Pematangsiantar is a city in North Sumatra, Indonesia. It is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful natural scenery, bustling markets, and friendly people. Located just over 200 kilometers from Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, Pematangsiantar is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Indonesian culture.
The city was founded in the late 18th century and is home to a variety of cultural attractions. Visitors can visit the Pasar Lama, a traditional market where locals sell everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. The city also boasts a number of beautiful temples, such as the Great Mosque of Pematangsiantar, which dates back to the 17th century.
The area around Pematangsiantar is also home to some of the most stunning natural attractions in Indonesia. The nearby Lake Toba is a popular destination for tourists, offering stunning views and plenty of activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. Other natural attractions include the Taman Hutan Raya, an ecotourism park with over 200 species of animals and plants.
Pematangsiantar is a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Indonesian culture. The city is full of vibrant markets, beautiful temples, and stunning natural scenery, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Kota Lama: Kota Lama is the oldest area in Pematangsiantar and is known as a heritage site. It is home to many traditional buildings and landmarks, including the Great Mosque, which is the oldest and largest mosque in the city.
2. Taman Siantar Park: Taman Siantar Park is a large public park located in the center of the city that offers beautiful views and plenty of open green space. There are many activities to enjoy, including biking trails, playgrounds, and a swimming pool.
3. Simpang Tiga: Simpang Tiga is a popular area due to its close proximity to the airport and the many shopping and dining options available. It is also home to many hotels and hostels.
4. Teladan Baru: Teladan Baru is a residential area that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its close proximity to many of the city’s attractions. It is also known for its vibrant nightlife scene.
5. Simpang Lima: Simpang Lima is located just outside the city center and is known for its many traditional markets and shops. It is also home to many budget-friendly hotels and hostels.
1. Taman Budaya Simalungun: This is a cultural park located in the center of Pematangsiantar, featuring traditional Batak architecture and artifacts from the Simalungun ethnic group.
2. Museum Batak: Located in the same area as the Taman Budaya Simalungun, this museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Batak people. It features a collection of artifacts, traditional costumes, and art from the area.
3. Pasar Siadong: This is a traditional market located in the center of Pematangsiantar, offering a variety of local produce, souvenirs, and traditional crafts.
4. Great Mosque of Pematangsiantar: This mosque is one of the most impressive buildings in the city, featuring a unique mixture of Middle Eastern and traditional Batak architecture.
5. Lake Toba: Located just outside of Pematangsiantar, Lake Toba is a stunning volcanic lake surrounded by lush, green hills. It's a popular destination for hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
1. Laksa Siantar: A spicy noodle soup made with a coconut milk-based broth, shrimp paste, and a variety of spices. It is served with a side of hard-boiled egg and fresh vegetables.
2. Nasi Padang: A type of food from the Minangkabau people of West Sumatra. It is a platter of steamed white rice served with various side dishes such as beef rendang (spicy beef stew), chicken curry, and other dishes.
3. Soto Siantar: Chicken broth served with vermicelli noodles, potato and carrot, boiled egg, and other ingredients. It is usually garnished with fresh herbs and chili pepper.
4. Siomay Pematangsiantar: A steamed fish dumpling served with a spicy and sweet peanut sauce. It is usually accompanied by steamed vegetables, tofu, and fried shallots.
5. Martabak Manis: A sweet and savory filled pancake made with a variety of ingredients such as chocolate, cheese, peanuts, and other sweet fillings. It is usually served with a side of kaya (coconut jam).