Bukit Suligi Protected Forest

Landscape and Geography

Bukit Suligi Protected Forest features a topography dominated by steep hills, reaching an altitude of 812 meters above sea level (mdpl). Its highest peak, often referred to as Puncak Suligi, is the best vantage point to enjoy the panorama of Riau from above. Visually, the area is dominated by dense highland tropical rainforest.

The unique geography of Bukit Suligi lies in its rock formations and steep valleys covered in dense vegetation. From a distance, the hill appears like a giant green row supporting the sky. The presence of small rivers originating in this area also creates small rapids and clear springs, which are sources of life for the surrounding ecosystem.

Preserved Ecosystem and Biodiversity

As a protected forest area, Bukit Suligi is home to various endemic flora and fauna of Sumatra. Beneath the lush forest canopy, visitors can find valuable commercial timber species like Meranti, Keruing, and various types of rattan. Epiphytic plants such as wild orchids are also often found attached to the trunks of old trees, adding to the area's botanical richness.

In terms of fauna, Bukit Suligi is a habitat for various primate species like long-tailed macaques and wild boars. If you're lucky, the calls of forest birds like Hornbills and Eagles will accompany your journey. The presence of these predatory birds indicates that the food chain within this protected forest is functioning well. Protection efforts are continuously carried out by the local Forest Management Unit (KPH) to ensure that illegal hunting does not threaten the balance of this ecosystem.

Tourist Experience: Land Above the Clouds

The main attraction that made Bukit Suligi Protected Forest go viral among nature lovers is the sea of clouds phenomenon. To experience this, visitors must hike to the summit in the early morning.

Upon reaching the peak just before sunrise, you will be treated to a magical view. Thick, pure white clouds cover the valleys below, making the hilltops appear to float above the clouds. As the sun slowly emerges from the eastern horizon (sunrise), the sky's colors change from dark blue to golden orange, creating an extraordinary contrast with the white clouds and green trees. This moment is the primary target for landscape photographers.

Outdoor Activities and Adventure

Besides enjoying the sunrise view, Bukit Suligi Protected Forest offers various activities for adventurers:

1. Hiking and Trekking: The hiking trails on Bukit Suligi have varying difficulty levels. These trails demand good physical fitness due to their steep inclines in several sections. Large tree roots emerging from the ground often serve as "natural stairs" for hikers.

2. Camping: There is a limited flat area around the summit, sufficient for a few tents. Spending the night here offers an opportunity to enjoy a clear, star-studded sky (milky way) due to minimal light pollution.

3. Bird Watching: For ornithology enthusiasts, this forest is a paradise for observing the behavior of forest birds in their natural habitat.

4. Nature Photography: Every corner of Bukit Suligi offers attractive photographic compositions, from the details of moss on tree trunks to the vast landscapes from above.

Best Time to Visit

To fully experience the "Land Above the Clouds" phenomenon, the best time to visit is during the dry season or transition period, around June to September. During this period, the chances of a clear sky are higher, and the hiking trails are less slippery.

It is highly recommended to start hiking at 03:00 or 04:00 AM to reach the summit before dawn. If you choose to camp, make sure to monitor the local weather forecast, as heavy rain can make the hiking trails very dangerous and obscured by thick fog that hinders visibility.

Conservation Status and Environmental Protection

Bukit Suligi Protected Forest is legally protected to maintain its hydrological functions and prevent soil erosion. Its status as a protected forest means there are strict rules regarding human activities within it. Tourists are strictly prohibited from:

• Cutting or damaging any vegetation, no matter how small.
• Hunting or disturbing wildlife.
• Leaving trash along the hiking trails or at the summit area (Leave No Trace principle).
• Making bonfires indiscriminately, which could trigger forest fires.

Environmental awareness from visitors is crucial. The beauty of Bukit Suligi depends heavily on the preservation of its forest. Without large trees, the beautiful cloud phenomenon would not occur, as water evaporation from the forest is one of the factors forming the mist.

Accessibility and Facilities

Reaching Bukit Suligi Protected Forest requires a land journey from the center of Pasir Pengaraian City, the capital of Rokan Hulu, with a travel time of about 1 to 2 hours to the nearest village at the foot of the hill, such as Desa Aliantan. From Pekanbaru, the journey takes about 4 to 5 hours.

Facilities within the protected forest area are still very limited and natural. This is maintained to preserve the forest's authenticity. At the starting point of the hike, there are usually volunteer posts or local guides from the local tourism awareness group (Pokdarwis). It is highly recommended to use the services of local guides, especially for beginner hikers, for safety and to gain in-depth information about the hiking trails and the local wisdom of the community.

Conclusion

Bukit Suligi Protected Forest is proof that Riau possesses mountain natural wealth that rivals other regions in Indonesia. This destination offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city into the embrace of pure nature. By hiking Bukit Suligi, we not only travel but also learn to appreciate the importance of preserving the remaining lungs of the world on Bumi Lancang Kuning. For lovers of heights and sunrise chasers, Bukit Suligi is a must-visit destination that will provide unforgettable visual memories.