Pulau Weh

Pulau Weh, also referred to as "Sabang", is a small active volcanic island located northwest of Sumatra. The island got separated from the Sumatran mainland due to volcanic eruption. It lies in the Andaman Sea, with its largest city Sabang being the westernmost outpost of Indonesia. Weh or Pulau Weh is surrounded by a wildlife protection area with a rich ecosystem that is visited by the megamouth shark species and the threatened toad species - Bufo Valhallae. Different varieties of fish are found in the coral reefs around the island.

The place has some colonial Dutch buildings. With a deep harbour and water supply facilities, it became a significant coal loading station for ships. Pulau Weh has a lot of beaches like Pantai Sumur Tiga and Pantai Kasih, which are suitable for swimming.  Padai Tapak Gajah beach is also popular for snorkelling and swimming.  Other popular activities in Pulau Weh include visiting the Merabu graveyard and the fresh food markets.

There is a small airport called Cot Bak U / Malikulsaleh in Sabang that operates chartered flights to Banda Aceh. A new airport is being built. A twice-daily passenger ferry and once daily car ferry are available to the city everyday.

The island has the shape of a horseshoe with primary tourist beaches at Iboih and Gapang. Weh experiences a bit of rainfall throughout the year as there are two monsoon seasons.

Sea currents draw marine creatures like whale sharks and manta rays to feed on planktons. Dolphins might also be seen. The Iboih Recreation Park and Rubiah sea garden are popular tourist attractions.

The Rubiah Sea Garden Marine Park is a popular diving and snorkelling site as well. The park has whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays and dolphins. Whale sharks can be spotted during the wettest and coolest months between November and January. The island has been a victim of the tsunami in the past and is under renovation.

Pulau Weh is known for its waterfall, hot springs; plus the Zero Kilometre Monument, the Japanese bunkers from WWII, volcano, the historical graveyard, Durian Keramat and the Sabang town. At Pulau Weh one can shop for fresh fruits and traditional foods like dodol, keripik and souvenir handicrafts.

The island has many accommodation facilities ranging from home-stays and hotels to beach view bungalows and cottages. Minibuses, 3-wheel pedicabs, motorcycles and rental cars are also available.