Berastagi is a stunningly beautiful town located in the highlands of North Sumatra, Indonesia. It is surrounded by mountains, active volcanoes, and beautiful landscapes. The town itself is filled with vibrant colors, beautiful flowers, and lush greenery. The cool climate, fresh air, and natural scenery make Berastagi a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. In this article you will find 10 best things to do in Berastagi.
One of the most spectacular sights in Berastagi is the view of Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak. The two active volcanoes provide a beautiful backdrop to the town and offer breathtaking views from the top. The area around Berastagi is also home to many beautiful waterfalls, including Sipisopiso waterfall, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Indonesia.
In addition to its natural beauty, Berastagi also has a rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several traditional villages, and visitors can learn about the local way of life and customs. The local market is also a great place to experience the vibrant culture and taste the delicious local cuisine.
10 best things to do in Berastagi – North Sumatra
Berastagi is a truly beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Berastagi is sure to impress. Here are 10 best things to do in Berastagi:
1. Climb Sibayak Mountain
Climbing Sibayak Mountain is one of the most popular things to do in Berastagi. The mountain is an active volcano located in the highlands of North Sumatra and stands at an altitude of 2,212 meters. The hiking trail to the summit of Sibayak Mountain is relatively easy and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. The trail is well-marked and passes through lush green forests, hot springs, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
As you climb higher, the scenery becomes more breathtaking, and the air gets cooler and fresher. From the summit of Sibayak Mountain, you can see panoramic views of the town of Berastagi, the surrounding mountains, and even Mount Sinabung, another active volcano located nearby. The sunrise from the top of Sibayak Mountain is particularly stunning and well worth the early morning climb.
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2. Visit the traditional market
One of the most vibrant and exciting places to visit in Berastagi is the traditional market. The market is located in the heart of the town and is a bustling hub of activity, selling a variety of local produce, spices, handicrafts, and other goods. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and get a taste of traditional Indonesian life.
At the market, you will find a wide range of fruits and vegetables, including some that may be unfamiliar to you, such as durian, mangosteen, and snake fruit. You can also find local spices and herbs, such as cinnamon, turmeric, and lemongrass, which are used in traditional Indonesian dishes.
Aside from food, the market also sells handicrafts, textiles, and other souvenirs. You can find beautiful handwoven fabrics, wooden carvings, and other traditional items that make perfect gifts or mementos of your trip to Berastagi.
Visiting the traditional market is also an excellent opportunity to interact with the local people and learn more about their way of life. The vendors are friendly and welcoming, and many are happy to share information about their products or the local culture.
3. Explore Gundaling Hill
Gundaling Hill is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Berastagi. The hill is located in the heart of the town and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. From the top of the hill, you can see the town of Berastagi, the two active volcanoes of Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak, and the lush green forests that surround the area.
There are several ways to explore Gundaling Hill, including hiking or taking a ride on a horseback. The hiking trail is relatively easy and takes around 30-45 minutes to complete. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful gardens filled with colorful flowers, and you will encounter several viewpoints where you can take in the stunning scenery.
At the top of Gundaling Hill, there are several cafes and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the view. Many of the cafes offer traditional Indonesian snacks and drinks, such as fried bananas, roasted peanuts, and ginger tea.
One of the most popular times to visit Gundaling Hill is during sunset. Watching the sunset from the top of the hill is an unforgettable experience that you will treasure forever. As the sun sets, the sky changes color, and the surrounding mountains become silhouetted against the orange and pink hues of the sky.
4. Visit the fruit market
Another must-visit destination in Berastagi is the fruit market. As the town is located in the highlands of North Sumatra, the region is known for its fertile soil and produces a wide variety of tropical fruits. The fruit market is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity where you can find an array of fresh and exotic fruits.
At the fruit market, you can find a wide variety of fruits, including durian, passionfruit, rambutan, mangoes, avocados, and dragon fruit. The vendors are friendly and welcoming, and they are happy to let you taste the fruits before you buy them. You can also find a range of fruit-based products, such as jams, syrups, and dried fruit.
