6-day North Sumatra Buddhist Heritage Tour

• What to Expect
• Pricing
• Booking Information

• What to Expect
• Pricing
• Booking Information

Begin your journey in Medan, Sumatra’s lively heart. Discover the city’s vibrant streets and savor its culinary delights before retreating to your overnight oasis. Embark on a scenic route to Lake Toba, framed by lush plantations. Unearth the charm of Samosir Island with a cultural immersion. Delve into the cultural and natural tapestry of Samosir Island. Explore traditional Batak villages, witness majestic waterfalls, and embrace the island’s unique beauty. Venture into Berastagi, a lush haven. Discover its fertile lands and agriculture, marvel at the views of Mount Sinabung, and explore the vibrant Fruit & Flower market. Your adventure concludes in Medan, Sumatra’s gateway. Visit its cultural treasures, savor its fusion of cuisines, and prepare for your onward journey.

Tour code SUMTJ 6

What to Expect:

Day 1: Journey to Enlightenment: Berastagi via Taman Alam Lumbini

Welcome to Sumatra!

As your plane touches down at Kualanamu International Airport, you’ll be met by our friendly driver, ready to usher you into a world of adventure. Your spiritual pilgrimage through the heart of Sumatra begins today, taking you on a remarkable journey to some of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the region.

Departure from Medan:

Your day starts with a warm welcome in Medan, where you’ll gather at a designated meeting point. After a brief introduction, your journey will begin. Your destination is the cool mountain town of Berastagi, an idyllic town with a picturesque mountainous backdrop.

Visit to Taman Lumbini:

Your journey includes a stop at Taman Lumbini in Berastagi. Taman Lumbini, the Buddhist temple complex that boasts a serene and spiritual ambiance. It’s often called a little piece of Nepal in Sumatra. As you explore the temple grounds, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, ornate statues, and serene ponds. The most iconic feature is a stunning replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda from Myanmar. Here, you can pay your respects, meditate, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Overnight in Grand Mutiara (or similar).

Day 2. From Berastagi to Lake Toba 

Today your adventure leads you from Berastagi to the captivating Lake Toba. Along the way, you’ll traverse through the enchanting landscapes of North Sumatra.

Parapat: Gateway to Lake Toba:

In the afternoon, you’ll reach Parapat, a charming town perched on the cusp of Lake Toba. Your accommodation is located along the stunning shores of Lake Toba. The largest volcanic lake in the world, this serene lake holds deep cultural significance.

Day 3. Lake Toba tranquillity from Parapat

Today, your journey continues from the mystical Lake Toba to Gunung Tua, an area with cultural and spiritual significance.

Morning by Lake Toba:

After a peaceful night’s rest in Parapat, you’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the serene beauty of Lake Toba. Gaze out at the tranquil waters, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy breakfast.

Travel from Parapat to Gunung Tua:

With Lake Toba as your backdrop, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Gunung Tua. The journey typically takes approximately 6.5 hours. Along the way, you’ll encounter picturesque landscapes, as Sumatra’s natural beauty unfolds before your eyes.

Gunung Tua is an area with cultural and spiritual significance. There are spiritual sites, including temples and monasteries, to deepen your understanding of Buddhist traditions and practices. Engage in moments of reflection, meditation, and enlightenment.

Two-overnight stays at Sapadia Hotel (or similar):

At the end of the day’s spiritual journey, you’ll arrive at Sapadia Hotel, your resting place for the night. This comfortable and welcoming hotel provides the perfect space for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Day 4. Bahal Temple Complex

Bahal Temple Complex is a historical and sacred site located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, which holds great significance for Buddhist pilgrims. It’s a complex of ancient Buddhist temples and structures that are known for their historical and architectural value. The complex includes:

Bahal Temple: This is the central and most prominent temple in the complex. It’s a beautifully preserved example of traditional Buddhist temple architecture. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and history.

