Things To Do
in Pematangsiantar
Pematangsiantar is a historic city in North Sumatra known for its Batak heritage and vibrant markets. It sits near rolling hills and lake views that make day trips easy to Lake Toba and surrounding scenery. The city blends traditional Batak culture with growing cafes, shops, and inviting attractions suitable for families and solo travelers alike.
Visitors can explore leafy parks, architectural landmarks, and friendly neighborhoods at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the Pematangsiantar Zoo, where you can encounter various native Indonesian wildlife. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to observe the animals while capturing memorable photographs. Afterward, indulge in a traditional breakfast at a local warung, savoring the flavors of Indonesian cuisine.
Visit the unique Sinabung Hill to enjoy panoramic views of the city and nearby volcanoes. Take a moment to reconnect with nature and appreciate the vibrant surroundings. For lunch, try some local delicacies at a nearby restaurant known for its spicy dishes.
Wind down with a visit to the city park, where you can observe locals engaging in evening activities. Grab a cup of traditional coffee at a local café, immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the city as night falls. Finish your evening by exploring the bustling night markets, sampling street food and handmade crafts.
Kick off the day with a visit to the local cultural museum to learn about the history and heritage of Pematangsiantar. Spend time exploring the exhibits and engaging with knowledgeable staff. Enjoy a light breakfast nearby that features local specialties.
Join a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Indonesian dishes using local ingredients. This hands-on experience connects you further with the culture as you enjoy your creations for lunch. Later, explore the city's art scene by visiting local galleries showcasing contemporary Indonesian art.
Attend a cultural performance at a local theater, watching traditional dance and music that reflect the rich heritage of the area. After the show, chat with performers and locals to learn more about their stories. Conclude the evening with dinner at a restaurant that honors the region’s cultural cuisine, offering a perfect blend of flavors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🧃Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 💳Local SIM card/top-up or basic groceries | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Batak culture and friendly locals
- Accessible day trips to Lake Toba and surrounding nature
- Reasonably priced food, lodging, and attractions
- Relaxed city vibe with growing cafes and markets
- Smaller nightlife scene compared with bigger cities
- Limited English in some markets and eateries
- Variable transportation options outside the city center
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana kamar kecil/ toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Saya tidak begitu bisa berbahasa Indonesia." - I don’t speak Indonesian very well.
- "Bisa rekomendasikan tempat makan enak?" - Can you recommend a good place to eat?
Places to Visit in Pematangsiantar
Visit one of these nice places.
The central square with trees, fountains, and morning market activity—great for street photography and sunset silhouettes against the skyline.
A prominent Batak church with distinctive architecture, offering opportunities to capture cultural and architectural details.
Colorful temple structures and lanterns provide vibrant contrast for portraits and architectural shots.
Food in Pematangsiantar
Pematangsiantar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Batak specialty of meat (often pork or chicken) simmered with a fragrant blend of chilies, shallots, and spices; best enjoyed with plain rice and a tangy sauce.
Must-Try!
Batak-style fish dish, typically made with turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, and spices; a flavorful curry-like preparation often served with vegetables and rice.
Batak-roasted pork with a smoky, savory glaze; commonly found in family-run eateries and larger restaurants.
A Batak noodle dish featuring thick noodles tossed with meat, vegetables, and a savory sauce, known for its comforting, home-style flavor.
A variant of Arsik focusing on a robust sambal and carefully prepared fish, often enjoyed with rice and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling traditional market where you can sample fresh produce, fish, ready-to-eat snacks, and Batak pantry items in a lively, local setting.
Evening stalls offering grilled skewers, fried snacks, nasi goreng, and sambal-rich bites; great for a casual, budget-friendly dinner.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; address elders with appropriate titles (Pak/Bu) and show polite, calm behavior in public spaces.
Dress modestly when visiting houses, religious sites, or markets. Remove shoes when entering homes or certain temples if asked.
Be mindful of local customs and community norms; ask for permission when photographing people in traditional dress or ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Pematangsiantar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for good service. In mid-range places, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.
Cash (IDR) is widely accepted; many places also take local cards. Mobile Wallets and transfers (where available) are increasingly common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically hotter and sunnier with less rainfall; ideal for outdoor city walks, markets, and lakeside viewpoints. Pack sun protection and stay hydrated.
Frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity; rain can cool evenings and create misty landscapes—great for moodier photography and lush greenery.
Pematangsiantar at Night
Hiking in Pematangsiantar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular nearby volcano hike with scenic crater views and lush forested trails, reachable by day trip from Pematangsiantar.
Ridge and waterfall viewpoints along Lake Toba’s northern shore offering panoramic lake scenery.
Airports
How to reach Pematangsiantar by plane.
Located to serve the Lake Toba region, DTB handles domestic and international flights and is usually the closest airport for longer getaways toward Parapat and Tongging.
Medan’s main international gateway; about a multi-hour drive from Pematangsiantar but provides wider flight options and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group with distinct traditions, language influences, and batik/ulos weaving heritage.
Active in commerce and markets, contributing to the city’s cuisine and commerce.
A young, family-friendly city with educational institutions and neighborhood communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the area, enjoyed casually in neighborhoods and organized leagues.
Common in schools and community centers with informal games and pickups.
Traditional Southeast Asian sport played in parks and schoolyards, especially among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pematangsiantar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; look for vegetable-based nasi or mie dishes, and ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste. When dining out, explain preferences clearly in Indonesian: Saya vegetarian.