NORTH SUMATRA
North Sumatra is a land of dramatic volcanic landscapes and vibrant cultural history, dominated by the colossal Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake. Its bustling capital, Medan, offers a gateway to rich traditions and colonial architecture.
This region is the heartland of the indigenous Batak people, whose unique houses, music, and way of life thrive around Toba. It is a stunning fusion of nature’s majesty and a deeply-rooted, diverse cultural tapestry.
Most Popular Attractions
Medan City Core & Heritage:
Maimun Palace (Istana Maimun): A beautiful yellow-painted palace and a historical landmark of the Sultanate of Deli.
Great Mosque of Medan (Masjid Raya Al-Mashun): A stunning example of Moorish, Middle Eastern, and European architectural fusion.
Tjong A Fie Mansion: A well-preserved historical house of a prominent Chinese-Indonesian merchant, offering a glimpse into colonial life.
Medan Post Office (Kantor Pos Medan): A majestic, historic building in the heart of the city, representative of Dutch colonial architecture.
Kesawan Square: The historic Chinatown area, famous for its street food, especially at night.
Sri Mariamman Temple: The oldest Hindu temple in Medan, featuring vibrant, highly decorated Dravidian-style architecture.
Deli Old Town (Kota Lama Deli): The original administrative and commercial center during the Sultanate era.
Lake Toba and Samosir Island Highlights:
Lake Toba: The world’s largest volcanic lake and one of the deepest, offering breathtaking natural beauty.
Samosir Island: A large island in the middle of Lake Toba, the cultural heartland of the Toba Batak people.
Tuk Tuk: The main tourist area on Samosir Island, known for its accommodations, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
Tomok Village: Famous for the ancient stone sarcophagi (king’s tombs) of the Sidabutar dynasty.
Ambarita Village: Known for its ancient stone chairs and table, traditionally used for Batak tribal meetings and executions.
Simanindo Village: Home to the Huta Bolon Simanindo Museum, where traditional Batak performances (Tor-Tor dance) are often held.
King Siallagan’s Stone Chairs: Located in Ambarita, these are unique cultural artifacts showing Batak legal traditions.
Tele Tower (Menara Pandang Tele): A viewpoint on the mainland offering a spectacular, panoramic view of Lake Toba and Samosir Island.
Natural Beauty & Day Trips:
Sipiso-piso Waterfall: A stunning, high waterfall near Lake Toba, plunging into a gorge, offering spectacular views of the lake.
Berastagi: A cool mountain town known for its volcanic scenery, active volcanoes, and fresh produce.
Mount Sinabung: An active stratovolcano near Berastagi, a dominant feature of the landscape (check safety warnings before visiting).
Mount Sibayak: A popular, relatively easy volcano to climb near Berastagi, known for its hot springs and sunrise views from the crater.
Lau Kawar Lake: A serene lake near Mount Sinabung, surrounded by lush greenery and a popular picnic spot.
Sikulikap Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall hidden in a forest reserve on the way to Berastagi.
Taman Alam Lumbini: A Buddhist temple in Berastagi featuring a large, beautiful replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda in Myanmar.
Tangakahan: A village famous for its eco-tourism, jungle trekking, and elephant sanctuary, located further north.
Activities & Experiences
Explore Samosir Island by Scooter: Rent a motorbike (approx. $7.00 – $8.00/day) and ride around the vast island, stopping at rice paddies, traditional Batak villages, and stunning viewpoints.
Visit Huta Siallagan & the Stone Chairs: Explore this ancient Batak village in Ambarita, famous for its centuries-old stone chairs and table where tribal kings held council and historically, trials and executions.
Hike up Mount Sibayak: Take a pre-dawn trek up this active volcano near Berastagi (easily reached from Medan) for an incredible sunrise view over the Karo Highlands (guide recommended).
Watch the Sigale-gale Dance Performance: Witness the mystical wooden puppet dance in Tomok village, traditionally performed for funerary rituals, often accompanied by traditional Batak music.
Go Water Sporting on the Lake: Swim in the crater lake’s refreshing waters or rent a kayak (approx. $6.00/day) or jet ski near Tuktuk for a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains.
Discover King Sidabutar’s Tomb: Visit the elaborately carved ancient tomb of the first Batak king of Tomok, a fascinating historical site adorned with traditional Batak motifs.
Go Orangutan Trekking (Nearby): Take a side trip from Medan to Gunung Leuser National Park (e.g., Bukit Lawang) to hike the jungle and see wild and semi-wild Sumatran Orangutans.
Find Sipiso-piso Waterfall: Travel to the northern end of the lake to see one of Indonesia’s highest waterfalls, a dramatic 120-meter plume that drops into the valley below.
