Bukit Teletubbies
1 / 10

Rurukan Hills Teletubbies Hill

4.3
·757 reviews·, Indonesia

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of lush plantations and rolling hills, a budget-friendly escape in North Sulawesi.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Bukit Teletubbies

Rurukan Hills Teletubbies Hill

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of lush plantations and rolling hills, a budget-friendly escape in North Sulawesi.

4.3
(757 reviews)

"The view is amazing from up here. Worth trying, and I really recommend this place for your holiday with low budgets."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Private Transport Recommended

Use a private car or hire transport; public transport is scarce. The road can be narrow.

💰 Affordable Entrance Fee

Budget-friendly with a small entrance fee per person and for vehicles. Worth the views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Hilltop Views

Panoramic Hilltop Views

Summit of Rurukan Hills

Breathtaking vistas of plantations, hills, and clear skies. Perfect for photography on a sunny day.

Cakalele Dancers Photo Op

Cakalele Dancers Photo Op

Designated photo areas

Capture memories with traditional Cakalele dancers. Photographers offer instant prints for a fee.

Plantation Scenery

Plantation Scenery

Surrounding hillsides

Enjoy the natural beauty of lush plantations and rolling hills, offering a serene atmosphere.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Accessing Rurukan Hills

Getting to Rurukan Hills requires a private vehicle or hired transport due to its remote location. The road can be narrow and passes through a cemetery, so be prepared for an unconventional approach. Weekdays are recommended to avoid crowds.

Current State of the Attraction

While the views are praised, some visitors note the place appears run-down and potentially abandoned. Maintenance and road improvements are suggested by past visitors to enhance the tourist experience.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Sunny days
Why
Bright skies enhance views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🚗 Private Transport Recommended

Use a private car or hire transport; public transport is scarce. The road can be narrow. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entrance Fee

Budget-friendly with a small entrance fee per person and for vehicles. Worth the views. Reddit

📸 Professional Photographers Available

Local photographers offer instant prints with Cakalele dancers for a fee. Reddit

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

It can get sunny; pack sunscreen for a comfortable visit. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Private Transport Recommended

Use a private car or hire transport; public transport is scarce. The road can be narrow. Reddit

💰 Affordable Entrance Fee

Budget-friendly with a small entrance fee per person and for vehicles. Worth the views. Reddit

📸 Professional Photographers Available

Local photographers offer instant prints with Cakalele dancers for a fee. Reddit

☀️ Bring Sun Protection

It can get sunny; pack sunscreen for a comfortable visit. Reddit

⚠️ Road Condition Advisory

The access road is narrow and passes through a cemetery; drive carefully. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(757 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Rurukan Hills offers breathtaking panoramic views of plantations and hills, making it a visually stunning destination, especially on sunny days. While the natural scenery is highly praised and the entrance fee is budget-friendly, some visitors note the site appears run-down and the access road is challenging. The availability of photographers with traditional dancers adds a unique cultural element.

"The scenery is really great, but i think this place have shut down or something else. There are no people here and the building has abandoned. There are cemetery at the entrance, and the gate just opened like that."

Adryan Sapta Setyadinata

"The view is amazing from up here. I took some pictures with Cakalele Dancers there. There are some photographers who are ready to take some pictures for you with their camera. And they can print it right away for 15.000 rupiahs per photo.

It's best to go there on weekdays. On the weekend I'm sure it is packed with people. It is not a huge area and they don't really have a proper parking lot.

There are some chairs and tables where you can eat Fried Banana or maybe other snacks. I didn't eat anything there because we already bought some snacks with us. But I'm sure the price here would be more than the warung in town, since it's a tourist place and far away from the city.

I was only concern about the road to enter the place. We had to pass a very small road between the graves. Our car was a small car so it was not a big problem. But I don't think a bus can pass there. It doesn't seem safe and proper.

I think it would attract more tourists if they can repair the entrance road. And for that entrance fee, I think they could maintain the place. (It looks old already)"

Angel Kumayas

"I came here with my friends and also co-workers from the same hospital, RSUP Ratatotok Buyat. We came here with a car, because this place was located far away from public transportation. I suggest you use private car or hired a tour guide when you go here. I am a native but still I can get lost a bit when I try to find this place by myself. Luckily we got friend who knew the right way. When you arrive there, you need to pay 10.000 rupiahs for each person, and pay additional fee 5000 rupiahs for the car.
It was worth it though, because they have an amazing views from top of the mountains. You can see beautiful scenery once you go there. I suggest you go there on a shiny day so the sky will looks so bright and beautiful. Remember to bring your sunblock with you 😁. Worth trying, and I really recommend this place for your holiday with low budgets."

Sitti Sakamole

What People Like

Amazing views
Natural atmosphere
Affordable fees

What People Dislike

Run-down facilities
Challenging access road

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The best way to reach Rurukan Hills is by private car or hired vehicle, as public transportation is limited. The access road is narrow and passes through a cemetery, so be prepared for an unconventional route. Locals suggest hiring a tour guide if you're unfamiliar with the area. Reddit

The road is quite narrow and passes between graves, which might be challenging for larger vehicles like buses. Smaller cars should be able to manage, but caution is advised. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, given the remote location and narrow roads, relying solely on ride-sharing apps might be difficult. It's safer to arrange private transport in advance. Reddit

It's recommended to use GPS navigation and perhaps ask locals for directions, as some visitors have reported getting a bit lost trying to find it independently. Reddit

It's possible that local tour operators in North Sulawesi offer packages that include Rurukan Hills, especially if you're visiting Manado. Inquiring with local travel agencies is advisable. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is approximately 10,000 Indonesian Rupiah per person, with an additional 5,000 Rupiah for parking a car. Reddit