Visiting the fruit market is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the local culture and the importance of fruits in the daily life of the people in Berastagi. It is also a great way to support the local economy by purchasing fruits directly from the farmers.
5. Visit the hot springs
The hot springs are rich in minerals and are believed to have several health benefits. The water is naturally heated by the geothermal activity in the area and is typically between 40-50°C. The hot springs are set in a lush green forest, which adds to the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the area.
There are several hot springs in the area, and each one has its unique features. Some hot springs are private and require an entrance fee, while others are free and open to the public. The most popular hot springs are located in the village of Lau Debuk-Debuk, and they offer a range of facilities, including changing rooms, showers, and small restaurants.
Visiting the hot springs is an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It is also a great way to meet and interact with the local people, who also enjoy visiting the hot springs. Overall, a visit to the hot springs is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Berastagi, and it offers a perfect way to rejuvenate your body and mind.
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6. Visit the Taman Alam Lumbini
Taman Alam Lumbini is a Buddhist temple and park located in Berastagi, North Sumatra. The temple is a replica of the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, Myanmar, and it is one of the largest pagodas in Indonesia. The park surrounding the temple is beautifully landscaped and filled with lush gardens, fountains, and statues.
The temple itself is an impressive sight, standing at over 50 meters tall and covered in gold paint. Visitors can climb up to the top of the temple to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The interior of the temple is equally impressive, featuring ornate decorations, statues, and murals.
7. Try the local cuisin
One of the most famous dishes in Berastagi is babi panggang Karo, which is roasted pork served with a spicy sambal sauce. Another popular dish is arsik ikan mas, which is a spicy fish stew made with turmeric, chili, and other aromatic herbs.
Visitors can try the local cuisine at the traditional markets, food stalls, and restaurants throughout the town. Many of the dishes are cooked over open fires or charcoal grills, giving them a distinct smoky flavor. The cuisine is a unique blend of Indonesian, Batak, and Chinese influences
8. Visit the strawberry farm
One of the most famous strawberry farms in Berastagi is Lembah Strawberry, which is located just a few kilometers from the town center. Visitors can pick their own strawberries and enjoy them with cream or in a variety of other dishes, such as strawberry pancakes or strawberry ice cream.
The strawberry farms in Berastagi are not just a great place to enjoy fresh fruit, but also a beautiful place to take in the scenery. The farms are set against a backdrop of lush green hills and mountains, and the rows of strawberries create a colorful patchwork pattern.
Many of the strawberry farms also offer other activities and attractions, such as horseback riding, flower gardens, and children’s play areas. There are also several small cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack.
9. Explore the local villages
Exploring the local villages in Berastagi is a great way to experience the traditional way of life in the region. The villages are located in the surrounding hills and valleys, and they are home to the Batak people, who are known for their unique culture and customs.
One of the most famous villages in the area is Desa Lingga, which is known for its traditional Batak houses. The houses are made of wood and bamboo and have distinctive peaked roofs. Visitors can learn about the architecture and history of the houses, as well as the daily life of the villagers.
10. Visit the Sipisopiso waterfall
Sipisopiso waterfall is one of the most beautiful and popular natural attractions in Berastagi. Located about an hour’s drive from the town center, the waterfall is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The waterfall is formed by a narrow stream of water that plunges more than 120 meters into a deep pool below. The surrounding cliffs and lush green forest create a breathtaking backdrop, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
Visitors can access the waterfall by taking a short hike down a steep staircase, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. At the bottom of the staircase, visitors can enjoy the cool mist from the waterfall and take a dip in the refreshing pool.
Conclusion
Berastagi offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to experience the best of North Sumatra. Whether you are looking to hike a volcano, explore traditional villages, or simply relax and enjoy the local cuisine, Berastagi has something to offer everyone.
With so many exciting activities and attractions to choose from, it’s no wonder that Berastagi is becoming an increasingly popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
Muhammad Bing Keulana is a prominent traveler and writer who spent a lifetime exploring the world and documenting his experiences. He is a true adventurer, always seeking out new and exciting experiences. His love for exploration is matched only by his passion for writing
