Indonesia is a fascinating country that offers a wealth of experiences and attractions for travellers. As an Indian citizen, you can stay in Indonesia visa-free for up to 30 days, making it an affordable and convenient destination. This Southeast Asian country is home to more than 17,000 islands, each with its unique charm, beauty, and culture. Among them is Sumatra, also Sumatera, one of Indonesia's largest islands. The word Sumatra derives from the island's original name, Samudra (it was Marco Polo who is said to have corrupted it to Sumatra in his travels, and the name has stuck ever since). Trade and cultural links with India go back to at least 200 BCE - a Sumatran king donated generously to the Buddhist university at Nalanda the Pallavas and Cholas had a thriving maritime trade with Sumatra and inscriptions found in northern Sumatra bear witness to the presence of Tamil colonies here in the 11th century. A holiday here will be full of adventure and cultural immersion. From visiting an orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang to surfing in West Lampun, and checking out the famed Lake Toba.
Lake Toba, or Danau Toba, in Sumatra, is an extraordinary natural wonder. It boasts an enormous crater lake with a large island at its center. Covering over 1,145 sq km and reaching depths of up to 450 meters in some areas, Lake Toba is renowned as the world's largest crater lake.
Serelo Hill, boasting its distinctive "witches hat" peak, stands as one of Sumatra's most iconic landmarks, towering over the rice fields of the Lematang River plain and the plantations adorning the nearby slopes. Located in Ulak Pandan village, locals claim that scaling the summit's pointy peak is unattainable without specialised climbing gear.
Medan, situated in Indonesia, is the biggest city in Sumatra and the fifth largest in Indonesia. It boasts a wealth of historical buildings and cultural artifacts. Medan's rich history and extensive renovation of heritage buildings make it a worthwhile destination. When touring the city, don't miss the chance to admire the beautiful buildings and murals which are part of the renovation projects.
On the outskirts of the city is the Maimoon Palace, a Mughlai-Italianate extravaganza built in 1888 by the Sultan of Deli. Of the 30 rooms, only the throne room is open to visitors. Its architectural style is a fusion of Malay, Islamic, and Mughal influences, while its interior exudes a Spanish-Italian ambiance. Check out the royal collection which showcases jewellery, antiques, and gifts bestowed by royal leaders from various countries.
Sumatra has a rich heritage of traditional crafts, including weaving, plaiting, wood carving, ceramics, and metal-craft. Visitors can acquire exquisite wood carvings and traditional clothes like ulos, which can be worn as a sarong or shoulder shawl, known as selendang.
Explore the vibrant culture of the Batak tribe on Samosir Island, the cultural heart of North Sumatra. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Batak people with a visit to Huta Tinggi Village. Experience authentic tour packages showcasing the unique way of life of the Batak community in this picturesque area.
Berastagi, a charming town nestled in the scenic Karo highlands, lies 70 km from Medan en route to Lake Toba. Perched at an elevation of 1,300 meters, the town beckons with its primary draws: the two active volcanoes, Mount Sibayak boasting rejuvenating hot springs, and Mount Sinabung. While both peaks are conquerable in a day, the assistance of a guide is essential.
Sumatra is known for some great surfing spots. The Mentawai Islands are renowned for their exceptional surfing spots, with Playgrounds being the focal point due to its abundance of high-quality surf breaks within close proximity. West Lampung boasts over a dozen world-class waves along a 100km stretch of coastline. The Banyak Islands, situated off the coast of Sumatra, are celebrated for their breathtaking natural beauty and rich marine life, as well as for hosting world-class waves such as those found in the "Bay of Plenty" region.
Sumatra's lush jungles are home to the Gunung Leuser National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last refuges for Sumatran orangutans. At Bukit Lawang, a gateway to the park, you can closely observe these agile creatures as they swing through the trees.
Sumatra offers a wide variety of cuisines in eateries ranging from the modest to luxe.
There's Damar Toba, which offers a unique blend of elegant lakeside dining and boutique accommodation. Located on Lumban Silintong Beach in Balige, just a 30-minute drive from Silangit Airport, it provides a picturesque lakeside dining experience and comfortable stay.
For an unforgettable taste of authentic local street food, make sure to explore Selat Panjang. This vibrant street is home to some of the oldest and most beloved Chinese eateries in Medan. A visit here is an absolute must for anyone eager to savor exceptional flavors and experience the true essence of the city.
For excellent seafood dishes, head to the streetside open for dinner restaurant Wajir Seafood in Medan.
Address: Jl. Kol. Sugiono No.31, A U R, Kec. Medan Maimun, Kota Medan, Sumatera Utara 20212, Indonesia
Rumah Makan Islam Murni is a local Tuktuk restaurant with an excellent variety of spicy, freshly cooked dishes that change daily.
Address: Jl. Haranggaol No.15, Tiga Raja, Kec. Girsang Sipangan Bolon, Kabupaten Simalungun, Sumatera Utara 21174, Indonesia
Sumatra offers a range of accommodations from hostels to luxury resorts. There is The Sanchaya, a luxury beachfront estate in Bintan. With its blend of contemporary chic and colonial charm, this hotel exudes the opulence and beauty of South East Asian culture.
Address: Lagoi Bay, Bintan, Riau Islands, Indonesia
On the other range of the scale is Sahnan Guest House in Bukit Lawang, with a garden, terrace, restaurant, and free WiFi throughout the property with prices from around INR 750.
Address: Lagoi Bay, Jalan Gurindam Duabelas, Plot 5, Sebong Lagoi, Kec. Tlk. Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29155, Indonesia
If you are looking for hostels, Sumatra has many, from the Bonsai Surf Lodge to Dazhong Backpackers Hostel and the Krisna Hostel by Zuzu.
Sumatra has six international airports at Medan, Batam, Palembang, Pekanbaru, Padang and Banda Aceh. Between them they connect with direct flights from a range of international transport hubs including Singapore, Bangkok, Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Kuala Terengganu (Malaysia) and Colombo (Sri Lanka).
Indians can get visa on arrival for up to 60 days. You can get a visa on arrival at the airport. This is valid for a stay of 30 days and can be extended for a further 30 days.