North Sumatra Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to North Sumatra, including must-visit attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety and health, transportation options and nearby destinations.


Introduction to North Sumatra

North Sumatra is a province on the island of Sumatra, in Indonesia. The province is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich local culture, and delicious cuisine. The capital city of North Sumatra is Medan, which is also the largest city in the province. North Sumatra is easily accessible by air, road, and sea, making it a popular destination for tourists.

List of Places to Visit in North Sumatra

North Sumatra offers several attractions that cater to the interests of different types of visitors. Here are some of the must-visit places in the province:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maimun Palace: A beautiful royal palace built in the 19th century, featuring a mix of Malay, Islamic, and European architectural styles.
  • Tjong A Fie Mansion: A historic mansion that was once the residence of a wealthy Chinese businessman in the early 20th century. The mansion is now a museum that showcases the history of the Chinese community in Medan.
  • Museum Negeri Sumatra Utara: A museum that houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of North Sumatra.

Natural Attractions of North Sumatra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Toba: A large volcanic crater lake that offers scenic views, water sports, and cultural experiences.
  • Bukit Lawang: A village that is famous for its orangutan sanctuary and jungle trekking opportunities.
  • Berastagi: A highland town that offers beautiful views of the surrounding volcanoes and hills.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Sumatra

North Sumatra has several hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the province’s natural landscapes. Some popular routes include:

  • Mount Sibayak: A volcano located near Berastagi, offering a relatively easy hiking trail and a beautiful view of the surrounding hills.
  • Bohorok River: A river that runs through Gunung Leuser National Park, offering a challenging rafting experience amidst lush green landscapes.
  • Lake Toba Trail: A hiking trail that covers the perimeter of Lake Toba, offering stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.

Best Things to Do in North Sumatra: Activities and Tours

Apart from the attractions mentioned above, North Sumatra offers several activities and tours that visitors can enjoy, including:

  • Visit local markets: The markets in North Sumatra offer a rich cultural experience where visitors can taste local food and buy souvenirs.
  • Try local cuisine: North Sumatra is known for its delicious cuisine, including delicacies such as Soto Medan, Bika Ambon, and Mie Aceh.
  • Explore the countryside: Visitors can take a day trip to the countryside to see traditional villages and rice paddies.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Sumatra

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to North Sumatra:

Day Activity
1 Explore Medan
2 Visit Maimun Palace and Tjong A Fie Mansion
3 Go jungle trekking in Bukit Lawang
4 Visit Berastagi and Mount Sibayak
5 Explore Lake Toba and Samosir Island
6 Visit traditional villages around Lake Toba
7 Relax and enjoy the scenery around Lake Toba

Food and Drink Scene of North Sumatra

North Sumatra has a vibrant food and drink scene, where visitors can try local dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Soto Medan: A soup made with chicken broth, rice noodles, and spices.
  • Bika Ambon: A sweet, spongy dessert made with tapioca flour, eggs, and coconut milk.
  • Mie Aceh: A spicy noodle dish made with local herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Teh Tarik: A hot tea that is sweetened with condensed milk and poured back and forth between two cups to create a frothy texture.
  • Tuak: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented palm sap.
  • Kue Lumpur: A sweet beverage made with coconut milk, rice flour, and palm sugar.

Where to Stay in North Sumatra: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Sumatra offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, depending on their budget and preferences. Some popular options include:

  • JW Marriott Hotel Medan: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Medan, offering excellent amenities and services.
  • Bukit Lawang Cottages: A budget-friendly accommodation option for visitors exploring Bukit Lawang and its surrounding areas.
  • Tabo Cottages: A popular guesthouse in Tuk Tuk, Samosir Island, offering beautiful views of Lake Toba.

What to Buy in North Sumatra: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North Sumatra offers several local products and souvenirs that visitors can take back home to remember their trip. Some popular options include:

  • Handwoven clothing and textiles
  • Silver jewelry and accessories
  • Traditional handicrafts and wooden carvings

Local Culture and Customs of North Sumatra

North Sumatra has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with influences from different ethnic groups such as Malay, Chinese, and Batak. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering a house and dressing modestly in sacred places.

Best Time to Visit North Sumatra

The best time to visit North Sumatra is during the dry season, from April to September. This time of the year offers comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and festivals and events such as the Medan Great Sale and Toba Caldera Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Sumatra

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting North Sumatra:

Do:

  • Carry cash as some places may not accept credit cards
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

  • Use your left hand while eating or greeting
  • Wear revealing clothing in sacred places
  • Drink tap water

Safety and Health

Visitors should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and health while visiting North Sumatra.

Safety in North Sumatra

  • Watch out for pickpockets and keep valuables safe
  • Avoid demonstrating affection in public
  • Take necessary precautions during jungle trekking and outdoor activities

Health in North Sumatra

  • Drink bottled water and avoid tap water
  • Apply insect repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites
  • Get necessary vaccinations before travelling to the region

Getting to North Sumatra: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Sumatra is easily accessible by air, road, and sea.

Airports Near North Sumatra

  • Kuala Namu International Airport (Medan)

Bus Stations Near North Sumatra

  • Amplas Medan Bus Terminal
  • Pinang Baris Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Ferry to Samosir Island

How to Get Around in North Sumatra

There are several options for getting around North Sumatra, including hired cars, taxis, and local public transportation such as buses and minivans.

Where to Go Next from North Sumatra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore nearby destinations and excursions from North Sumatra, including:

  • Aceh Province: Located to the north of North Sumatra, Aceh Province offers beautiful beaches and cultural experiences.
  • Riau Islands: Located to the east of Sumatra, the Riau Islands offer island hopping opportunities and scenic beaches.
  • Mentawai Islands: Located to the west of Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands offer surfing and outdoor adventure opportunities.

Conclusion

North Sumatra is a beautiful and diverse province that offers a rich cultural experience, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Visitors should take necessary precautions and respect local customs while exploring the region to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.



    Asahan
    Berastagi
    Padang Sidempuan
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