Ramadhan Experience in Aceh

As a Darmasiswa participant hosted by Universitas Syiah Kuala, I have been living in Aceh for six months. Spending the holy month of Ramadhan in this deeply spiritual and culturally rich region has been nothing short of transformative. Experiencing Ramadhan in a new cultural setting was both exciting and deeply meaningful. The strong sense of community, the call to prayer echoing from mosques, and the vibrant iftar gatherings made it truly special.

Compared to other places, Aceh has a deeply rooted Islamic culture where Ramadhan is observed with great devotion. The streets come alive, and the traditions are very community-oriented. I was especially touched by the pre-dawn gatherings, the special night prayers (Tarawih) in beautifully decorated mosques, and the generosity of people distributing free iftar meals to the community. These traditions truly stood out to me.

When it comes to food, I discovered a variety of traditional iftar dishes, from the many types of nasi and mi Aceh to an array of local snacks. One of the most memorable traditions was Meugang, a local custom held before Ramadhan begins, where families prepare and share meat dishes together. It beautifully symbolizes unity and generosity.

The atmosphere during Ramadhan in Aceh is both peaceful and lively. Mosques are full, streets are beautifully decorated, and there’s a strong sense of togetherness. At first, I had to adjust to the bustling streets and how people would dine outdoors, but over time, I embraced it and found the experience spiritually fulfilling.

To manage my fasting, I adjusted my daily routine—waking up early for suhoor and taking short naps in the afternoon. The strong communal spirit made fasting feel easier and more rewarding.

One of the most heartwarming parts of my experience was the hospitality of the people. Many families kindly invited me to join their iftar meals, and I felt a genuine sense of belonging, even though I was far from home. I joined community gatherings, attended several iftar events, and participated in the nightly prayers at the mosque. It was a beautiful and moving experience to witness so many people united in faith and devotion.

And of course, I can’t forget to mention the food—Nasi goreng and Timphan (a traditional Acehnese banana and coconut cake) quickly became my favorites!