Traveling North Sumatra - North Sumatra Travel Guide

Best Hotels in Medan

2011-11-18T23:57:00.004+07:00

Medan, the capital of North Sumatra, is the third largest city in Indonesia besides Jakarta and Surabaya. Medan is a city of business and often the city stopover for travelers who want to travel to several destinations in North Sumatra. No wonder that there are many international-class hotel that has stood in Medan, here some of they are:

Hotel Danau Toba International
Pardede International Hotel
Hotel JW Marriot
Grand Swiss-Belhotel
Grand Aston International
Aryaduta Hotel
Asean International Hotel
Tiara Hotel
Hotel Emerald Garden
Grand Angkasa International Hotel
Garuda Plaza Hotel
My Dream Hotel
Hermes Palace Hotel Medan
Inna Dharma Deli

If you want to enjoy the high class services of international hotel in Medan, you can make your choice now...

Durian Medan, hmmm… yummy!

2011-11-18T23:07:00.006+07:00

North Sumatra has one kind of typical fruit that is durian. However, Indonesia people often refer durian Medan fruit because in this town there are always available durians for sale throughout the year.

As the name suggests, the durian has spines on its skin. The fruit is soft and has seeds and smells good. It was so sweet and therefore the fruit is always favored every people who visited Medan. Durian make Medan became famous in Indonesia.

"Alluding to the city of Medan, the first immediately pictured is the durian," said Putri Indonesia, Maria Selena when it comes to the field recently.

Durian Medan came mostly from areas in North Sumatra, for example from Bahorok, Sidikalang and Batangtoru. The durian fruit is sold around 1USD - 2, 5 USD. In the durian season, the price could be cheaper. So, if you come to Medan you taste the durian. It tastes, hmmm ..., yummy!

Visit Bali Village in North Sumatra

2011-11-17T11:15:00.005+07:00

Nowadays, if you want to enjoy the atmosphere of Bali you don’t have to go to Bali itself. But, you can also go to North Sumatra since there is a village here called Bali Village or “Kampung Bali”. The village located in Langkat regency district, part of North Sumatra province that could be a representative for those who want to know intimately the famous Balinese culture.

The name of this village reminds people of the exotic island of Bali, one of the main travel destinations in Indonesia. The history notes that Hindu Javanese culture, the influence of Hindu Java made two forms of Bali societies, they are Bali Aga and Bali Majapahit .

HOW TO GET THERE?

Kampung Bali (Bali Village) is located in Langkat district. It’s about one hour or more from Medan city. The name of Langkat itself came from the name of tree resembles the olive tree, but bitter fruit and chocolate flavors. Long time ago, Langkat was known as Langkat Kingdom lead by a sultan.

Langkat has capital city called Stabat. After arriving there, please continue your journey to a village called Paya Tusam at Wampu district. It’s around 60 kilometres from Stabat. A signpost reads Kampung Bali will give you guidance to get “Kampung Bali”.

Unfortunately, despite Langkat Regency has set as cultural travel destination in North Sumatra, road infrastructure here is still lack of attention. Only about 40 km of roads are still unpaved. The rest, no more and no less visible perforated so as to make the trip by driving a sedan type car, less comfortable.

That’s why you should prepare you self to ride motorcycles. Not to mention to go to this village must be reached by crossing a river using a raft.

THINGS TO FEEL

Arriving at this village, the feeling was like being on the island of Bali. People living here using Balinese language and clothings.

There are many big houses here like Pure, Joglo and fences are not different from the model of the original houses in Bali. There are also several temples like Alit Widhie Nata and Pura Panitaan Agung Jagat Widhi Nata which used daily for religious activities for the Balinese Hindu community living here. However, specifically for the celebration of the feast of the Galungan, Hindus in Kampung Bali hold the ritual centered at Pura Penataran Agung stands majestically right in the middle of the village.

HISTORY

The number of people who inhabit Kampung Bali approximately 70 heads of households and has been handed down life. At first the villagers of Bali is mostly used to work for plantation company own by government –PTP II PTP II Tanjung Garbus, Lubuk Pakam Deli Serdang regency of North Sumatra, which has started operation since 1974 ago. After the contract runs out, the government gave them the location of an area of 2 hectares in the village of Paya Tusam District Wampu Sei, Langkat.

Tuktuk Samosir, Stay Closer to Toba Lake

2011-11-16T22:46:00.006+07:00

If you want to go to North Sumatra, you have to go to Toba Lake, the largest lake in Asia with connected with some district in the province. One the best place to stay in Lake Toba is Tuktuk peninsula at Samosir Island.

Tuktuk has natural view and sense since the place very close to the lake where the tourist can enjoy the lake panorama and atmosphere. That’s why since years ago, Tuktuk has been one of the main destination for Lake Toba.

HOW TO GET THERE?

After arriving at Polonia Airport at Medan city, do the trip to Tuktuk by land transportation, such as bus or rental car. The trip will take four hours on the road to Parapat. Arriving in Parapat, the trip continued by taking ship which only cost around Rp 5.000 – Rp 7000. It’s only about a half hour from Parapat to Tuktuk.

ACCOMODATION

There are many accommodations in Tuktuk, such as hotel, ressort, cottage or villa. The living cost is started from Rp 100.000. Some of the cottage and villa has Batak (local ethnic) interior and exterior made by wooden.

Some of cottages in Tuktuk are Tabo Cottage, Samosir Cottage, Bagus Bay, Lekjon, Carolina Cottage and many more. You can also find some large hotel there, such as Toledo Hotel.

FOOD

Don’t ever worry about food at Tuktuk. At least western food always already served to many tourist from Germany, Netherland, United Stated, England, Franch, Italy, Spain, Japan and from all over the world. Besides, you can also find the taste of culinary like Chinese food, Indonesian food, or traditional local food –mainly made from pork meat served with rice and spices.

ENTERTAINMENT

The best entertainment in almost living stay at Tuktuk is musical performance by local musicians. Some trio, quartet or solo singer sing traditional song when the guests enjoying their dinner. They perform by using guitar and some traditional instrument, such as gondang (Batak drums) and sarune (Batak flute made by bamboo) and hasapi (small like guitar instrument with two nylon string). When singing, they usually dance traditional dancing called “tortor”.

Medan City, the Parij van Sumatra

2011-11-16T01:02:00.012+07:00

Kesawan Square (now known as Ahmad Yani Street) year of 1930

Medan city is the capital North Sumatra province. It’s used to called as Parij van Sumatra because the city was so beautiful since Dutch built many art Nuevo building in the city. Before, the city also called Tanah Deli since it was the land of Deli tribes and kingdom. One of the historical sites of that fact is the Istana Maimoon and the Al-Mashun mosque.

Since many years ago, Medan city was well-known as the trading city. One of the famous traders who known as the founder of Medan was Tjong A Fie. The trader come from Formosa and then adapted with Deli people. Now, Tjong A Fie mansion at Kesawan Square is one of the Medan city travel icon.

Medan is a multiethnic city. In the city people live together from variant tribes, such as Deli, Batak, Java, Karo, Simalungun, Nias, Chinese and also Hindi. Therefore, Medan is very rich by cultures.

Since long time ago, Medan also famous by its culinary. You can find all kind of Indonesian food in the city, such as nasi goreng, gado-gado, pecal lele, Chinese food, and local traditional food like Naniura (gold fish which serve with traditional Batak spices), and some foods served with pork.

For many tourists come from abroad, Medan is the transit city before they go to some best traveling place in North Sumatra, such as Samosir Island – the island in the center of Lake Toba, Parapat, Tuktuk Peninsula, Tongging hill, Nias Island (for surfing), and many interesting place.

Now, there are so many hotels in Medan, include some international quality standard, such as JW Marriot, Grand Aston, Grand Swiss-Belhotel, Aryaduta, and some iconic hotel, such as Danau Toba International Hotel, Garuda Plaza Hotel, Tiara Hotel, and many more.

There are also so many flights from and to Medan, for example to Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand also Jakarta. You can find taxi easily 24 hours a day and food stall zone that also open 24 hours a day.

The city is now campaign for the tourism program Visit Medan 2012 as the best time for visiting the Parij van Sumatra.

More detail about Medan City, please visit these websites: Pemkomedan.go.id, Badan Warisan Sumatra, Deli Heritage Club, Medantime.com and Medanku.com. *Traveling North Sumatra.

The Great Mosque of Al-Mahsun

2010-08-02T18:01:00.001+07:00

The Great Mosque is one of Medan City’s icons. It was built at 21 August 1906 and had finished at 10 September 1909. This is one of the favorite sites to visit by foreign and domestic travelers in North Sumatra. Local people make the mosque like their home.They enjoy staying around the mosque after praying (sholat). According to the local tradition, in the pasting moon, Moslems from around the city usually come together to the mosque to have Ramadan food and drinks.

Once Upon a Morning at Toba Lakeside

2010-07-28T15:46:00.000+07:00

None doubt that Lake Toba would always a give different sense of traveling to everyone who visit it. Especially in the morning when the clouds still wrapping over the lake. With a hot breakfast, hot tea, the time viewing the lake and fell the cool weather, would make you hard to forget and hard to leave it. So, let your self to enjoy Lake Toba now…

Grand Aston City Hall Hotel & Serviced Residences, One of the Iconic Hotel in Medan

2010-07-13T10:10:00.000+07:00

Grand Aston City Hall Hotel & Serviced Residences is one of the prestigious hotels in Medan. It is located in zero zone of Medan City, which used to called as Paris Van Sumatra. The existence of City Hall that connected to the hotel makes a benefit for the hotel that very close to Merdeka Walk, in the centre of the town.

Based on it’s official website, Grand Aston City Hall have all new exciting concepts for you to experience, mini-golf, bubble spa (family spa with 5 different pools!), spa suite with jacuzzi bath tub (popular for the honeymooners), and many more. The Grand Aston City Hall offers the best of modern city residence with all of the luxuries and brilliant facilities that others do not have.

The Grand Aston City Hall Medan offers 236 rooms and suites, where each room features LCD TV, safe deposit box, writing desk, separate bathtub and shower and wireless internet. Bathrooms are welcoming and capacious, offering an exceptional combination of style and function.

This stylish hotel reflects traditional values and offers spacious rooms and suites, which are perfect for families and business travelers alike.

Grand Aston City Hall Hotel & Serviced Residences
Jl. Balai Kota No. 1, Medan 20112
North Sumatra - Indonesia
e: Info@GrandAstonMedan.com
t: +62-61 4557 000
f: +62-61 4558 822
w: www.GrandAstonMedan.com

Aston International - Jakarta Office
Wisma Staco, 3rd Floor, Suite 100
Jl. Casablanca Kav. 18, Jakarta 12870, Indonesia
e: Info@Aston-International.com
t: +62-21 831 8800
f: +62-21 831 7180
w: www.Aston-International.com

Two World Explorers Arrived in Medan after Touring 56 Countries

2010-03-17T20:58:00.000+07:00

A couple of Swiss explorers, Emil and Liliana Schmid, arrived in Medan City, Province of North Sumatra, last Tuesday, March 16, 2010. World explorers who had registered his record in the Guinness Book of Record were stopped at Kopi Tiam Ong coffee shop at Jalan Dr. Mansyur Medan.

Kopi Tiam Ong owner greeted, Salimin Djohan Wong, the two explorers take a moment to enjoy the meal plus a modern coffee shop atmosphere wrapped in shades of the 70s.

It was 25 years old Emil and Liliana Schmid around the world. Liliana told, touring the world for a quarter century was spent in a number of regions across 56 countries and has traveled as far as 650 thousand kilometers in length on a Toyota Land Cruiser FS 60. No wonder, both of them received the award "World Record Travelers."

"Our car is our home. All the activities we do in the car. We sleep, eat, and even cooking with the car. We provide a variety of equipment to accompany us along the way," said Liliana, his wife.

Expresses, decision wandered for twenty-five years taken by the mature consideration. Since married, they do not have children and each has only one brother. While, their parents had passed away. In their hometown, Switzerland, this blond-haired couple did not have a permanent residence.

"For two years we were preparing for this trip. We're saving and the age of 42 after working, we decided to look for something new to change lives. At first try a couple of months, until the addiction. Now, no longer able to be stopped, "the story of this green-eyed woman, laughing.

Emil added many things that can be found around the world while driving his old car. Meet new people from other countries, as well as new areas are very exotic. Know better the culture of other people and unique things in a new area they visit, as well as its own enjoyment for the couple who spent the silver anniversary of her marriage in this country. They also do not spend a long time to stop at a new area.

Emil said every country that they visited had a story each. However, when asked which country impressed him most, Algeria is the first word to say. The country in the African continent is very challenging, because as far as looking at wide desert area.

"Once, while visiting there and across the desert is a challenge. Now, that activity is a bit dangerous because of the heat of the desert weather and the activities there," said Emil.

After the tour in the homeland, their plans will continue to Papua New Guinea. Neighboring countries is the next destination after browsing over to Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Papua.

Two Medan (Visual) Artists Expressed Life and Culture through "Lipatan Karisma"

2010-03-15T00:52:00.000+07:00

The art exhibition of two young Medan (visual) artists, Deppi Tarigan and Yanal Desmond entitled "Lipatan Karisma" in GMKI Building, Jalan Gajah Mada, Medan Friday (12 / 3) shows that the spirit of art in the city known as a "barren land" for art, still remain.

SPIRIT of the two artists worked exclusively incorporated in the arts community "Sahala" is such as a "sarcastic" that artist may exhibit wherever, not only in art gallery, but also may be done in the old room which may not be attractive or artistic if compared with some existing galleries in Medan.

"As young artists, this becomes a serious challenge for us. Every time we wanted to show off our work, the rejection that we have always received with reason 'not satisfactory', "said Yanal.

Even though, the presence of Taman Budaya (Cultural Park Field) as a public area for artists in Medan, according to Yanal and Deppi, so far not yet functioning to make the maximum stretch in the field of art to be excited.

Previously, the two artists intended to hold an exhibition at the building. Unfortunately, the permission they proposed rejected by the reason of convoluted bureaucratic.

"The bureaucracy was very convoluted," said Deppi. When Deppi and Yanall requested permission for the exhibition, the Cultural Park officer asked payment for rent the building.

"We are disappointed that officer of Taman Budaya required us to pay 350 thousand for rent. We say we just agreed rental fee by half, because this show is not for commercial. But still rejected, "said Deppi. "We thought, why should us be asked for payment, rather than building more often empty from art exhibitions, why do not we just content with showing off our work," said Yanal.

Deppi and Yanal said that the attitude of Cultural Park was totally not supports the development of art in Medan. "We think Cultural Park should support us," said Deppi.

“Lipatan Karisma”

Both of Yanal and Deppi are young artists who studied field of art at the State University of Medan. Together with other young artists: Julister Sinurat, Gery Paulandika Tobing, Sri afriani Sinaga, Renjaya Siahaan, Sudarson Hutabarat and Jonnes MS Lungun AKA, they founded the arts community "Sahala" two years ago.

Previously, "Sahala" has exhibited their artwork in several exhibitions in Tondi Gallery, an art gallery that had held visual art exhibitions regularly in Medan, actively. Their work, namely "Post_Anthem", included in the exhibition "Menilik Akar” (Judging by Roots) which was held at the National Gallery Jakarta, May 11 to 31 then. This exhibition presents 99 artists from all 21 provinces of Indonesia.

