Parapat is a small town in North Sumatra, Indonesia, that serves as the gateway to Lake Toba and Samosir Island, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world, with a surface area of over 1,100 square kilometers and a depth of up to 500 meters. Samosir Island is the largest island within an island, with a rich and unique culture of the Batak people, who have their own language, religion, music, and architecture.
If you are looking for a place to relax, enjoy nature, and learn about a different culture, Parapat is the perfect destination for you. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Parapat, including how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and what to see. Whether you are traveling solo, with your family, with your partner, or with your friends, you will find something that suits your interests and budget in Parapat.
How to Get to Parapat
Parapat is located about 176 kilometers from Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra and the main entry point to the province. There are several ways to reach Parapat from Medan, depending on your preference and budget.
By bus:
Taking a bus is the cheapest and most common way to get to Parapat from Medan. There are many buses that depart from various terminals in Medan, such as Amplas, Pinang Baris, and Padang Bulan. The bus fare ranges from 40,000 to 60,000 rupiah (about 3 to 4 USD) per person, and the journey takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on the traffic and the number of stops. The buses usually drop off passengers at the main street of Parapat, near the ferry terminal to Samosir Island.
By plane:
Taking a plane is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to Parapat from Medan, but also the most expensive. There is a small airport in Silangit, about 55 kilometers from Parapat, that operates daily flights from Medan and other cities in Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Bandung, and Yogyakarta. The flight time is about 45 minutes, and the ticket price varies from 300,000 to 800,000 rupiah (about 20 to 55 USD) per person, depending on the season and the airline. From Silangit, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Parapat, which costs about 100,000 to 150,000 rupiah (about 7 to 10 USD) per person, and takes about an hour.
By train:
Taking a train is another option to get to Parapat from Medan, but it is not very convenient, as there is no direct train service to Parapat. You have to take a train from Medan to Pematang Siantar, a city about 50 kilometers from Parapat, and then take a bus or a taxi to Parapat. The train fare is about 50,000 to 80,000 rupiah (about 3 to 5 USD) per person, and the train journey takes about 3 hours. The bus or taxi fare from Pematang Siantar to Parapat is about 20,000 to 50,000 rupiah (about 1 to 3 USD) per person, and the road journey takes about an hour.
By car:
Taking a car is the most flexible and convenient way to get to Parapat from Medan, as you can stop along the way to enjoy the scenery and visit some attractions, such as the Sipiso-piso waterfall, the Simarjarunjung hill, and the Taman Simalem resort. You can rent a car with or without a driver from Medan, or join a tour package that includes transportation. The car rental fee ranges from 500,000 to 1,000,000 rupiah (about 35 to 70 USD) per day, depending on the type and condition of the car. The fuel cost is about 200,000 to 300,000 rupiah (about 14 to 21 USD) for a round trip. The driving time is about 4 hours, but it can vary depending on the traffic and the weather.
Some tips and recommendations on how to get to Parapat from Medan are:
Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, such as holidays and weekends, to avoid disappointment and price hikes.
Check the schedule and availability of the buses, planes, and trains before you depart, as they may change or cancel without prior notice.
Be prepared for delays, traffic jams, and road conditions, as they are common in Sumatra. Bring some snacks, drinks, and entertainment to keep yourself occupied and comfortable during the journey.
Be careful of your belongings and personal safety, as there may be pickpockets, scammers, and touts along the way. Do not accept any offers or deals from strangers, and always negotiate the price before you board or hire any transportation.
Where to Stay in Parapat
Parapat offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget to luxury, and from traditional to modern. You can choose to stay in Parapat town, or on the shores of Lake Toba, or on Samosir Island, depending on your preference and budget.
Hotels:
Hotels are the most common and convenient type of accommodation in Parapat, as they provide facilities and services such as air conditioning, hot water, Wi-Fi, TV, and breakfast. The price of hotels in Parapat varies from 100,000 to 1,000,000 rupiah (about 7 to 70 USD) per night, depending on the location, quality, and season. Some of the popular hotels in Parapat are:
Patra Jasa Parapat Lake Resort: This is a four-star hotel located on the shore of Lake Toba, with a stunning view of the lake and the island. It has 61 rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, a spa, a meeting room, and a garden. The room rate starts from 700,000 rupiah (about 49 USD) per night.
Inna Parapat Hotel: This is a three-star hotel located in the center of Parapat town, with easy access to the ferry terminal and the main street. It has 100 rooms and cottages, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a swimming pool, a tennis court, a playground, and a karaoke room. The room rate starts from 400,000 rupiah (about 28 USD) per night.