Savor Medan’s Culinary Scene: Go on a food adventure in Medan to try famous local dishes like Soto Medan (coconut milk soup), Nasi Goreng (fried rice), and the renowned Ucok Durian.
Relax in the Hot Springs of Pangururan: Take a scenic drive across Samosir Island to Pangururan to soak your muscles in the natural sulfur hot springs, fed by the nearby volcano.
Visit Medan’s Historical Landmarks: Explore the city’s rich past by visiting the ornate Maimun Palace (Sultan’s Palace) and the stately Tjong A Fie Mansion.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting to Lake Toba from Medan:
Private Car/Shared Taxi: This is the fastest and most comfortable way. Using the new toll roads, the drive to the port town of Parapat takes approximately 3-4 hours. A private car can cost $50.00 – $90.00, while a shared taxi is around $10.00 – $17.00 per person.
Public Bus: The most affordable option. Buses leave from Medan’s Amplas Bus Station to Parapat, taking approximately 4-5 hours and costing around $4.00 – $5.00.
Ferry to Samosir Island: From Parapat, you must take a ferry across the lake. Passenger ferries to the main tourist area of Tuktuk leave hourly from the Tigaraja Port (approx. 45-60 minutes, ~$2.00).
Getting Around Samosir Island:
Scooter Rental is King: Renting a scooter (approx. $7.00 – $8.00 per day) is the best way to explore Samosir Island’s villages and viewpoints at your own pace. Be cautious, as roads can be winding and sometimes poorly maintained.
Becak (Motorcycle Taxi): For shorter trips, local becak drivers (a motorcycle with an attached sidecar) are readily available in Tuktuk and Parapat. Agree on the price before you start the journey.
Walking: The Tuktuk peninsula is relatively small and easily walkable.
The Batak Culture:
Lake Toba and Samosir Island are the cultural heartland of the Batak Toba people, a distinct ethnic group in North Sumatra. They are predominantly Christian, which means you will see churches in the villages, and it offers a more relaxed social atmosphere compared to more conservative regions.
Traditional Houses: Look for the distinctive Rumah Bolon (traditional Batak houses) with their dramatically curved, boat-shaped roofs and intricate red, black, and white carvings (gorga).
Ulos Cloth: This is a sacred, handwoven textile used by the Batak people for traditional ceremonies. You can buy authentic pieces in villages like Tomok, but haggle respectfully.
Local Cuisine:
Andaliman Pepper: A key ingredient in Batak cooking, this small wild pepper has a unique citrusy flavor and a tongue-numbing sensation, similar to Sichuan pepper. Try dishes spiced with it, like Arsik (spiced fish).
Non-Halal Options: Due to the Batak Toba’s culture, pork dishes like Babi Panggang (grilled pork) and Saksang (pork stew) are common and delicious—a rare find in Muslim-majority Indonesia.
Coffee: North Sumatra is famous for its high-quality coffee. Try the locally grown Sumatran Arabica (often labeled Mandailing, Samosir, or Lintong) at one of the lakeside cafes.
Hidden Gems & Notes:
Tuktuk’s Vibe: Tuktuk on Samosir Island is the main tourist hub and a great place to stay. It has a relaxed, backpacker-friendly atmosphere with many guesthouses and restaurants along the single coastal road.
Live Music: Don’t miss a night of live music, often featuring local Batak bands performing international hits and local songs, a fun way to mingle with travelers and locals.
The Weather: The region is at a high altitude, so while days can be warm, mornings and evenings, especially on the lake, can be quite cool. Pack a light jacket or sweater.
Medan’s Traffic: Medan is notoriously chaotic. Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek (for car or motorcycle transport) to navigate the city; they are safer and easier than finding traditional taxis.
Top Restaurants
Mie Aceh Titi Bobrok [$5-$15] – A highly popular local favorite in Medan for authentic Acehnese noodles, famous for its spicy and flavorful curried broth, served with crab or other meats.
Rumah Makan Sinar Pagi [$5-$15] – A legendary, no-frills spot in Medan, famous for its rich and aromatic Soto Medan (soup with coconut milk, spices, and chicken, beef, or shrimp).
Soto Kesawan [$5-$15] – A small, long-standing local warung near Tjong A Fie Mansion in Medan specializing in traditional Malay-style Soto (especially the version with chunky prawns).
Kari Bihun Tabona [$5-$15] – Known as the ‘Chicken Curry King’ of Medan, this basic eatery has been operating for decades, serving rich, thick curry broth with rice vermicelli (bihun), chicken, or beef.
Rumah Makan Tabona [$5-$15] – A legendary Medan eatery (sometimes confused with Kari Bihun Tabona) known for its delicious, authentic Medanese Curry, often served with free-range chicken or beef.
Nasi Goreng Surya [$5-$10] – A great supper option in Medan, highly recommended by locals for its spicy version of fried rice, perfect for late-night cravings.
Bihun Bebek Kumango (ASIE) [$5-$15] – A renowned Medan spot specializing in thin rice vermicelli and generous portions of tender duck meat, served with a rich, flavorful duck broth.
Bakmi Hock Seng [$5-$15] – An iconic Chinese-Indonesian noodle stall in Medan operating since 1932, known for noodles topped with a variety of ingredients like fish balls, shrimp, and soy-braised eggs.
Kwetiau Ateng [$5-$15] – A well-known local eatery in Medan that specializes in Kwetiau (flat rice noodles), serving both fried and soupy versions with various meat and seafood toppings.
Siobak Pui Brayan [$5-$15] – A popular Medan spot known for its Siobak (crispy pork belly) and Char Siu (Chinese BBQ pork), which often sells out before the afternoon.
Lontong Kak Lin [$3-$10] – A beloved Medan breakfast spot that specializes in Lontong Sayur (rice cake with vegetable curry), popular with locals for its tempting side dishes like rendang or fried chicken.
Nasi Gurih Ibu Ida Pasar Beruang [$3-$10] – A popular local breakfast choice in Medan, known for its fragrant, coconut milk-infused rice (Nasi Gurih) served with sambal and an omelette.
RM OnDo Batak Grill [$10-$20] – One of the most iconic Lapo (Batak traditional eatery) in Medan, famous for its authentic Batak non-halal dishes like Saksang and Babi Panggang Karo (grilled pork).
Rumah Makan Sitanggang [$10-$20] – A local Batak restaurant in Medan, highly regarded for its authentic Saksang (minced pork/buffalo meat stewed in its blood and spices).
Dapur Batak Roma [$10-$20] – Another authentic Batak food spot in Medan, specializing in traditional dishes like Saksang and other hearty Batak cuisine.
Babi Panggang Karo Tesalonika [$10-$20] – Known for serving excellent Babi Panggang Karo (BPK) in Medan, a very simple setting but highly regarded by locals for the authentic Batak taste.
Marikena [$10-$20] – A Medan spot known for serving Arsik (Batak spiced carp), a traditional dish with a blend of sweet, spicy, and sour flavors.
Rumah Makan Padang Sidempuan [$5-$15] – A local eatery in Medan where you can find authentic Arsik and other dishes from the Padang Sidempuan region.
RM GULASA (Khas Batak) [$5-$15] – A Batak specialty restaurant on Samosir Island (Lake Toba) where you can try authentic local dishes, often featuring freshwater fish and Batak spices.
Maruba Restaurant [$5-$15] – Located in Tuktuk Siadong (Samosir, Lake Toba), this restaurant is well-known for traditional Batak cuisine, especially Arsik.
RM SIAEK MUAL [$5-$15] – An authentic Batak eatery in Samosir, praised for its traditional flavors and cultural representation in its dishes.
Rumah Makan Khas Batak Pondok Bambu [$5-$15] – Savor traditional Batak dishes in a warm, traditional setting on Samosir Island near Lake Toba.
RM Batak Binsar Naibaho [$5-$15] – Another local gem on Samosir Island serving authentic Batak cuisine, popular with locals for a true taste of the region.
Rumah Makan Khas Batak Erwin Manik [$5-$15] – An establishment in Samosir known for its commitment to traditional Batak recipes and flavors.
MANDAUP cafe and resto batak [$5-$15] – A cafe and resto in Samosir offering the rich and distinctive flavors of authentic Batak cuisine.
Warung Nasi Pinto [$3-$10] – A simple, local Warung (food stall) in Samosir serving authentic Indonesian flavors, a great choice for a cheap and filling local meal.
Warung dinda [$3-$10] – A charming and simple Nasi restaurant in Tanjung Bunga, Samosir Regency, offering authentic Indonesian dishes.
Rumah Makan Lomak [$5-$15] – Located in Samosir Regency, this local eatery is known for showcasing the heart of Indonesian cuisine and flavors.
Restoran Garuda [$5-$15] – A highly popular chain restaurant in Medan serving authentic Padang (Minang) cuisine, famous for its extensive buffet-style presentation of dishes like rendang and curries.
Uda Sayang [$5-$15] – A favorite Padang restaurant in Medan, known for serving a wide array of dishes buffet-style and its two famous types of chili sauces (sambal).
