Discover the 10 best tourist destinations in Karo, North Sumatra, from waterfalls, mountains, to hot springs and enchanting hills.
Located on a plateau with an altitude of 600 to 1,400 meters above sea level, Karo Regency is one of the leading tourist destinations in North Sumatra.
With a distance of about 77 km from Medan, Karo offers stunning natural scenery and various tourist attractions that are suitable for travelers who want to experience a calm and fresh natural atmosphere.
Not only for tourists, Karo is also a favorite destination for Medan residents for short road trips. Here are some tourist destinations in Karo that you must visit:
1. Sipiso-piso Waterfall
Sipiso-piso Waterfall is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Karo. With a height of 120 meters, this waterfall provides an extraordinary view surrounded by green hills and rice fields.
Located on the edge of the caldera of Lake Toba, this waterfall originates from the Pajanabolon River which flows into Lake Toba. The natural beauty around this waterfall makes visitors never stop being amazed.
2. Mount Sinabung
Even though Mount Sinabung has been a red zone since the 2010 eruption, this mountain remains one of the icons of Karo Regency. At 2,460 meters above sea level, Sinabung offers stunning views from a designated safety zone. You can enjoy the beauty of this mountain from various angles without having to worry about safety.
3. Lau Kawar Lake
Located at the foot of Mount Sinabung, Lake Lau Kawar is a charming natural tourist destination. With an area of 200 hectares, this lake offers a very calming atmosphere, surrounded by lush green forests.
For nature lovers, trekking to Lancuk Hill on the side of the lake is a favorite activity. In addition, you can find beautiful forest orchids around this area.
4. Mount Sibayak
Mount Sibayak, with a height of 2,172 meters above sea level, is an active volcano that is still safe to climb. The climb to the top of this mountain takes you through exotic tropical forests.
Once at the top, you can see the active crater directly and enjoy the extraordinary view of the sunrise. From Mount Sibayak, you can also see Mount Sinabung in the distance.
5. Gundaling Hill
Gundaling Hill is located at an altitude of 1,575 meters above sea level, offering beautiful views of the Karo landscape. This hill has been a favorite tourist destination since the Dutch colonial era. The sunset view from this hill is one of the best, making it an ideal choice for nature photographers.
6. Side thump-thump
Sidebuk-debuk is a natural hot spring located at the foot of Mount Sibayak. The hot water here contains sulfur which is believed to have health benefits. There are various pools with different water temperatures, so visitors can choose according to their preferences.
Apart from soaking, visitors can also enjoy the charming natural scenery and accommodation available around the area.
7. Sarune Cafe
Sarune Café is a tourist destination with a unique concept that combines a café and a guesthouse. Located on Jl. Simpang Empat, Berastagi, this café offers spectacular views of Mount Sinabung. With a relaxed atmosphere, Sarune Café is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee while enjoying the stunning natural scenery.
8. Kubu Hill
Bukit Kubu in Berastagi offers a peaceful atmosphere with vast green grasslands. This place is perfect for picnics, kite flying, or just relaxing. In addition, Bukit Kubu also has swimming pool facilities and interesting photo spots.
Located on the side of the road, Bukit Kubu is easily accessible by both private and public vehicles, making it a favorite destination for families.
9. Sikulikap Waterfall
Sikulikap Waterfall is hidden in the lush forest of Doulu Village, Berastagi. With a calm atmosphere and cool air, this destination is suitable for nature lovers seeking tranquility. To reach the waterfall, visitors must do a short trek through the forest. Along the way, you can enjoy the forest views and the soothing sound of trickling water.
10. Tiger Island Barung
Barung Pulu Macan is a destination that offers natural beauty from the foot of Mount Sibayak. Here, you can do various activities such as picnicking, camping, and trekking. This place is also suitable for visitors who want to hold family events or gatherings because of its calm natural atmosphere and far from the hustle and bustle of the city .
Karo Regency offers a variety of tourist destinations that are no less interesting than other places in North Sumatra. From majestic waterfalls to natural hot springs, Karo has everything for nature lovers and those looking for a place to relax.
So, if you are planning a vacation or road trip to North Sumatra, don’t forget to include Karo in your travel list. The natural charm and beauty of tourism here are guaranteed to provide an unforgettable holiday experience.