Discover the best tourist destinations in Karo, from volcanoes to beautiful lakes, offering stunning natural views and unforgettable experiences.
Karo, a district in North Sumatra Province, Indonesia, is a tourist destination that offers a variety of stunning natural beauty and rich culture.
Located in the highlands, Karo is known for its challenging volcanic views, beautiful lakes, and refreshing cool air.
Not only that, Karo also has a number of cultural tourist attractions that can provide a deeper experience of the lives of its diverse people.
From natural beauty to rich cultural heritage, here are the 10 best tourist attractions you must visit in Karo for an unforgettable experience.
1. Berastagi Tourist City
Berastagi is a small town located in the highlands of Karo Regency, and is one of the main tourist destinations in this area.
This city is famous for its cool climate and stunning natural scenery. Berastagi is often referred to as the “Peak of Medan City”, because of its high location and refreshing cold air.
Berastagi City is a center for tourism and agricultural activities, with various natural tourist attractions that can be enjoyed.
From star-rated hotels to comfortable homestays, Berastagi offers many accommodation options for tourists. You can enjoy nature tourism such as fruit plantations, traditional markets selling fresh fruits such as oranges and strawberries, and various eateries serving Karo cuisine.
Berastagi is also a popular place to visit waterfalls and enjoy mountain views, such as Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak which can be clearly seen from this city.
2. King Berneh Hot Springs
Raja Berneh Hot Springs is one of the most popular destinations in Karo, located in the Pronojiwo area. This place is known for its natural hot springs that are rich in sulfur, which is believed to have many health benefits, especially for the skin.
This bath offers the experience of soaking in hot water with beautiful natural views, including the mountains and hills around the area.
With more than 30 baths managed by local residents, you can choose the most comfortable place while enjoying the tranquility of nature.
This place also has various facilities for tourists, making it an ideal choice for relaxation after a day of activities. The cool air and beautiful natural scenery add to the enjoyment of the experience of bathing in the Raja Berneh baths.
3. Tongging
Tongging is a small village located at the northern tip of Lake Toba, one of the largest volcanic lakes in the world. This village offers very beautiful natural views, with a backdrop of towering mountains and the vast expanse of Lake Toba.
Tongging is one of the best places to enjoy the beauty of Lake Toba from a quieter perspective away from the crowds.
The village is also surrounded by three Batak tribes, namely Batak Toba, Pakpak, and Karo, which provide a distinctive cultural touch.
In Tongging, you can enjoy various outdoor activities such as touring the village, enjoying the lake view, or enjoying typical Batak cuisine.
For nature lovers, Tongging also offers the opportunity to camp and explore the natural beauty of the surrounding area that is still pristine.
4. Lau Kawar Lake
Lake Lau Kawar is located about 27 km from Berastagi, right at the foot of Mount Sinabung. This lake has an area of about 200 hectares and is surrounded by dense tropical forest. The natural beauty offered by Lake Lau Kawar is stunning, with magnificent mountain views and green forests.
This lake is also a suitable place for adventurers. Tourists can do activities such as climbing Mount Sinabung, rock climbing, or camping around the lake.
This place is ideal for those looking for a more adventurous nature experience. If you are a nature and hiking lover, Lau Kawar Lake offers an amazing experience with a stunning scenic backdrop.
5. Sikulikap Waterfall
Sikulikap Waterfall is located in Merek District, Karo Regency, and is one of the refreshing natural tourist destinations in this area.
Surrounded by lush tropical forest, this waterfall offers a calm and refreshing atmosphere, perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature while relaxing.
Access to Sikulikap Waterfall is relatively easy, with a little trekking from the main road. Upon arrival at the location, you will be greeted with the sound of clear flowing water and the cool air typical of the mountains.
This place is also very popular with photographers and nature lovers who want to capture the beauty of nature that is still pristine.
If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, Sikulikap Waterfall is the right choice.
6. Mount Sinabung
Mount Sinabung is an active volcano located in Karo Regency. At 2,460 meters above sea level, this mountain is one of the icons of this area.
Although it erupted in 2010 and is still considered a red zone for climbing, Mount Sinabung still offers extraordinary views from various safe vantage points.
Although climbing to the peak is not yet safe, tourists can still enjoy the view of Mount Sinabung from several safe places.
You can enjoy the enchanting view of the active crater and feel the dramatic beauty of the surrounding nature.
Mount Sinabung is a very interesting destination for those who want to see the splendor of Indonesia’s nature and the beauty of its volcanic nature.
7. Sipiso-piso Waterfall
Sipiso-piso Waterfall is one of the most famous waterfalls in Karo and should not be missed by tourists. Situated on the edge of Lake Toba’s giant caldera, this waterfall is about 120 meters high and offers a truly stunning view. With its free-falling water from the cliffs, Sipiso-piso provides an extraordinary view.
Apart from the beauty of the waterfall, visitors can also enjoy the vast view of Lake Toba from the top of the cliff. The environment around the waterfall is surrounded by rice fields, green valleys and enchanting hills.
This place is one of the best photo locations in Karo, and is suitable for those who want to experience the beauty of nature with spectacular views.
8. Mount Sibayak
Mount Sibayak is another active volcano located in Karo Regency, with a height of 2,172 meters above sea level. This mountain offers a challenging yet very satisfying climbing experience.
The Mount Sibayak hiking trail allows you to explore the exotic tropical wilderness and reach the summit, where you can see the still-active crater.
Climbing Mount Sibayak can be done by both beginners and experienced climbers. At the top of the mountain, you will be greeted by an extraordinary view of the crater and cool and fresh air.
Many climbers also choose to camp around the peak area and enjoy the enchanting sunrise in the morning. Mount Sibayak is a very suitable place for nature lovers and climbers who want to enjoy the challenging natural beauty.
9. Gundaling Hill
Gundaling Hill is located in the highlands of Karo Regency and is one of the favorite tourist destinations in this area. At 1,575 meters above sea level, Gundaling Hill offers a vast and stunning natural view.
From the top of the hill, you can see the panorama of the towering Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak, as well as the enchanting Karo scenery.
Gundaling Hill is also known as one of the best places to enjoy the sunset in Karo. This place is a favorite destination for local and foreign tourists who want to enjoy the tranquility of nature while enjoying the fresh air. Gundaling Hill is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
10. Kubu Hill
Bukit Kubu is an ideal tourist spot for family recreation. Located in the area of an old hotel, Bukit Kubu offers vast grasslands and beautiful natural scenery.
This place is suitable for various outdoor activities, such as kite flying, horse riding, or just having a picnic while enjoying the cool air.
Despite being located around an old hotel, Kubu Hill is open to the public and does not require accommodation at the hotel to enjoy it.
You only need to pay the entrance ticket and can enjoy the beauty of this hill as much as you like. Kubu Hill is a perfect place for families who want to spend time together while enjoying the natural beauty of Karo.
Karo is a tourist destination that offers a variety of stunning natural beauty. From challenging volcanic landscapes to beautiful lakes, Karo has many tourist attractions worth visiting.
Each destination offers a different experience, from challenging hikes to refreshing spots. Don’t forget to explore the cultural riches that exist, and experience an unforgettable tourism experience in Lake Siombak.