Nasi Kapau Hj. Uni Emi [$5-$15] – A highly recommended Padang restaurant in Medan, popular with locals for its authentic Nasi Kapau (a specific style of Padang food).
Rumah Makan ARNOLD [$5-$15] – An eatery in Samosir Regency offering a taste of authentic Padang cuisine near Lake Toba.
Wajir Seafood [$15-$30] – A lively, unpretentious Medan restaurant with an outdoor setting, famous for its traditional Chinese-Indonesian seafood specialties like Salted Egg Squid and Butter Fried Shrimp.
Nelayan Restaurants [$15-$30] – A chain of Chinese-style restaurants in Medan, highly praised for its quality Dim Sum and fresh seafood dishes, especially soft-shell crab.
Jumbo Sea Food Restaurant [$15-$30] – A Medan restaurant known for its quality seafood dishes prepared with a Chinese-Indonesian twist.
Sajian Bhinneka [$10-$20] – A large, famous Medan restaurant with a semi-outdoor setting of gardens and fishponds, serving a wide choice of Sumatran and Indonesian foods.
Koki Sunda [$10-$20] – A laid-back Medan restaurant known for classic meat dishes, curries, and fish, offering an authentic Sundanese (West Javanese) ethnic ambiance.
Padang Nusantara Vegetarian [$5-$15] – A popular Medan spot that offers a flavorful combination of Padang dishes, including plant-based versions like vegetarian “fish” for a diverse crowd.
Tip Top Restaurant [$10-$20] – A historic Medan landmark since 1934, known for its colonial-style architecture and diverse menu of Indonesian and international cuisine, including cakes from a wood-fired oven.
Macehat Coffee [$5-$15] – A renowned coffee shop in Medan, popular for years, especially famous for its creamy, delicious Avocado Coffee Float.
Piltik Coffee [$5-$15] – An artisan coffee shop and roastery near Lake Toba, known for its aesthetic atmosphere and high-quality manual brew coffee, like the V60 Peaberry.
El Tona Coffeehouse [$5-$15] – A tranquil cafe in Samosir (Lake Toba) where the owner prepares every dish with care, offering a serene atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
Tepi Danau Bistro Cafe & Resto [$10-$20] – A popular spot on the edge of Lake Toba known for its soothing atmosphere, breathtaking lake views, and refreshing drinks like avocadoffee and caramel milk coffee.
Biwa Cafe & Resto [$10-$20] – A comfortable and clean cafe near Lake Toba known for friendly service and favorite menu items like Belacan Kangkung Noodles and Mango Juice.
Solu Bolon Cafe and Resto [$10-$20] – A restaurant with stunning views of Lake Toba in Samosir Regency, offering authentic Indonesian flavors.
Caldera Resto & Coffee Balige [$10-$20] – Located on the shores of Lake Toba in Balige, offering family-style dishes with stunning views and an aesthetically pleasing, Instagrammable ambiance.
Buddhas Cafe- Vegan [$5-$15] – A vegan oasis in Samosir with beautiful gardens, offering delicious plant-based meals amidst the stunning scenery.
Borobudur House [$5-$15] – A pure vegan, non-smoking restaurant set near the lake side in Samosir, allowing guests to enjoy their dishes in a calm garden with incredible lake views.
Ebikel Pizzeria [$10-$20] – Located in Tuktuk (Samosir, Lake Toba), this place is famous for having one of the few solid wood-fire ovens in the area, serving authentic, real-deal pizza.
Ikan Bakar Orari Restaurant [$15-$30] – A restaurant in Tuktuk Siadong, Samosir, that specializes in authentic Indonesian grilled fish, a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Widya Specialist Lobster Food [$20-$40] – Located in Samosir, this spot is known for its seafood feasts, particularly lobster, offering a more high-end local experience.
Jenny’s Restaurant [$10-$20] – A popular, charming, and affordable dining spot in Tuktuk Siadong, Samosir, known for its diverse menu including Indonesian, international, and a unique grilled fish specialty.
LEO’S Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located in Tuktuk Siadong, offering the vibrant taste of authentic Asian cuisine, blending tradition with flavor.
RM BPK LOPINA [$10-$20] – A local Batak eatery in Samosir offering BPK (Babi Panggang Karo) for those seeking the traditional grilled pork dish on the island.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Edge Restaurant & Bar (Medan): Located on a rooftop in Medan, this spot is a favorite for both locals and tourists, offering a chic ambiance, an extensive drink selection, and stunning panoramic views of the city.
Prime Bar (Medan): Situated within the JW Marriott Hotel in Medan, this elegant bar caters to wine and beer lovers, often hosting live concerts to enhance a happy and high-end drinking mood.
