Lake Toba Indonesia is a special natural wonder of the world, this gigantic crater lake consists of an island about the size of Singapore in its center.
With an area of more than 1,145 square kilometers and a depth of 450 meters, Lake Toba is more like an ocean. This is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest lakes in the world .
Lake Toba Indonesia is a lake in the Barisan Mountains, north-central Sumatra which is a place to sit back, relax and admire some of the pristine beauty. When you sit and gaze out in the distance and watch the picturesque mountains on the cool, clear lake surface, you will feel the chaos of the world disappear. Since the lake is 900 meters above sea level, the climate here is cooler, helping to escape the heat, humidity and pollution of the city.
The beauty of Lake Toba Indonesia
There are many ways for you to enjoy the breathtaking natural wonders of Lake Toba Indonesia . Many people say that kayaking in Lake Toba is a once in a lifetime experience. Normally, there are three routes that you can explore by kayaking, namely Tongging - Silalahi (12 km), Tongging - Samosir (50 km) and the Northern Circle (175 km).
You can also enjoy the cool breeze from around the lake by surfing on The Kaldera Nomadic Escape. Located in Sibisa, Ajibata Subdivision, Toba Samosir Regency, you can immerse yourself in nature without having to worry about the usual complexes of conventional camping. In addition, you can also be pampered with luxurious amenities such as Bohemian-style tents, bubble tents, eco-cabins and an amphitheater with a capacity of 300 people.
Toba Samosir Regency
Located on the island of Samosir , the traditional village is protected by barricades surrounded by earthen ramparts with bamboo fences and trees. The village also has many unique and authentic traditional houses, notably Tomok, including a massive row of wooden houses with prominent saddle-shaped thatched roofs made of sugar palm fibers (called ijuk).
The Batak tribe on Lake Toba Indonesia is widely known for its festive culture. Among them, Tor-Tor Dance is considered the most elegant dance. This traditional dance is often performed during celebrations such as the harvest season or wedding ceremonies. However, historically, the Tor-Tor dance was used in a ritual to invoke souls and 'bring' them into stone statues, erected as a symbol of ancestors.
There is also a wooden puppet named Sigale-gale, which has become a tourist attraction on the island of Samosir because of its mystical value and beliefs surrounding the puppet. The locals believe that the Sigale-gale can cry and dance on its own without the need for music. Some even thought that the Sigale-gale could only be placed in a coffin. This statue is also often used during family anniversaries in the Samosir area because the Sigale-gale dance is believed by local residents to bring the soul of the deceased to the afterlife.
Huta Bolon Museum on Lake Toba
Those looking for souvenirs may want to check out Ulos, a meticulously hand-woven fabric that not only functions as clothing but is also an important status symbol, used as a precious heirloom. Or it could be a ritual gift in the person's lifecycle from birth and marriage to death.
There are also authentic wood carvings that you can buy in souvenir shops. Don't forget to buy this delightful Arabica coffee bean called Sumatra Mandheling for all coffee enthusiasts.
How to get to Lake Toba?
By air
You can choose between two routes to reach Lake Toba Sumatra . The first route is from Kualanamu International Airport, Medan to Sisingamangaraja XII International Airport located in Siborong-borong, North Tapanuli. From there, you can easily reach Lake Toba by road.
The second option is to take a direct flight to Sisingamangaraja XII International Airport. Several airlines offer direct flights to Sisingamangaraja XII International Airport from Jakarta city and other major cities.
By road
Parapat, the lake town of Toba, is 176 km from Medan and can be reached in less than 6 hours by public bus on two routes: Medan-Parapat or via Medan-Berastagi.
Travel agents at Medan can also organize your own car rental and chauffeur service. If you reach the road from the south via Bukittinggi and Tarutung, public buses are available to Lake Toba Indonesia .
Romantic beauty of Lake Toba
Feel the breeze in your hair and do what the locals do by renting a motorbike to explore this beautiful part of the world. If you are on Samosir Island, spend the day exploring by driving on the road that runs around the edge of the island. Although in rough and unpaved places, this trail offers some breathtaking views of the lake from the highest points on the island. If you are in the famous Tuk Tuk village on Samosir, the best way to get around is to walk or wander down the main street.
Must-see spots in Lake Toba
1. Jangga Dolok Village
Home to the Batak tribe, Jangga Dolok village is located near a charming hillside and lush rice fields. Admire the architecture of traditional houses, watch villagers weave beautiful ulos, savor Batak cuisine and explore the ruins and relics of ancient Batak kings.
2. Tongging Village
Visit the village of Tongging to witness the most miraculous views of nature on Lake Toba Indonesia . Tucked away on a hill, this peaceful village offers a breathtaking view for you to recharge with stunning views of the picturesque hills reflected in the beautiful Lake Toba. Meet friendly locals working on rice fields or fish farms and try the signature arsik.
Tongging Village3. Tomok Village
Stop by Tomok village for a unique cultural experience. Located on the edge of the jetty to Parapat, this small village has beautiful Batak houses and many historical sites. King Sidabutar's mausoleum, stone statues, sigale-gale dance performance and the nearby Batak museum are some of the highlights. You will find plenty of stalls in Batak's signature souvenir area.
Tomok Village
4. The Tarabunga Hill
Enjoy the cool air of Tarabunga hill just outside of Balige. Offering romantic panoramic views of Lake Toba Indonesia , this hill offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views and attracts lots of photographers.
Tarabunga Hill
5. Holbung Hill
Hike to the top of Holbung Hill for a panoramic view of Indoneisa's largest lake and marvel at the incredible view. Also known as Teletubbies Hill, this hill is a great camping spot. Spend the night watching the starry sky and waking up early to catch a spectacular sunrise.
Holbung Hill
6. Pusuk Buhit
The amazing views from the top of Pusuk Buhit are well worth the hike to the top. Pusuk Buhit is a sacred hill for the Batak, who believe this is the birthplace of King Batak. Enjoy the solemn ambience as you head up winding trails and take some great photos of great vistas.
Pusuk Buhit
7. Huta Ginjang
Explore the charms of Lake Toba from another angle. Located 1,555 meters above sea level, Huta Ginjang's Instagenic viewing platform offers a stunning view of Lake Toba surrounded by pine-covered hills. Huta Ginjang is also famous for his paragliding.
Huta Ginjang
8. Tele observation tower
Boasting breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset, Menara Pandang Tele, Tele observation tower, is a must-visit destination. The views on each floor of this three-story tower are different, which makes it a photo spot.
Tele observation tower
You should visit Caldera Nomadic Escape, a wonderful spot overlooking the valley with the background of the stunning Toba Indonesia Lake . You can stay in a cozy bubble tent, bell tent, cabin or ecopod to enjoy breathtaking views.
You should not miss these wonderful landscapes if you want to immerse yourself in the magical beauty of Lake Toba.