Now, in this exhibition, Deppi and Yanal showing several works of art departing from the everyday life, culture and contemporary issues. For example, the phenomenon of the Karo traditional music, as considered by Deppi, time after time displaced by instant lifestyle.

This idea poured in a painting on canvas titled "Hilangnya Musik Budaya Karo" (the Losing of Karo Culture Music). "I worry that someday the Karo music would die by a single organ. I think, our culture should be strengthened in a way integrate with the modern lifestyle. No need to leave." Deppi said, explaining the painting's style gravity.

Meanwhile, Desmond Yanal try to explore the issue of "young and old", which often contradictory. He expressed this idea with mixed media work titled "Hidup Lingkaran Hidup" (Living Life Circle) which consists of two works. "I want to show that the parents always felt himself the most powerful, without giving opportunity to the young," said Yanal.

The theme of "Lipatan Karisme" by both is an expression of consistency in the work. Like the book, the more often folded more sharply. "We want to show that we want to keep working (in art for Medan)," said Yanal.

The exhibition was opened by the Medan rapper performance, Ucok Munthe et al still be held until March 24, 2010 presents 12 works of art, both painting and installation arts. (by: Tonggo Simangunsong)

Taman Simalem Resort, The Pearl of Lake Toba…

2009-12-28T18:26:00.000+07:00

Taman Simalem Resort (TSR) comes to develop an area of 206 hectares with various crops. Like Biwa, oranges, passion fruit, Dutch eggplant, tea, coffee, and avocado, to fill 25 acres of the area. In fact, garden TSR biwa 5-hectare will be the largest biwa garden in Southeast Asia.

TSR build research centers and development of fruit and vegetables Karo Agrotourism Farm. Not just a research center, in Karo Agrotourism Farm visitors can buy the fruit by picking straight from the tree. You also can ask the staff here and see first hand how the development of fruit and vegetables at this location is.

Other facilities provided for pampering guests. TSR provides café overlooking three straight to Lake Toba, namely codons Café, Toba Café, and Windy Café. There is also the exclusive residential Waterfall Lodge on the banks of the river in the natural forests.

Looking ahead, other facilities in the TSR will be added by the manager, such as Pangambatan Zoopark animal parks, hotels and convention facilities dormitori, recreation area and family entertainment brands Funland, children's playground with a labyrinth, a special accommodation VIPs Owners' Guesthouse with 20 room’s capacity.

Pearl of Lake Toba

For golf lovers, TSR also established 9-hole golf course Gorat Ni Padang in the middle of tea and coffee plantations. TSR will also provide a 2000 person capacity amphitheater stage with has Lake Toba background and a Buddhist temple, a replica of a Buddhist temple in Xianmen, China, 2000 years old.

Peak TSR development is the construction of the cable car, cruise ship dock, and One Tree Hill Villa Resort in 2010. One Tree Hill Villa Resort is located far away on the hilltops and the reeds will be built around the only tree that grows and lives there.

For visitors who really miss the atmosphere back to nature, TSR provides guides who will accompany Sibuaten explore natural forests and saw the twin waterfalls. Two camping ground, each in the north and south, are available. The voices of orangutans, apes and monkeys will complement your adventure here.

So, are you interested? TSR is located in rural areas Sikodon-kodon, Sub Merek, Karo District that can be taken 3 hours drive from Medan City. If you are a backpacker, just take a bus from Medan City to Sidikalang, called “Sampri” or “Datra” with rates between Rp 20,000 (IDR) and Rp 22,000.

Visiting Snakes Captive in Tuntungan

2009-12-23T14:49:00.000+07:00

One of the good place that must you visit if you come to North Sumatra is the 7000 square meters snakes captivity at Tuntungan, Namu Pencawir Road No. 174 Tuntungan Dua Village, District Pancur Batu, Deli Serdang.

Actually not hard to find the location of snakes in captivity since 2005 founded Bio HETTS Lestari, a research and consulting institute in the field of agriculture and biological pesticides are. Location not far from the races Tuntungan, or approximately 30 minutes drive from Medan city.

"Do not be afraid. Snakes will not bother if they are not disturbed first, "said Darwis Harahap, Marketing Manager of HETTS Bio Lestari.

There are at least 600 of the snake's tail consists of six species, large and small stadia in the captive. The most is the type of snake fields, field’s batik snake, snakes field drum, and snakes condropiton fields. And three other species, wagleri, vasciatus and dipong.

"The plan, next year will add three more species. Is currently waiting for permission from the Ministry of Forestry in captivity," said Darwis.

According to the Darwis, a captive snake is actually a sub-division of research at the HETTS Bio Lestari, which focused on agriculture research and Bio Pesticides. However, this division eventually grew and became one focus of research in HETTS.

After through research and experiments, breeding snakes in this field has been cultivated into organic rat poison supplier that has the potential international market.

Elianor Sembiring, a researcher at HETTS, explains, organic rat poison snake rice obtained after rats were fed white. After that, the snake will produce protozoa called Saccrocytis Singaporeansis.

This protozoan later became one of the elements of organic rat poison to kill rats proved fields and ditches mouse.

In addition to the fields of snakes that have benefits for agriculture, some types of snakes, such as wagleri, vasciatus and also proved popular abroad, dipong.

The snakes that have interesting and unique color, according to Darwis, popular in the country of France, Frankfurt, Norway and Sweden.

In the future, according to Elianor, this exhibit area will developed into a snake institution. In addition, with the support of the government of North Sumatra, in this exhibit area will also be established gallery snake.

"Looking ahead, besides as a center of research, breeding area is also well become tourist sites," said Elianor.

Indeed, every time people hear the word snake, that comes to mind is a scary thing. Quite often, when people find a snake, they immediately appeared intent to kill the animals. "This is what we want to give referrals if you later this snake research institutes have been established. Hopefully, next year's standing. There'll be given a variety of education about snakes. For example, what we first do when finding a snake. Is directly away, or even kill him?" Elianor said.

Later, in the breeding area will also built a gallery that will display various types of snakes and relating to the world. "In European countries, the snake was often used as decoration. While, in our country not yet, because there is no awareness of this," said Elianor.

Beautiful Landscapes of Lake Toba

2009-11-14T15:22:00.002+07:00

Lake Toba, Samosir

Lake Toba, Tuktuk Peninsula, Samosir Island

Enjoying the beauty of Lake Toba is a wonderful experience. When the morning you can see the blue expanse of the lake. The clouds turned into a blue and sunny. You can also see how the fishermen working on the boat, catching fish. All of this sight can not be loose when you come to Lake Toba.

Some of this moment could I capture when I went there recently. I want to capture them with my simple camera, Kodak Prosumer Eazy Share Z 612. However, I am quite satisfied with the results. Actually, I wanted to capture the objects with a more professional way with the type of DSLR camera, Canon or Nikon, so the photographs I produce sharper and better.
However, I am lucky to get good weather when me and my friend was visiting there at the time. My friend uses the Nikon D series of 40 kid Good result and landscape photographs that she made good.

To get the objects landscape photograph good lake, there are several locations that you must go, for example, explored the area along the Peninsula Tuktuk Siadong in Samosir. If you want to Tuktuk, you must ship from Ajibata Port in Parapat, which has long trip with about 30 minutes.

Tuktuk Siadong available at many lodgings in the form of hotels, cottages, guest houses with prices still relatively affordable, from among 100 thousand rupiahs (10 US dollars) to 300 thousand rupiah (30 US dollars) per night. I suggest you take a few days to get a lot Tuktuk beautiful photos and interesting.

Apart from Tuktuk, you also can take photos along the shore of Lake Toba region in Parapat. Mingle with the locals and find objects in nature photos human interests, or the photos on the activities of visiting tourists to Lake Toba.

Gundaling, One of Favorite Place in Karo Highland

2009-11-04T01:02:00.001+07:00

Gundaling is one of the major tourist sites in Karo Higland, North Sumatra. Unfortunately, Gundaling is seen quiet now. This condition is very much different in earlier times.

Gundaling is famous in the realm of our tourism, especially in North Sumatra and cited as the second alternative target tourists after Parapat, Toba Lake. It was appropriate if the predicate Gundaling now - if you look at his present condition. The reason, it is now not the same now.

Admittedly, Gundaling golden ages have enjoyed the 1970’s - 1990's. Gundaling is a favorite destination among tourist attraction in Karo District. Nor the location is always crowded visit. Unfortunately, now he has changed. Also makes sense if many of the stalls souvenirs and food vendors closed on weekdays. In fact, this has never happened before.

What is the main attraction was actually Gundaling not new anymore. People usually come here to enjoy the cool mountain nature, as well as mountain views and gardens verdant people, enjoying the coolness and the scene with sado climbing or riding a horse alone or a gang.

Gundaling itself is a highland area that has a height of 1500-1600 meters above sea level, between 200 - 300 meters above the surface Berastagi Town. Distance from City Berastagi location is only about 2.5 kilometers. The extent of approximately 1500 square meters. From here will also appear several mountains, such Sibayak, Sinabung, Barus, Sipiso-piso and Singgalang. Mountain breeze is soothing allure broadcaster location away from the noise.

However, the fact visitors Gundaling more time diminished. Electrical current decline, too, dragged the perpetrators of the surrounding attractions. Besides souvenir vendors, food and cactus flowers characteristic of this temperate plants, also includes sado pullers who pull tourists interest.

Alpen Manullang, one of the towing sado, said declined will admit it. "Previously, foreign tourists still hang around this Gundaling enjoying nature and scenery. It is now rare and almost never do anymore, "said the man who've been in the profession since the 1990’s.

"Si Waluh Jabuh", Between Cultures and the Mystical [Part 1]

2009-10-27T03:11:00.000+07:00

When we were entering the Karo Regency "simalem" several times ago, the rain kept flushed, the thick fog covering almost the entire horizon mountain chain stretching should be green. The wind was blowing and the weather was so cold. Even so, our goal to see first hand the historic old building "The Waluh Jabuh" in the village of Lingga not stop just because the weather is not so friendly at that time.

To explore the countryside of Karo regency, that also known as "Tanah Karo Simalem", was an interesting experience, especially for audiences who are familiar with the hurly-burly of modern urbanization today.

Indeed, modernization is not only capable of forming a pattern of human life that is too instant and fast, but also was able to affect the imagination. Imagination will be a village. Well, the village that was close millions of values even though the value was now contaminated. Starting from traditionalism or culture that values may no longer familiar in the ears of the city, that is mystical. Perhaps we caught that when visiting the village of Lingga last time.

Lingga village is a small village in Simpang Empat District, about 14 km from Berastagi. This village, actually no longer traditionally as we imagine. Most of the population now inhabit urban type house. Lingga village still keeps the value of cultural history from the past that tells the origin of Karo culture. The origin was can be seen from the old buildings still standing there. The age of the building estimated to reach 300 years now. That is "Si Waluh Jabuh", a unique architectural design, philosophical and even mystical.

”Si Waluh Jabuh”; “waluh” meant by eight, “jabuh” means home. Thus, the meaning of “waluh jabuh” occupied houses eight families who live in harmony and tolerance. That's exactly what the philosophical meaning that despite the naming of the house originally known as “rabung lima” ("ridge-five").

What is unique is the process of development, said that before the development is, first notified to the smart people who will decide today whether to conduct a search of wood to the forest. After that, the smart people will determine whether the wood is used or not feasible in a dream. "If a good dream, then the wood would be used but if a bad dream, it was a bad sign. This is very important to do for the next occupant survival," said Lik Tarigan an occupant.

Next is the determination of a good day to start construction. No wonder if the development process takes a long (2-3 years). Sometimes, the development followed by problem, for example is the scheduling of searching woods, which are not carelessly used. There are three types of wood that represent the meaning and the hope of the future residents. This is the philosophical meaning.

Wood of "ndarasi" used intertwined in harmony, or harmony between the families. Still, wood called “ambar tuah” which means hope to have many descendants. Then there were the wooden "sebernaik", for cheap sustenance. "Actually, the wood species are meranti, only through the search process had wood, so the shaman named it," explained Tarigan then.

Development begins with the establishment of the foundation. "Maybe people had been aware of the earthquake and the danger," he said Tarigan and explained the process of building the foundation construction. Initial foundation stone and iron is outdated or "iron Mersing" and "bulung simalem" mounted on the ground and the pole, called "Palas". Further, between pole and Palas installed fibers to avoid a wobble in the event of an earthquake.

In addition to that function, there is another meaning there. "Harmony between the pole and Palas also showed expectations for the harmony of the occupants. This is called “larubat” which means do not collapse. If the house gets “larubat”, the family will be too," said Tarigan.

(will be continued to part 2: "Si Waluh Jabuh", If Eight to One"). Don't miss it... enjoy your trip!

Stunned at the Kingdom of Pematang Purba, Simalungun

2009-10-22T13:23:00.000+07:00

Until the development of civilization in which a community can probably be traced through it’s culture. At least this is what can be portrayed as exploring the house in the village of Rumah Bolon Pematang Purba, in Simalungun District. At once, it became a proof of the existence of the Kingdom of the Pematang Purba Simalungun, had stood since the 15th century.

Exploring the area of Simalungun was a nice experience. Each of the spots around on it can give the impression of him, moreover, entering the Pematang Purba Village, a small village in the district of Pematang Purba Simalungun.

The last king who led the Kingdom was King Mogang. People of Simalungun believes that said his body has yet to be found. He was allegedly killed when a social revolution took place in Simalungun in 1947.

The statue of the Kingdom of Pematang Purba Simalungun, occupies approximately around 140 kilometers from Medan city, after the Karo Regency (Berastagi - Kabanjahe - Brand). Then through the intersection toward Haranggaol and you came in the majority of villages inhabited by ethnic Simalungun it. However, you can also choose other access, by the Siantar City that only about 54 miles away.

It is said, once the Pematang Purba Village is known as one of the oldest royal government center in Simalungun, namely the Pematang Purba Kingdom, which until the end of their authority, as of 14 kings who have ever held the reins of power. So it is clear that this kingdom is not the only kingdom that ever existed in the region Simalungun.

History records, there are five major kingdoms, each controlled its own territory which of them scattered in several areas: Siantar, Panambean, Tanah Jawa, Pematang Raya and Purba. This area then inhabited by certain clans too, such as Saragih, Manik, and Purba.

Rumah Bolon Pematang Purba itself is the residence of the Pematang Purba Kings who first occupied King Pangultop-ultop (1624-1648), which is then passed from generation to generation with a tradition of local culture.

"It is known who did it and what is the motive," said Wanson. guards and tourist guides, the location of the old buildings that stood on the land area is 1 hectare.

Transfer of authority of tradition, Wanson explains there is a the tradition of compulsory transfer of power to do. When the king was about to inherit his power, people obliged to slaughter a buffalo, the horns and then stored for later become evidence for the king who will rules later. At least that historical evidence can still be seen where there are 14 buffalo horns hanging on the walls of the room Rumah Bolon.

So, what's the basic transfer of the power? As usual in the continuing tradition of royal power is the eldest child, then the principle is not absolute in the tradition of the Kingdom of Pematang Purba. "It must be the oldest, but who is the king's descendants have talent to be a leader, then was appointed as the successor to the kingdom," said Wanson.

***

In fact, the king who ruled early in the Kingdom of Pematang Purba was not the King Pangultop-ultop, but King Dasuha. Mr. Pangultop-ultop itself at first only migrants who come from areas supposedly Dolok Sanggul, who was allegedly having contact with area, now called Pakpak Bharat.

So, why did he later became king? This was based on the Wanson narrative, which is also the tourism department officials who assigned by Simalungun District to oversee the old building. He explained, King Pangultop-arrival to the area early ultop initially due to his penchant for catching birds and then delivered to the early region.

Actually, if reviewed, Pangultop-ultop thus have practiced power politics.

It is said that one time in the wilderness area early, he managed to catch a bird which then Nanggordaha from bird gizzards (there are seeds of rice and corn), he got his own food. When he saw that the Pematang Purba as a fertile land, so he appealed to the King of Ancient Dasuha plot of land to be given. Land that he later planted with rice and corn seeds that he can from the bird's craw.

Pangultop-ultop also likely to deliver the people to glory. An abundant harvest from the plot of land for the good king, he kept in a large barn.

A time came the lean years which resulted in overwhelming population in search of food. Knowing Pangultop-ultop has many stores of rice and corn in the barn, they were then asked to provide rice and maize during which he collected.

Only, he did not want to give if they just called himself as "oppung" (grandfather or a respected person), but called as the king. "Do not call me ‘oppung’ if you want to get rice and corn from me, but call me king," he said, as Wanson explained.

So, they called him “King” so, which then was known by the Dasuha. Recognition of his feeling threatened not recognized anymore, so any Dasuha early meeting with Pangultop-ultop. "If you are a king, then prove," he said, as he imitated Wanson.

This was then followed by Pangultop-ultop comply with the regulations set Dasuha Purba. "Marbijah" (vowed) is the procession which was proof step. Handful of soil, water and "appang-appang" (buffalo skin) is the medium. So, Pangultop-ultop return to his native land to get all the three.

Handful of land and sown, covered appang-appang and placed beside the water contained in “tatabu” (a type of water jug made of leather pumpkin). Witnessed by the people, then Pangultop-ultop sweared before the Dasuha and “ulubalang”, he said, "if the land and water that I occupy is not mine, so now I die." Pangultop-ultop even then drank water.

Time then replied that oath. Though already past days, weeks, months and years, but Pangultop-ultop not dead-as typically containing an oath of death was a lie then return. And time, too, who determines the transition of power. "I admit, now you're the king who deserves to lead the Kingdom of Pematang Purba, because oaths not works," said the Dasuha later.

Since then Pangultop-ultop became king, precisely in 1624, which then lead up to 1648. The previous king-Ancient-Dasuha was still regarded as the king, only he was no longer govern.

Then, after turning back to the story, is it true there is a political element in there? Once again this is a disclosure of the facts of Wanson Purba, which is also a descendant of Kuraha (commander of the king), Pangultop-ultop, during his leadership. He alone knows the story from his father, during the early who has kept the 43-years Rumah Bolon.

Wanson did not dismiss it. "Actually, if reviewed, Pangultop-ultop thus have practiced power politics," he said. "The reason, soil and water and appang-appang used as a medium itself oath taken by him from his native land, making it possible he survived the death."

They Love Tongging

2009-10-20T00:44:00.003+07:00

Exploring Tongging is like visiting a land of dreams. Yes .., so that caught the eye when entering a small village located in the north is Lake Toba. Tongging is blessed with fertile soil and also awarded by the stunning landscapes.

If you are not a Tongging villager, you should not haphazardly enter Tongging and surrounding areas. You first have to pay the entry fee has been adjusted. The reason, other than as a place of settlement, Tongging also one of the mainstay of tourist Karo District. Village Tongging been aligned with the waterfall tourist Sipiso-piso, which is not far away but still located in an area located in the District's Brand.

Natural landscape in the region are different Tongging with other areas in Karo district, or even in other districts. What makes a village with 400 residents of the family head is interesting, actually lies in the strategic location. Located on the shores of Lake Toba, with lined hills that attract people who had visited him to settle there.

That said, Tongging no less exciting as the Tomok or Penisula Tuktuk Siadong Samosir regency. That is Lake Toba, the beauty and richness of the potential in it can be enjoyed not only the population Naidoo, Simalungun, Humbahas or Tobasa course. However, the area is geographically known as the plateau region Karo though, can benefit from drinking the largest lake in Asia.

Only, there is a difference between Tongging with other tourist attractions that make Tongging still wriggling like what ever experienced in Tuktuk or Tomok. Among these are lack of access other than transportation (limited only by road traffic Karo-Brand-Tongging), also lack of historical and cultural objects that can be a supporter of the value of tourism as well as its own attraction. Despite the existence, heritage Kings Silalahi for example, access to the site is still relatively difficult and less manageable heritage.

Unfortunately, although it has been set to tour the region, until now the flow of transportation to Tongging can only be taken by road only. Tongging can be achieved after the journey from the intersection of three (left) Sub Brand and then arrived at Sipiso-piso and finally down the paved road down the hills of Mount Sipiso-piso is steep.

But, even then the journey from here is a special value because of the beautiful natural scenery will color the trip. From a distance it will look like Tongging country isolated from other regions. He was quiet and seemed far from the hurly burly of noise and profanity crowd.

Access to Tongging actually be easier to achieve if ever available passenger ships carrying tourists from Parapat, Samosir or other areas that lined the beautiful region of Lake Toba. So since the last three years, Transport Department has set up a port that will Tongging functioned to stimulate the emergence of entrepreneurs who want to move into the field of lake transportation.

Silalahi, one Tongging Village residents say, not just transportation access makes Tongging still not able to show its fangs until now. The problem is, until now there has been no means of entertainment and the strategic location of the inn. "A tourist should be equipped with adequate facilities, too," he said.

But again it has not achieved. Of course, such achievement requires a major breakthrough with a big capital, which until now still not showing signs. Lodging is in Tongging still normal level, while other facilities such as cafes and restaurants, or other entertainment facilities are still very minimal.

In fact, beauty is not less interesting Tongging if at the edges of lakes around the village outskirts equipped for entertainment, lodging is equipped with colorful lights add to the beauty of a view that attract tourists get to visit, added by Silalahi.

Although the port was up, but it seems that step has not shown any significant effect. The reason is, as yet there are also private parties who initiate and use them. "For the time being may not be stretched, but the next 10 years I'm sure," said Boru Sinurat, one of the trader in the side of the lake, to comment on government plans to relocate the edge of the lake area to be special facilities for tourism.

It is estimated that, to the front edge of the area will be renovated with Tongging focus area into tourist areas. Residents who had been living around the location will be shifted. Although sound impossible, but at least the plan is approved by the majority community.

"I'm sure, if the government is serious, the public would agree to move. In addition, provided that the government will also reimburse the appropriate acreage shift, "said Silalahi. "Why not, that it would benefit Tongging society,"

Tongging great feature is because he was right in the middle of the inhabited areas of three tribes, the Toba Batak, Karo Pakpak and that mixed into one. So no wonder if the population is common Tongging fluent in three languages at once and be able to use it in everyday communication.

The third mix of different cultures can live and is also intimately can be seen from the mixed language used everyday. Typically communicate with local residents to use the words quoted from the three different cultures.

Life in general Tongging survived until now because of its potential a sufficient or even abundant. Imagine, goldfish, tilapia or property mujahir able to provide for resident fish in the vicinity of Karo, Dairi and surrounding areas. Although Village neighbors (Haranggaol, District Simalungun) also known as a kind of fish producers. Not to mention the income from agriculture such as vegetables in the form of chili peppers, tomatoes, onions and various other vegetables, which became the main livelihood of the population.

Once a week, precisely on Friday, going on a big weekend. Usually, the Village will be bustling Tongging trade transactions. Neighboring residents will also be coming next, like the Village Sibolangit, for example Soping and Bage, who came with a small boat up the property itself.

Tongging continues to move forward is often time walked. Similarly, residents who lived in the home. "Yes, Tongging is a comfortable place to live. I love living here, "said Boru Sinurat smile.

Tomok, the Gate of Samosir Tourism

2009-10-18T22:20:00.000+07:00

Many Batak cultural heritage which are now partly stored in Batak Cultural Museum located in Tomok. Tomok itself, many inhabited by people surnamed Sidabutar. It is characterized by persistence of the tomb of heritage and legacy of King Sidabutar Batak traditional houses and unique sculpture Sigale-gale.

Some of these relics that are Hobbung (Sidabutar king bed which both serve as storage property of the king), Panaluan Single Sticks, Laklak (who recorded the history books and calendars Batak ancient calendar), rudang, ulos, appang na bolon, parhokkom, pangir. One of the efforts to preserve the legacy of the many stores the value of art and the Batak culture, celebrated each year by organizing the ceremony called Horja Bios.

However, although known as a tourist location mainstay of North Sumatra, the majority of the population still rely on agriculture as the main livelihood, especially rice fields. From extensive throughout the region, of which 8424 hectares are paddy fields with a production area of production of 43,823 tons in 2004. Rice field centers scattered around the district, but the largest centers in the district are Sianjur First, Palipi, and Pangururan.

Even so, the whole area can not be fully used as agricultural production due to land soil and slope conditions are hilly. These lands later partly used as a horticulture farm locations such as peanuts, onions and corn. Of the total area there are 83,075 dry land.

Meanwhile in the plantation sector, coffee is a commodity in addition to other commodities such as walnut, clove and ginger. There is an area of 300 hectares of productive land with the amount of 584 tons of production. Approximately 75 hectares of productive land with pecan plantation production of 200 tons and about 20 hectares of productive land with pecan plantation production of 32 tons. In addition, in the farm sector, buffaloes and pigs to cattle mainstay.

This is not a new thing that lagged consumption levels of pork and buffalo on Samosir regency high enough. So no wonder if this sector is also quite influential in encouraging livelihood populated district was 130,078 inhabitants.

Other livestock types are cattle, horses, goats and sheep. In the year 2004 there were as many as 12,948 pigs as livestock there are 33,160 buffalo population.

The presence of Lake Toba, in addition to a blessing for the tourism business world as well also be the life habitat of various freshwater fish. On Samosir approximately 320 households to work as fishermen fish. Tardisional fishing is still maintained. The use of wooden boats are still a means of fishing continues to be used when applying techniques also catch fish by using nets stocked at certain places on which the fish look for food at certain hours. Net stocking is usually late afternoon and checked the next morning.

However, the presence of fish cultivation systems using floating net (floating net) on a large scale in a long time has been gradually destroying the ecosystem of the lake. This is caused by the use of fish meal made from chemicals in a long time. As a result, polluted lake water clarity and impact on lake water habitats.

Along the shore of Lake Toba, there are 773 units of floating net which is spread in some areas such as Pangururan, Simanindo, Daily, Sititotio, First Sianjur and Onan bronze. In 2004, fish production reached 11,998 tons. The types of these fish ranged from goldfish and mujahir.

In the industrial sector, since 2003 has been recorded at 896 units with a total workforce of 1023 people absorbed. From the number of these businesses, clothing and leather industry is a small industry with the largest number of businesses, namely as many as 164 businesses with a workforce of 164 people.

Most clothing industry is in District 82 and Pangururan with Ronggur Ni Huta 28 businesses. Chemical industry of building materials in second place with 124 businesses and 452 workers. The industry most numerous in the district with 90 business Palipi which absorbs 360 workers, Pangururan with 21 business and labor 44.

As a very potential area as a tourism area, water transportation is very supportive of course. In addition to functioning as a means of travel, the waters of Lake Toba also serves as a transportation infrastructure that links trade with the District Tobasa Naidoo and Parapat, Simalungun. The number of requests of passengers and goods ship on the lake on Samosir transportation, from five docks of 9136visits. Tomok dock is the busiest docks.

Samosir, The Seductive Island in the Centre of Lake Toba

2009-10-18T22:18:00.000+07:00

Balige ship at the dock, transports passengers and goods leaving once a day to Nainggolan, Onan Mogang and bronze. In addition, at the dock of Parapat, there are many ships and small scale towards Tuktuk Tomok and mainstay of the tourist area. And, one of the alternative access to ground transportation can be accessed via the Tele, after going through the area and the District Sitinjo Berastagi, Dairi.

Samosir became autonomous regions since had been separated from Tobasa District in 2003 under Act No. 36 of 2003 on Formation of Samosir Regency and Serdang Bedagai, dated on December 18, 2003. Then, this region took over 9 districts of the previous parent district, District Tobasa.

Establishment of Samosir District as autonomous regions and established a new district is the first step to start the acceleration of development towards a more prosperous society. The purpose is to accelerate the formation of development, so that development process in a short amount of time can stand in line with other districts.

Samosir regency located between 2024'-2048 North latitude and longitude 98030-99001. The extent of about 1419.05 km2, located at 300-2200 meters above sea level with territorial boundaries, and Karo Regency Simalungun District in the north, North Tapanuli and Humbang Hasundutan in the south, and Pakpak Dairi Bharat in the west and Toba Samosir (Tobasa) in the east.

Samosir District, based on geography and natural conditions, is not new anymore that the region is almost entirely surrounded by Lake Toba is, has long set a mainstay tourism area of North Sumatra. The presence of Lake Toba by itself makes a hilly area with humid tropical climate is a "paradise" for the naturalist and the people who want to find the cool tranquility of nature. Lake Toba winds seemed to be a seductive appeal of its own to always invite the local and foreign visitors to come back.

Indeed, that is Samosir. Once visited, the ache will come to visit him again. He was always teasing though recently the tourism business has decreased since the oil crisis of the last few years since 1998.

Batak ethnic majority. Reportedly believed, District Sianjur First is the origin region Batak people. This location is exactly at the top area where the majority Pusuk Buhit inhabited by ethnic Batak Sagala surname.

Visiting Minah and Sandra in Bukit Lawang

2009-10-17T02:50:00.002+07:00

Minah, is not a girl or a layman's terms: oil land! Besides Minah, Sandra, is also not too Hollywood actress (Sandra Bullock). So, who are them? Both, no stranger to the residents of Gunung Leuser National Park (TNGL) in Bukit Lawang tourism areas: orangutan (pongo abelii).

This is one decoy Bukit Lawang: Gunung Leuser National Park (GLNP) or TNGL, which part of Leuser Ecosystem Area, KEL, (Leuser Ecosystem Region) is rich in botanical variety.

Leuser ecosystem has background of mutual ecological principles between various types of rocks, humid climate, hilly terrain, soil structure and other organisms. And based on data RepPProt out in 1988, from 78 existing ecological systems on the island of Sumatra, 42 systems (54%) of them can be found in the Leuser Ecosystem area; 20 KEL ecological systems in a hilly area like the mountains or by 40%. And 86% TNGL on sloping area.

But, enough TNGL is fragile and prone to floods and vulnerable to natural disturbances. This is caused by the climate and high rainfall every year.

TNGL also a founa habitat, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates. TNGL also the largest habitat area in the world of birds, almost 380 species (65% of the 580 species on the island of Sumatra), or 350 species of which live in TNGL.

Almost 65% of the 129 species of mammals (large - small) that there is the island of Sumatra, also lives in this area. Also, it is also the habitat Sumatran Elephant (Elephas maximus sumataranus), tiger (tigris sumatrae pathera), rhino (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) and orangutan (Pongo abelii), the community as much as there were 19 tails. Minah and Sandra, both of which are routinely treated orangutans and fed each morning (08.30 GMT) and every evening (15:00 GMT).

So, you want to see Minah and Sandra? Please come and enjoy a wilderness adventure in TNGL and find them there!

Enjoying Natural Sense of Bukit Lawang

2009-10-16T00:20:00.000+07:00

Bukit Lawang tourism now seems to fledgling. 2003 flood, it still leaves a past trauma. Then, how he survived and tried to get up from a long slump that? Is there optimism in the hope that one day he will pick up again or will he only a memory?

That was the pictures and skepticisms recorded and occurred when TP exploring tourism in the District Bahorok, Langkat it recently. In a location that is identical to the lure splashing rivers and panoramic tropical forests is challenging, no longer much in the hustle and bustle of the crowd who just "teasing".

In fact, most cafes were closed. Also, no more long nights (all nights) really shows that this region is a leading tourist area number three in North Sumatra after Lake Toba and Brastagi. Or perhaps people have forgotten that this area had once tasted the golden ages?

However, although they probably still have expectations, Mrs. Eva example, one of the victims who are still optimistic about the stretch of Bukit Lawang is now fallen and tried to revive it.

When we came in a little cafe just managed re-located not far from the banks of the Bahorok River, did not seem busy at her and two staffs. Reasonable and what could I do, indeed of late guests (tourists) are rarely entered. While there, it was not as crowd first, could be counted on the fingers, he said. That day, though it was already dusk and getting dark, he only served two tables. The first table occupied by two foreign tourists with a local guide. And the second is our table.

"Today, just be USD 50 thousand," he said. Eva admitted that the number is far fewer when compared with the period before a flash flood came and dragged the whole business. "Actually, usually in the first full day can achieve an average turnover of USD 500-600 thousand," said the mother of two children.

Indeed trauma came not come at the wrong time. When the flooding has blasted Mrs Eva entire business, including restaurants, souvenir gallery and inn with 10 units of rooms, he could inhabit the refugee camps for almost two years. Not only that, he was forced to endure life with two children who was a child after her husband joined the river drifted.

About the material, the amount was small. "If the math is calculated, the loss we suffered when it reached approximately USD 600 million more," he said.

After a long time on hold at the refugee camp, Mrs. Eva determined to rebuild his business from scratch. Alasanya simple enough, he had no other job alternatives. In addition to long in the business of tourism, he was also optimistic Bukit Lawang are like first must rise again.

"I am optimistic! In the span of time between two or three years ago Bukit Lawang would get up and go back, "he said. So since the past six he returned to establish a small cafe, although conditions are still quite simple. It looks simple but artistic, maybe so. For his own cafe (Tony's Cafe) is provided with natural nuances. It lies among most of wood and tree roots. It thatched and felt cool when sitting or leaning on in it.

Meanwhile, for Eva herself, she admitted the trauma is gone from him. He has now is hope for optimism despite the rise of Bukit Lawang is still waiting at the front, sometimes. But, he believes changes will happen.

***

Besides, the other is Bambang (33). In the afternoon before we came to visit Mrs. Eva cafe, long-haired man was busy with work to establish a small “joglo” right in the side of the river flow. "For what it, mas," we asked him. "Well, this joglo just for a place to sit relax enjoy the natural atmosphere when guests had begun to busy later," he said lightly.

It seems that optimism was not only present in Mrs. Eva. This is evident from where the owner Bambang working on small projects "only" joglo for that relaxing place.

Bambang himself is one of the first business tourism in Bukit Lawang. Only, who would have thought fate could change so quickly. Now, all of living is just a memory. Because the home and business has been "sold out" swallowed by the river flow, including his wife and one of two children.

As a result of floods, Bambang was still not his job now. Sometimes he becomes a guide if kebetuan crowded room. But, if more deserted as on that day, he was busy with any work.

BAmbang worked as a guide, a profession that was done seasonally. And about the little joglo, he explained and commented. "Bukit Lawang had long sunk. But that does not mean forever right? I myself still believe that someday these tourist areas will rise again," she said optimistically.

Bukit Lawang is quiet now. For a while, almost businesses go asleep. Lethargic and trauma had killed them. Imagine, almost all inn had almost collapsed and functioning again. Some cafes that provide lodging facilities are still operating there. Jungle Inn, which is located adjacent to the gateway to the Gunung Leuser National Park (TNGL) is for example.

Shortly after we left Bambang with busy, we were stopped at the cafe. Azlam, one of his employees came to greet us. After ordering hot coffee that afternoon we were invited to tell.

"It's been quiet Bukit Lawang, but actually they (tourists) want this site to recover what it used to," he said. So why have not recovered? The reason is quite clear. As a skinny guy, many of whom are overwhelmed about capital to start from scratch.

Jungle Inn is more fortunate than other cafes. That afternoon was a few foreign tourists was quite crowded cafe. Some were reading while enjoying the quiet and some were chatting. And there was enjoying the roar of the river while rafting.

Jungle Inn is also different from other places. Some parts looked new buildings completed and improved through the addition here and there. Moreover, Jungle Inn is more strategic. Because in addition to close to the gate TNGL (which is also habitat for orangutans) is also a start position to do good rafting for amateur and professional levels.

Ulos, One of Symbol Batak Arts

2009-10-14T22:30:00.000+07:00

North Tapanuli regency, like other regions also have the uniqueness that if not maintained and kept current will disappear by modernization. So who will be consistent with the uniqueness of this?

One of the uniqueness of the many secrets of a unique art skill combined with a culture that is found in ulos, is a Batak traditional costumes. And the uniqueness of both the wealth that is still maintained at least thanks to the perseverance that still care about the arts and cultural traditions.

A couple Sitompul D St. (67) and F Br Panggabean (60) since the 1980s has struggled to preserve the weaving ulos. Armed with hereditary skills of parents, traditions and skills of this any artistic talent and became a source of support family life.

Not only them, the villagers of Siatas Barita Sitompul District, about five miles from Tarutung City, are the majority have the skill to weave ulos than rice farming.

"80 percent of the villagers weave Sitompul ulos," Sitompul said when met at his residence yesterday, some time ago (July 2006).

Ulos-making process is not easy work. Besides take a long time, also needed skills in the art of combining color and weave the threads into ulos and "mandar" (sarong) is motivated art.

"This is not an easy job," she said, pointing Sitompul, showing materials chemical coloring neatly behind his house. "This is my office," he added jokingly.

The main raw material, yarn, is decisive. The higher the quality the higher yarn prices also. In addition, the more difficult to do pattern ulos, the higher the price is. For example "Letter Mandar Batak", are more expensive than mandar ulos or another, starting Rp 250 thousand to Rp 2 million.

The construction is also not for a moment. One mandar ulos or quality yarn quality and level of difficulty making a higher hue takes two weeks if finished by one person. "So we more frequently work together," said Boru Panggabean.

While, there are also simple construction cheaper valuable ulos. Like the "The Leaven Ulos Life", "Leaven Hotang" and "Sadun" are cheaper, which starting from Rp 20 thousand to Rp 600 thousand.

Yarn 100 is one of high quality raw materials. This yarn imported from India after purchased by agents from Surabaya, Bandung or Jakarta. Initially the color was plain white. "This is where the special skills needed to integrate chemical colors into the desired color," said Sitompul. Then, as the colored yarn, weaving process was carried out after the colored threads were dry by the sun.

"Well, here's where the process is more difficult because it requires the creation of art," said Sitompul. Besides yarn 100, Sitompul said, to create patterns or writing on them ulos also use gold thread (which resembles the color of gold), nylon, porada, and yarn singer.

Sitompul said, however, he more often obtain advance orders than sell directly to the agent ulos. "Apart from Tarutung, orders often come from Medan, Jakarta and other cities. They already know me and this village through ulos," he said.

Sitompul, after 20 years in weaving ulos, until now has successfully completed three children from the university. "This is all thanks to the power of God and the perseverance to maintain ulos family as one of the wealth of the Batak land," he said.

Enjoying Sinabung Mountain in Karo Highland

2009-10-14T00:26:00.000+07:00

DUSK has arrived when we arrived at the villages of Lau Kawar Lake, at Simpang Empat, in Karo District, North Sumatra Indonesia. The sky was dark red and bias emanating surface of the lake make it go red. Sunset! It was beautiful natural painting.

At that time, when night fell, the sky is clear. "Look! The stars begin to look so light. It seems natural to bless, "said Ucok, my friend, nature guides. He was right. That night, the stars shining in the sky, the reflection of moonlight over the lake, the cold weather, all united into the incomparable pleasures of nature both.

We were lucky that time. You know, the problems often foggy weather that blanketed the area throughout the day. And of course such conditions are not good for nature painting photo shoot so dear to pass up. It was so beautiful and natural. That was the moment that I waiting to see since the early departure.

Unfortunately, the temperature is less friendly to the skin of the city. That night, as time wore on, the cold temperatures up to and immediately began stabbing until the bones. Great chill!

However, staying on the edge of the Lau Kawar Lake actually is quite cheap and festive. Capitalize tent camping along a standard size kitchen utensils and sleeping enough. Of course, we stayed with adequate food supplies as well. What about costs, fees charged only in 2 thousand rupiahs per person.

Nature is ready to challenge and we are ready to deal. And of course, without a servant (room service) that will serve you the night there with a restaurant-style meal or a delicious soft and warm bed.

What about the menu, whatever. There available fresh mountain spring water shower. Or lake water to brew tea or coffee. What about food, not too big deal. Occurs when running out of food (logistics), the lake's nature lovers are usually quick to survival. At least, we handle it by making friendship with local farm owner. Hmm.., at least part of their work in the fields with wages Rp.30 thousand per day, if by chance the harvest.

***

This is the moment of waiting. At that time, when the clean blue sky we decided to climb the highest peak in North Sumatra. It height reach 2475 meters on the sea’s ground.

At 12.00 am, the departure of the afternoon began. After entering the door of the jungle, the first stage can be explored without extracting energy and pouring sweat and arrived at the first shelter.

In this first track, while the trail gradually climbing path that sometimes slippery, sometimes heard the birds singing and moaning of animals, which is difficult to guess where it came from.

Climbing a moment to stop, unwind, collects the energy. According to the prevailing standards in climbing Sinabung jungle, there are at least 4 shelters (resting place). That shelters which are the reference for the next climb.

If the ascent averaged shelter after shelter takes about 45-60 minutes. It's just that no standard formula. The reason is depending on the physical conditions at the time of climbing.

We continued climbing toward the shelter II. At this Stage, steep climb increasingly seemed to be-so. Slope angle is reached 30-35 degrees with the field conditions are more challenging. Rocks, fallen trees and branches, and the silence that permeates the tropical jungle is a challenge. Challenges for the same challenges still to be found to shelter III and IV.

After a shelter IV, it's time at the top of the broken "heartbreak hill". Strange enough name if associated with the mountain that is still active until now was. It is said that this name was given by the climbers on the grounds that in this place climbers often thought better to continue climbing up the highest peak of Sinabung fatigue. From here will be visible expanse of Lau Kawar Lake.

Final challenge is to climb the rocky terrain. Here the field conditions incline climbing almost 45-degree angle. It was very steep and challenging. The risk is life.

Finally, we arrived at the point of climbing the peak, enjoying Sinabung sacred peak. Increasingly, broad expanses of clear natural look. Unfortunately expanse of Lake Toba on the east and Lau Kawar Lake in the west was clear enough this time due to the thin mist that covered it.

There are also craters that are no longer active in the nearby hills like the Grand Canyon. That said, the climbers call "the hill Segal" or top "Flash Gordon".

Some time passed after enjoying Sinabung sacred peak, we went home and said, "I'll see you again, Sinabung Mountain". But, is he heard? I Don’t know...

Lau Kawar, Nice Lake in Brastagi

2009-10-12T15:09:00.000+07:00

Remain reluctant to go home. That what happens to the adherents of the freedom in Lau Kewar Lake, located in Karo Highland, North Sumatra. In fact, they should think about their future. Like have at home, and (once again), they remain reluctant to go home.

This is what happens in the Kawar Lake natural area. If you can compare, the area is a small land reserved for nature lovers and lovers. It seems no less awe, and even reluctant to go home after filling time and enjoy the charm there.

Perhaps, this is experienced by some people who attended filled lands in the area of green grassy edge of Lake Lau Kawar has the highest depth of 27 meters was reached.

Ricky, "Do not bother if you run out logistics (food). When it comes to food, easily obtained here," he said." Just how do we deal with the local population, at least the owner of the garden in the field.

Ricky's been a long time "inhabit" in there. Do not even remember the exact day when he got there. "If you count was almost 2 months," he said.

For Ricky, life and survival in the region of Lau Kawar Lake is a form of freedom and human socialization vehicle or nature lovers and lovers of nature - these two terms have different meanings for him.

"If I can categorize, I fall into the category of nature lovers are not lovers of nature. Nature lovers just enjoy nature. Lovers of natures, not only enjoy but also play a role in its sustainability," he explained.

The second term is a sudden makes critical Ricky. The reason there is often no obvious person to use the excuse to use the term nature-lovers with the lure of greening. How they submit a proposal to the local government with the motive greening, but the results encountered in the field very far from what was expected.

"They are bandits we call the proposal," he said aloud. "For what is stated in the proposal often deviated from what is programmed in the proposal. For example, in the greening proposals say that they will plant a tree some 15 thousand sticks. Is, the result is different," he added.

Ricky addition, there are also Erwin (28) and Anes (24). Erwin himself was almost 1.5 months there. He had arrived since the beginning of January and until now still reluctant to go home. "It better here than at home (Medan)," they said.

The days passed imperceptibly. At lunch, when the sun came stinging, hot, sometimes they go to the lake looking for fish or mussel for lunch later that night. There are also those who went to the top, joined with farmers, helped, and the home premises with a variety of vegetables: squash, cabbage, tomatoes and pepper.
In the afternoon, some of them play volleyball. In evening came and the sky grew dark, slowly listened strains of the song with guitar accompaniment. While cooking food on anything they can that day, each began to open the story. They sing, joking and laughing until nightfall. They seem happy.

***

Lau Kawar village is a small village that the majority of the people derived their livelihoods from farming vegetables and fruit. Go through Brastagi or Kabajahe, to reach the area.

Previously, we have traveled, which takes about 3.5 hours. If driving without a speeding bus travel time from Medan to Brastagi could take 2 hours.

After arriving in Brastagi and buy sufficient food supplies, we drove a small bus (Takasima) that will take us to the village of Lau Kawar. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. Although tired, but my eyes feel fresh enough to the rural landscape. Occasionally the Sinabung Mountains view.

Lau Kawar village, but identical with panoramic lake is also rich in flora and fauna ecosystem. Estimated in the area also known as Forest Tourism kawasaan Videre Lancuk (HWDL) was keliung flora species (Quercus), Castanopsis and types of ficus.

On side of the lake, there are also many types of orchid tree with flowers beautiful. The type of founa, swamp deer (Cervus unicolor), gibbons (Hylobates moloch), ferrets (paradoxumus hermaprodicus), goat forest (naemorhaedus sumatrensis) and hornbills birds (Buceros).

Lancuk, is taken from the name of a hill. HWDL area is in forest areas Sibayak II with an area 435 hectares. Including Lake Lau Kawar was appointed to the natural park in accordance with the Decree of the Minister of Forestry No.08/Kpts/II/1989, February 6, 1989.

