Explore the beauty of Karo natural tourism with rows of mountains, waterfalls, and lakes that offer an unforgettable holiday experience.
Karo, one of the regencies located in the highlands of North Sumatra, offers a variety of amazing natural tourist destinations.
With an altitude of 600 to 1,400 meters above sea level, Karo is the perfect place for those of you who want to feel the cool air and enjoy beautiful natural scenery.
Located about 77 km from Medan, this area has various natural attractions ranging from volcanoes, magnificent waterfalls, to cultural villages that are full of history.
Here are 10 natural tourist destinations in Karo that you must visit during your vacation:
1. Mount Sibayak
Mount Sibayak, or known as the “king mountain” by the Karo people, is an active volcano that last erupted in 1881. This mountain has stunning views and a fairly easy hiking trail, making it popular among both beginners and experienced climbers.
There are three main routes to climb Mount Sibayak, namely Jaranguda Village, Sidebuk-debuk, and Penatapan.
The Jaranguda Village Route is the most recommended route because it is safe and short. When you reach the top, you will be treated to an extraordinary view of the sunrise and a stunning mountain landscape.
2. Sikulikap Waterfall
Sikulikap Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Karo. With a height of around 30 meters, this waterfall is surrounded by tropical forest which is a habitat for various animals, such as crows, Gibbon monkeys, and various types of butterflies.
Its easy-to-reach location makes Sikulikap Waterfall a popular tourist destination for families. Don’t forget to try the grilled or boiled corn sold along the road to this waterfall.
3. Pariban Hot Springs
Located in Semangat Gunung Village, Pariban Hot Springs is the perfect destination to unwind after a day of activities. This bath is famous for its natural hot water that comes from the volcanic spring of Mount Sibayak.
The cool natural atmosphere, mountain views, and fresh air make this place perfect for relaxation. Many visitors come at night to enjoy the calm atmosphere and the warmth of the hot water under the night sky.
4. Lingga Cultural Village
Lingga Cultural Village is one of the cultural tourism destinations in Karo that is rich in historical value. Here, you can find the Siwaluh Jabu traditional house that is more than 200 years old, complete with typical Karo traditional architecture.
This village was once the center of the Lingga Kingdom which was led by a king with the title Sibayak Lingga. In addition, there is also a museum that houses various historical and cultural artifacts of the Karo which are interesting to study.
5. Mount Sibuatan
Mount Sibuatan, the highest mountain in North Sumatra with an altitude of 2,457 meters above sea level, is a challenge for climbers who love adventure.
Located on the border of Karo and Dairi, this mountain has a more difficult climbing terrain than Mount Sibayak, with damp and slippery forests, especially during the rainy season.
Although difficult, the natural beauty at the top of Mount Sibuatan will repay all the efforts you have made.
6. Mount Sinabung
Mount Sinabung is a very famous natural icon of Karo Regency. Even though it was a red zone due to the eruption in 2010, you can still enjoy the magnificent view of Mount Sinabung from the designated safe zone.
The height of this mountain reaches 2,460 meters above sea level, and the beauty of the scenery remains the main attraction for tourists who come to Karo.
7. Lau Kawar Lake
At the foot of Mount Sinabung, there is Lake Lau Kawar which has an area of around 200 hectares. This lake offers stunning natural views with its calm water, surrounded by shady trees.
For those of you who like trekking activities, there is Lancuk Hill which can be climbed to enjoy the beautiful panorama from a height. Along the way, you can also find wild orchids that beautify the natural atmosphere around the lake.
8. Sipiso-piso Waterfall
Sipiso-piso Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Indonesia with a height of around 120 meters. Located on the edge of the caldera of Lake Toba, this waterfall flows rapidly into a valley surrounded by stunning green hill scenery.
Sipiso-piso also offers beautiful views of Lake Toba, making it a perfect destination for taking photos and enjoying the natural beauty.
9. Gundaling Hill
If you want to enjoy the view of the sunrise or sunset, Gundaling Hill is the ideal place. Situated at an altitude of 1,575 meters above sea level, this hill offers spectacular views of Berastagi and its surroundings.
Since the Dutch colonial era, Gundaling Hill has been a favorite tourist destination. At the top of the hill, you can enjoy the view of Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung at the same time.
10. Peceren Cultural Village
Peceren Cultural Village, located in Sempa Jaya Village, is one of the cultural villages that still maintains the traditional houses of the Karo people.
Here, you can find the Siwaluh Jabu house which is still inhabited by local residents and is more than a century old.
Apart from the unique architecture of the traditional houses, Peceren Village is also famous for its culinary tourism, where you can enjoy typical Karo food such as wajik and various other traditional snacks.
Karo Regency offers a variety of amazing natural tourist destinations, ranging from mountains, waterfalls, lakes, to cultural villages.
With its stunning natural charm and calming atmosphere, Karo is the perfect choice for a refreshing holiday. Enjoy the natural beauty and rich culture in every corner of Karo, and experience an unforgettable experience in the highlands of North Sumatra.
