Mount Leuser

Mount Leuser is a summit reaching approximately 3,100 meters within Gunung Leuser National Park, part of the Barisan mountain chain in northern Sumatra. The area is covered in thick rainforest that supports a wide range of plants and animal life.

The Ketambe Research Station was established in 1971, marking the start of systematic studies of orangutans in their natural habitat in this region. These early investigations greatly contributed to understanding this threatened species.

Local communities who live near the mountain have developed a deep knowledge of the forest and its resources over many generations. Their daily life and traditions are closely connected to the surrounding woodland.

Visitors reach the mountain through the Bukit Lawang gateway, where experienced guides offer expeditions through the rainforest. The trek through dense woodland requires good physical fitness and proper gear for the wet environment.

The area is home to an exceptionally high diversity of plant species and rare mammals, including endangered Sumatran orangutans and Asian elephants. This concentration of rare animals makes the region one of Southeast Asia's most valuable forest areas.

GPS coordinates: 3.74144,97.15506

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:47