Lake Toba, North Sumatra Great Icon of Indonesia

2009-10-07T18:31:00.000+07:00

Each time the eye can see, Lake Toba was always able to, at least, make sense of beauty. This is the nature paintings grace the Lord. Actually this is a pearl. It's just our ignorance as if it made her miserable.

Lake Toba was formed from the eruption of a volcano. These peaks collapsed and there was Lake Toba. Some of the ruins into Samosir Island. Natural events make it a beautiful area. The lake area is 6.60 square miles surrounded by the walls of the towering hills to 480 feet above sea level.

Hill in the southeast and east and Habinsaran called Simanukmanuk Hill. Uluan separating wall and the east coast of Sumatra. Uluan are high hills, beneath which there is or Holbung Toba Toba Valley. In this area there is a fertile agricultural land and densely populated. This region lies between Porsea and Balige.
Lumban Silintong nature, for example. Tourist sites located in Toba Samosir, Balige, it turned out to save the potential that can be sold. Why so optimistic to sell?

District population so far 169,577 people are still poor known. Imagine the economic growth has not been able to reach 1 trillion. While 80 percent of the population derives their living from agriculture. Thus, optimistic nature of the local government is essential in the development of this sector.

Correct Bali is known for his landscape Kute Beach? Their success must also be supported by many aspects that are not less important, cultural, hospitality, and all aspects that allow for tourists attracted to come secondary.

Minim lake polish

In the previous decade vibrant tourism Bona Pasogit (North Tapanuli area and surrounding-red) were treated with a familiar-dish serving typical local culture. And of course, this is the main attraction is essentially the value of seeing the beauty and enjoyment of a tour is not really serving lies only in the expanse of natural beauty alone. Culture that is distinctive smell is also a valuable asset.

This has become a rare thing to find in the turmoil Bona Pasogit tourism. "Actually barriers are not on the ability and the unavailability of facilities to meet the culture dish. Earth Tobasa actually still keep 'million' worth of cultural property sold for tourism development. It's just that we would? Instead this is what happens, the absence of political will from local government and community support. "As expressed by Sunggul Tampubolon, Kabid Litbang dan Evaluasi Pelaporan Bappeda, Tobasa District.

Cultural distinctiveness Bona community-owned real Pasogit currently experiencing adversity. For example, so far dance "tor-tor" is only implemented on custom events only. In the past, society Bona Pasogit also still often spoiled with entertainment "opera Batak" featuring stories and save the Batak tribe of moral messages, especially for young people. Now this kind of entertainment offerings are rare. As a result, local people were ultimately prefer other entertainment.

As Sunggul, Tobasa not really do not have people skilled in the opera Batak, only problem lies in the lack of willingness, particularly the government's enthusiasm. "Bah, until when are we waiting for?."

The principle of "Sude Do Raja"

Serving Lumban Silintong panoramic tour, for example, in terms of facilities to enjoy the aspects of nature painting of Lake Toba is already adequate. At the edges of the lake, we probably would not have difficulty finding the right location and safe to relax and pamper our eyes to enjoy the gift of God. Plus a presentation at the same time that makes your tongue typical rock with grilled fish dish. If the hooked fish, in some places is also very fit. Several fishing huts also available.

As with other tourist locations. As Lake Toba Parapat, for example. At the location of the lake formed by the eruption of Mount Toba, located 905 meters above sea level to around 294km, the lake surface area of 1100 km ² with a maximum depth of 529 meters, visitors also seemed to be spoiled with the availability of small huts to rest and looked at broad expanse of water stretched wide bargaining. Besides lodging facilities are also available with different variations in the class, which of course adapted to the availability of pocket.

Similarly, the natural scenery in Sub Tuktuk Ambarita Siadong Samosir regency. This is not new news anymore, that priority be Samosir mainstay tourism area of North Sumatra since the district is an area of 1419.05 km2, divided in 2003.

"What makes Lake Toba Parapat attractions, as well as other areas if the decline of the number of visitors from year to year, is the character of local communities that the principle 'do sude king' (the king)," As Chairman Syahmidun Simalungun District DRRD S Sos .

Bona Pasogit community are still bound by history himself with the old culture. For example, in their past, especially those engaged in tourism business, not a few of them are descended from kings. Other evidence also implies that their clan attach to their names a little bit no-frills wearing "king" in the back. This is still very difficult to release from them.

As a result, they can not position themselves as servants because it is used to being served. Impact, travelers often thought better to come in secondary. "In short, local communities are still difficult to position himself as "servant ".

This has been proven. This phenomenon can be compared with the management and other tourism developments in the country. Justify the tourism business downturn, especially North Sumatra Lake Toba is only motivated by the fuel crisis that hit our country or the insecurity of security for the traveler? This needs to be observed.

Human beings desperately need peace in the moment when the reality of life is filled with bustle and responsibility. They need peace through serving the entertainment and tourism. They need peace and foremost they want to be served after a busy "serving" and tired of all the busyness of work matters, especially for urban communities.

Sumatra Overland Adventure [2] : Jambi

2008-09-13T12:24:00.000+07:00

Two days one night on the island of Nias was a memorable moment for both my clients. "Nias und ist sehr schoen emptehlenwert - Nias is very beautiful and worth to recommend," commented Mr. Amann, who makes me proud, though I am not a native of Nias. I am increasingly confident with their intentions to open a travel agency in Germany and recommended several tourism objects in Indonesia, including Sumatra. And that certainly is one of Nias.

We returned from Nias by ferry which leaves at 20:30 pm. Our next adventure is the State Kerinci - Jambi. But before going there, we decided to stop two nights at Bukit Tinggi, West Sumatra, and visited several tourist attractions there, including the Clock Tower.

Our main goal is to Jambi National Park Kerinci Seblat (TNKS), protected forest area covering 1,386,000 hectares (according to the decree. Menhut No. 192/Kep. No. 2 / 1996) which covers four provinces: West Sumatra, Jambi, Bengkulu and South Sumatra. No wonder the TNKS named one earth lung of the world's third largest after the National Park and Gunung Leuser National Park Arizona.

Based on Forest Service data Jambi Province Government, estimated at no less than 4000 species of flora with 63 families grow in TNKS. Also, 306 species of birds in 45 families, including some rare bird species in the world such as the Javan Sumatra (Cochoa Becari), Quail Barking (Arbhorophila Rubivosaris), Scops (Otus Stesemanni), Bird Brother Cheek (Laphora Inormata) and eight species endemic another.

I was fortunate to meet with 8 scientists from London, who happened to be researching types of poultry in TNKS. From them I know, but some scientists also studied intensively after photos of rare birds there. It is said that in Europe the photographs of rare birds were valued at least 50 euros per photo!

For the true adventurer, love it when spent trekking in the Seven Mountains region, precisely in the area Tuo grit. In the high mountain plains 1. 996 mdpl have 1st lake area. 000 hectares, named Mount Seven which can be gone for three hours.

After taking 12 hours longer with vehicles from the gravel Tuo, we arrived in the area of Mount Kerinci, the highest mountain in Sumatra, 3. 850 mdpl. A more challenging adventure is waiting for us, which is hiking up Mount Kerinci, though not up to the top.

Wir werden kommen Wieder Auf Sumatra ...

The next day morning, we left the Jambi. After the transit of Muko-Muko, with travel time of about two hours, we went straight to the next destination: Bengkulu, which would still contain a lot of curiosity for both my clients.

Although the six hours we were just going up in Bengkulu, but the way we like without feeling bored. Green carpet of tea plantations on private property along the gravel road Tuo the main attraction. Cool sedan rolled up that we were riding. Mr. Amann always stand by with his camera.

It was dark when we arrived in Bengkulu city. For convenience, I recommend a four-star hotel right in the city of Bengkulu, with a superior room types for Rp 425 thousand per night.

Our adventures continue again the next morning. Unlike the two previous destinations, traveled to Bengkulu was off with the history of this country. So according to schedule, we also visited the birth house seamstress Sang Saka Merah Putih 1945, Mother Fatmawati, which later became the wife of first president Sukarno of Indonesia. Malays ornate house stands on Jalan Fatmawati No. 12, City of Bengkulu.

Our next destination was the home of "dumping" Sukarno. Right location at Jalan Soekarno Hatta road, Bengkulu City. Bengkulu own communities have great respect and preserve the prisoner's house had proclaimed this. Ontel bike still sitting there Bung Karno. Also, library books store.

According to historical records, Bung Karno "disposed" to Bengkulu in 1938-1942, when jhr de Jonge served as Governor General of Dutch East Indies. Bung Karno himself considered hazardous Dutch East Indies government at that time. So, he was exiled to Bengkulu, the area is said to be feared because of the deadly malaria epidemic at that time.

Both my clients had agreed when the two objects are historic Bengkulu considered one exploration destination between Sumatra, Indonesia. So, with the end of our adventure in Bengkulu, ended also the adventure we call it Sumatra Overland Adventure.

As a guide, I am proud to have successfully introduced. I hope both of my clients will not hesitate to recommend to the travelers in the country, Germany.

Yes, it seems so. At the end of the adventure, Mr. Amann expressed while goodbye to me. "Wir werden wieder kommen auf Sumatra - we'll go back to Sumatra," he said smiling. Return I waited in the hope they would.

Adventuring Nias Island

2008-09-02T12:03:00.000+07:00

After repeated many times correspondency via internet with Mr. Siegfried and Mrs. Amann Siegfried , a couple of Germany wife and husband, who was settle Shanghai, China, ,then I succed to convinced them to come to Sumatra. For what? Yes, for this adventure, called this Sumatra Overland Adventure.

We started last June 2008 and finished in the beginning of last July 2008, after exploring the island of Nias, Jambi and separation "while" in Bengkulu. We started late and ended early in June and July, after Exploring the island of Nias, Jambi and separation "while" in Bengkulu.

Medan, June 26 around 10:00 am, both my clients arrived at Polonia Airport. Driving a Hyundai sedan with a private tour Arya, without long we went straight to Sibolga. Our first goal is to Nias. My previous clients have chosen the land rather than air travel. The reason, “mehr Sehen, mehr erleben - many visits, more and more to be enjoyed,” said Mr. Amann to me.

After staying overnight at the Hotel Bumi Asih Jaya Sibolga, tomorrow morning we took KM. Gemilang, departing at 09.30 pm. The sense of the sea as if to force Mr. Amann to stay awake with his two Nikon DSLR camera. It seems he did not want to lose a spot he had to take home to Germany later. Four hours later, we arrived in Gunung Sitoli. Our first goal in Nias is Sorake.

Sorake Beach Nias and equal in the eyes of Europeans, especially the surfing enthusiast. With waves reaching a height of 1.5 meters or more, Sorake considered an alternative to surfing beaches in the world's second after Hawaii. Be proud of!

Both my client was so excited to Sorake. Lodging facilities were very simple does not matter. I recommend Sorake Beach Inn Lily-cost Rp 100 thousand per night, which is located close to the beach, although there are actually more comfortable lodging cost Rp 280 thousand per night. This is for the satisfaction they enjoy Sorake.

One of the most visible when comparing current conditions with Sorake few years earlier, the question of infrastructure facilities. Access roads along the 120 km from Gunung Sitoli and 15 km away from Kota Teluk Dalam, pretty good. Access to it so we could go for 2.5 hours.

Sorake was "only" to surf. This reminds me of an anecdote my senior guide Gultom "Boraspati" who says, "If there are people who could bring in high waves throughout the season, I dare him to pay expensive."

Indeed, despite the challenging surf location, high tide can not always be felt at any time in Sorake. If so, would Sorake never deserted from Western tourists. High waves are usually "busy" roll-on roll Sorake in March-April.

Nias und ist sehr schoen emptehlenwert

In Sorake, beautiful blue cloud is a free gift to the newcomers. Sea view is also reminiscent of the grace of the Creator. Unfortunately, the gift is less organized and well cared for. Along the side of the beach, public garbage strewn about.

From our Sorake Beach Lagundri. The beach is no less beautiful. But, still with the beach conditions are almost the same as Sorake, ie garbage strewn here and there. Very unfortunate. I had to change the subject when I mention these two clients this hygiene problem.

Lagundri Coast people prefer swimming than surfing. The wave was as high as in Sorake. Along shore 5 km looks stunning with white sand. Lagundri become an alternative place for tourists to sunbath - sunbathe. Or enjoy a sunrise and the sunrise.

Nias is not just the beach. But also culture and history. That's why I invited two of my clients see attractions in the village of stone jump Bawomataluo. As a guide, I should be able to explain the tradition of the stone jump to my clients, who had become a symbol of hereditary adult male identity Nias. He and one of the war strategy taught by the ancestors. Now, the war between the village no longer exists. But, do not jump the stone away.

Enough to pay a minimum of Rp 150 thousand for one or two times a springboard, visitors can see and capture the action that Nias soldiers jump. And most importantly, I do not want both my client was disappointed by letting them do not know their story to take home to Germany later.

In another Gomo. Although both of my guests rather than cultural anthropologists, but they once seemed excited when we go there. Gomo were a lot of area stores Nias cultural sites, one of the oldest cultures in the world. Some of them Menhir, sarcophagus and some historic sites relics of ancestors whose age has reached hundreds of years.

Interestingly, transportation access to ketidakadaaan Gomo made as an alternative trekking tours in Nias. We confirm that to Gomo, should be guided by local people more control of the area.

Adventure so memorable. "Nias und ist sehr schoen emptehlenwert - Nias is very beautiful and worth to recommend," commented Mr. Amann, ending our adventure in Nias, which makes me proud. But it is still early adventures. Two areas are still waiting for us, the Jambi and Bengkulu.

Traditional Music of North Sumatra Phenomenon

2008-04-09T22:21:00.000+07:00

The fact that the existence of traditional music which began forgotten today is a phenomenon that can not be denied. What response etonomusicolog Rithaony Hutajulu about this? The following excerpt interview with me.

What causes this phenomenon?

There are a few things. The first, the influence of religion. Especially in the traditional Batak, images music tradition is always associated with the old beliefs. There is a bad stigma of traditional art itself.

Second, modernization. There are images which assume that the traditional music of ancient aka outdated. This factor is very strong impact.

The third is a very rare media displays of traditional arts. Why do young people a sense of musical time is westernized? Because the music from where [the West - Red] that they often heard and seen. What they heard through the electronic media, its dominance is very high. Music that comes from the west [not Classic Pop] become a better music than other music for them.

How to answer this [as well as the technology has become the most important element in music]?

We know the technology also has become the most important element in music. But let us not hostile technologies. But embraced. That is, we must have a strategy is also to include this traditional art to the media. In the form of a CD recording for example. Or anything else, including the creation of composition.

Real effort was made. Such as the creation of World Music, which takes elements of tradition. In the West, this is already a lot done. Also in our country. For example by collaborating with Crishye Waljinah singer. Although maybe that was talkative, but at least can be an opportunity for young musicians to return to the tradition.

It is also likely to have done Irwansyah Harahap, Medan artist who has combined traditional elements of Batak into a single new idea. This is one way to enter the musical element in the younger generation to the next.

