How to get to Lhokseumawe

Planning a trip to Lhokseumawe, located on the northern coast of the island of Sumatra in Indonesia, introduces you to an important port centre in the Aceh province. This city offers tourists an authentic atmosphere and beautiful sea views while remaining a significant regional hub. When deciding how to get to Lhokseumawe, you can choose a convenient flight or opt for ground transport—by bus or car—to enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way.

The fastest way to reach Lhokseumawe is by plane. The city is served by Malikus Saleh Airport (LSW), which handles domestic flights. Since the airport does not have international status, travelers from abroad need to plan a route with a layover.

The main transit hub for flights to this region is usually Medan (Kualanamu Airport). Local airlines fly from there, delivering passengers directly to their destination. Flight time from Medan is less than an hour, making this the most comfortable and efficient way to reach the northern coast of Sumatra.

There is no direct railway connection to the city, as Lhokseumawe does not have an active station for long-distance passenger trains. Railway infrastructure in this part of Indonesia is fragmented, so reaching here exclusively by rail is not possible.

As an alternative, travelers choose road transport, enjoying views of Sumatra from the window of a bus or car. Routes often pass through neighbouring cities, such as Banda Aceh or scenic Takengon, from where stable road connections to the coast are established.

Bus services connect Lhokseumawe with key points in the Aceh province, offering tourists the opportunity to enjoy views of northern Sumatra from the vehicle window. The most popular route runs from the city of Banda Aceh: comfortable coaches cover the distance of about 275 kilometres in 6–7 hours along the region's main highway. Lovers of mountain landscapes will enjoy the trip from picturesque Takengon, where the descent to the coast, spanning about 100 kilometres, takes approximately 3–4 hours.

Travelers coming from the west coast can take a direct route from the city of Meulaboh, though one should be prepared for a long journey taking about 8–10 hours. Intercity buses in Indonesia often operate at night, allowing you to save daylight hours for excursions and rest. For maximum comfort on the road, it is recommended to choose modern "Executive" or "Royal" class buses equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats.

A trip by car to Lhokseumawe opens up excellent opportunities to explore the colourful landscapes of North Sumatra. The most comfortable and popular route runs from the provincial capital, Banda Aceh: a quality road 275 kilometres long stretches along the east coast, and can be covered in 5–6 hours. Fans of mountain winding roads and fresh air will appreciate the route from the highland city of Takengon, from where the descent to the sea, spanning about 100 kilometres, takes approximately 3 hours.

Travelers departing from the city of Meulaboh face a longer and more tiring transfer, which may take 8–9 hours depending on road conditions and traffic. To move around Indonesia, tourists often rent a car with a local driver, which costs on average between 600,000 and 900,000 Indonesian Rupiah per day, eliminating navigation difficulties and allowing you to relax on the journey.

Before traveling to Lhokseumawe, it is worth learning about local customs in advance to ensure your journey goes smoothly and leaves only pleasant impressions. This city in Indonesia is distinguished by a unique culture and traditions that every guest should respect.

1. Clothing and Appearance: Please note that the city is located in a province with conservative values. Tourists should dress modestly: shoulders and knees must be covered for both women and men. Choose loose clothing made from natural breathable fabrics to comfortably handle the heat and humidity.
2. Transport: For getting around the city, it is most convenient to use motorized rickshaws (becaks)—this is the most distinctive and affordable way to get to your destination. Be sure to negotiate the price of the trip with the driver in advance, before boarding.
3. Finance: The official currency is the Indonesian Rupiah. Bank cards are accepted only in large hotels and some restaurants, so always carry a sufficient supply of cash. Small bills will be useful for paying fares and shopping at markets.
4. Health and Safety: Drink only bottled water and avoid drinks with ice in street cafes. It is recommended to carry insect repellent, as there are many mosquitoes in the tropical climate, especially in the evening.
5. Communication: The main language of communication is Indonesian (Bahasa), and the local Acehnese dialect is also common. English is not understood everywhere, so download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases for greetings.
6. Local Etiquette: Always use your right hand to pass money, food, or shake hands, as the left is traditionally considered "unclean." Avoid public displays of affection (hugging and kissing) to respect local standards of decency.
7. What to Avoid: Do not attempt to find alcohol for sale and do not consume it in public places—strict restrictions apply in this region (Aceh follows Islamic law). Also, refrain from gambling.
8. Extra Tip: Be sure to visit local coffee shops (warung kopi). Lhokseumawe is famous for its coffee culture, and a cup of strong Aceh coffee is the best way to join the rhythm of life of the townspeople.

Following these simple recommendations will help you feel confident and avoid awkward situations. Respect for local customs and openness to new experiences will make your visit to North Sumatra truly memorable.