Lake Toba, also known as Danau Toba in Indonesian, is a serene destination that offers a respite from the heat with its cooler temperatures at 900 meters above sea level. This magnificent lake is the result of the largest volcanic eruption in the last 25 million years, making it a geological wonder.
For the Batak people, particularly the Batak Toba, Samosir Island in Lake Toba holds great cultural and spiritual significance. Connected to the rest of Sumatra by a land bridge, Samosir Island is considered their spiritual home and serves as an important icon of Batak culture and society. The island is predominantly Christian, with a syncretic blend of pre-Christian beliefs and symbolism that remains strong.
When visiting Lake Toba, the main point of access is from the town of Parapat on the eastern shore. Parapat is easily reachable from Medan Kuala Namu airport, and the journey takes less than four hours by car. Passenger ferries operate throughout the day until 7pm, taking approximately 45 minutes to cross. There is also a car ferry that runs several times a day until 9pm.
The tourist center of Lake Toba is centered around the village of Tuktuk, directly opposite Parapat. This area offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the lake, strolling between hotels and restaurants, and simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings.
While at Lake Toba, there are several attractions worth exploring. Just a few kilometers from Tuktuk, you can visit the Stone Chairs at Ambarita, which are believed to have served as a tribal court in the past. Nearby, at Simanindo, there is a museum that showcases daily traditional dancing. In Tomok, south of Tuktuk, you can find pre-Christian tombs of tribal kings.
Driving around the island is a rewarding experience, as you can admire the breathtaking panoramas of the lake, rice paddies, and other scenic landscapes. Along the way, you’ll come across traditional Batak houses adorned with mystical symbols like the gecko and the singa. Some houses have weavers making cloth, and there are various places to purchase souvenirs.
While in Lake Toba, you will likely hear the beautiful singing voices of the Batak people, who are renowned throughout Indonesia for their vocal talents. Don’t miss the opportunity to try Batak cuisine, which features specialties such as arsik (lake carp flavored with local andaliman), pork in its blood sauce, and Dali ni Horbo (water buffalo cheese).
Lake Toba and its surrounding areas offer a unique cultural experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of the Batak people while enjoying the natural beauty of this volcanic lake.
