehnese people.

Culinary Guide

Food in Subulussalam

Subulussalam offers a delightful culinary experience, with a variety of local dishes that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Subulussalam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Goreng Aceh

A spicy fried rice dish cooked with various spices and often served with fried egg and chicken or seafood.

Must-Try!

Kuah Rujak

A traditional Acehnese fruit salad dressed with a spicy and tangy sauce, perfect for hot days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Subulussalam Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Subulussalam has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity throughout the year. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). Rainy season brings heavy downpours, while the dry season offers more sunshine and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

It is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Greeting Locals

A polite handshake or a slight bow is customary when greeting locals.

Remove Shoes

Always remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Subulussalam is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, keep valuables secure, and stay aware of your surroundings. It is advisable to have travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Subulussalam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

While not mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some establishments may accept credit cards, especially in tourist areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (November to March)

Expect heavy rainfall and humid conditions; it’s advisable to pack waterproof clothing.

Dry Season (April to October)

Ideal for outdoor activities, with warm and sunny weather, perfect for hiking and exploring.

Festival Season

Various cultural festivals occur throughout the year, offering unique experiences of local traditions.

Harvest Season

From June to September, witness the harvest of rice and other crops, which can be a vibrant time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Subulussalam at Night

Subulussalam has a relaxed nightlife scene, with local cafes and restaurants often staying open late. While there are no large nightclubs, you can enjoy live music performances in certain venues and socialize with locals. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, ideal for enjoying evenings with friends or family.

Hiking in Subulussalam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Leuser Trail

A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest and wildlife.

Bukit Barisan Trail

A scenic trail suitable for all levels, featuring diverse flora and fauna as well as panoramic views.

Airports

How to reach Subulussalam by plane.

Subulussalam Airport (SIM)

Located approximately 5 km from the city center, this small airport offers domestic flights to major Indonesian cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Subulussalam is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may be uneven or lack proper maintenance. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious of traffic while walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Acehnese

The predominant ethnic group in Subulussalam, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Javanese

A significant minority group, often involved in trade and agriculture, contributing to the local economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Subulussalam, with local teams and matches played regularly.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played and enjoyed, with many local clubs and tournaments throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Subulussalam is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city by foot or by bike. Public transportation options include local buses and taxis, but they may be limited. It's common for locals to use motorcycles for quicker travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Subulussalam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

There are vegetarian options available, but it is advisable to ask for no meat or fish in specific dishes.

Halal

Most food in Subulussalam is halal, but it's best to confirm in restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Subulussalam are limited, with a few local clinics and a hospital available. For serious medical issues, it's recommended to travel to larger cities like Banda Aceh. Having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is advisable.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide