Sumatra in Indonesia: interesting places and useful information. Open left menu sumatra
A week stay on the island of Sumatra should be enough for you to see a lot of interesting things and understand that this is a very beautiful, interesting and colorful island. Be sure to take a tour of deserted island Belitung. The absence of permanent residents can be called a big advantage of this place. The island attracts tourists with clear blue water, white sandy beaches and incredibly beautiful nature. On the territory of the island is marine reserve, Buddhist temple, Batu Mentas Reserve and others interesting places, so you need to set aside a whole day to visit this place.
One of the most unusual attractions in Sumatra is the Bat Cave. The cave covers an area of more than 500 square meters and a huge number of these creatures live on its territory (this is a great opportunity to watch bats in their natural habitat). If these creatures cause you fear or disgust, then it is better not to include a visit to this cave in the program of your trip around the island.
object world heritage UNESCO is national park Kerinci-Seblat, which occupies huge area- 14 thousand square kilometers. In addition to the mesmerizing scenery in this park, you can see various animals, including leopards, deer, tigers and the endangered Sumatran tiger. It is on the territory of this park that the largest flower in the world grows - the giant Rafflesia Arnold.
Worthy of attention is the Sipiso Piso waterfall located in Sumatra. Translated from local dialects, its name means "sharp knife". Locals believe in the legend that the lake was formed as a result of a dragon fighting with creatures living in Lake Toba (if you go to this waterfall with a guide, he will definitely tell you this story). The waterfall itself impresses with its powerful flow of water (especially during the rainy season) and the lush vegetation surrounding it.
One of the most active volcanoes in the world, Krakatoa, is located in the area of Sumatra, and if you are a fan thrill, then a trip to this volcano will be one of the most exciting trips, of all that is on the island. The eruption of this volcano in 1883 claimed the lives of more than 40 thousand people. In Sumatra, excursions to the volcano depart from the city of Lampung. Since the volcano is active, the presence of people in the one and a half kilometer zone is strictly prohibited, but given the fact that there is no proper control over this ban, local residents and tourists regularly violate it.
You can arrange a tour to the volcano in almost all hotels, tour agencies or with fishermen, but such pleasure is not cheap, the cost of the tour starts at $ 100 (depending on the length). The tour lasts from early morning until late at night, while still need to overcome two hours sea route. It will not be possible to climb directly to the crater due to the fact that in the upper part of the volcano the sand is so hot that it is impossible to walk on it. Night tours are also organized to the volcano, during which (with a good combination of circumstances) you can see splashes of lava that escape from the vent of the volcano.
Much less extreme will be a trip to the small volcano Sibayak, which is located in the northern part of the island and last time erupted about 100 years ago, but it still shows some activity. The volcano is located near the city of Berastagi and the easiest way to get to it is by regular bus, which brings tourists directly to the checkpoint through which the pass to the volcano is carried out. The entrance ticket to the volcano costs only 4,000 Indonesian rupees, but for the services of a guide you will have to pay about 200 thousand (that's about $ 15). In time, climbing the volcano takes about four hours, but sometimes it stretches for a whole day, so you need to take food, water, comfortable shoes and clothes with you. Half of the route goes along a convenient asphalt path, but the higher you go to the mountains, the more difficult the climbing conditions become. In this case, having overcome all the difficulties of climbing, tourists can climb to the crater of the volcano and enjoy incredible views. On this moment at the bottom of the crater is located not big lake, and there is a characteristic smell of sulfur in the air, so you should not linger at the top for a long time. The descent from the summit can be carried out by several routes, but in any case, you need to plan a visit to the hot springs, which are considered healing, helping to cope with many diseases. You can swim in these sources for only three thousand rupees (water temperature ranges from lukewarm to boiling water).
Indonesia is considered one of the best destinations in the world for beginners and advanced surfers, and many tourists indulge in the pleasure of trying their hand at conquering the waves. There are many such places in Sumatra, but Bawa Island is considered one of the best. From many island beaches, you can get to this island by boat in 1-2 hours.
One of the most visited places in Sumatra is Marlborough Fort. The construction of the fort was completed in the 18th century. A visit to this fort allows you not only to enjoy beautiful architecture but also look at its surroundings. The fort was opened to visitors in 1980. Today, a small museum has been opened on its territory with photographs, old engravings and a number of rare and valuable exhibits (for example, copies of correspondence from the time of British rule). Also inside the fortress you can see massive Dutch cannons from the 18th century. The entrance ticket to the territory of the fort costs 2500 rupees and it is best to come to this place on your own without buying excursions.
Sumatra is big Island, but if you want to fully experience all its color and see all the most interesting, then it is better to stay away from major metropolitan areas with their traffic jams, gas pollution and fuss.
In the West Malay Archipelago is the sixth largest island in the world - Sumatra. As part of the islands, it is part of the Greater Sunda Islands. The area of Sumatra is 473,000 sq. km. The population is over 50,370,000 people. The capital of Sumatra is.
Geographical position and relief of Sumatra
The island of Sumatra, the photo of which can be seen below, on the world map is located simultaneously in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, and the equator divides it into almost two equal parts. The length of the island is approximately 1.8 thousand square meters. km, and the width is 435 km. Sumatra is separated from neighboring Malacca by the Malacca Strait, and from Sunda.
The southwestern coast of Sumatra is mountainous, here are the Batak and Aceh plateaus. The fault zone divides the Barisan mountain range into two chains composed of Paleozoic rocks: limestone, quartzite, crystalline schists. The east of the island is a swampy plain.
There are 12 active ones on the island of Sumatra, as well as many extinct ones. The highest point in Sumatra active volcano Indrapura or, whose height is more than 3800 m above sea level. Other large volcanoes- 2891 m high and Dempo - 3159 m.
The island of Sumatra is characterized by high seismicity. Earthquakes with an amplitude of up to 7-8 points are possible here. So, in 1883, an erupting one, located near Sumatra, lowered a whole neighboring one under water. And the infamous 2004 Sumatra tsunami, triggered by an undersea earthquake, caused massive damage to its southern and western coasts.
In the area where the island of Sumatra is located, an equatorial climate prevails, characterized by high temperatures and humidity. average temperature here + 25-27ºС. In winter, winds blow from the northeast, and in summer - from the southwest. In the east of the island, rainfall is up to 1000 mm per year. In western Sumatra, they can fall up to 4000 mm, and in the mountains - up to 6000 mm. Moreover, from May to September there is almost no rain, and the main precipitation occurs in the autumn-winter period.
Cities of Sumatra
Tourists traveling around the island usually visit the following places:
Attractions of Sumatra
Many tourists aspire to get to this exotic island. Life here is in many ways different from European. From what to see in Sumatra, it is important to name:
The island has a lot for every taste and budget:
- JW Marriott Hotel Medan– 5-star hotel in the center of the metropolis on Sumatra Medan with modern, well-equipped rooms, a swimming pool and a gym;
- Santika Premiere Dyandra Hotels & Convention-Medan– a stylish 4-star hotel with a conference center, a spa;
- Aston Jambi Hotel & Conference Center- a 4-star hotel located in the city of Jambi, provides its guests with a full range of services;
- Horison Siantar Hotel- An excellent 3-star hotel with non-smoking rooms will provide its guests with a comfortable stay.
Sumatra Restaurants
In order to taste national ones, you can visit one of the restaurants in Sumatra:
- Restaurant Garuda- this is a whole network of authentic restaurants that are located throughout Sumatra, and especially in its northern part, in establishments you will be treated to meat, fish, and vegetable dishes;
- Jenny's Restaurant– a restaurant located on the island of Samosir, a traditional dish in it - fried to a crispy fish caught in Lake Toba;
- Tip Top Restaurant- one of the oldest restaurants in Sumatra, but this does not make it less popular, but rather the opposite. Here you will be treated to fried rice, delicious cakes and even homemade ice cream, this restaurant is located in Medan on Ahmad Yani Street.
shopping
If you, having arrived in Sumatra, dream of doing something here, pay attention to shopping centers available in each city:
- Sun Plaza - in this shopping and entertainment center, located in Medan on Jl. Ainul Arifin & Diponegoro / Polonia, you can choose from brands such as Franco, Mango, Zara;
- modern shopping complex in the city of Palembang is located at Jln. PON IX, 30137, where you can buy fashionable shoes, clothes, souvenirs, jewelry;
- Batik Tanah Liek Citra Monalisa in Padang - here you can buy fabrics made using the batik technique, as well as finished products from them.
How to get to Sumatra island?
When traveling to Sumatra, keep in mind that the easiest way to get to the island is by plane. Medan is the main city of Sumatra - Kuala Namu, which receives flights from many cities in Indonesia, as well as from other countries, such as China and Thailand. From the airport to the center of Medan, you can travel by train, regular bus or taxi.
To travel by car from to Sumatra, you can use the ferry. However, such a road will take you a very long time and may be unsafe.
Sumatra is a truly beautiful and breathtaking island in Indonesia. It is here that you can not only enjoy the real beauty of nature, but also immerse yourself in dangerous adventures. Travelers get the best opportunity to enjoy the picturesque nature, unique cultural heritage and affordable prices.
However, the island of Sumatra is associated with numerous natural disasters, which include volcanic eruptions, floods, tsunamis, landslides and earthquakes. Only brave tourists will be able to fully immerse themselves in the world of Sumatra and Indonesia in order to comprehend other facets of life.
Gunung Louser is a national park located along the border of two provinces in Indonesia. From the very beginning, this natural attraction attracts a large number of tourists who are ready to appreciate the beauty of nature and unique ecosystems. Gunung Loser National Park is a World Heritage Site and is home to orangutans, rhinos, elephants, tigers, Bengal cats.
Toba is one of the largest lakes in the world. The appearance of the lake was facilitated by the eruption of the volcano of the same name. Tropical pine forests grow on the banks. At the same time, even a boat trip will give bright and positive impressions.
Lake Toba is famous for its clean and clear water. People can see fish that sometimes rise to the surface of the reservoir. In addition, you can take unique photographs of Lake Toba.
The village of Tomok Bolon is a traditional settlement of the Sumatra tribe. Tourists note that it is here that you can understand how the locals live.
The whole village consists of houses with natural straw roofs. The houses are located on low piles, which allow, if necessary, to wait out the floods here.
The village also has special barns for rice, which are not inferior in size residential buildings and can be used as an extra bedroom.
The most important and beautiful building in the village is public house. Its façade is adorned with a classic floral ornament that combines red, white and black. Today, the traditions of the peoples of Indonesia are gradually becoming a thing of the past. This leads to a noticeable influence of civilization. However, if you hurry, you can visit the village of Tomok Bolon.
The center is successfully working to conserve and increase the population of orangutans. The center was founded in 1973. Currently, the place is almost unique, as the opportunity to see wild orangutans is almost lost. Thousands of individuals live in the reserve, so there are good chances for the effective operation of the center.
Tourists get the opportunity to go into the jungle in order to understand how monkeys live. In addition, you can watch the feeding of wild orangutans. Such opportunities for fans ecological tourism are truly worthy.
Sipiso Piso Falls is located in the northern part of Lake Toba. This waterfall is steep, which only gives a unique touch to its appearance. The place surprises with its picturesque beauty. In addition, Sipiso Piso exists thanks to an underground river that flows under the plateau.
The natural attraction can be viewed from three viewing platforms. From each place a truly beautiful panorama of Sumatra opens up. The most worthy is the top Observation deck from which they open great views for the best natural objects indonesian island.
Simalungun Royal Palace is a worthy example of ancient Indonesian architecture. Despite its considerable age, the palace was kept in good condition thanks to regular restoration activities. Inside the building are richly decorated rooms that feature rich displays on the history of Sumatra. If you wish, you can buy unique souvenirs in a nearby shop.
The museum center is one of the oldest in Indonesia. Here are numerous artifacts from the Aceh province, which belongs to Sumatra.
Each visitor to the museum can appreciate the unique exposition, which fully reveals the significant aspects of the Aceh province. At the same time, most of the exhibits are directly related to nature and geology, as a result of which visitors form the right impression of the potential of the province.
The Ampera Bridge, which is a lifting bridge, was previously actively used to pass passing ships. The bridge was planned to create a unique rival for Tower Bridge, which proved to be a matter of principle for the local government. Cash for the implementation of the project were taken from war reparations, which were collected from Japan.
The Amper drawbridge project was developed by representatives of the Japanese company Fuji Car Manufacturing Co. Ltd. However, even the Japanese did not have the relevant experience, so it was not so easy to implement the project.
The vaults of the Amper Bridge ceased to rise in 1970. This is due to the fact that the half-hour wait that was required for the rise of the vaults led to serious delays. The silting of the river also led to the lack of the possibility of navigability of ships.
The national park surprises with its large area, but at the same time, tourists also note a truly picturesque nature. On the territory of the natural attraction there are rivers with rapids, caves, waterfalls and hot springs. The amazing diversity of the world of flora and fauna contributes to the fact that the national park plays a truly important role for the entire nature of Indonesia. Tigers, leopards, tapirs, Malayan bears, rhinos live here.
The National Library of Soeman H.S is housed in a unique building. The house where the library is located surprises with modern and elegant forms. However, not only the architectural design of the library contributes to the successful attraction of tourists.
The funds are regularly replenished with novelties of world literature and classical masterpieces, so the library is only expanding and developing. Local residents and tourists can choose interesting books and read them in a special room, attend lectures and relax in a cozy cafe.
Location: Jl. Jenderal Sudirman - 462.
Istana Maimun Palace is one of the most worthy sights of North Sumatra. The palace surprises with its unique architectural and interior design, in which it is possible to find worthy elements of various styles that combine in a truly harmonious way.
The palace complex was built for Sultan Al Makmun in 1887-1891. Nowadays palace complex is one of the most important tourist attractions.
Only one room is available for visiting, which can be viewed in about 15 minutes. However, the interior still allows you to understand how special Indonesian sights are and make sure that many objects are different from European ones.
Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a Catholic religious site that attracts pilgrims from different corners peace.
Construction activities were carried out in 2001-2005. The religious landmark is a 2-story building with three domes, which are made in accordance with the best principles of the Indonesian style. The building is decorated with various symbols from religious themes, which emphasize the features of religious faith.
Location: Jl. Sakura III No. — 7, Perumahan Taman Sakura Indah.
Bukit Barisan Selatan is a national park in Sumatra, included in the official list of World Heritage Sites. Job national park contributes to the preservation of the wealth of Indonesian fauna and flora.
Initially, the territory was recognized as a protected area. However, after almost 50 years, the object was recognized as a national park.
The World Wildlife Fund notes that the violation of current legislation has led to partial loss of forests, as the area is now used for the development of coffee plantations.
Nature and adventure lovers can stay at small hotel or camping. Besides river walks contribute to a successful approach to the primordial nature.
Sumatra is a truly charming island in Indonesia, allowing you to touch nature and Indonesian culture.
The capital of Sumatra is the city of Medan. 1.5 million people live here. This place is the biggest industrial center and famous for its amazing cultural heritage.
Sumatra belongs to the Zod archipelago and is the fifth largest among all the islands in the world. It is located near the Malay Peninsula, from which it is separated by a strait.
The island got its name from the word "sumatai", which translates as "located behind the water." The island of Sumatra is washed on all sides by numerous bays, the Indian and Pacific oceans.
History of Sumatra
Archaeologists have been conducting excavations for several years, the results of which indicate that the first people will send here around the 2nd century BC. It was also found out that representatives of three different cultures lived on the island for a long time.
From the 2nd century AD, the first states began to appear in Sumatra. The most famous is Srivijaya, modern capital which is located in Palembang. Srivijayas regularly waged wars, the result of which was the annexation of Java and the Malay Peninsula.
After the 10th century, the island of Sumatra began to be mentioned in documents as the "Isle of Gold". The thing is, at that time the first gold mines appeared here.
After a few centuries, the kingdom fell into decay. Civil strife among influential statesmen was to blame. Srivijaya broke up into several principalities, among which only Pasai could grow strongly, economically.
At the end of the 13th century, the famous Marco Polo visited Sumaru. The beauty and singularity of the island made an indelible impression on him. After some time, Dutch missionaries and merchants arrived in Sumatra, who founded numerous villages on the coast.
First World War bypassed Sumatra, since the Dutch state was on the neutral side, but during World War II, the island did not escape the occupation by the Japanese. After the liberation, Sumatra proclaimed the independence of Indonesia, of which it is a part.
Weather in Sumatra
The location of the island relative to the equator plays an important role in shaping the climate. The climate here is equatorial, it is moderately hot and humid.
There are no significant temperature fluctuations here. It fluctuates from +25 to +27 degrees.
All precipitation falls in the form of short showers.
Island population
The current population of the island is 50.6 million, which by number puts Sumatra in the 4th place in the ranking of the most densely populated places in the world. In national terms, there are most of all Indonesians, who are divided into small nationalities. In addition, many Chinese, Thais, Indians and Vietnamese live on the island. State language Indonesian or Malay is recognized throughout Sumatra.
The local population leads active image life and is engaged in agriculture, as well as various types of industry: textile, processing.
Among major cities stands out Medan, which is home to more than 2 million people.
Flora and fauna
More than 30% of the entire territory of the island is occupied tropical forests. Palm trees, ficuses, bamboo, creepers grow here. Rising higher, evergreens and laurel trees appear in the forests. You can also find maples, oaks and chestnuts. Alang-alang, endemic to Sumatra, grows on flat surfaces.
The fauna of the island is as diverse as the flora. There are more than 190 mammals here different types. There are also a lot of reptiles (250), tropical fish (270) and more than 450 species of birds on the island. Among such a rich animal world, there are endemic forms that live only on the island of Sumatra.
Tourism and rest
The authorities of Sumatra began to engage in tourism relatively recently. The climate and other natural conditions of the island are ideal for creating a variety of tourist sites.
Almost the entire coast is covered with sand, which is washed by the waters. indian ocean. Due to volcanic activity, it has acquired a pleasant brownish tint.
There are many places on the island where Coral reefs. This creates ideal conditions for diving and snorkelling. On beaches hidden from strong winds, V Lately there are many windsurfers.
For connoisseurs natural beauty a huge number of eco-tours have been created, leading to the very depths of the equatorial forests.
Well, how can you do without sights. There are a lot of ancient monuments on the island of Sumatra. Let's take a short tour of the most interesting of them.
Lake Toba
This is the largest lake in Indonesia. It was formed over 70 thousand years ago and is of volcanic origin. Its coast has an unusual appearance, as it is almost completely overgrown with coniferous trees.
Tourists are always offered to take a boat ride on the lake, and no one ever refuses. The water here is crystal clear and transparent. If you look closely, you can see fish swimming somewhere at a depth.
Loesser National Park
Loesser got its name from the mountain of the same name, located on its territory. The park itself stretches for 150 kilometers across two regions of Indonesia. Since its inception, this place has attracted travelers and scientists from all over the world. This is due to the fact that the entire territory of the park is divided into several ecosystems.
Because of its uniqueness, Loesser Park was included in the World Heritage Site. Numerous tourists come here not only because of the beauty of the equatorial, humid forests, but also to see the Sumatran orangutan population. In addition, rhinos, elephants, tigers and a Bengal cat live here.
Bukit Lawang Village
This small village is located in Loessem Park. Bukit Lawang is the best the best place for active tourism. Almost every day you can see tourists from different countries. On holidays, locals come here to take a break from the city.
Near deep river Several hotels have been built. Most of the rooms have free access to the river, and the windows offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Great Mosque in Medan
The Great Mosque is located in the city of Medan. It is considered the main attraction of the island, as well as famous monument antiquity. The shrine was founded during the period of Dutch colonization. To this day, it is maintained in its original form.
In another way, the mosque is called Masjid Rayna. It was erected in 1907 by a Dutch architect in the Muslim style.
This place is still considered the main religious building in the city. The inhabitants of the province attach special importance to this place and consider it a symbol of religious culture. After the devastating tsunami in 2004, they began to revere her even more, because she managed to survive.
The village of Tomok Bolon
In the numerous villages of the island, you can get acquainted with the traditions and customs of the Toba Tabak tribe. The most colorful is the village of Tomok Bolon. It consists of huge wooden houses with thatched roofs. All dwellings are set on small elevations, which help to avoid flooding. Opposite each of them is a barn with grain. Its dimensions are so huge that the barn is often used as a bedroom.
by the most beautiful place in the village is considered a public house. It is decorated with an unusual, beautiful ornament that combines red, black and white. Buffalo horns are an invariable attribute of this place.
At home local residents traditionally divided into three zones: a livestock pen, a large living room and a sanctuary where family heirlooms were kept.
Over time, the connection with the past is gradually lost. With the advent of modern infrastructure, the appearance of the village is changing. And no one can say for sure that after the next natural disaster houses will be restored in their original form.
Orangutan Rehabilitation Center
This national reserve created to protect and increase the population of orangutans. It was founded in 1973. This is one of the few places in the world where you can still see wild orangutans. In total, there are more than 5,000 individuals in the reserve.
The main task of the rehabilitation center is to accustom animals to life in the wild. For many years, orangutans were pets in Indonesia, but by the end of the 20th century, their population had drastically decreased. And today, the staff of the reserve are striving to increase the number of orangutans and adapt them to an independent life in nature.
There are excursions to the tropics where you can not only see these amazing animals, but also admire the surrounding beauty.
Sultan's Palace
The Sultan's Palace or Istana Maimun is located in Medan. The palace was built during colonization and today is a prominent representative of that era. Thanks to frequent restorations, the architects managed to keep it almost in its original form.
There is a souvenir shop near Istan Maimun, which presents huge selection jewelry made by Indonesian craftsmen. All of it is created taking into account the traditions and customs of the Indonesians and is considered a wonderful reminder of the flavor of the country.
Sipiso Piso Falls on Lake Toba
Sipiso Piso is located on Lake Toba. This huge waterfall(120 m.) is a picturesque spectacle that can surprise any tourist. Sipiso Piso is unique in that its waters come from underground river flowing right under the plateau.
There is a legend that the waterfall was formed during the battle of the underground dragon with the spirits of the lake. You can admire the beauty of falling water from several equipped viewing platforms.
Sarcophagus of King Sidabutar
The tomb is located near the village of Tomoka, right behind the market. Here lies the Batak king himself and his relatives. This place is over 200 years old.
The tomb has an unusual decoration and is decorated with beautiful expensive ornaments. Numerous tourists constantly come here to touch the antiquity and feel the special atmosphere of this place.
Not far from the tomb of Sidabutar are the Batak houses, where a puppet festival takes place every year. This holiday is very popular among the local population and tourists.
Aceh Museum
This is one of the oldest museums in Indonesia. Here is a large collection of antique items found in the Aceh region. Most of it is the private property of the scientist Friedrich Stameshaus. Until 1933, he served as curator of the museum, and after his retirement, he sold half of the collection to the Amsterdam Institute.
After the declaration of independence, the museum became the property of the state. Restoration of some premises was carried out and a new additional building was built, where conferences and exhibitions are held today.
Polonia airport
This is the very first airport on the island with international communication. It got its name from the name of the area where the Polish baron lived. At the end of the 19th century, this man received permission to establish a tobacco plantation in Medan.
In 1924, the first plane landed here. At the helm sat a test pilot who had flown from Holland. It was at this moment that the first runway appeared in Polonii. After that, the city authorities allocated money to complete the construction of the airport.
