Discover the attractions of the gateway to Sumatra and sample the local cuisine.

Medan, on the northern coast of Sumatra, is Indonesia's fourth-biggest city, after Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bandung, and the country's largest metropolis outside of Java. It's a city where Batak and Chinese cultures coexist harmoniously in architecture, and, more importantly for visitors, in delectable cuisine.

Medan is an excellent place to start your Sumatra experience because it is close to Gunung Leuser National Park, which is home to the Bukit Lawang orangutan sanctuary. Lake Toba, a supervolcano and crater lake, is within a few hours' drive from Medan. Samosir, a volcanic island in the midst of the lake, is the perfect place to unwind.

Medan is a great place to visit because it has a lot to offer.

Take control of the steering wheel

Explore the city by taking a ride on a motorised becak. The Sultanate of Deli's royal seat, Maimun Palace, is a must-see. Its one-of-a-kind interior design combines Malay, Islamic, Spanish, Indian, and Italian cultures. Also worth seeing is the nearby Medan Grand Mosque, which is built in a Moroccan style.

Taking the leap of faith

Visit Gunung Leuser National Park, which is approximately 86 kilometres from Medan and is worth a day trip. Visit Bukit Lawang or Ketambe hamlet on foot or take an elephant tour through the gorgeous foliage. Keep a look out for the park's orangutans, which are known for their friendly nature.

Over the ashes, there is a lake

Take a boat to Samosir, a volcanic island on Lake Toba. Many Toba Batak traditional houses may be seen in Samosir, which is the heart of Batak culture. In the small village of Tuktuk, you may easily find a place to stay.

Double-duty

At the foot of Mount Sibayak, about an hour from Medan, be stunned by the magnificence of the two-colored Sibolangit waterfall. If you want to see this beautiful waterfall, be prepared for a 2- to 3-hour hike because of the high phosphorus and sulphur levels in the water.

Signs of life

If you want to try some of Medan's diverse flavours, go to Merdeka Walk, where you'll find a variety of local delicacies all in one area. Try the Bataknese specialty arsik, a seafood dish made with andaliman, a spice related to Sichuan pepper that can only be found in the Batak highlands of North Tapanuli and Samosir.