Getting There and Away

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Budi Santoso
16/08/2025
Indonesia - Bukit Lawang
Visions of Domino, Wikimedia Commons

The main point of entry for those traveling to Bukit Lawang is Kualanamu International Airport (KNO) in Medan. Within Medan, significant transport hubs include Pinang Baris bus station, often referred to by the nearby Mawar Bakery, and Tanah Lapang in Binjai, a crucial transfer point for public buses. Bukit Lawang itself has a local bus station in Gotong Royong, approximately 1.5 kilometers from the main village area.

Private Car:

Choosing a private car offers the most comfortable and direct journey. From Kualanamu International Airport, the drive to Bukit Lawang typically takes between 3 to 5 hours, with costs ranging from approximately 47 EUR to 700,000 IDR per car. If departing from Medan city, the travel time is generally 3 to 4 hours, costing around 40 EUR to 45 EUR per car.

Tourist Bus (Shared Minivan):

This option provides a balance of cost and comfort. A shared tourist bus from Medan to Bukit Lawang usually takes 3 to 5 hours and costs about 150,000 IDR per person. From Kualanamu International Airport, the shared minivan service takes approximately 3 to 5 hours and costs between 210,000 IDR to 220,000 IDR per person. Passengers may need to wait for others to fill the vehicle.

Public Bus (Multi-leg Journey):

For those on a budget, public buses are available, though they involve transfers and can take longer.

  • From Kualanamu International Airport:: Take an ALS (Antar Lintas Sumatera) bus to Binjai, which costs around 50,000 IDR and takes about 2 hours. From Binjai, take a becak (motorized taxi) for approximately 10,000 IDR to 15,000 IDR to Tanah Lapang terminal or Binjai Supermall. From there, board an L300 or PS bus to Bukit Lawang for about 30,000 IDR, which takes around 3 hours. The total journey from the airport by public bus can take approximately 5 hours and cost around 90,000 IDR, excluding the becak fare.
  • From Medan City:: Head to the Pinang Baris bus station area, often identifiable by the Mawar Bakery. Red minibuses labeled 'Bukit Lawang' depart regularly. The journey typically takes 4 to 5 hours and costs between 30,000 IDR to 50,000 IDR. It is advised to pay the fare directly to the driver upon arrival in Bukit Lawang to avoid potential overcharging.

Train (from Kualanamu Airport to Medan/Binjai):

An airport train runs from Kualanamu International Airport to Medan city, taking 35 to 55 minutes and costing 70,000 IDR to 100,000 IDR. From Medan, it is possible to take another train to Binjai (around 5,000 IDR) , and then connect to a local bus or becak to reach Bukit Lawang.

Local Transport in Bukit Lawang:

Upon arrival at the bus station in Gotong Royong, a becak ride to your accommodation in Bukit Lawang village costs approximately 10,000 IDR.

Check out our other pages on Bukit Lawang

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