Also needed is a culture bags, which also displays traditional art. So who came not only artists, but from all walks of life. In Java it has long done with the Gedung Kesenian Jakarta [the routine featuring classical music performances - contemporary and traditional], for example. Teater Utan Kayu in Jakarta, Kedai Kebun in Yogyakarta that is also frequented by the expats.

In addition, in through educational channels. How to make the program packages how the tradition of teaching art that is packed to the schools. Our own education system has been actually been wrong. The perception that the art of traditional music is an important element to be taught in schools, are often ignored. After that, making socialization into the community. Section, in this traditional art is so far still been associated with customs.

Another matter, today's society prefer a practical and cost about traditional music, how is this?

It can not be denied. Now, a phenomenon that occurs in the community prefer a practical and inexpensive. For example by ordering a dish of keyboard music elements eliminate the original music.

If it is more important keyboard is used for reasons of cost, traditional musical instruments should not be forgotten original. Keyboard may be included, but not to eliminate the element of music available. But rather to enrich the traditional musical elements that already exist it.

The issue is, if artists can not live in the economy then he will leave the traditional music itself. Like many Batak Opera maestro who left traditional art after a golden era in the 1970s.

Therefore, traditional performing arts, such as Opera Batak who used to have a social function; medium of communication between the Batak people, must be raised again. Unfortunately, the opera could not follow the hobo as happens in Java. Puppet example, which until today still become a spectacle that still rage that with modernization. Still capable of being a puppet of educational media for the public, especially Java.

So not only the traditional music on traditional spikes only. Where there are traditional events, new in the traditional artists working there. If there is a regular media published outside the traditional music of the indigenous needs. Unfortunately, the government [Department of Culture and Tourism] also did not have the seriousness to address this.

What is unfortunate from this?

Doubt, the next generation might lose its identity as the problem of regenerating it. For instance, drum Karo said to be the world's smallest drum is very difficult to find someone who can play right now. Which is even harder, find someone who can make it.

While Japanese people bothered to record the ethnic music of the world, including the Batak, why do we even leave our own music.

In Japan ethnic music recognition is done through the schools to educate school children that there are a lot of music in this world. In essence, not only was the music that is around you. Musical horizons so that Japanese society is very broad. So after a child growing up, he already has a strong base, though he lived in the era of modernization that was all sophisticated.

Well, what about the younger generation in our country, North Sumatra [Field] in particular?

Our young generation is already hegemony by the taste [Pop] West. Well, in this condition is not addressed with the pessimistic attitude. The solution is what? That's what should be considered.

We do not expect the future of all young people to be lovers or uniform tradition artists. However, at least can be used as musical inspiration.

In the current global era, people should be more aware of the identity. Therefore, traditional music is also a part of self identity.

Revitalization of Traditional Music

Since a year later and Rithaony Hutajulu Irwansyah Harahap [both powering the Community Arts Music Traditional Suara Sama ("Same Voice")] has run the program for the revitalization of traditional music from the Ford Foundation support the United States.

"This program lasted for two years and has been running for a year," said Rithaony.

The purpose of this program is to revive traditional music in the four regions in North Sumatra, the Toba Batak [Parmalim; because they still have an element of the Batak culture is still closely], Karo, and Simalungun Pakpak Bharat.

In each ethnic tradition was 6-7 musicians who are empowered to teach traditional music to the next generation.

In addition, Rithaony said, this program also aims to study music applying traditions may be very different from the first.

"Actually, the Cultural Park Field itself is often traditional music training like this. Unfortunately nature is not continuous, so the results do not appear. No trace alias simply disappear," he commented.

According to Rithaony, Cultural Department actually has a budget for this. "But, God knows where the budget is made I know," he said again.

Well, this program is made more intensive. Bring an evaluator: Filifina music professor who evaluates the methods and other things.

Irwansyah Harahap and Rithaony also being a founder of draft art studio, which will begin as planned next July 2008. Scope, "Not only moving on music alone. But also other arts, " said Ritha.

In essence, through the galleries is expected to be established art community which is "intimate". "So later, people can slowly appreciate the art itself," said Rithaony hope.

"Sure someone could play jazz, rock or pop. That is fine. However, it would be nice if the art is maintained tradition. Least known. Because it is also part of our identity," he said.

Yes, music is also a symbol identity .*

Life of One of the Best Traditional Batak Artist, Marsius Sitohang

2007-12-05T14:15:00.000+07:00

As a traditional artist Toba Batak, claiming Marsius Sitohang more appreciated in a foreign country than in his own country. So, every time home performances from abroad, Marsius always sad. "It was more in love with a stranger our culture than our own," said the man's birth Palipi, 1953 Samosir it, sadly.

Marsius still remember the 1980 incident earlier. Like other habits Batak people, in the afternoon after driving rickshaws he was always taking the time to stop at the wine shop. Together with another pedicab driver, in the wine shop in Jalan Raya Medan Mosque, they were often accompanied by Batak humming guitar. Marsius was always honoured playing the batak flute (sarune).

Marsius skills playing the flute is no doubt about it. Small is Marsius buffalo herd often spent time with the flute. And taught himself from the people in his village, Palipi.

Simply pull rickshaws to escape Marsius, when the opera group since many years he struggled with his father, cap. Opera Batak named "Saut Love Nauli" including Marsius father's opera that had long Batak eskis in North Sumatra. Opera is like a tribe of Gypsies, who moved around a lot and stayed in a long time from city-to city. Unfortunately, the opera was forced out of business because it could not compete with modern performance art as it intensified.

After the Opera Batak "Saut Love Nauli" bankrupt and closed, all the players to switch professions. "There is a driver, merchant. And like me, who was forced to pull rickshaws because they do not know what else would work," said Marsius.

Marsius who often hung in the wine shop, had secretly ogled Alm M Marpaung, who is leading the "Pear Tondi Matogu", a traditional group, who often fill the Batak customs, like marriage, the customary ceremony of death and others.

Alm M Marpaung Marsius eventually used to take to fill the music in the show-traditional ways. Since it began Marsius name known. Until one time, he had been invited in a seminar on traditional music, which was held at Taman Budaya Medan.

Marsius've forgotten exactly when the month. "But certainly at that time, there are six traditional musicians invited at that time, including me," said Marsius with Toba Batak accent very thick.

On that occasion, too Marsius allowed to play her flute. He still remembers, "When we brought the song 'Andung-grandmother', 'Pinasa Sidungdungon and' Didang-didang '" he recalled. We also introduced to Rizaldi Marsius Siagian, who is chairman of Ethnomusicology Department at the Faculty of North Sumatra University (USU), who also attended the seminar.

"Can you teach?," said Rizaldi then him, such as simulated Marsius. He does not believe the offer. And regard it as joke. Marsius casually replied, "I do not know the notes. What is going to teach you later? "

"You teach a practice course," so explain to Marsius Rizaldi moment. The offer was finally accepted with pride. He then swerved from the daily pull rickshaws. And switch into teaching profession, with a fee status.

Honor few, long held tradition of art

"Since 1987 I was officially promoted to professor in here. At that time my salary was 3 thousand rupiahs per month," recalled the father of six children. Honor is a question that was not Marsius. "As long as the art of this tradition up," he told Rizaldi time.

Since appointed as a lecturer in the Faculty Etnomusicology USU, Marsius name became more widely known. United States's leading daily The New York Times on 19 November 1991 published a show even with fellow musicians Marsius other tardisional. Including with his brother, Sarikaran Sitohang, which is always taken as a musical accompaniment Marsius.

"It's my four continents singgahi because flutes," he said proudly. Including countries in Asia, Europe, Australia and Europe. "This is a very proud experience. Because of this flute I can travel around the world. At least I can boast a USU and Indonesia, "he said.

There was also little recognition he received from abroad or from their own country. "I never counted them. Since the number, I reached the hassle to keep it from rotting because I can not frame all," he said.

Fame are also likely to invite a lot of perceptions about Marsius. "Many people thought I was rich because I used to go abroad. Actually, no. If they knew," he said.

Naturally, such Marsius said. Understandable, since he was appointed lecturer in 1987, still remain civil status fee. In fact, the amount of fees it receives each month is not expected to provide for his family.

"Fortunately, I have been working side events accompanying the traditional parties Batak. If not from there, from where I can send my son," he said. Marsius also believed to maintain a traditional group called "Group Sopo Nauli" on Jalan Medan Bakti, Daulat's Manurung. This traditional group was six years he ran.

"If you hang from the fee penghasian, highly unlikely," he explained. Marsius received honorarium each month is very little. "Only Rp 270 thousand per month. To transport it less," he admitted.

Unfortunately, although employment status was Marsius the 20 years of service but still honor that status had been raised through the mass and electronic media in the country, but, "No response from the university served until now," he said.

If the response from the community at large, he said. One time, Marsius never received money from strangers. "One day I had a letter from someone. He did not mention his name, but the letter was written by someone who works for a company in Jakarta, " he said.

In the letter of the sender convey his sympathy. Marsius was suggested to open an account in a bank. "For two years he sent me money, 250 thousand rupiahs per month," said Marsius smile. "That is, whoever the person, I did not know," he continued.

Feeling curious, a time when he was invited to play in a traditional art performance in Jakarta, also took Marsius to come the address of the sender's company, in order to provide a souvenir flutes to people who had never come face to face with it.

"Unfortunately this time, I did not meet with him. Finally, the flute, I leave alone the employee in the office," he said.

That is the story of Marsius life, Batak's traditional artists. Even so, he remained always grateful for what he got today. Not be denied is that USU was the one who raised Marsius name. "Because I am also the USU often invited abroad. I am so well known. And can play music everywhere," he admitted, although he still often "mocok-mocok" (with no fix job) looking for side jobs outside activities on campus.

"Fortunately, the students just want to understand. So I can set the time in order to play music in another group," he said. From this it can find Marsius extra money for everyday needs. Little by little money playing music he tube. From the results of these savings, he admitted that he could build houses and educate their children. Although only one person who can afford it I pay for college. "The others have only until high school. I am no longer able, "he said.

And this is Marsius expectations. "If my salary can not be increased, at least next year USU can provide a seat for my child," he called his youngest son, Pandapotan Sitohang Tong, who is still sitting on the bench Music High School, Medan.

Actually, this petition had long she harbored. "When I asked dean, they just told me to find myself to rector," he said, showing a letter of application that ...

Lake Toba, Memories Will Live?

2007-09-12T12:42:00.000+07:00

While living in Europe in 1953 - 1954, poet exiles Sitor Situmorang once wrote a poem "The Way of the Rock to the Lake", a poem expression to his homeland longing: Harianboho - a small village on the shores of Lake Toba, Samosir.

‘Ku yakin menemukan jalan selalu
kembali padamu
jalan pulang ke lembah landai
di tepi danau
sepanjang pantai
“Ku yakin selalu padamu kembali
di akhir nanti,
saat kembara berakhir
tiba sadar para musafir

[I was always sure to find a way
back to you
way back to the valley sloping
lakeside
along coast
"I'm sure you always come back
at the end of the later,
when Kembara ends
came conscious travelers]

The poem was published in the anthology "Miss Kelana" (More poems from 1948 to 1993). In 1983, in the poetry anthology "Wind Lake", Sitor again revealed the expression of the Lake Toba. whom it was published in the anthology "Miss Kelana" (More poems from 1948 to 1993). In 1983, in the poetry anthology "Wind Lake", Sitor again revealed the expression of the Lake Toba.

In addition to poetry Sitor through, first, the story of the beauty of Lake Toba often heard at the bus station through the melodious song of a local singer who used to extol the beauty and grandeur of the lake that supposedly formed from the eruption of Mount Toba and save a lot of legend and myth. Also, stories from travelers who had menyinggahinya.

Now, Toba is not like how look it was. History records, the decade 1980 - 1990 as the golden ages. When the government is promoting intensively-amid great tourism promotion program called: "Visit Indonesian Year 1991", Lake Toba was hailed as an icon tourism Sumatra.

But, it was used. Now, the story is probably like a triumph of nostalgia. "Before, we never serve guests as relaxed as this. Now, let guests albino, local guests can only counted on the fingers of the week, "said Lena Siallagan, manager of a hotel in Tuktuk Siadong now often deserted as other major tourist sites: Parapat, Tomok and Ambarita.

Danau Toba was not the same. How long can we wait it will rise from sleep, we do not know. To be sure, we're not expected to return Sitor writing poems about Lake Toba, which this time might be a satirical poem ...speedboatDanau Toba was not the same. How long can we wait it will rise from sleep, we do not know. To be sure, we're not expected to return Sitor writing poems about Lake Toba, which this time might be a satirical poem ...

Aek Natonang Lake, Lake on the Lake

2007-08-31T13:38:00.000+07:00

Walking on the side of a lake is fun. Water, the most important part of nature, was always able to offer one million travelers a interpretrasi of beauty, especially in an area that still touch naturally. Without greedy human beings, natural criminals a term for the loggers, loggers logging.

How to describe a lake on the lake? The question which first appeared in my mind when I heard and read briefly to explain Aek Natonang Lake, who was in the highlands of Samosir.

In fact Samosir regency, there are two lakes on the lake. First Sidihoni Lake, located about 8 kilometers from the district Pangururan Samosir regency. Surrounded by sloping green hills and rows of young pine trees, the added beauty. Unfortunately, this lake seems to "miserable" or not managed properly. Unfortunately again, most of the population around the lake are still using water to wash the toilet shower facilities (MCK). In addition, the limited transportation infrastructure also makes these attractions do not get many tourists visit.

That Samosir. The new district in 2003 divided it did have a lot of potential in the tourism sector. Sidihoni Lake, who is now languishing alone was not experienced. Its parent lake, Lake Toba, also languished. He has received "treatment" of the same community as well as local and central government.

If he could speak, he would rebel. If he has a tear, maybe he'll cry all the time and tears tu would be the clear lake water." On the way home, I assume if.

People treat it like a bathroom, shower as they pleased, wash clothes, so crap. That's what happened with the largest lake in Southeast Asia

Forget about it for a moment about the fate of Lake Toba. Now, it's time to visit tourist sites near human feet seldom touch it. Where? The answer, of Aek Natonang Lake. How getting there?

This is the problem since setting foot on the Earth's Samosir, recently. Since arriving in District Pangururan by road traffic from County Sidikalang Tele, a food trader explained in the capital district area of 1419.05 km's.

He was told, but the first order of boiled noodles. Very fitting to the weather conditions, cold. Based on this story we begin the journey toward the lake increasingly "mysterious" - at least for me - the next day.

From Pengururan continue our journey toward Tomok, known as the attraction of the show Sigale- gale statue. It is said, according Sidabutar (46), manager Tomok Museum, the word "Tomok" is derived from the word "Tolmok 'which means a young adult male who has a fat body posture and short. "But not too fat and not too short, while half," he said when we visited a museum filled with historical objects Batak tribe's heritage.

In detail she explains one by one sacred object that he found it hard, starting from the king bed Hobbung Sidabutar who once used as a storage property of the king), Panaluan Single Sticks, Laklak (book documenting the history of Batak and the ancient calendar calendar) , rudang, ulos, appang na bolon, parhokkom, pangir.

"One of the efforts to preserve the legacy of the many stores the value of art and the Batak culture, celebrated each year by organizing the ceremony called Horja Bios" he said with enthusiasm

***

The journey begins. I also remembered a remark, whether a song or sound of an ad on TV: "it's show time".

