West Sumatra is one of the most beautiful areas of Indonesia. It is mountainous and divided by three valleys. There are lovely lakes and spectacular volcanoes. But Minangkabau land is very special and has the most friendly population group of Indonesia. They love to talk with visitors and will tell us about their unique society. If a visitor tries to understand the culture and Minang traditions he will soon feel himself a member of the clan. He will be invited as a guest to their homes - a unique way to become acquainted with real Indonesian life. Most of our hosts and hostesses are English teachers so language will not be much of a problem. They will show us the community and explain their customs.
| Capital | Padang |
| Governor | Gamawan Fauzi |
| Area | 42,297.30 km2 (16,331 sq mi) |
| Population | 4,241,000 |
| Density | 100.3 /km² (260 /sq mi) |
| Ethnic groups | Minangkabau (88%), Batak (4%), Javanese (4%), Mentawai (1%)[1] |
| Religion | Islam (98%), Christian (1.6%), Hindu (0.0032%), Buddhism (0.26%) |
| Languages | Indonesian, Minangkabau, Mentawai |
| Time zone | WIB (UTC+7) |
| Web site | www.sumbarprov.go.id |
West Sumatra is one of the most beautiful areas of Indonesia. It is mountainous and divided by three valleys. There are lovely lakes and spectacular volcanoes. But Minangkabau land is very special and has the most friendly population group of Indonesia. They love to talk with visitors and will tell us about their unique society. If a visitor tries to understand the culture and Minang traditions he will soon feel himself a member of the clan. He will be invited as a guest to their homes - a unique way to become acquainted with real Indonesian life. Most of our hosts and hostesses are English teachers so language will not be much of a problem. They will show us the community and explain their customs.