Trying to look for an alternative to Bali in Indonesia that’s just as picture-perfect? Consider going to Sumatra! Sumatra is one of Indonesia’s major islands located in the western side of the country. It is one of the biggest islands in the world, surrounded on one side by the Indian Ocean and the other by another island, Java. While the surroundings of the island are beautiful in their own right, Sumatra holds plenty of stunning landscapes and vistas anyone will stare at in awesome wonder.
Of all the places you can be in Sumatra, we recommend Berastagi, a town found in the northern section. There are plenty of things to do and places to see there, and if you want to know what’s in it for you, then pay attention. Here are four things you can do in Berastagi:
1. Visit the Museum
It is always a good idea to learn the history of the local area you’re heading to. In this case, when you arrive at Berastagi, head for the museum! You’ll find the Museum Pasaka Karo inside a Catholic Church. Here, you can view the myriad of photos taken from the 20th century along with different tools and items used by the people back then—clothes, spoons, forks, bowls, and so much more.
2. Talk to the Locals
What better way to settle down in a foreign country than to chat with the locals? Learn about their lifestyles, experiences, culture, and traditions by visiting the Dokan Traditional Village. While the houses are slightly modernized (emphasis on slightly), one home stands as a portal to the olden days: the Karo longhouse. With the help of a guide, you can explore what the Karo longhouse has to show you, from the ways people live inside it, to all the symbols that plaster the structure.
3. Explore the Lake
Thirty kilometers away from Berastagi lies a stunning lake, guaranteed to cast a “wow” spell on anyone that lay eyes upon it. To get there, you can rent a car. While it may take you an hour to reach the place, it is worth every bit of time and effort to be there. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a vibrant green field surrounding the lake, along with some local fishermen out on the waters.
Before you do go to the place, however, be aware that it sits below an active volcano, Mt. Sinabung. Check on the internet and look for the most updated information in regards to the activity of the volcano.
4. Enjoy the Waterfall
Located 35 kilometers away from Berastagi, towering over the famous Lake Toba, is a grand 120-meter-tall waterfall called the Sipiso-Piso Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in all of Indonesia. You can either stand atop the mountain to grab a view of the stunning Sipiso-Piso Waterfall along with the stunning lake or get up close and personal standing at the foot of the waterfall itself.
There are plenty of things you can do in Berastagi, Indonesia, and you can spend days after days exploring and always discovering something new and unusual. Of course, you can start with the activities we’ve recommended to you, but do take the chance and adventure through the area. We promise that there is a world of fun and amazement lying in wait just for you.
Holiday Inn is a world-renowned hotel chain, and we pride ourselves on providing the best
accommodation at the most affordable rate. If you’re looking for a hotel near the beach in
Batam, book a suite at Holiday Inn today!
