10 Best Tourist Attractions in North Sumatra that Offer Natural & Cultural Beauty
Discover the best tourist attractions in North Sumatra that offer natural beauty, culture, and history, from Sipiso-Piso Waterfall to the Medan Grand Mosque.
North Sumatra, a province located on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia, is one of the tourist destinations rich in natural beauty and culture.
Known for its stunning natural charm, North Sumatra has many tourist attractions that offer unforgettable experiences, from stunning waterfalls, the largest lake in Southeast Asia, to cultural and religious tourist destinations that are steeped in history.
For travelers who want to explore this province, here are 10 tourist attractions in North Sumatra that must be visited.
1. Sipiso-Piso Waterfall
Sipiso-Piso Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Indonesia, with a height of around 120 meters. Located in the Gunung Leuser National Park area, this waterfall offers spectacular views that amaze every visitor.
Located about 45 minutes from Medan City, access to this place is very easy, with asphalt roads already available.
Sipiso-Piso Waterfall is located at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level (masl) and is surrounded by green hills, providing a very beautiful and natural atmosphere. For nature lovers, this place is a must-visit paradise.
2. Mount Leuser National Park
Gunung Leuser National Park is a conservation area located in two provinces, namely North Sumatra and Aceh. This area covers more than 1 million hectares and is home to various species of rare flora and fauna, including the Sumatran orangutan.
Gunung Leuser National Park has been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, making it one of the protected natural areas with very high ecological value.
For visitors who love nature adventures, trekking in Gunung Leuser National Park to see the biodiversity is an experience not to be missed.
3. Porcupine River
Landak River is located in Langkat Regency and offers extraordinary natural views. The beauty of the blue-green river, surrounded by natural tropical forests, makes this place very popular among tourists who want to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and be at one with nature.
This area is also suitable for activities such as river tubing, where visitors can raft down the clear river while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
4. Lake Toba
Lake Toba, located in the Karo region, is the largest volcanic lake in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. With an area of approximately 1,130 square kilometers, Lake Toba has extraordinary natural charm, with its clear water and surrounded by green hills.
To get to Lake Toba, visitors can travel overland for approximately 5 hours from Medan City. Around the lake, there are various accommodations and adequate tourist facilities, as well as activities such as swimming, going around by boat, and enjoying local culinary specialties.
5. Tangkahan The Hidden Paradise
Tangkahan is a tourist area located in the Gunung Leuser National Park. Here, visitors can enjoy various exciting activities, such as trekking in the tropical forest, playing in the clear river, and interacting with the elephants there.
One unique experience that can be enjoyed is bathing the elephants or taking pictures with them. Tangkahan is known as a “hidden paradise” because of its well-preserved beauty, providing a very satisfying natural tourism experience.
6. Lau Kawar Lake
Lake Lau Kawar is located at the foot of Mount Sinabung, precisely in the Karo area, Berastagi. With an altitude of around 2,451 meters above sea level, Lau Kawar Lake offers cool air and stunning views.
The crystal clear water of the lake, surrounded by green trees and majestic mountains, makes it an ideal place for camping or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature. This location is perfect for tourists looking for a place to unwind and feel at peace.
7. Lawang Hill
Bukit Lawang is one of the famous tourist attractions in North Sumatra, approximately 80 kilometers from Medan City. Bukit Lawang is famous as the best place to see Sumatran orangutans in their natural habitat.
In addition, visitors can also do trekking in the dense tropical forest, river tubing on the Bohorok River, and enjoy the fresh mountain air that is free from pollution.
This place is perfect for tourists who are looking for an adventure experience in the wild and want to feel the peace of nature.
8. Sipinsur
Sipinsur, located in the Humbang Hasundutan area, offers views of Lake Toba from an altitude of 1,213 meters above sea level. From Sipinsur, visitors can enjoy the panorama of Lake Toba with a charming mountain backdrop.
This location is very popular among photographers who want to capture the beauty of the lake from a different perspective.
In addition, Sipinsur also offers culinary specialties such as gomak noodles, which are made from basic ingredients of flour and eggs, served with a rich spice sauce.
9. Pandan Beach
Pandan Beach, located in Pandan Village, Central Tapanuli, is one of the beautiful beaches in North Sumatra. With soft white sand and clear sea water, this beach offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
The relatively calm waves make this beach suitable for swimming or just playing in the water. Although still not too crowded with visitors, Pandan Beach has been equipped with facilities such as gazebos, food stalls, and lodging.
One of the best moments to visit this beach is at sunset, where the stunning sunset view will spoil the eyes.
10. Grand Mosque of Medan
For tourists interested in religious tourism, the Medan Grand Mosque is a must-visit destination. This mosque, built by Sultan Ma’moen Al Rasyid Perkasa Alam, has a magnificent and spacious architectural design, with four main verandas and a large, towering dome.
The Grand Mosque of Medan has stood for more than a hundred years and is one of the most historic buildings in the city of Medan. Apart from being a place of worship, this mosque also attracts the attention of tourists because of its extraordinary splendor.
With its natural, cultural and historical charm, North Sumatra is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the true beauty of Indonesia.
From its incredible natural wonders to its fascinating religious tourism, North Sumatra offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these interesting tourist attractions, including Way Kambas, when visiting North Sumatra.
