Payakumbuh

Payakumbuh is the second largest city in West Sumatra province and sits at roughly 520 meters elevation. The settlement spreads across a valley nestled between Mount Singgalang and Mount Malintang.

The city developed under Dutch colonial rule, with a stone bridge called Jembatan Ratapan Ibu built in 1840. This bridge connected Nagari Aie Tabik to the city center and remains from that era.

The city maintains Randai performances, a traditional Minangkabau art form that blends martial arts, dance, and music into a single spectacle. These shows use Talempong and Saluang instruments and remain visible at local celebrations and community gatherings.

The city connects to Padang and Pekanbhu through road networks and offers local transportation options. The Sago transit system and traditional horse-drawn carts called bendi are the main ways to get around locally.

The city hosts flying duck races that are popular among residents as a local sporting tradition. Regional specialties like Batiah sweet rice cookies, Gelamai coconut snacks, and rendang dishes are made here and enjoyed throughout the community.

Location: West Sumatra

Inception: March 19, 1956

Elevation above the sea: 520 m

Reference: 13.76

Shares border with: Lima Puluh Kota

Website: http://payakumbuhkota.go.id

GPS coordinates: -0.22444,100.63250

Latest update: December 17, 2025 10:03