ACEH

STORY ABOUT ACEH

Banda Aceh is suffered an immense loss of life during the tsunami of December 26, 2004. Over 100,000 residents lost their live in a matter of minutes as the huge tidal wave swept ashore. Many heart-wrenching and poignant reminders of that day remain. They range from a huge generator ship that now become a monument that was lifted several kilometers inland from its seaside berth to crush a rom of family houses and their inhabitants and smaller ship which landed atop another house and ironically served as a means for the survival and rescue of 57 people, to a myriad of bettered landscapes, shattered buildings, and mass gravesites. Visitors are awestruck at the devastation but inspired by the recovery process. They marvel at the stories of the survivors, and they revel at their determination to rebuild their lives.

PLACES OF INTEREST

1) WEH ISLAND

Weh island often referred to by the name of its capital, Sabang, is the western most island of the Indonesia archipelago. It is situated at the mouth of the Malacca Strait a sea passage for many yachts and cruise ships only 18 miles away, one hour by ferry, from Ulee-Lheue harbor in Banda Aceh. Diving in Pulau Weh is a well-established recreational activity with dive masters and dive instructors ready to offer a variety of dives to sites like the fabled Sea Garden in Pulau Rubiah.

2) ALAS RIVER

Alas River flows into the Indian Ocean; this river has exceptional rapids that attract whitewater rafting enthusiasts for all over the world.

3) GUNUNG LEUSER

Hiking to the peak of Gunung Leuser (3,404 meters) take about 10-14 days. The small village of Angasan is a suitable starting point. Angasan is located several hours walk west of Blang Kejeren. Most hikers spend the night in Angasan and start their trek in the morning.

4) BAITURRAHMAN MOSQUE

Baiturrahman Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and ornamentation is the main feature of Banda Aceh. It has five onion-shaped domes, two towering minarets, expansive white walls, and pillars with beautiful designs.

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