Danau Toba International Cottage: This is a two-star hotel located on the shore of Lake Toba, with a panoramic view of the lake and the island. It has 112 rooms and cottages, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a swimming pool, a sauna, a massage room, and a meeting room. The room rate starts from 300,000 rupiah (about 21 USD) per night.
Guesthouses:
Guesthouses are the cheapest and simplest type of accommodation in Parapat, as they provide basic facilities and services such as fan, cold water, and shared bathroom. The price of guesthouses in Parapat ranges from 50,000 to 150,000 rupiah (about 3 to 10 USD) per night, depending on the location, quality, and season. Some of the popular guesthouses in Parapat are:
Bagus Bay Guesthouse: This is a cozy and friendly guesthouse located on the shore of Lake Toba, with a beautiful view of the lake and the island. It has 20 rooms and bungalows, a restaurant, a bar, a library, a lounge, and a garden. The room rate starts from 100,000 rupiah (about 7 USD) per night.
Zoe’s Paradise Waterfront Hotel: This is a charming and elegant guesthouse located on the shore of Lake Toba, with a magnificent view of the lake and the island. It has 15 rooms and suites, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a swimming pool, a terrace, and a garden. The room rate starts from 150,000 rupiah (about 10 USD) per night.
Toba Cats Garden: This is a unique and quirky guesthouse located on the shore of Lake Toba, with a lovely view of the lake and the island. It has 10 rooms and bungalows, a restaurant, a bar, a library, a lounge, and a garden. The room rate starts from 50,000 rupiah (about 3 USD) per night.
Homestays:
Homestays are the best way to experience the local culture and hospitality of Parapat, as they allow you to stay with a local family and share their daily life. The price of homestays in Parapat varies from 100,000 to 300,000 rupiah (about 7 to 21 USD) per night, depending on the location, quality, and season. Some of the popular homestays in Parapat are:
Tuk Tuk Timbul Bungalows: This is a family-run homestay located on Samosir Island, with a stunning view of the lake and the mountains. It has 12 bungalows, a restaurant, a bar, a swimming pool, and a garden. The bungalows are spacious and comfortable, with private bathrooms, balconies, and hammocks. The hosts are friendly and helpful, and can arrange tours, activities, and transportation for you. The room rate starts from 150,000 rupiah (about 10 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Horas Family Home: This is a cozy and welcoming homestay located on Samosir Island, with a splendid view of the lake and the island. It has 6 rooms, a restaurant, a coffee shop, a terrace, and a garden. The rooms are clean and cozy, with private bathrooms, fans, and Wi-Fi. The hosts are warm and hospitable, and can provide you with information, tips, and stories about the local culture and history. The room rate starts from 200,000 rupiah (about 14 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Rumah Singa Raja: This is a traditional and authentic homestay located in Parapat town, with a charming view of the lake and the town. It has 4 rooms, a kitchen, a living room, and a garden. The rooms are simple and rustic, with shared bathrooms, fans, and mosquito nets. The hosts are genuine and generous, and can teach you how to cook, play music, and weave the local handicrafts. The room rate starts from 100,000 rupiah (about 7 USD) per night, including breakfast.
Some tips and recommendations on where to stay in Parapat are:
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, such as holidays and weekends, to secure your spot and get the best deals.
Check the reviews and ratings of the accommodation before you book, as they may reflect the quality and service of the place.
Be respectful and courteous to your hosts and fellow guests, as they may have different customs and expectations than you.
Be flexible and adaptable, as the accommodation in Parapat may not have all the amenities and standards that you are used to.
What to Do in Parapat
Parapat offers a variety of activities and attractions for travelers, ranging from relaxing to adventurous, and from natural to cultural. You can choose to do as much or as little as you want in Parapat, depending on your mood and energy.
Boating:
Boating is one of the most popular and enjoyable activities in Parapat, as it allows you to explore the beauty and diversity of Lake Toba and Samosir Island. You can rent a boat, a kayak, a canoe, or a jet ski from the shore of Parapat, or join a boat tour that takes you to different spots on the lake and the island. The price of boating in Parapat varies from 50,000 to 500,000 rupiah (about 3 to 35 USD) per hour, depending on the type and size of the boat. Some of the places that you can visit by boat are:
Tomok:
This is a village on Samosir Island, where you can see the ancient tombs of the Batak kings, the traditional Batak houses, and the cultural performances of the Batak dance and music.
Ambarita: This is another village on Samosir Island, where you can see the stone chairs and tables that were used by the Batak elders for trials and executions, and the museum that displays the Batak artifacts and weapons.
Simanindo: This is yet another village on Samosir Island, where you can see the former palace of the Batak king, the church that was built by the Dutch missionaries, and the museum that exhibits the Batak costumes and instruments.
