Sumatra – a Tropical Paradise Nestled in the Indian Ocean

Grab your coffee mugs and let's transport ourselves to the stunning island of Sumatra, where coffee culture is deeply woven into the fabric of its history. The coffee grown here is renowned for its unique, bold flavor profile and earthy notes that embody the lush, volcanic soils in which it thrives. Join us today as we learn a little more about the culture and top destinations of this beautiful coffee-growing region.

Sumatran Culture

The Indonesian island of Sumatra has a rich history dating back to the 7th century when Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms thrived. Sumatra's diverse cultural heritage includes influences from China, India, and the Middle East, as well as various indigenous groups. One of the most distinctive aspects of Sumatran culture is its traditional music, which often features energetic drumming and gamelan ensembles. Sumatra is also known for its beautiful textiles, including intricately woven songket and batik fabrics. Despite centuries of colonial rule and religious conflict, the people of Sumatra have proudly preserved and celebrated their unique cultural heritage to this day. The beauty of Sumatran culture lies in its diversity. The island’s tropical climate and biodiversity also have a significant impact on the cultures’ food and agriculture. From spicy rendang to Sumatran coffee, visiting this island is a feast for the senses.

Top Tourist Destinations in Sumatra

If you're planning a trip to Indonesia, don't miss out on Sumatra! This beautiful island has so much to offer for tourists seeking adventure, stunning nature, and unique cultural experiences. One of the top destinations here is Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, surrounded by misty mountain ranges and sparkling waterfalls. You can explore the Batak cultural villages, where the local people practice their traditional customs, dance and music. The Bukit Lawang National Park is another must-visit spot, where you can see orangutans up close in their natural habitat and hike through the lush jungle paths. And for those who love beautiful beaches, there is Pulau Weh, an idyllic island paradise with crystal clear waters and white sand beaches. Sumatra is a hidden gem of Indonesia, full of surprises and adventure, waiting to be appreciated.

What Makes Sumatran Coffee Special 

Sumatra produces one of the most unique and flavorful coffees in the world. So what makes this coffee-growing region so special? For starters, Sumatra is one of the few places where coffee is still grown in the shade, which gives the beans a distinct, earthy flavor. Grown on the rugged terrain of the Indonesian island of Sumatra, Sumatran coffee beans are known for their heavy body, low acidity, and distinctive earthy and herbal notes. This is due to the unique way they are processed. Unlike most coffee beans which are washed, Sumatran coffee is usually wet-hulled, which means the outer layer of the bean is removed before the coffee is dried. This process gives Sumatran coffee its complex and layered taste, characterized by notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, and even a hint of spice. 

Kaldi’s Coffee of the Month

This month, we're featuring Sumatran Coffee as Coffee of the Month! Sumatran Mandheling is a full-bodied gourmet coffee, sometimes called the “thickest coffee in the world,” with chocolatey, earthy, vegetal notes, and an herbal aroma. It makes a unique, complex cup for the adventurous coffee fan. With its rich and bold flavor, you'll feel like you've been transported to the lush coffee fields of Indonesia. Enjoy Sumatran Mandheling Coffee, 5lbs for $45 with code: SUMATRA!