Simalungun – Eastern Shore of Lake Toba and Batak Culture
Simalungun se trouve dans la partie centrale de North Sumatra province, depuis the eastern shore of Lake Toba to le détroit de Malacca. Its capital is Raya (Pematang Raya). This is the ancestral land of the Simalungun Batak people, culturally distinct depuis their Toba Batak neighbours. The region has significant thé, café and palm oil plantations, while the eastern Lake Toba landscape is magnifique.
Attractions et activités
The eastern shore of Lake Toba is less visited but offre spectaculaire views of the world’s largest volcanique lake. Ferry depuis Parapat town to Samosir Island. Tea plantations (Sidamanik and Tanah Jawa) peut être visité, with fresh highland thé tasting. The Simalungun Batak royal palais (Istana Simalungun) in Pematang Purba is a historical memorial site.
Culture et cuisine
Simalungun Batak culture has its own distinctive dance and music traditions, different depuis the Toba Batak relatives. Ulos (traditionnel woven textile) is significant. Cuisine is Batak-style: saksang (meat cooked in pig blood), arsik (spiced fish), na tinombur (spicy vegetable salad).
Sécurité publique
Simalungun is safe. Medical care: hospital in Pematang Siantar (neighbouring city); Medan (approx. 3–4 hours) has advanced facilities.
Informations pratiques
From Medan (Kuala Namu Airport) approximately 3–4 hours by car. Parapat on Lake Toba shore is a key transit point. Best time May to September. Accommodation: hotels in Parapat and Pematang Siantar.