History, Ticket Prices and 2023 Locations
Fort De Kock is a historic building from the colonial era of the Dutch East Indies in the Bukittinggi area. This instagramable tourist spot in West Sumatra is quite well known among the people in Bukittinggi.
This fort is a witness to the battle between the Padri and indigenous people. Then what historical stories are in this fort? So that you are not curious, just look at the following information.
History of Fort De Kock Fort
Fort De Kock Fort is a fort that was founded around 1826. The history of Fort de Kock Fort development began with the idea of a captain named Johan Heinrich Conrad Bauer.
Initially, this newest Bukittinggi tourist spot was called Sterreschans. Johan then changed the name of the fort as a tribute to Hendrik Merkus Baron de Kock.
The function of the construction of this fort is as a fortress of defense. According to historical records, from 1803 to 1838, the Padri War occurred. This war broke out due to a dispute between the indigenous people and the Padri.
When the war flared up, the Dutch East Indies army stepped in to help the indigenous people. They built several forts in the Minangkabau highlands, and one of them was this fort.
Fort De Kock Fort Location
The location of Fort De Kock Fort is located in the City of Bukittinggi. Precisely on Jalan Yos Sudarso, Upper Market Fort, Guguk Panjang. The distance is close to the Bukittinggi Clock Tower, which is only 10 minutes.
You can take the bus with the Pasar Bawah – Simpang Alur route and get off at RSUD Dr. Achmad Mochtar. If from Google Mapsthe distance is only about 150 meters to arrive at the destination.
However, you will still be more comfortable driving yourself or renting a car plus a driver at Salsa Wisata. You can rent a car from Padang City at a low price.
For trip with a group, for example, one suitable recommendation is the Elf car rental service in Padang. With a capacity of up to a dozen passengers, the rental price is also affordable.
Fort De Kock Fort Opening Hours
The operational schedule of this fort is the same as that of the Bukittinggi Kinantan Wildlife and Cultural Park. This is because both are in the same area.
The following is information on the opening hours of Fort de Kock, complete with information on the operating schedule:
Fort De Kock Entrance Ticket Prices
There is no charge for Fort de Kock Bukittinggi. However, to be able to enter the fort area, you must go through the entrance to the Kinantan Bukittinggi Animal and Cultural Park.
You also have to buy an entrance ticket to the Bukittinggi Wildlife and Cultural Park, Kinantan, which is quite expensive. The following is the latest ticket price information for the wildlife park:
After a satisfying walk in the fort area, of course the stomach will be hungry. For recharge energy, take the time to stop at the culinary tourism center to fill your stomach with typical Bukittinggi snacks which are famous for being delicious.
You will find many choices of food stalls complete with various menu choices. Please choose the one that suits your tongue.
Fort De Kock Tourist Attraction
If Mount Sago has the charm of its natural charm, it is different from this fort. Its main attraction is more on the historical value that once accompanied it.
Apart from that, there are also several other additional attractions that you can also try. For example, playing hanging bike rides, riding animals, visiting traditional house museums, and going to the zoo.
Padri War Relic Cannon
The construction of this fort is a defensive fort that was built during the Padri War that was in turmoil. As a defensive fort, of course there are many weapons stored in the fort.
One of them is an old cannon. According to historical records, the cannon was a model year 1813. This cannon was often used during the middle of the war.
Picnic Around the Fort
The location of this fort is on Jirek Hill which has a height of about 958 meters above sea level. Because it is located at an altitude, you can see the beauty of the City of Bukittinggi from the top of the fort.
In addition, the atmosphere around the main building of the fort area is quite shady – suitable for a picnic. Not a few visitors who come here bring provisions and cushions to have a picnic.
Some brought food that they made at home. But there are also those who choose the practical way, namely buying snacks at a typical Minangkabau souvenir shop in the city of Bukittinggi.
Hanging Bicycle Rides
Once satisfied around the fort, now is the time to indulge yourself by riding a hanging bike. Don’t worry, this vehicle is very safe because every visitor who rides the vehicle must wear a safety rope.
Like a normal bicycle, you have to pedal so that this ride can go above the altitude. Interestingly, you can capture this exciting moment with a professional photography camera.
Riding an Elephant or a Horse
Kids will love this horse or elephant ride. The horses and elephants here are tame, so it’s safe for your little ones to ride. There are also guides who will continue to accompany your little one while riding a horse or elephant.
You adults can also try to ride an elephant. Because of its strong body, an elephant can withstand the weight of up to 2 adults. How are you interested?
Safari to the Zoo
Complete your family vacation by visiting the zoo which is located close to the fort. Find many species of animals that make up the collection of this zoo.
The collection itself is quite complete which consists of species of birds, mammals and reptiles. You may take pictures with these animals.
But specifically for certain animals, visitors may only be able to see them from a distance. For example, carnivores such as tigers, lions, etc.
Traditional House Museum
In this area, you can also visit the Baanjuang Traditional House Museum. This place is a building in the style of Rumah Gadang Bagonjong Gajag Maharam.
This traditional house functions as a museum that stores various Minangkabau historical and cultural heritage. Here, visitors can also rent a typical Minang wedding dress to take pictures.
Facilities at Fort De Kock
The facilities available for this fort area are fairly qualified. Apart from having a variety of public facilities, this place also has facilities in the form of rides that provide a pleasant experience for visitors.
We inform a number of public facilities available in this tourist area. Here’s the info:
- vehicle parking area
- toilet
- the store
- Minang traditional wedding costume rental center
- rental center hammock
- prayer room
With these facilities, holiday events will feel fun. Moreover, the attraction is not only this fort. There are still many other attractions such as the many outlets selling famous West Sumatran specialties, etc.
For those who can’t wait to visit here, preferably booking tour packages in advance so that your vacation at Fort de Kock Fort will be smoother and better accommodated.