Identifying Tourism Attractions’ Potentials in Disaster Recovery Area: Case Study Isak Area, Linge Subdistrict, Aceh Tengah, Indonesia

Abstract Development and population growth in Aceh are increasing, as is the need for recreational areas. This study aims to provide a new recreational alternative in Aceh by taking the Isak area as a research area. The Isak area in the Jemer River Valley, inland in the Bukit Barisan Mountains, has a long history since the 10th century as the location of the Merah Mege Kingdom, currently part of Central Aceh. This study also provides a new perspective on the recreational aspects of Aceh that are not always associated with the tsunami disaster, but also enhance the historical, cultural, and natural landscape aspects as a tourist attraction. The purpose is to provide recommendations for tourist area centers in the mountains that develop a disaster-responsive historical culture. This research uses qualitative methods to study the history of the case study area and track reconstructing past events. In addition, a literature study related to the history of Merah Mege is carried out through observation of physical objects, and interviews with key figures. This study found that many potential areas can be used for historical recreation in the Isak Area. The potential area includes 4 former hill fort sites, the Red Mege grave hill, the cultural landscape of life in the valley and river flow, and the Loyang Datu Cave, the setting of the early mosque.