So’arowiga Ridge in Hilinakhe Village, Nias Regency - Indonesia

It seems the option of tourist attractions is limitless in Nias Regency. Aside from beaches, travelers can conduct an adventure in other places including So’arowiga Mountains. It is located in Hilinakhe Village and belongs to West Gunungsitoli Sub-District. It is, without a doubt, the site is suitable for hiking and get closer to nature. The best thing is that the distance is quite near to the capital of the region, so it is quite reachable. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a good popularity as it is considered a new tourist place (which was known since in the 1990s.

The Nuance
As mentioned earlier, So’arowiga has an easy access. That means tourists can reach the site either by motorcycle or car. Despite the fact, everyone should be careful when heading to the location. It is because the route features steep veers. Not to mention the nuance is too quiet. Here is another consideration. Not all people know the route as there is only a single signpost located in Fali’era Street junction. As for the tip, it is recommended to come with a local guide who can help tourists when it comes to direction and other services.

Exploring So’arowiga Ridge
The best thing to do in So’arowiga Mountains is indeed hiking. However, it is not recommended to come to the location alone. It is because the route is a little bit confusing for outsiders. In fact, some locals are still not used to it. This explains why hiring an experienced local guide becomes a good idea, especially for those who never visit the site. From the Fali’era Street junction, travelers need to walk for 1 km to get to the location where the best views are waiting.

Once they get to the top of the mountains, the landscape is dominated by the stretch of weeds, bushes, and several types of plants. What is more? The site is famous for its plate-like stones! The locals call them “Batu Melengkung” and they have become the main charm of So’arowiga Ridge aside from the natural scenery, actually. The bad news is that the number of these stones keeps decreasing over time. No one knows the reason, though.

The next famous feature of the site is the presence of mountain springs. Even visitors are allowed to drink the water right away due to its clarity. Next, you can find a megalithic stone called Gowe which often becomes an object of photography among travelers. Yet, it is considered sacred so not all tourists are allowed to approach it. Only those with permission can get closer to the stone. Have no worries. An alternative is available, which is the small cave that resides in this area. Enjoy.

Nearby Attractions

• Nias Heritage Museum
• Humogo Waterfall
• Laosi Beach
• Ture Dawola Beach

How to Get There
So’arowiga Ridge belongs to Hilinakhe Village and the trip takes about one hour for those who come from Gunungsitoli City. The distance is 25.4 km, after all. Also, it is better to use Fondrako Street for a faster trip. Make sure to hire a local guide before heading to the location, though.

Where to Stay

• Olayama Hotel
• Soliga Hotel
• Binaka II Hotel
• Sthree Hotel