With the first renting a motor duck for Rp 50 thousand we started the journey to Lake Aek Natonang. "If you want to go to Aek Natonang Lake, lae, there you will find an exact intersection on the right, well from there go ahead, but be careful way worse," said an unknown guide.

So far about 1.5 hours was exhausting. Access roads winding and climbing. Once through the village we came Parmonagan Village Tanjungan where Aek Natonang Lake is located. Indeed, before reaching Parmonangan, access roads already paved Hotmix even when arrived at the Village Tanjungan, journey began tergganggu due road conditions are not feasible at all. His condition is serious and worrying. Damage to road access due to be used for the purposes of trucks laden with a cargo of logs a ton of weight

Tanjungan Village, community life events seem entirely based on agriculture. Some worked as a woodcutter, either to be taken where, but at least it was illegal-logging, it is not likely to damage the majority tofografi sloping hills. Some also planted with coffee beans, onions and peanuts

Aek Natonang Lake was very beautiful. Although the water is not as clear water of Lake Toba, but the calm water and beautiful natural atmosphere makes anyone feel at home here visiting for a long time. Unfortunately, in this place there is not any means of support for tourists attracted to come here. As a result, boredom, might be a "gift" which sets in for long when I got here

That Aek Natonang Lake, again I assume if: "If the lakes in this Samosir (Sidihoni Lake, Lake Aek Natonang and Lake Toba) could talk, they would revolt, if they can cry, may be many small lakes due to crying ". No feel like, we've got Tuktuk Siadong, where we stayed.

Mmh, cold .... But, nice!

Sipiso-piso Waterfall

2007-08-30T15:14:00.000+07:00

Waterfall-piso Sipiso located not far from the village Tongging. Still in the same district. If Tongging in lowland Karo, the opposite-piso Sipiso was directly overhead. Thus, exploring the means also explored Tongging Sipiso-piso. Both can not be separated although both have the value of its own.

Area Sipiso-piso is upland areas of unexploited. Sipiso waterfalls and mountain Sipiso-piso become influential in the topography. Steep. The wind from the mountains and lakes throughout the day behembus together, with each person who lived in it.

At least that is recorded when the exploring tourist attraction, located about 35 kilometers from the city Brastagi, Karo Regency. It's just people saying, "another first, another right now," probably true. The reason, Sipiso-piso now often empty. Visitors who come do not like it used to be. The problem is apparently Sipiso-piso is going through times of scarcity of tourists.

"It is true, now quiet, different from the first time" said Sidauruk Boru, one of the souvenir sellers around tourist sites. According Sidauruk, since the emergence of Faith Park (TWI) Dairi, the number of tourists visit to Sipiso-piso gradually decreased.

Fadil, who came with his wife and two children had to admit it. TWI is affecting the establishment of stretching Sipiso-piso. If first-piso Sipiso an alternative to major attractions in the area of Karo. But since the TWI that offer religious nuance, slowly people started meninggakan Sipiso-piso and switch to the TWI is not so far away.

"Now, Sipiso-piso may be visited by tourists just for temporary release tired, because people already feel bored with the atmosphere of so-so alone," he said.

This is certainly a big impact on the existence of souvenir merchants. Sidauruk recognizes sales turnover decreased. When we meet him, when it was already noon, only one visitor who buy merchandise. Another is with Boru Saragih, he was not even "open primary" or not one has to buy his wares.

That afternoon, only a few visitors who come there. Not much different afternoon, a group of tourists who carried a travel agency arrived. Tourists originated from Malaysia and some are local tourists.

Goval, one of them, who came with his wife confessed, Sipiso-piso no less amazing. "Toba Lake not only can be enjoyed from Parapat or Samosir course," he said. The atmosphere is quiet and the view was gorgeous. Only, he made no comment when asked about the rubbish that was scattered around the major tourist sites.

According to himself it was time Sidauruk rearranged back Sipiso-piso. Cleanliness is very important to be maintained. He admitted there are still between them (perpetrators tour) is negligent and consider trivial soa hygiene. Neither have "conscious tourist", not understanding how a potential tourist areas but not used it well. Not only that, the perpetrators tourists should be also a friendly waiter was not otherwise serve solely for the benefit of a second.

Tired but happy ...

Tired but happy ... So maybe that will satisfied down the path to the fall of Waterfall Sipiso -piso along 120 meters. Water spills will then flow away to a puddle of Lake Toba.

Waterfall Sipiso-piso is approximately 1 kilometre to as far down the up one by one concrete steps. When step down one by one rung it looks great panoramic views of the lake, extend right on the edge is Tongging Village

In addition to fatigue on the road to Waterfall Sipiso-piso, there is also Hill Sipiso-piso (about 1 kilometre from the waterfall), which is a strategic location for sport parachuting. This exercise can be done by starting the jump from the top of the Mount Sipiso-piso and landing on Tongging Village, on the edge of the lake. So .., are you ready? Explore and enjoy the beauty and challenge.

Nommensen and the Civilization of Batak

2007-08-30T14:46:00.000+07:00

Talking about Batak civilization will probably be a different story if Dr. Ludwig Ingwer Nommensen never set foot in the land of Batak. Who is he and why he was dubbed the "Apostel Batak"?

Nommmensen are human beings with extraordinary determination. Pastors struggle birth February 6, 1834 at Marsch Nordstrand, North Germany were to let go of animism and backwardness of the Batak civilization worthy of respect.

So no wonder, once the trial zending in Barmen, when the Danish and German envoys claim that Nommensen their citizens, the Reverend Dr. Justin Sihombing the present time, it insisted was a Batak Nommensen.

Young Nommensen, when even 28-year-old has left Nordstrand migrate and live in the Batak land until his death at the age of 84 years.

His youth, he passed by leading theological education (1857-1861) at the Rheinische Missions-Gesselschaft (RMG) Barmen, after receiving confirmation on Sunday palmarum 1849, when he was 15 years old.

In fact, the arrival of European evangelists to the Land of Batak had been commenced in the 1820s. In 1824 the British Baptist Church sent two evangelists: Reverend Ward Burton and the Reverend Evans first arrived in Batavia. Reverend Evans evangelize in South Tapanuli, Reverend Ward Burton in the region Silindung. Unfortunately, they were rejected. Animesme still strong in the life of Batak tribe.

Ten years later, two American evangelists: Samuel Lyman Munson and Henry arrived in Silindung. But, they were found there after his death was killed by a group of people in Lobu PINING Saksak, around Tarutung. The murder was committed on the orders of King Panggalamei. The two missionaries were buried in Lobu PINING, about 20 kilometers from the City Tarutung, Sibolga direction.

Dream of simplicity

Nommensen dream to become an evangelist has emerged since childhood, though at the time that he was accustomed to living simply. In the simplicity of it, because his parents are unemployed persons and often sickly, he was often hungry because no food and had to find the remains of food in the homes of the rich with their friends. So, since the age of 8 years he has become even hired a shepherd until the age of 10 years.

But, do not miss the obstacles blocking the noble ideals that. Once, when he was 12 years old, crashed while Nommensen romp with her friend and was hit by a horse-drawn carriage that made her legs paralyzed. But God willed other.

When his doctors recommended that his leg was amputated, he refused and asked to pray by his mother on the condition that, if the prayer was answered and he would preach the gospel to those who do not yet know Christ. Soon after the prayer was granted, he was cured.

In 1853, with a mature decision, armed with makeshift shoes and clothes, he left his hometown to achieve the ideals and promises, which also was delayed because of failure to be in port kolesi Wick. He then met with Hainsen, a former teacher at Boldixum. Hainsen then hired him as an assistant teacher in Tonderm after some time become Koster. It was here that he met with Reverend Hausted and ideals expressed it. He also applied at the Institute of Evangelism Barmen Rhine or RMG.

Nommensen and mature knowledge of the gospel with theological college in 1857, when 23-year-old. At that time, work as janitors, garden workers and school clerks, joined disambinya, until he graduated and was ordained a priest on 13 Oktober1861, who then took him to the Land Batak on June 23, 1862.

From Norsdtrand to Silindung

Nommensen, which now remain to be remembered and called by the honorary title "Ompu I, Apostel Batak ', in zending mission trip is not without obstacles. In fact, the few times he'd be killed and slaughtered by poison. The reason, he was suspected of being a spy "the bottar (white) eye" (stereotype is addressed to the Netherlands).

But he was not afraid because God promises to be fulfilled. Once, he said, "No way, tip of the hair will not be taken if not the will of God."

Previously, after an official sent from RMG Barmen he first met Dr. H. N. Van der Tuuk, who earlier in 1849 had been sent by the Dutch Bible Institute to study the Batak language.

After failing to get more information about the Batak, then on December 24, 1861 he set off with the ship "Partinax" toward Sumatra and arrived in Padang on May 16, 1862. From there he then went on his way to the Barus through Sibolga.

It was here that he first met directly with the Batak people and learn the language and ancestral lands. Only, he was not long there. In addition to its already the coming of Islamic religion, he saw the value of tribes who have plurarity together there: Toba, Angkola, Malays, Coastal.

So, after several months of living there, he decided to go to another area: Sipirok. Then, the decision of ministers meeting to-2 on October 7, 1862 at Sipirok (after previously serving in the harsh Sorat population, and founded the first church there), he went to the village area known as the Batak Silindung.

There, a time at peak (mountain) Siatas Barita (now the peak of the Cross Park Spiritual Love, Tarutung North Tapanuli), Nommensen never going to be killed. At that time ongoing ritual worship Sombaon Siatas Barita, is the worship of nature spirits Batak people. Buffalo were slaughtered. However, the ritual leader (Sibaso) did not like him and ordered his followers to kill him.

Then, Nommensen said to them, "the Spirit who speaks to Sibaso not Barita Siatas spirits, ancestors, but the spirit of Satan. Fathers may not sue the blood of one of his descendants. "Sibaso fell down and they did not bother him anymore.

Having successfully established a friendship with the kings of the most influential Silindung: King and King Pontas Amandari Lumban Tobing, then on May 29, 1864, Nommensen founded in Huta Dame church, around the village of Huta ni Sait, Tarutung. Then the King bids Pontas, then joined the church in the village was founded Pearaja, which has become the center of the church HKBP.

After that he went to Humbang and arrived in the village of Huta Ginjang. Then in 1876 he went to Toba accompanied by the Reverend Johannsen and reached the Balige. However, due to an emergency situation at that time, when the battle between the forces Sisingamangaraja XII with Dutch troops was happening, they put off the trip and returned to Silindung.

Pada 1886 Nommensen went back to Toba (Laguboti dan Sigumpar), after the death of Pendeta Kessel and Pendeta Pilgram succed spread Bible there in 1881. The second mission of this priest then continued by the Rev. Bonn has received the blessing of the High King and King Ompu Weigh Oppu which provide land school building in Laguboti.

Reverend Boon moved from Sigumpar to Nommensen Pangaloan and replace tasks. After Boon, Nommensen was blocked in a debate which had fellow plot of land with permission. After finally getting approval from the residents, he founded churches, schools, clinics, agricultural land and his home there. The concept of building a roof is called the "pargodungan", which became the character of each building a Protestant church in Batak Land.

From Sigumpar, Nommensen along with several other priests continue to climb zending "solu" (boat) across the lake to Samosir Island admired. So, in 1893 the Reverend J. Warneck arrived at Nainggolan, 1898 at Fiise Reverend Palipi, Reverend Lotz in 1911 and 1914 Reverend Pangururan in Ambarita Bregenstroth.

Mission zending not stop there. Nommensen then submit an application to RMG Barmen mission extended to Simalungun region. Responded to the request by sending the Reverend Simon, Reverend and Reverend William Meisel to Sigumpar on March 16, 1903. From there they went to the Three Langgiung, Purba, Sibuha-buhar, Sirongit, Bangun Purba, Tanjung Morawa, Medan, Deli Tua, Sibolangit and Bukum. Nommensen Together, they continued the journey through Ancient, Raya, Pane, Dolok Saribu to Onan bronze.

Inculturative Zending

Nommensen mission is full of sacrifice. But, he was sincere. For the sake of his mission, he did not even see her Gutbrod, who died after falling ill and had returned to Germany.

Nommensen too many memories left, which may be a symbol of sacrifice and service later. The memories are like seeds, although the sower is gone soon. Perhaps, Dame Church is one of those seeds, that when the author was visiting there, looking kondisiya already obsolete but still functioning. The little church was the first church founded as set foot in the area Silindung, Tarutung.

Its location in the village of Saitni Huta Onan Sitahuru, about 2 miles to the south City Tarutung, North Tapanuli. In this church, began to teach his flock Nommensen regularly. In addition to teaching the Bible (including translating the New Testament into the Batak language), he also taught agriculture and begin to develop implementation procedures with regular church services.

Onan Sitahuru itself, about 1816-1817 is the largest trade center in Tanah Batak because there is a "hariara '(banyan tree) in there. According to local residents, in this tree Nommensen will ever offered to the god Siatas Barita, but he managed to salvage his assistants. 190-year-old trees that still can be found there.

Noted also that since 1861 has stood the small churches (resort) in Sipirok and Flower zending Bondar on previous missions. Later on in 1862 in Nommensen Sorat hoarse, Pangaloan, Sigompulon; 1864 at Pearaja; Pansur Napitu in 1867; 1870 in Sipoholon, Sibolga, Aek Sand; 1875 at Simorangkir; 1876 at Bahal Stone; 1881 at Balige; 1882 in Sipahutar, Lintong ni Huta; 1883 in the estuary; 1884 in Laguboti, 1888 at Hutabarat, Sipiongot; 1890 in Sigumpar, Narumonda, Parsambilan, Parparean; 1893 at Nainggolan; 1894 at Silaitlait; Simanosor Batangtoru in 1897; 1898 at Palipi; 1899 in Lumban na Bolon, 1900 in Tampahan, Butar; 1901 at Sitorang; 1902 in Lumban Lobu, Silamosik, Nahornop; 1903 in Paranginan, Causeway Kingdom; 1904 in Dolok Sanggul; 1905 in Parmonangan, Sipiak; 1906 at Parsoburan; in Siantar 1907; 1908 at Sidikalang; 1909 in Bonan Dolok, Tukka; 1910 in Purbasaribu; 1911 in Barus; 1912 in Medan; Ambarita and 1914 in 1922 in Jakarta.

Now, the seeds had been fruitful with the birth of HKBP churches, GKPI, HKI, GKPS, GBKP and GKPA, as the fruit inkulturatif zending mission, who did not forget the authenticity of local culture in the implementation of routine worship. For his services, the RMG and then lifted Nommensen menjadai ephorus in 1881 until his death and was succeeded by Reverend Valentine Kessel (1918-1920). On February 6, 1904, when the age of 70, University of Bonn him the title of Doctor Honoris Causa. His name then ditabalkan HKBP to two universities in Medan and Pematangsiantar which until now still standing.

Then, in October 1993 also built the Cross Spiritual Tourism Regions Love (KWRSK) at the top Siatas Barita, where he first set foot on Silindung. The cross along the 31-meter fixed there, as if to describe the story of the great work.

Nommensen died on May 23, 1918 and was buried in the tomb of the second wife and his daughter Christine Hander and other missionaries in the village of Sigumpar, District Toba Samosir Silaen. Since 1891 he has lived there until the end of his life. Then on June 29, 1996 Foundation Pasopar, institutions concerned with the preservation of the history of Christianity in the Land of Batak, restoring the grave and mengabadikannya become "Nommensen Memorial".

