Putri Pukes Cave

Putri Pukes Cave is a natural limestone cave located in Mendale village, Kebayakan District, Aceh Tengah Regency, Aceh, on the shore of Lake Laut Tawar near Takengon. The cave is known for its stalactites, stalagmites and a rock formation linked to local folklore about a princess. It is a popular stop for visitors touring the lake area, offering short cave exploration, views of the lake and insight into Gayo cultural legends.

Visitors can expect a small natural limestone cave with stalactites and stalagmites, narrow passages and a central rock formation associated with the Putri Pukes legend. The cave entrance overlooks Lake Laut Tawar and is surrounded by hills. Inside, the interior is dim and damp with uneven rocky floors. Visitors can walk through the main chamber, view natural rock formations, take photos, and enjoy lakeside scenery outside the cave.

The cave is associated with a long-standing Gayo folk legend about a princess (Putri Pukes) who was said to have turned to stone inside the cave, which has been passed down through generations in the Takengon area.

The cave holds cultural significance for the Gayo community as a site of folklore and moral storytelling, often visited to learn about local traditions and the legend of Putri Pukes that reflects cultural values.