 Additional Temples: The complex consists of several smaller temples and shrines that are dedicated to different aspects of Buddhism. These temples provide visitors with a rich spiritual experience and a chance to pay homage to various Buddhist deities.

Historical Significance: The Bahal Temple Complex dates to the 11th century, making it one of the oldest Buddhist temple sites in Indonesia. It has been recognized as a historical treasure and a testament to North Sumatra’s Buddhist heritage.

Spiritual Exploration: For Buddhist pilgrims, the Bahal Temple Complex is a place of spiritual reflection, meditation, and prayer. The serene atmosphere and historical aura make it a perfect location for those seeking a deeper connection with their faith.

Local Culture: Visitors can also engage with the local community and learn about the cultural traditions and practices associated with the temple complex. This cultural exchange enriches the overall experience.

Day 4 of the Sumatra Buddhist Pilgrimage Overland Tour is dedicated to exploring the Bahal Temple Complex, where guests can immerse themselves in the historical, spiritual, and cultural aspects of this remarkable site. The tour allows participants to connect with Buddhism’s roots in the region and appreciate the architectural and artistic achievements of the ancient temple builders.

At the end of the day’s spiritual journey, you’ll arrive at Sapadia Hotel, your resting place for the night. This comfortable and welcoming hotel provides the perfect space for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Day 5. Toba Lakeside from Balige

Today you will depart from Gunung Tua and travel towards the enchanting town of Balige. With approximately 5 hours of travel, you’ll journey through picturesque landscapes and arrive at the serene shores of Lake Toba.

On the way to Balige, you’ll pass through Sipirok Village. The capital of Toba Samosir district, Balige is the biggest town in the Southern part of Lake Toba. A trading center in the area. It is also famous for weaving, chillies, and buffalos with residents trading hundreds of buffaloes every day.

The local market in Balige is a vibrant hub of activity. Here, you can browse an array of locally produced goods, handicrafts, and engage with friendly vendors. It’s a fantastic opportunity to witness the daily life of the local community. Located on the banks of Lake Toba, you can relax by the lake, enjoy the spectacular views, and even embark on a traditional boat ride. Lake Toba is celebrated for its serene atmosphere and magnificent natural landscapes.

Your comfortable overnight stay at La Bersa Hotel offers picturesque vistas and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the ideal place to relax and rejuvenate.

Day 6. Journey Back to Medan with a Blessing from Dewi Kwan Im

As your 5-day Sumatra Buddhist Pilgrimage Overland Tour ends, today is dedicated to returning to Medan. The journey from Balige back to the bustling city of Medan will once again take you through enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures.

Patung Dewi Kwan Im is a magnificent statue dedicated to the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Dewi Kwan Im, also known as Guanyin in Chinese Buddhism. This awe-inspiring statue represents a symbol of compassion, kindness, and mercy.

The statue is often depicted as a serene and compassionate figure, standing tall with multiple arms and a tranquil expression. Dewi Kwan Im is a revered deity in Buddhism and is believed to bestow blessings of peace and protection.

Visiting this statue provides an opportunity for reflection, inner peace, and a moment to offer your own prayers and intentions. As you stand before the statue of Dewi Kwan Im, you can connect with the essence of compassion and serenity that she embodies.

At the historic city of Pematang Siantar you can relish the atmosphere of a city steeped in tradition and history. If time allows, consider a stop at Hotel Siantar, a charming establishment with a rich history, built in 1912.

Your pilgrimage tour will conclude upon your return to Medan. The memories of your spiritual and cultural journey will remain with you, a testament to the rich tapestry of Sumatra and its diverse heritage. We hope your experiences during this tour were both enlightening and unforgettable.

As you disembark from this pilgrimage, you carry with you the cultural treasures, spiritual significance, and heart-warming connections that the Land of the Batak has to offer. Until we meet again on your next adventure, we wish you safe travels and a heart full of cherished memories.

Price upon application