Explore the natural beauty of Karo through various enchanting mountain, waterfall and lake tourist destinations and offer a memorable holiday experience.
Karo Regency, located in the highlands of North Sumatra, offers stunning natural scenery and a variety of tourist destinations that are suitable for nature lovers. Located at an altitude of 600 to 1,400 meters above sea level, this area promises cool air and a beautiful atmosphere.
Located about 77 km from the city of Medan, Karo is a favorite place for vacations, both for local residents and tourists from outside the area.
Karo has a variety of tourist attractions ranging from challenging volcanoes, stunning waterfalls, to beautiful lakes, all offering an unforgettable experience.
Here are the 10 best natural tourist destinations in Karo that are worth visiting:
1. Sikulikap Waterfall
With a height of around 30 meters, Sikulikap Waterfall offers a stunning view. This waterfall is surrounded by tropical forest which is a habitat for various types of fauna, such as crows, Gibbon monkeys, and various colorful butterflies.
Located not far from Medan and Berastagi, Sikulikap Waterfall is easy to reach, making it a popular tourist destination, especially for families who want to enjoy nature while relaxing.
2. Mount Sibuatan
Mount Sibuatan is the highest mountain in North Sumatra with a height of 2,457 meters above sea level. Located on the border of Karo and Dairi, this mountain is a challenge for climbers looking for a true adventure.
The steep, slippery, and humid terrain, especially during the rainy season, makes climbing to the top more difficult than Mount Sibayak. However, the beautiful scenery that awaits at the top of the mountain will make your struggles pay off.
3. Pariban Hot Springs
To relax and unwind after a busy day, Pariban Hot Springs in Semangat Gunung Village is the right choice. Surrounded by mountain views and fresh air, this bath offers a natural hot spring that comes from the volcanic springs of Mount Sibayak.
This place is often a destination for tourists who want to enjoy relaxation, especially at night when the atmosphere is quieter.
4. Lingga Cultural Village
Lingga Cultural Village is an ideal place to learn more about the history and culture of the Karo people. Here, you can see the traditional Siwaluh Jabu house which is more than 200 years old.
This village is also the former center of the Lingga Kingdom, which was led by a king with the title Sibayak Lingga. Besides enjoying the uniqueness of traditional architecture, you can also visit museums that house various interesting historical artifacts.
5. Mount Sibayak
Mount Sibayak, often referred to as the “king mountain” by local people, is an active volcano that last erupted in 1881. This mountain is popular because of its relatively easy hiking trail and access that is suitable for beginners.
There are three routes you can take to climb, namely Jaranguda Village, Sidebuk-debuk, and Penatapan. The Jaranguda Village route is a favorite because it is closer and safer.
Once you reach the top, you will be presented with a stunning view of the sunrise and a beautiful panorama of the surrounding mountains.
6. Mount Sinabung
Mount Sinabung, which has experienced several eruptions since 2010, is one of the natural icons of Karo Regency.
Although some areas around the mountain are red zones, you can still enjoy the beauty of Mount Sinabung from various designated safe points. With a height reaching 2,460 meters above sea level, Mount Sinabung offers a magnificent and enchanting volcanic view.
7. Lau Kawar Lake
Located at the foot of Mount Sinabung, Lau Kawar Lake has an area of about 200 hectares and offers beautiful natural scenery.
Surrounded by lush green trees, this lake is an ideal place to relax or trekking. You can also climb Lancuk Hill located around the lake to enjoy the view from a height. During the trip, you will find various wild orchids that further beautify the atmosphere.
8. Sipiso-piso Waterfall
One of the highest waterfalls in Indonesia, Sipiso-piso is about 120 meters high. The waterfall flows rapidly from the edge of the Lake Toba caldera, creating a spectacular view.
Surrounded by green hills and vast valleys, Sipiso-piso Waterfall offers a stunning natural setting and is one of the favorite destinations for tourists visiting Karo. Don’t miss the opportunity to take pictures with this magnificent waterfall in the background.
9. Gundaling Hill
Gundaling Hill is the best place to enjoy the natural scenery of Karo from a height. Located in Berastagi, this hill is at an altitude of 1,575 meters above sea level and offers a beautiful panorama towards Mount Sibayak and Mount Sinabung.
This place is also popular as a spot to see the sunrise and sunset, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.
10. Peceren Cultural Village
Peceren Cultural Village is located in Sempa Jaya Village, and is one of the cultural tourism destinations that still maintains the traditional Karo traditional house, namely the Siwaluh Jabu house.
Some of the houses in this village are even more than 100 years old and are still inhabited by local residents. In addition, Peceren Village is also famous for its unique traditional cuisine.
You can taste various traditional Karo snacks, such as wajik, while enjoying the natural beauty of the unspoiled village.
With a variety of natural and cultural charms on offer, Karo Regency is the perfect tourist destination for an adventurous and relaxing vacation. From the beauty of mountains, waterfalls, to cultural villages, Karo will provide an unforgettable vacation experience.