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Gunung Leuser National Park is one of the most biodiverse and ecologically important national parks in Indonesia. Located in northern Sumatra, it spans across two provinces—Aceh and North Sumatra—and covers an area of over 7,900 square kilometers. It forms a significant part of the UNESCO-listed "Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra." The park is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, including critically endangered species such as the Sumatran orangutan, Sumatran tiger, Sumatran elephant, and Sumatran rhinoceros. The park’s name is derived from Mount Leuser (Gunung Leuser), which rises to over 3,000 meters and forms the park’s mountainous backbone.
The most popular entry point to the park is through the village of **Bukit Lawang**, located on the eastern side of the park in North Sumatra. Bukit Lawang is about 86 kilometers from Medan, the capital of North Sumatra Province. From Medan, visitors can take a taxi, private car, or shared minivan to Bukit Lawang, which usually takes around 3 to 4 hours. Another access point is via **Ketambe** in Aceh, a less touristy but equally rewarding destination for trekkers and wildlife watchers. Flights to Medan are available from major cities in Indonesia and some international hubs like Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Gunung Leuser National Park has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity and consistent rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature ranges between 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F). The **wet season** typically runs from October to March, while the **dry season** is from April to September. The best time to visit is during the dry season when trails are more accessible, and wildlife is easier to spot. However, the park’s lush rainforest beauty is present year-round, and even in the wet season, there are many good days for trekking.
Gunung Leuser National Park is open year-round and does not have strict entry and exit times. However, park activities like guided treks and wildlife tours usually take place between **7:00 AM and 5:00 PM**, as navigating the jungle after dark is not permitted for safety reasons. Multi-day treks with overnight jungle camping are also available through licensed guides.
The park is internationally famous for its role in protecting some of the world’s rarest and most endangered species. It is one of the few places on Earth where orangutans, tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses still live together in the wild. The **Sumatran orangutan**, in particular, draws wildlife enthusiasts and researchers from around the world. The park also supports countless bird species, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, making it a haven for biodiversity. Additionally, its rugged landscapes of mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and tropical forests attract adventure travelers and nature lovers alike.
To enter the park, visitors must purchase an entry permit and hire a licensed local guide, especially for jungle treks. The permit costs around **IDR 150,000 for international tourists**, and local tour operators usually include this in their trek packages. There are several types of treks available—from short 3-hour walks to multi-day treks that involve jungle camping. Accommodations are readily available in Bukit Lawang and Ketambe, ranging from budget guesthouses to eco-lodges. It is advised to book treks in advance, particularly during the high season (June to August).
Gunung Leuser National Park was officially established in **1980**, although conservation efforts in the region date back to the early 20th century. The park is part of the larger **Leuser Ecosystem**, a crucial area for environmental preservation in Southeast Asia. Unlike other parks that feature man-made architecture, Gunung Leuser is known for its untouched wilderness. However, around the park, especially in Bukit Lawang, you’ll find charming traditional wooden buildings, stilt houses, and eco-lodges that reflect local architecture and are designed to coexist with the environment. The **Orangutan Rehabilitation Center** in Bukit Lawang, built in the 1970s, was once the most active of its kind and remains an iconic part of the area.
There are many activities that visitors can enjoy in Gunung Leuser National Park, such as:
