Although Lake Toba in Indonesia is a great place to relax and enjoy the privilege of doing absolutely nothing, it is always a good idea to be prepared for rainy days. If you feel bored and want to find something interesting, do not worry because Lake Toba would still be an exciting place to go on trying out some different things. In addition to the annual Lake Toba Festival, the area is also dotted with historical cultural landmarks and breathtakingly beautiful natural attractions. Adventure is waiting for you as long as you want.
Samosir
Samosir Island is the center of Lake Toba tourism, with countless activities and attractions to visit.
1. Swimming and fishing around the majestic waterfall – Binangalom Waterfalls
This majestic waterfall is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. The water pours down in a huge stream from the top of the cliff and directly falls into the lake water, forming an interesting scene. On a hot day, you can swim around this natural wonder or go fishing or you can take a lot of photos to show your friends.
2. Climb the volcano to enjoy the beautiful scenery! – Pusuk Buhit
Pusuk Buhit is a volcano located in North Sumatra. It is not known for its terrible explosions, but it’s beautiful sights: endless green hills. The Batak legend says that the first Batak king, Batak, was born in Pusuk Buhit. Even now, many descendants of Batak still climb this mountain aiming to get its blessings.
If you are healthy and in the mood for exercise, why not try to climb to the top? There are several routes to climb the volcano, but nothing is too strenuous, although it may take seven to eight hours to reach the summit.
You will be walking among the impressive grasslands and the best nature, and if your walking time is precisely arranged, you can even get an extraordinary sunset view. If you ask us, all the blood, sweat, and tears will be worth it in the end.
3. Experience Local Culture – Batak Museum
If you are interested in the rich history and culture of Batak, what better place to experience than the Batak Museum? This magnificent building was the home of the late Raja Sidauruk before he began to spread local cultural knowledge.
Now, it is a major tourist attraction and a place for traditional dance and Sigale Gale puppet shows. The Sigale Gale puppet is a life-size wooden puppet used as a container for the souls of the dead during Batak’s funeral. Although their origins may be a bit creepy, puppets are now the main content of family dance performances for tourists.
- Indulge in the incredible scenery – Water Sports
It is no surprise that Samosir Island, surrounded by water, could offer tourists various water sports. Here, you can try water skiing, take a banana boat ride, and even kayak in the crystal clear lake. Exercise, stay healthy, and do all of this work in an amazing background? This is a good deal; you will probably not get it anywhere else.
5. Dive into a natural hot spring – Aek Rangat
Who doesn’t love natural hot springs? At the foot of Pusuk Buhit, just in front of Pangururan, you will find some hot springs. It costs IDR 10,000 to enter the pool for foreigners. When it says hot springs, it does mean hot springs. Do not try to swim inside or submerge your whole body in it at once; you will likely jump out of the heat.
6. Experience the local village life – Tomok Village
Tomok Village is a small traditional village on Samosir Island, which has preserved many important historical relics. To learn more about the local culture, this is a stop not to be missed.
Not only has beautiful traditional Batak houses, it is also home to the dolmen of the late King Sidabutar. You will also find many stone statues and a souvenir shop selling important Batak history-related souvenirs. If you haven’t seen the Sigale Gale puppet show in the museum, you can find it here. Take a trip to Batak’s past, remember to buy a souvenirs to make your trip more memorable.
Ready to start your getaway to Lake Toba? Visit Wonderful Indonesia, and don’t miss out on the magic!