Harbour 9 (Medan): A stylish dining bar and lounge in Medan’s city center known for its selective combination of beers, cocktails, and food. It features a cozy, relaxed ambiance with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Cava Lounge (Medan): Located off Jl. Pattimura in Medan, this is an excellent place to unwind after a long day, offering a wide range of drinks, occasional concerts, and a lively atmosphere.
Social House (SoHo) (Medan): Found on the second floor of the Capital Building in Medan, this venue provides a quiet and warm ambiance with lanterns, occasional live performances, and a focus on enjoying a quiet evening with good drinks.
District 10 Restaurant & Bar (Medan): Located next to Harbour 9 in Medan, this is one of the best Western-style bars and restaurants, offering a selection of liquor, off-menu cocktail attempts, and live music on weekend evenings.
Cello Skypool & Lounge Bar (Medan): Medan’s premier rooftop bar, offering breathtaking skyline views and exquisite cocktails alongside a pool, making it a must-visit spot for an upscale evening.
The Tavern Pub (Medan): Found in the Hotel Dana Toba International in Medan, this German pub serves brewed beer and features a rock band, a pool table, and a dart game, providing an inexpensive, lively pub environment.
Healy Mac’s Bar And Restaurant (Medan): An Irish pub and restaurant in Medan known for its lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and as a popular spot to watch sports and enjoy a pint.
SKY the Oasis Rooftop Bar & Lounge (Medan): Discover this vibrant spot in Medan where cocktails and stunning views converge, offering live music and a lively, high-altitude bar experience.
Amergency Cocktail (Medan): Located in the city, this cocktail lounge is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks, perfect for a memorable night out in Medan.
Corner Café Raya (Medan): Situated near the Masjid Raya (Grand Mosque) in Medan, this street-side venue has a backpacker vibe, offering relatively cheap food and beer and exposure to the local Indonesian lifestyle.
Casa Di Manurung Bar & Restaurant (Lake Toba): Located in Samosir, this spot combines local flavors with stunning views of Lake Toba, offering a dining and drinking experience that embraces the natural beauty of the area.
Dorguk Garden Bar (Lake Toba): Experience the beauty of Samosir at this garden bar, where local flavors and stunning views of Lake Toba create a perfect, relaxing escape.
Brando Blues Bar (Lake Toba): Found in North Sumatra, this bar is known for its vibrant nightlife, featuring live blues music and great drinks in a dedicated music-lover’s setting.
Entrance The Music Temple (Medan): One of the best-known and most popular high-energy nightclubs in Medan, featuring scintillating music, diverse entertainment, and a luxurious setting in the Grand Aston Hotel.
F1 Discotheque (Medan): A well-known pub and discotheque in Medan, located on Jalan Wazir/Jalan Kolonel Sugiono, popular for a high-volume, dance-focused night out.
SHOOT Resto. Bar. Club (Medan): Highly recommended for a comfortable and enjoyable hangout in Medan, offering good prices, great cocktails, a pool table, and a dedicated dance space.
Retrospective Reserve (Medan): Located on the 6th floor of the Capital Building in Medan, this is a thrilling club and bar, known for its good DJs and energetic party atmosphere, attracting a stylish crowd.
Tobasa Club (Medan): Situated within the Hotel Danau Toba in Medan, this nightclub is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy music and dancing within a well-established hotel setting.
The City Hall Executive Club (Medan): This club provides Medan with a new and exciting concept for nightlife, offering a fresh, lively experience in a central location.
Jump Shot Da Club (Medan): A sports bar and general entertainment venue located in Medan Plaza, known for its lively atmosphere and serving as a good spot for both sports viewing and a casual night out.
HW Helen’s Live Bar (Medan): Discover the lively nightlife at this venue in Medan, where music, drinks, and unforgettable experiences await in a dedicated live-music club format.
The Lavish Room (Medan): A premier bar and club in Medan offering an elegant nightlife experience with exquisite drinks and a vibrant, luxurious atmosphere.
Roy’s Pub Live Music (Lake Toba): A Samosir Island icon located in Tuktuk, famous for its rustic, cool ambiance and its weekend live music nights featuring the Jajabi Band and often incorporating local and acoustic music.
Buni-buni (Lake Toba): A must-visit pub in Samosir Regency, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a taste of local nightlife culture for an unforgettable, low-key experience near Lake Toba.
Lapo Tuak (Lake Toba): Not a club but a traditional and essential part of Lake Toba’s nightlife, these are simple bars found throughout the region where men (and sometimes women) gather to drink tuak, a traditional Batak palm wine.