Things To Know Before Going To Berastagi

Here’s a complete guide of things to know before going to Berastagi, Indonesia — so you can make the most of your trip and avoid surprises.

1. Overview of Berastagi
Berastagi is a town and district of Karo Regency. It is located about 66 km from Medan, the capital city of North Sumatera. Located in the Karo Highlands at an altitude of around 1,300 meters (4.265 ft) above sea level, it’s famous for its cool climate, volcanoes, fruit farms, and Karo culture.

2. Main Attractions
Here are the top sites you shouldn’t miss:

– Mount Sibayak
Type: Dormant volcano (last erupted in the 1881, still steams today)
Why go: Easy trek (2 hours to the summit), surreal sulfur vents, and panoramic sunrise views over Berastagi.
Tips: Start around 4 AM for sunrise; bring a jacket and flashlight.
Entrance fee: Around IDR 10,000–20,000.
Local guide: Recommended if you’re new to hiking or it’s your first time in the area.

– Mount Sinabung
Type: Active and unpredictable volcano (has erupted several times in the 2000s)
Status: Access is often restricted, but you can view it safely from a distance near Sukanalu or the Gundaling viewpoint.
Tip: Always check eruption alerts before planning a close visit.

– Gundaling Hill
Scenic viewpoint overlooking Berastagi with both volcanoes visible on clear days.
You can rent a horse or enjoy coffee at the hilltop.
Great for sunset or early morning photography.

– Berastagi Fruit Market (Pasar Buah)
Famous for fresh fruits like oranges, strawberries, passion fruit, and avocados.
Try local snacks and Batak delicacies while exploring.
Open daily; best time to visit is in the morning.

– Hot Springs (Lau Debuk Debuk)
Located at the base of Mount Sibayak.
Natural sulfur hot springs — perfect after a long hike.
Entrance: IDR. 10,000–20,000.
Bring your own towel and modest swimwear.

– Lumbini Natural Park
A replica of Myanmar’s Shwedagon Pagoda, beautifully maintained with gardens and gold details.
Peaceful and great for photography.
Modest dress recommended (cover shoulders and knees).

3. Climate and Best Time to Visit
Temperature: 15–25°C year-round (cool and refreshing).
Best time: March to September (dry season, perfect for hiking and outdoor trips).
Rainy season: October–April — expect daily showers but usually not all-day rain.
Tip: Evenings can get cold — pack a light jacket or sweater.

4. How to Get There
From Medan:
By car or van: 2–3 hours via the Medan–Kabanjahe route.
By bus: From Simpang selayang terminal in Medan to Berastagi (buses leave every 30 minutes).
Fare: around IDR 20,000–30,000.
Private driver: IDR 700,000–800,000 one-way, convenient for groups or families.

5. Where to Stay
Budget: Sibayak Multi Rest House, Sapo Rumbia
Mid-range: Hotel Sibayak International, Kalang Ulu Hotel
Luxury: Mikie Holiday Resort (family-friendly, near amusement park), Sinabung Hills Hotel.
Tip: Choose accommodation with mountain views for a better experience.

6. What to Eat
Berastagi has unique Karo cuisine and mountain produce:
Babi Panggang Karo (Karo-style roasted pork) — signature dish for non-Muslim visitors.
Nasi goreng (fried rice) It’s made by stir-frying cooked rice with a mix of sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), shallots, garlic, chili, and eggs, often combined with chicken.
Sayur daun ubi tumbuk (pounded cassava leaves with coconut milk).
Local strawberries, passion fruit juice, and corn on the cob.
Tip: Many stalls are small family-owned — expect homestyle cooking and fresh ingredients.

7. Culture and Local Etiquette
People are mostly Karo, friendly and welcoming.
Basic Bahasa Indonesia helps — English is not widely spoken outside hotels.
Always greet locals with a smile and a polite “Mejuah juah!” (Karo greeting).
Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural villages.

8. Packing Tips
Jacket or sweater (cool nights)
Hiking shoes or sneakers
Raincoat or poncho (in case of rain)
Flashlight (for early morning hikes)
Sunscreen and hat (for daytime trekking)
Cash (many small shops don’t accept cards)

9. Safety and Health Tips
Volcano safety: Always check local updates for Mount Sinabung before visiting.
Altitude: Mildly high, but not enough to cause sickness — just stay hydrated.
Roads: Can be winding and foggy — drive carefully if renting a car.
Water: Drink bottled or boiled water only.

10. Souvenirs to Bring Home
Locally grown oranges, strawberries, and avocados
Batak handicrafts (woven ulos cloth, wood carvings)
Coffee beans from nearby Karo highlands
Essential oils or sulfur-based soaps from the hot springs