Specific opening hours are not widely published, but it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Visiting on weekdays is recommended to avoid peak crowds. Reddit

No advance booking is typically required. Tickets are usually purchased upon arrival at the entrance. Reddit

While there's a fee for photographers offering services with dancers, there isn't a separate fee mentioned for personal photography. Reddit

One visitor noted the gate was simply open, suggesting a lack of formal management or security. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The hilltop offers panoramic views of plantations and hills, ideal for landscape shots. The areas where Cakalele dancers perform are also popular for cultural portraits. Reddit

Yes, there are photographers on-site who can take your picture, often with Cakalele dancers, and print them immediately for a fee. Reddit

While not explicitly mentioned, the open spaces and scenic views suggest potential for drone photography. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage. Reddit

A sunny day with bright skies is recommended for the best photographic conditions, enhancing the vibrant colors of the landscape. Reddit

Visitors enjoyed taking photos with the Cakalele Dancers and capturing the expansive views of the surrounding plantations and hills. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are some chairs and tables where snacks like fried bananas are sold. However, prices might be higher than in town due to its tourist location. Reddit

Bringing your own snacks is a good idea, as mentioned by one visitor who did so. This can be a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

Fried bananas are mentioned as a common snack available for purchase. Reddit

It appears to be more of a snack vendor setup rather than a full-service restaurant. Visitors looking for a substantial meal might need to eat before or after their visit. Reddit

There is no mention of water refill stations, so it's advisable to bring sufficient water, especially on a hot day. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Some visitors describe the place as 'run down' and potentially abandoned, with a need for maintenance and road repair. Reddit

Expect a natural atmosphere with rolling hills, plantations, and fresh air, offering beautiful scenery. Reddit

Yes, it's considered a worthwhile destination for a low-budget holiday due to its affordable entrance fees and stunning natural beauty. Reddit

Information about restroom facilities is not provided in the reviews, so it's best to be prepared. Reddit

Its good views, natural atmosphere, plantation areas, and fresh air make it a recommended tourist destination, especially when visiting Manado. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rurukan Hills can be a fun, low-budget outing for families, offering beautiful scenery and a chance to see local culture. The main considerations are the challenging access road, which requires careful driving, and the potential for the site to feel a bit neglected. Bringing snacks and drinks is advisable, as food options are limited to simple snacks. Ensure children are supervised, especially near any edges or uneven terrain. Reddit

The visual appeal of the hills and plantations can be engaging for children, and the opportunity to see Cakalele dancers might be a unique cultural experience for them. However, if your family prefers highly developed attractions with extensive amenities, this might not be the ideal choice. It's best suited for families who appreciate natural landscapes and are comfortable with a more rustic experience. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Rurukan Hills is an excellent choice for budget travelers, offering stunning natural views at a very affordable price. The entrance fee is minimal, and bringing your own snacks further reduces costs. The main expense would be transportation, so pooling resources with friends or finding a local driver who offers reasonable rates is key. Reddit

While the facilities might not be top-notch, the value for money is high, especially if you visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. The opportunity to capture beautiful photos and experience the natural atmosphere makes it a worthwhile destination for those looking to explore without breaking the bank. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Rurukan Hills presents a canvas of rolling green hills and plantations, especially vibrant on a sunny day. The panoramic vistas offer ample opportunities for landscape photography. The unique aspect is the chance to photograph traditional Cakalele Dancers, with on-site photographers available for hire to capture these moments. Reddit

Be prepared for the challenging access road, which might require careful planning for equipment transport. Visiting during weekdays can offer a less crowded environment, allowing for more freedom in composition. While the site itself might show signs of wear, the natural beauty and cultural elements provide compelling subjects for your lens. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Access Road

The journey to Rurukan Hills is often described as unique, primarily due to its access road. Visitors report needing to navigate a very small road that passes directly between graves. This unconventional route can be a point of concern for some, especially those with larger vehicles. While a small car can manage, a bus would likely find it impassable. This aspect of the journey is frequently mentioned, with suggestions that improving the entrance road would significantly enhance the visitor experience and accessibility. Reddit

Despite the road's condition, the effort is generally considered worthwhile for the views that await. It's a reminder that some of the most rewarding destinations require a bit of adventurous spirit to reach. Planning your transport accordingly, perhaps with a local driver familiar with the route, is highly recommended. Reddit

The State of Maintenance and Visitor Experience

Feedback regarding the upkeep of Rurukan Hills is mixed, with some visitors noting that the place appears 'run down' and potentially abandoned. There's a sentiment that the entrance fees collected could be better utilized for maintaining the facilities and grounds. The aging appearance of the structures and the overall condition have been highlighted as areas for improvement. Reddit

However, the natural beauty and the panoramic views are consistently praised, suggesting that the core appeal of Rurukan Hills remains strong. The presence of photographers offering services with Cakalele dancers indicates some level of ongoing activity, even if the infrastructure is lacking. For budget travelers, the experience is still considered valuable, but potential visitors should manage expectations regarding the site's current state of development. Reddit

Photography Opportunities and Local Culture

Rurukan Hills offers a compelling backdrop for photography, with its expansive views of rolling hills and lush plantations. On a clear, sunny day, the vibrant colors of the landscape are particularly striking, making it a prime spot for capturing scenic beauty. Visitors are encouraged to bring their sunblock to fully enjoy the outdoor experience. Reddit

A unique cultural element available for photos is the presence of Cakalele Dancers. Local photographers are often on-site, ready to capture memorable shots with these performers. They offer the convenience of instant prints, allowing visitors to take home a tangible souvenir of their experience. This blend of natural scenery and cultural interaction makes Rurukan Hills a visually rich destination. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2