Source: pariwisataindonesia.id
At the center of North Sumatra, Lake Toba is the biggest lake in Indonesia and not only in Indonesia but also in Southeast Asia, and the largest volcanic lake in the world, crossing over 1,100 square km. Whew! But wait, there’s more. In the thickness of less or more than 500m, it’s also one of the deepest lakes in the world.
Ironically, Lake Toba was naturally constructed by the devastating eruption of Mount Toba approximately 70,000 years ago. Now, Lake Toba Caldera is one of Indonesia’s nineteen geoparks, featuring a vast flora and fauna and rich heritage embodied from the cultural groups, especially the Batak group. Lake Toba is surrounded by seven regencies – Samosir, Toba Samosir, Simalungun, North Tapanuli, Karo, Dairi, and Humbang Hasundutan. Whether cultural or natural, Lake Toba has a great deal to offer vacationers, making it one of the major tourist destinations within the area. Here are some of the many things to do and places to see in and around Lake Toba.
- Tomok Village
This is a place where you could find Batak Museum along with the old tomb of King Sidabutar, believed to be the first to set foot on the staircase. Tomok is also where you can shop for souvenirs like Batak food and products.
- Tuktuk Village
This village has quickly become the most developed place on the island, mostly for tourism functions. This is near Tomok Village along with Ambarita Village. Here you will find the majority of the accommodations and food areas. There are also beaches near the village. Below are some other attractions around the island: Simanindo Village, Putih Parbaba Beach, Pasir Putih Beach, Hotsprings Rianiate, Pusuk Buhit Mountain, Lake Sidihoni, and more.
- Huta Ginjang
Sitting at an altitude of over 1500 meters over sea level, Huta Ginjang is one of the best places to see Lake Toba. The viewpoint can be found on the southern shores of Lake Toba. Feast your eyes on the bucolic tableau of rolling mountains and tranquil waters of the vast lake. During the ideal season, this site becomes a jumping-off point for paragliding and other sports. There are chairs and tables and a line of stores and stalls selling food, drinks, and a few souvenirs. Do not neglect to bring coats as it can get freezing up there.
- Samosir Island
Samosir Island is a volcanic island nestled in the core of Lake Toba. Thousands of years back, after the destructive eruption of Mount Toba, the island arose out of the devastation. It’s now the world’s biggest island within an island and among the world’s biggest lake islands. Six of the eight districts of Samosir Regency are found on Samosir Island. Samosir Island can be reached by ferry from Parapat’s port to the eastern portion of the island, especially Tuktuk, Tomok, and Ambarita Village. The island is connected to the mainland on the western portion via Pangururan around the island and Tele around the mainland. Supplying not only natural allure and breathtaking views, but the island can also be somewhere to immerse in history and culture as it’s the center of Batak tradition, specifically the Toba Batak. Below are a few of the tourist spots around Samosir Island.
- Ambarita Village
In addition, there are souvenir shops, but the popular attraction is the prehistoric village, Huta Siallagan. Upon entering the narrow rock entrance passing, a row of conventional Toba Batak homes will greet you on your left, including the former residence of the Siallagan king. Even the Siallagans are direct descendants of this King of Batak through King Naimbaton. Aside from the traditional houses, other interesting sites are the two sets of stone chairs and tables — the Stones for Meetings and much more. In the past, you may even meet the current chieftain, Gading J. Siallagan, a descendant of those Siallagan King.
Vacation is more than just the scenery/food/accommodation, and it’s about making long-lasting memories. Discover more adventures in Lake Toba by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.
