Indonesia has many intriguing destinations to see across the archipelago, but Lake Toba was in the limelight for quite a while now. Why? Before this year, President Jokowi created several important ministries to accelerate the growth of Lake Toba since he considered that the Northern Sumatra lake could develop into the “Monaco of Asia”. With this job, infrastructure and facilities, such as access roads, amusement facilities, and support centers for travelers, will be improved and developed.
Better amenities will draw more visitors to pay a stop by Lake Toba, but it does not signify that the big all-natural lake does not have a charm all its own: here are the reasons to see today before the crowds descend.
World’s Largest Volcanic Lake
The length of Lake Toba is 100 kilometers with a 300-kilometer width. Based on research undertaken from the Michigan Technological University, Lake Toba was shaped by an explosion that happened around 73,000 to 75,000 decades back, which, paradoxically, also indicated as the largest eruption on the planet that resulted in the extinction of 60% of the individual race. This reason alone is sufficient for everyone who wishes to stop by the area.
Unparalleled Beauty
For people that want to get natural beauty, Lake Toba is the solution. Because the lake is a lovely expanse of water surrounded by beautiful hills. The lake also has an abundance of flora and fauna, overgrown with pine and palm trees (with wild animals such as monkeys, orangutans, langur monkeys, and tapirs).
Samosir Island
Lake Toba is also famous for Samosir Island, situated directly in the center of this lake. The island also provides myriad cultures and arts, and travelers will find the opportunity to see traditional Batak homes, in addition to the way to weave North Sumatra’s conventional cloth, known as ulos.
The Mysterious Doll
The dolls are made from wood and could be seen dancing throughout a Batak match. Not only that, but Sigale-gale dolls also have spiritual importance and mysticism: they are sometimes seen dancing throughout funerals, for instance.
Yummy Food
It is a gourmet paradise at Lake Toba since there are loads of Medan delicacies extended in the region. We advocate sitohap porridge, a staple of this Silalahi community that has dwelt on the shores of Lake Toba for decades, and that is created of ginger, candlenut and andaliman in addition to sitohap leaves that grow in the woods surrounding the region. The porridge could be appreciated with pieces of crackers and chicken. The cake consists of grated coconut and rice then steamed–a matching dessert for afternoon tea to be enjoyed while glancing in the enchanting vista of Lake Toba.
Local Culture
Have a look at the gifted sailors performing traditional Batak dancing and music in the guesthouses or even the Batak Museum. They perform music with an intriguing mixture of ancient and modern tools. You’re able to delight in the Sigale Gale Wave functionality as you’re in it as well! It had been traditionally performed in funerals. However, it is now widely utilized in dance performances.
Experience the original weaving of this Batak fabric, the Oluf! They’re entirely handmade with conventional gear, and the natives use them to wrap them around their heads to keep the sun off. The plus point, it is also going to produce a fantastic souvenir! You can find the souvenir at Lumban Suhi-suhi Village or Buhit Village.
Whether your trips take you on a long stroll on beaches, delicious cuisines, relaxing spas, and resorts, or urban attractions, additional research will give you the best experience for your visit. Get to know more about Lake Toba by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.