Berastagi,
Berastagi is a charming town located in the highlands of North Sumatra, Indonesia. It is known for its cool climate and picturesque views of surrounding volcanoes such as Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak. The town is famous for its fruit markets, where visitors can sample a variety of fresh produce such as strawberries and passion fruit.
Berastagi is also a popular starting point for trekking adventures in the nearby mountains and exploring the local culture of the Karo people.
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Maaf" - Sorry
- "Sampai jumpa" - Goodbye
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring the Countryside
morning:Start your day with a refreshing hike up Gundaling Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Afterward, savor a delicious Indonesian breakfast at Rumah Makan Sinar Strawberry.
afternoon:Visit the colorful Berastagi Fruit Market to sample a variety of local fruits and snacks. Then, take a leisurely stroll around Taman Mejuah-Juah Park, admiring its vibrant flowers and serene atmosphere.
evening:For a delightful evening, head to Mikie Holiday Funland to enjoy a lively night of games, rides, and amusement.
Cultural Discovery
morning:Embark on a cultural journey by exploring the traditional architecture and history of the Sipiso Piso Waterfall. Indulge in a scrumptious brunch at Batak Karo Restaurant, famous for its authentic local cuisine.
afternoon:Next, visit the Karo Batak Museum to delve into the fascinating heritage and traditions of the local community. Then, take a serene walk around the Gundaling Plantation amidst lush greenery.
evening:Conclude your day by enjoying a peaceful evening at the Gundaling Hot Spring, where you can relax in soothing natural thermal pools and take in the tranquil surroundings.
Adventurous Escapade
morning:Kickstart your day with an adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventure by trekking to the summit of Mount Sibayak. Refuel with a hearty breakfast at the cozy Gundaling Cafe, offering panoramic views of the mountainous landscapes.
afternoon:Descend from the mountain and enjoy an exhilarating ATV ride across the rugged terrain surrounding Berastagi. Then, stop by Pusuk Buhit for a quick yet delicious lunch featuring local specialties.
evening:In the evening, experience the thrill of a traditional Karo dance performance at the Desa Wisata Lingga Village, followed by a dinner showcasing the rich flavors of Karo cuisine.
Relaxing Getaway
morning:Unwind in the morning with a leisurely visit to Lumbini Park, a serene and picturesque Buddhist temple showcasing stunning architecture. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at one of the cozy local cafes nearby.
afternoon:Take a scenic drive to the peaceful Samosir Island and revel in the tranquil beauty of Lake Toba. Indulge in a leisurely afternoon of kayaking or simply lounging by the serene lakeside.
evening:Savor a serene sunset cruise on Lake Toba, allowing you to bask in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as the day transitions into evening.
Berastagi Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Arsik
A traditional Batak dish made with freshwater fish (or occasionally chicken) cooked in a blend of spices and herbs, including torch ginger, chilies, and turmeric. It is commonly found in local restaurants and homestays.
Must-Try!
Saksang
This dish features pork or water buffalo that is stewed in coconut milk and a mixture of spices including andaliman (a type of Sichuan pepper) and lemongrass. Look for it at traditional Batak restaurants.
Siput Gondang
A popular local delicacy, consisting of freshwater snails cooked in a spicy sauce made from coconut milk, torch ginger, and lemongrass, usually available at street food stalls or local markets.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Pasar Buah Semangka
This bustling fruit market is an excellent place to sample a variety of tropical fruits or try local snacks. Look for vendors selling fresh passion fruit and rambutan, as well as traditional Indonesian snacks like lemang (a sticky rice cooked in bamboo) and lupis (glutinous rice cake).
Jalan Kolam
This street in Berastagi comes alive at night with an array of street food stalls offering local favorites such as pempek (fish cake), martabak (stuffed pancake), and various grilled skewers.
Things to do in Berastagi
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Berastagi
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!