Source : https://www.indonesia.travel/

Medan, Indonesia’s third biggest city is not simply a rich melting pot of cultures but also an entry point to the wild and beautiful scenery of North Sumatra. Here are the reasons why you have to explore Medan.

1.  Lakeside Serenity

Using its glassy surface and surrounding mountains, it’s easy to see why Lake Toba was included in the Indonesian government’s ’10 super priority destinations’. The lake (four hours by automobile in Medan) will be the country’s largest to direct in the crater, and it’s the largest freshwater reservoir, with a thickness reaching 505 metres. Tongging Village is located on Lake Toba’s periphery and can be an available spot to have a closer look at the lake. Stroll through the roads to enjoy the quietness of this farming community.

It takes about half an hour to reach the island by ferry from the main pier, in the city of Parapat. When on the island, people can have top 10 tourist attractions in spain a look at the Tomb of King Sidabutar and watch a Sigale-gale funeral dance, which involves a life-size wooden puppet as one of the characters. Inspired by the story of a king’s son who died on the battle, the operation is accompanied by traditional music of their Batak (a North Sumatran cultural group).

2.  Some Like It Hot

Back in Berastagi, roughly two hours from Medan, spa junkies can opt for a hot spring dip in the base of Mount Sibayak, thanks to its crater full of sulfurous water. Many hike to the crater about the volcano for steam-enveloped viewpoints, then visit the relaxing sulfur pools found at Semangat Gunung village. The minerals in the water have been supposed to be good for your skin, and several visitors enjoy the springs late at night because they believe it’s a better healing experience.

3.  Fascinating Chinese Heritage

What earned him widespread respect was his funding of public facilities in Medan, such as bridges, schools, and places of worship. Built-in 1900, the renovated house occupying a single hectare shows a range of living rooms, that the master bedroom, plus a photo gallery and a ballroom with their original furnishings. Tjong’s older brother, Tjong Yong Hian, has also been included in the city’s development. His lifestyle has been honored at Tjong Yong Hian Gallery, a museum that houses memorabilia like old photographs, clothing, and musical instruments which belonged to him. The chemical garden is your highlight, consisting of ponds and manicured hedges.

4.  Slice of India

Back in Berastagi, roughly two hours out of Medan, spa junkies can opt for a hot spring dip in the foot of Mount Sibayak as a result of its crater full of sulphurous water. Many increase to the crater about the volcano for steam-enveloped views, then head to the relaxing sulfur pools found at Semangat Gunung village. The minerals from the water have been assumed to be good for skin, and many visitors enjoy the springs late at night since they think it’s a more effective therapeutic encounter.

5.  Waterfall Adventures

A massive eruption that took place about 74,000 years ago led to Sipiso-Piso Waterfall, situated in Tongging village, at the northern tip of Lake Toba. Walk the hundreds of measures paved to the landscape to reach the 120-meter waterfall’s bottom. Also well known is both Colours Waterfall. Located in the Sibolangit district, it is famed for the blue and greyish-whcolorlour gradations. Getting there requires a two-hour trek through the forest – ideal for nature lovers.

6.  Jungle Treks

Approximately 3.5 hours in Medan, the jungles of Bukit Lawang offer eye-opening treks, using the opportunity to see rare Sumatran orangutans. Section of Mount Leuser National Park, the village is still home to an orangutan rehabilitation center. People are also very likely to see long-tailed macaques, native Thomas’ langurs, and gibbons during a guided trek. All the guides here are residents. Hence the trekking surgeries are an essential source of revenue for your community.

7.  Comfort Food From Medan

Kedai Kopi Apek, across from Pasar Hindu (Hindu Market), is a store offering coffee that uses Arabica beans sourced in the North Sumatran city of Sidikalang. Toast with homemade kaya (coconut egg jam) is ready on a firewood stove. If you would like something more satisfying, try soto Medan, a Medan-style soup made with coconut milk. RM Sinar Pagi on Sei Deli Road has been selling the dish since 1962. It’s possible to pick beef or chicken for the protein, and it is all served with perkedel kentang (potato patties), white rice, and sambal. Do not miss Bihun Bebek Asie around Kumango Road. It’s a Chinese-style duck vermicelli soup with a great part of shredded duck meat in noodle broth, along with garlic and mustard greens.

Vacation is more than just the scenery/food/accommodation, and it’s about making long-lasting memories. Discover more adventures in Medan by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.