gapahuk

Gapahuk is a simple open-sided shelter found in parts of Indonesia and other areas of Maritime Southeast Asia. It is designed to provide shade from the sun and protection from rain while allowing air to circulate. Gapahuks are typically located along trekking routes, near beaches, by rivers, or in fishing villages, where they serve as rest stops for travelers, fishermen, and field workers.

Construction is modest and uses local materials. A gapahuk usually consists of a light timber or bamboo frame, posts or stilts to raise the floor, and a pitched roof made from thatch, palm leaves, or metal sheets. The sides are often open, though some versions have low bamboo walls or screens. Many gapahuks include a simple bench or raised platform for sitting or sleeping; floors may be raised off the ground to protect against dampness and insects.

Regional variations reflect local climate and building traditions. Gapahuks are common in rural areas, national parks, and along coastlines, and they are often maintained by communities or park authorities as informal rest areas. While primarily utilitarian, they can also function as communal spaces for gatherings or as shelter for fishermen during early morning work.