The official opening took place in 1928.
One of the most big islands Indonesia is called Sumatra. This island is famous for its numerous beaches covered with dark sand, the ruins of ancient temples and palaces and virgin nature. On the western side of the island is the Barisan mountain range with the most high point- Mount Kerinci. In the east, a swampy plain extends for the most part.
If you decide to go on vacation in Sumatra, Indonesia - prices, beaches, entertainment and attractions, perhaps your the best choice. To begin with, you will have to go by plane to Bali to Denpasar, and then by domestic flight you can get to the very big city in Sumatra called Medan. From this city it is convenient to get to Lake Toba.
A little history of the island
Of the Europeans, Marco Polo was the first to reach this island in the 13th century. But it was colonized only at the beginning of the 16th century, the Portuguese were the first to do this, and they were replaced by the Dutch. However, in combat with local population The commander of the Dutch expedition was killed. The Portuguese tried several times to regain control of the island, but the Dutch each time successfully repulsed the attacks. Then the Dutch had to fight with the Sultanate of Aceh for the trade in spices, which were valued at that time no less than gold. Then I had to fight with the British for the fort of Bungkulu. At the end of the 19th century, the Dutch again had to fight the Sultanate of Aceh.
Around the same time, there was a major eruption of the Krakatoa volcano, which sank whole island. After World War II, the island came under the control of Indonesia. In 2001, the island was granted broad autonomy, now even Islamic laws have been established there.
What can you do on vacation in 2019 and what to see?
This tropical island is rich in attractions. There are also natural Amazing places and miracles of human hands. The interesting places of Medan include the Paradise Mosque built at the beginning of the last century. It is distinguished by black domes. In the Maimun Palace, where the Sultan's brother currently resides, visitors are allowed to see only two rooms that amaze with their luxury. In the military museum, visitors can see the richest collection of weapons. Here are the most ancient examples of guns and modern guns and machine guns.
Hereby natural wonder Lake Toba is considered to be formed in the crater of an extinct volcano. This is the largest lake of this type in the world. It was formed about 75 thousand years ago. Now tourists from all over the world come to see it. The lake is surrounded by rocky mountains and deep gorges.
If you prefer calm and measured rest in 2019, then you should pay attention to the village of Tuk-Tuk, which is located on Samosir. Nearby is Mount Belirang, where you can plunge into thermal source. Here you can enjoy the spectacle of the traditional Toba Batak dance. Nearby are stone thrones, where the elders of local tribes still make important decisions to this day.
National parks of Sumatra
One of the largest national parks, called Gunung-Luser, is located on the border of two provinces. Many different species of exotic birds and monkeys live here. The park is home to endangered Sumatran tigers and leopards, rhinos and elephants. But you don't see them every time. if you love leisure, then you can go on a ten-day hike and conquer mountain peak or rafting down the Whampoa River.
Kerinsi-Seblat Park was organized in 1982. In the center of it is the Kerinsi volcano. Here, in addition to rare animals, there are no less rare specimens of plants. From entertainment for tourists in this park - a trip to rare plants, climbing to alpine lake or to the mouth of a volcano. Nearby is a small village where you can rent the necessary equipment.
Other points of interest
If you are tired of the sweltering heat, then head to the city of Bugittingi, where the climate is a little cooler. Here you can watch a bullfight, go on an excursion to the local lakes or go to the reserve, where you can watch the blooming rafflesia.
If you get to Sumatra in the second half of June, then go to the city of Palembang, where a festival is held in honor of the harvest at this time. On this occasion, a regatta is organized on traditional Indonesian boats.
Going to Sumatra, be prepared for the fact that prices here are not particularly democratic. So a number in one of the best hotels costs from 3500 rubles per night. This applies to 5* hotels. You will find the most economical accommodation in 2 * hotels, where the cost of living starts from 1200 rubles per night. It is worth noting that the cheapest trips to Sumatra will cost you from 110,000 rubles per person.
