Aceh, at the north western end of Sumatra, came into contact with the outside world as early as the sixth century AD. Chinese chronicles of that time speak of a kingdom on the northern tip of Sumatra named Po-Li. Several Arabic writings of the early ninth century, and later inscriptions found in India mention the area. In 1292, Marco Polo, on his voyage from China to Persia visited Sumatra and reported that on the northern part of Sumatra there were as many as six trading ports including Ferlec, Samudera and Lambri. It is ironic that this area is presently one of the least known of Indonesia. The Alas River , 165 km southeast from Takengon, cuts through the Gunung Leuser National Park . The sharp bends and many rapids are challenging to white-water rafters.

Leuser Mountain National Park The National Park of Gunung Leuser is probably the best place to see wild animals in their natural habitat in Indonesia . Located in Southeast Aceh , it can be reached from either Kutacane, or Takengon. The wealth of the park's flora and fauna make it a frequent site for research on primates, birds, insects and for environmental studies. Basic lodging facilities are available at the Ketambe post.

Lhokseumawe - located 274 km from Banda Aceh, is among the largest industrial zones in Indonesia . Located here are Indonesia 's biggest Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant, the Asean and the Iskandar Muda urea fertilizer industries. Sightseeing around the region of Lhokseumawe includes the historic town of Samudera Pasai , Blang Kolam Falls and Ujung Blang Beach.

The Kerkhof (graveyard) bears evidence of the long and bloody resistance which the Acehnese waged against the Dutch expansion during the last century. The bodies of more than 2,000 Dutch soldiers lay buried here.

Takengon - located in Central Aceh is a pleasantly cool holiday resort, at an altitude of 1,200 meters above sea level. Central Aceh is one of Sumatra 's foremost producers of high quality coffee.

Lhoknga & Lumpuk Beaches - These two beaches are located the west of Banda Aceh. The white sand and clear waters are perfect for fishing, boating, snorkeling and bathing.