Stops: Singapore National Gallery and Sianok Valley Panorama, Bukit Tinggi (Days 2 and 83)

At the start of this trip, I went to the amazing Singapore National Gallery again. They had a big exhibition of Southeast Asian art called “Siapa Nama Mu?” with many paintings from Indonesia. This is one that stood out for me.

Ngarai Sianok (1940s Oil) Wakidi

There were several others in the exhibition. Some by European artists as well, if I recall correctly, but this landscape spoke to me and said, “You gotta go there.” And, reader, I did.

I went out late in the afternoon for better light and passed the exit to the park which was still busy. By the time I reached the entrance though, it was already closed. Noooo! But, a guy quickly approached me and offered to let me in the side gate for just 25,000 Rupiah–same price as advertised on the ticket board for foreigners. I looked and was skeptical. I figured I would get herded towards the exit immediately and started to turn back. Maybe tomorrow. But, what the hell. It’s like ¥200. Turns out the park is also the exit for the attached Japanese tunnel from the war, so there is no real rush to clear everybody out. They might still be coming up the tunnel. Perfect. I had the whole place to myself by now. After I left, another guy tried to let me in a side door. I guess it is a thing.Don’t tell anyone. This is the way. Go at closing time.

Looking down into the gorge that inspired Wakidi and so many others.

Another view of a different branch of the canyons.

Sharing the view with a friend.

Another.

Wider view. Better clouds over Mt Merapi.

Obligatory selfie pointing at the volcano.

On the way home to the hotel.

A little Padang-style warung along the way for a take away. You choose whichever you want from the dishes in the case.

Dinner! Rice, vegetables (green beans today, varies), two kinds of fish (likely one tuna and one barracuda), some friend tempeh, curried boiled egg, and spicy sambal on a banana leaf wrapped in butchers paper.

The basic set of rice etc. was 18,000. Egg and extra 5,000. Double fish and extra 10,000. 33,000 IDR total or 2 USD for a big, tasty dinner. Eaten the traditional way with your right hand.

So, I made it. From a 1940’s landscape oil in Singapore to the original scene in the hills above Padang in West Sumatra. It would be cool to get down in the canyons for a big expedition and rove around, but having that view all to myself was a peaceful and perfect way to close this part of a journey.