Now, Nommensen has gone but his work alive. He has been sowing the seeds of love throughout the mission for us (Batak). And, did we reap the fruit of the love now? Hopefully ...

"Alive or dead let me stay in the middle of this nation and to spread the word of thy kingdom. Amen "
(Dr. Ludwig Ingwer Nommensen)

Garden of Faith, Spiritual Tourism Site in Dairi

2007-04-29T13:55:00.000+07:00

"Sitinjo, An Unique Spiritual Tourism Site." So an English-language national media homeland, January 9, 2005 interpret religious panorama of nature tourism that will Dairi we stopped. It is located in District Sitinjo, 3 kilometers from the City Sidikalang.

The car still drove across the black asphalt. The scene outside the cabin as we pulled to soon arrive at the destination. It impatiently. Fauzi, the photographer began to busy adjusting the camera. "It's certainly interesting," he said.

Before long, the car swerved to the left, through a portal that reads "Faith Park". Taman Wisata Iman, an appropriate name for the location that contains a million of this meaning. Pine lined brings coolness to the eye. Then, one by one house of worship buildings of worship of each religion seems to stand strong. All houses of worship there. As if Dairi want to show that religions harmonious and united to each other is something of great value and worth invested.

Our car climbed the winding road. But for Christians, winding streets and climbing believed to have its own spiritual value. For them, walking along the Nature Trail Faith likens the journey of Jesus carried the cross to Golgotha Peak.

They laughed, smiled. Looked something in their faces. Comfortable. And, they certainly different religions.

"That's the main function. Recalling the sufferings of Jesus or The Passion of the Christ as in the film was composed by Mel Gibson," said Secretary Sub Anton Sihaloho Sitinjo full meaning.

Approximately 100 meters after climbing the winding road, the journey we stopped. A monastery was standing right on the left side of the road. Saddhavadana monastery its name. This monastery was established in 2002 and now hinga always crowded local Buddhists to any field, even other cities.

Entering the inside of the monastery, a moment of silence was. A statue of Buddha sitting cross-legged with palms up to the front while the left hand supporting an elbow from below. Dim the lights dim lights make the atmosphere even more sacred. Echoes softly with guard monasteries can still be heard rolling in between the buildings.

Travel back to continue. "Mary Cave, sakrarlnya," Make us wonder. We were soon off. Before getting there we had to pass through the paths decreases. Carpet of flowers a bit disturbing thoughts to paradise. Peaceful.

Way down, though tiring but at least a meaning tergapai from there. Reliefs depicting the journey of suffering of Jesus before ascending into heaven (The Passion of the Christ) was alive. The statues were described when Jesus was tried, tortured, bore the cross to the summit Golgata until finally He was crucified and buried in a cave.

Several small cottage with an open window overlooking the valley and the hills enliven the church building next to the reliefs. While waiting for a family who were praying, the Christian visitors are still able to be patient with a swing and some wooden seats in a park not far from the cottage prayer.

Still half way. Felt tired climbing up and down the winding road, we rested for a moment. Beautiful natural scenery. The air smelled of pine scent everywhere. Student children appear in droves. Several families gathered to enjoy great lunch mats. They laughed, smiled. Looked something in their faces. Comfortable. And, they certainly different religions.

We finally arrived at a building the Kaaba mosque and relief at his side, after a few minutes to visit the temple for the Hindu religion. Appropriate building overlooking the valley with a garden and a wooden seat in front of him. From here the view will look towards Sub SUMBUL.

Reviving the Kaaba was surrounded by flowers. Some visitors seemed absorbed in aiming his camera lens. There are also walking around the park looking at him for long. This journey to the top of the Faith Park.

While enjoying the meal hot coffee, the day began that afternoon, back terenung in my heart that this is the gift of the Lord.

Sukarno’s trail at Tanah Karo

2007-04-24T14:06:00.000+07:00

Bougenville in the yard the white house like a silent witness. Nearby, look up a Dutch soldier on guard holding a weapon. Bung Karno, Sutan Syahrir and H Agus Salim looked laugh. Why do they laugh? Are not they in exile? Dunno. But, at least that is portrayed in the photograph hanging in his memoirs that the historic house, now.

Laugumba village, Karo District Land Berastagi precisely the area of 1.5 hectares, there is a semi-permanent houses whitewashed, tin-roofed measuring 20 × 30 meters, the width of the overgrown garden of green grass and flowers. Quiet place, away from the noise. Cool breeze most of the time. And did you know that that's where Sukarno, the pioneer of freedom with two important figures had been exiled during the Dutch launched a second military aggression, in 1948.

Ir Soekarno, who was also dubbed as "the dawn purtra" is the first president of the Republic of Indonesia (RI), H Agus Salim, who was the first prime minister of Indonesia, and Sutan Syahrir foreign ministers of Indonesia, three of them had stayed for 12 days there. After it was taken to Parapat for three days with a safety factor reasons.

The fact that there is anything about the third exile figure who is considered extremists by the Dutch? Many versions are explained. From the official site of Bung Karno Foundation, Cindy Adams in his book "Indonesian People's mouthpiece" (2001) write, "Berastagi is to Bengkulu experience life again. Only, there are some differences. One: they are not called exile. Now the term 'care for the safety'. Two: 'We moved away from our wives'. And three: 'we are in the barbed wire environment with supervised six people use guns pacing is continued.' "

Other versions. From among those arrested in Yogja (Yogyakata-red), nine people appointed to internired without specific criteria. No wonder that Sukarno and Hatta, including this group. However Syahrir, as a member of the Advisory Council has a less important position, is also included. Of the ministers at first, only the selected Agus Salim. In addition, another exiled KNIP Assa'at Chairman, Secretary of State Pringgodigdo, and S Suriadarma.

On December 23, 1948 they boarded a plane which is controlled by a newly assigned commander may open the sealed warrant "strictly confidential" if already in the air. Then the commander at that time knew that they had to go to the island of Bangka. Then when landed in the capital of Bangka, Pangkalpinang, Hatta along with three other prisoners were told to leave the plane. They were imprisoned there. Three people remained, Sukarno, and Agus Salim Syharir flown to Medan. From there they boarded a vehicle to Berastagi, a town in the mountains about 60 kilometers from the city of Medan.

After three days in Berastagi, there was security problems, then the three of them were exiled to another place. On January 1, 1949 they moved to Parapat, a popular vacation spot is not far from Berastagi. There, they were placed in a luxury vacation home is easier maintained. Similarly Giebels Lambert in his book "Biography of Sukarno 1901-1950" (2001) describes the events from Sukarno to exile to Parapat Berastagi.

Medium, DR Asvi Warman Adam (historian LIPI) in his statement in 2005 explaining, Bung Karno was not long in Berastagi for security reasons. Where they spend the Dutch side is not considered safe because it can be attacked by the People's Army. At that time, known as Tanah Karo axis of North Sumatra people's struggle to uphold the independence of the Republic of Indonesia. Was immediately transferred them to Parapat (on the edge of Lake Toba) on January 1, 1949. And on February 7, from Parapat they brought to the island of Bangka. They united there. Then on July 6, 1949 Bung Karno back to Yogyakarta.

White house colonial legacy

"Comrades! Tomb is a symbol of the continuity of life! Die! In the struggle. Bahana eternal call from Blitar Bung Karno to Tanah Karo "

(Sitor Situmorang)

Similarly Sitor Situmorang, literary force it to write a string of 45 sentences mark of respect to "the proclaimer" on a piece of marble stone in the monument Bung Karno, Laugamba Berastagi. Silent witness-violet-flowering tree that still thrives there charming garden. Birds chirping in the trees sounded calm atmosphere added.

The reason is this that makes the Dutch colonial government built a vacation home, which later became the home for the prisoner while Sukarno and the two key figures were in there?

S Sinaga, the former guard house prisoners who have often used as a mess (resting place) for the North Sumatra government officials, explaining that it was once the house was designated a special residence for the Dutch generals do their job during the colonial area Tanah Karo region .

Not clear when the house was built, which must be about in the 1800s, clearly Sinaga, who is a son of J Sinaga, the father who once worked as a Dutch chef (chef) in the house.

Amazingly, though old, was the condition of buildings and furniture in it still looked strong and durable. Sukarno was placed alone in a room. In the middle of the room between the bedroom with the bedroom Soekarno Agus Salim and Sutan Syahrir there is one set of tables and chairs.

There are also paintings hanging in there, an artistic painting flowers Eg, the work of F Van Vreeland and lukian a field of beautiful and fruitful work in January Sleyter. In the room was cool, calm. Well, in the living room will be found two photographs that hung on the wall of the living room, each of which illustrates that Seoekarno, Agus Salim and Sutan Syahrir never stop at this place.

The second picture is a reproduction of Anthony Meliala Sem. Was the original photo, Sinaga said, was in the hands of a Dutch citizen, who in 2001pernah loaned to Shem to reprinted.

"This is one of the historical evidence indicates that Sukarno had been exiled in Tanah Karo," she said, showing Bougenville the tree still grows short, and in front of him was a Dutch holding a long gun was watching berlars three of them. And in the image, all three look was laughing. Dressed Seokarno greatness, Sutan Syahrir wearing a shirt and vest, was Agus Salim, smiling, holding cane.

"Soekarno, Agus Salim and Sharir Sutan treated honorably. They are regarded as political prisoners by the Dutch respectable time, "said Sinaga and then show Bung Karno room, equipped with two beds, closet and separate bathroom from the room. Everything looks and strong preserved.

Outside, right in the middle of the courtyard, stands a bronze monument (a replica) Soekarno was sitting cross-legged on his right. With two spotlights on the left and the right, hand carved fruit Djoni Basri building named Bung Karno monument was inaugurated on December 22, 2005 by the Governor of North Sumatra (then T Rizal Nurdin), and Chairman of Yayasan Bung Karno Guruh Sukarnoputra.

Initially, restoration of house arrest that began Bung Karno April 2001 (100 years before the Bung Karno Stadium) will be equipped with a statue of Bung Karno's 7 feet tall, describes the Bung Karno was pointing forward with his right hand while his left hand pinching the baton of command. However, the plan was changed. "Thunder said the impression of a statue in such a way will undoubtedly menimbukan a variety of public opinion about the Bung Karno," said Sinaga.

Siantar Pedicab, One of North Sumatra Icon

2007-04-07T17:13:00.000+07:00

This is not the story a la Renegade USA. But, big (gede) pedicab dozing in the city of Pematangsiantar, one of a big city in North Sumatra province. Because the heat and make lazy. "Now is not the time anymore," Nasution said. "In the past, bisalah... (it’s ok). Hung at the intersection afternoon, tour until this afternoon and brought home money to fumigate the kitchen."

"Pedicab Siantar" who had become an icon and now impoverished again (Jamila). "It's about the last two years we were lazy," he said, pointing to the pedicab that was sleeping in front of his house.

Because the rickshaws were no longer able to survive and compete with the extravagance and slowness. Angkot (bus) lose much with the cheaper rates, faster and not noisy.

Langgiu, chairman of the organization Gabemas (Organization of Cycle rickshaw Siantar) to "unite" to rejuvenate the voice-rickshaw pedicab that was apparently ignored Nasution. "How could a foster father to help," he said.

The city is increasingly crowded. Nevertheless, this fact does not bode well for those with three-wheeled big vehicles often hung along the side-story shop houses along the highway.

It is said, tricycles which are often cited as an icon city that never Pematangsintar triumphed in the 1970's with no small amount too. Brand diverse ranging from BSA, Norton, Triumph and Ariel (not vocalist of Peter Pan band)

Langgiu continued. "Honestly I say, if not supported by other businesses, it will die rickshaws. Lucky some pedicab brother still has a good wife, who sell in the market. Pedicab was then used as well as a personal transport. But if you want to make a profit, do not insist. "

If any one wants to ride tricycles, they just want to repeat the nostalgia for the days of glory first. It was formerly popularity rickshaw out. So the hot afternoon many tricycles are sleepy brother became lazy, Langgiu said.

***

In the beginning was the “motor gede” are personal vehicles of the masters the Dutch first, but over time the motor is carried off from England in the decade 1940 to 1950 was turned into rickshaws.

The amount is now about 400, although according to the survey conducted CV. Gabemas, in the 1970s and 80s numbers ranged 1500s.

"The absence of inventory of spare parts was forced to make a pedicab is seated. Indeed some still survive, it was because there were workshops that still have the ability to handle it. How to operate a lathe and welding the old parts and put back," said Langgiu.

"Since gasoline rising number of passengers was reduced, the result was not enough to make smoke in the kitchen," says Bodin Nasution (55) who have decades pull rickshaws.

A similar thing happened Sugito GP (55), Suwarno (50), Rusli Nasution (50), and a few tricycles brother who often hung the intersection of three Jalan Kartini it. "Fortunately, he has side income. My wife traded in the market," Sugito said.

As a result they were not reluctant to sell their pedicab. "But only a collector of old motor-lovers would like this," said Langgiu. A buyer had been bought his pedicab 15 million rupiahs and 10 million rupiahs. But lately rare. "How long can expect windfall?" He said.

That afternoon, two men approached them. But, they looked mediocre. "It must offer cheap," said one of them. And bargaining ensued. "Passengers now been spoiled," he said after the transaction failed and the two men went away. That afternoon they returned to enjoy the afternoon, lounging.

Traveling North Sumatra

2007-03-12T20:31:00.000+07:00

If you've ever heard about Lake Toba as one of the favorite destinations of foreign tourists Indonesia, North Sumatra is the place where the lake is located.

North Sumatra is one of the 33 provinces in Indonesia. Located in one of Indonesia's largest islands - Sumatra -, which consists of 33 provincial and city district, is fairly rich in terms of culture because it occupied seven major ethnic groups, namely Batak Toba, Simalungun, Karo, Nias, Pakpak (Dairi), Mandailing, Malay and ethnic migrants: Java. Each tribe has its own unique culture, eg music, clothing, culinary, and many more.

Geographically, North Sumatra is on at 1 ° - 4 ° north latitude and 98 ° - 100 ° east longitude, land area of North Sumatra Province 71 680 km ². The province has 419 islands. Among them is Simuk Island (island of Nias), and idol in the straits of Sumatra island (Malacca).

In terms of tourism, North Sumatra has many natural places and landscapes, though sometimes unfortunate, the potential not fully managed with the maximally yet.

Some foreign tourists destination in North Sumatra are Lake Toba, Samosir Island, Tuktuk Peninsula, Bukit Lawang, Tangkahan, Nias which has beautiful beaches and is one of the famous surfing location in Asia, Karo Highland that has a panoramic view of nature and natural mountain fields like Mount Sinabung Sibayak,the landscape of Lau Kawar Lake, fruits party at Brastagi, and much more.

If you are adventurer, North Sumatra also has place for youu, they are national park that still rich in wildlife and founa. Both the national parks are the Gunung Leuser National Park and Batang Gadis National Park.

Cultural diversity has enriched the value of tourism as well as North Sumatra. For example, music, dance, architecture, culinary, or custom. All the wealth make the North Sumatra as one of the premier tourist destination in Indonesia, besides Bali.

Photo: Lake Toba is seen from Tongging Hill, Karo Highland