Parbaba: This is a beach on Samosir Island, where you can swim, sunbathe, and relax on the white sand and the clear water, and enjoy the view of the lake and the mountains.
Tuktuk Siadong: This is a peninsula on Samosir Island, where you can find many hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops, and mingle with other travelers and locals.
Shopping:
Shopping is another fun and rewarding activity in Parapat, as it allows you to buy some souvenirs and gifts that reflect the local culture and craftsmanship. You can find many shops and stalls along the main street of Parapat, or on the ferry terminal to Samosir Island, or on the villages on the island. The price of shopping in Parapat ranges from 10,000 to 100,000 rupiah (about 0.7 to 7 USD) per item, depending on the quality and bargaining skills. Some of the things that you can buy in Parapat are:
Ulos: This is a traditional Batak cloth that is hand-woven and dyed with natural colors, and has various patterns and meanings. It is used for ceremonies, rituals, and daily wear, and can also be used as a scarf, a shawl, or a decoration.
Sigale-gale: This is a wooden puppet that resembles a human figure, and can move its limbs and head by strings. It is used for funeral rites, as it represents the spirit of the deceased, and can also be used as a toy or a display.
Batak carving: This is a wooden carving that depicts the Batak symbols, animals, and scenes, and has intricate and elaborate details. It is used for ornaments, furniture, and accessories, and can also be used as a souvenir or a gift.
Batak coffee: This is a coffee that is grown and roasted in the highlands of North Sumatra, and has a strong and aromatic flavor. It is served in a traditional way, with sugar and ginger, and can also be bought as a powder or a bean.
Sightseeing:
Sightseeing is another interesting and educational activity in Parapat, as it allows you to learn more about the history and culture of Parapat and its surroundings. You can visit some of the attractions and landmarks in Parapat town, or on the shores of Lake Toba, or on Samosir Island, by walking, biking, or driving. The price of sightseeing in Parapat varies from free to 50,000 rupiah (about 3 USD) per person, depending on the entrance fee and the transportation cost. Some of the places that you can visit by sightseeing are:
Parapat View Point: This is a hilltop in Parapat town, where you can get a panoramic view of the lake, the island, and the town, and take some amazing photos and videos.
Siallagan Stone Garden: This is a park on the shore of Lake Toba, where you can see some ancient megaliths that were used by the Batak people for rituals and ceremonies, and some statues and sculptures that depict the Batak legends and myths.
King Siallagan’s Tomb: This is a tomb on the shore of Lake Toba, where you can see the grave of King Siallagan, one of the most famous and powerful Batak kings, and his family and followers, and some carvings and inscriptions that tell his story and achievements.
Parapat Catholic Church: This is a church in Parapat town, where you can see the architecture and design of the building, which combines the Batak and the European styles, and the stained glass windows, which illustrate the biblical scenes and the Batak culture.
Side Trips:
Side trips are another exciting and adventurous activity in Parapat, as they allow you to explore some of the nearby destinations that offer more attractions and activities. You can take a bus, a car, or a tour package to some of the places that are within a few hours from Parapat, and spend a day or two there. The price of side trips in Parapat ranges from 100,000 to 1,000,000 rupiah (about 7 to 70 USD) per person, depending on the destination, the transportation, and the accommodation. Some of the places that you can visit by side trips are:
Berastagi: This is a town in the Karo highlands, about 130 kilometers from Parapat, that is famous for its cool climate, its fresh fruits and vegetables, and its volcanic mountains. You can hike to the summit of Mount Sibayak or Mount Sinabung, soak in the hot springs, visit the traditional markets, and taste the local delicacies.
Bukit Lawang: This is a village in the Gunung Leuser National Park, about 200 kilometers from Parapat, that is famous for its orangutan sanctuary, its jungle trekking, and its river tubing. You can see the orangutans in their natural habitat, walk through the rainforest, raft on the river, and stay in the eco-lodges.
Sipiso-piso Waterfall: This is a waterfall in the Tanah Karo regency, about 80 kilometers from Parapat, that is famous for its height, its beauty, and its location. You can see the waterfall from a distance, as it plunges from a cliff into a gorge, or you can hike to the base of the waterfall, and feel the spray and the breeze. You can also visit the nearby village of Tongging, and enjoy the view of Lake Toba and Samosir Island.
Parapat is a wonderful destination to experience Lake Toba and Samosir Island, as well as the other attractions and activities in the region. Parapat has something for everyone, whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure, nature, or culture. Parapat is also a great base to explore the other destinations in North Sumatra, such as Berastagi, Bukit Lawang, and Sipiso-piso Waterfall. Parapat is a place that you will never forget, and that you will always want to return to.
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