Family Travel Ideas in Lake Toba

Lake Toba, one of the highest and deepest lakes in the world, is a blue gem nestled in a volcanic crater surrounded by beautiful places to visit. The 50-mile long lake and its scenic environs make Lake Toba family travel an unforgettable experience.

Samosir Island

This beautiful island surrounded by mountains in the center of Lake Toba and is inhabited by the friendly Toba Batak tribe and offers a glimpse of their unique lifestyle. In Tomok, you can see the tomb of King Sidabutur who introduced Christianity to the Batak people.

Tomok is a great place to purchase souvenirs and local cuisine. You will find the traditional Batak houses made of wood and thatch are works of art scattered throughout the island. Curiously carved ancient tombs also dot the island. 

Interestingly, the Batak houses are constructed in 3 sections to symbolize the 3 divisions of the macrocosm – the upper world, the world of deities and the realm of ancestors. 

The facades of the houses are decorated with wall paintings and carvings of animals and plants meant to keep evil influences at bay.

The number of steps leading up to the doorway represents the number of children desired by the family that resides in the house (usually 4 to 6). The lintel is low, making it necessary to bow as you enter and thus show your respect for the inhabitants.

Carry a torch along as power cuts are routine on the island.

Simanindo and the House of the King
Samosir Island

The village of Simanindo is famous for its replica of a traditional Simanindo Batak village and the restored house of a Toba Batak king. Traditional dances are performed in the village every day. The king’s house (now the Huta Solon Museum), displays some household items, weapons and magical talismans.

The kids will love the traditional puppet shows in the nuseum. In times past, these puppets were considered the receptacle of souls and were the performance was part of funeral proceedings.

Hot Springs at Pusuk Buhit Mountain

Take a ferry from Samosir to nearby Mount Pusuk Buhit (10 km away) with hot volcanic springs at its base. The mountain is considered sacred. According to myth, the ancestors of the Bataks, and in fact, the human race itself descended from heaven on to the mountain via  a bamboo pole.

The water of the spring is said cure skin diseases and the spot is a romantic getaway for local couples.