Pematangsiantar

Introduction

You will find Pematangsiantar situated in the North Sumatra Province of Indonesia. Known as an enclave, the city is surrounded by the Simalungun Regency without being part of it.

The area has a history as a former second-level district and served as the administrative center for the surrounding region before its elevation to city status.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding the local culture and demographics. You will find that the population is primarily of Batak descent, with significant Chinese and Javanese communities. Unlike many other parts of Indonesia, the majority of the population are Christians rather than Muslims, meaning you can enjoy pork at the meat market or have a beer in the street without issue.

Navigate the town center by focusing on the two main roads where most essentials are located. You can explore the food market situated between these streets and visit the small shopping center which houses a tiny cinema.

Getting there

You can reach Pematangsiantar by first flying into Medan, which serves as a major hub with daily flights from Singapore, Malaysia, and various Indonesian cities. From the airport or city center in Medan, you have several options to complete your journey: take a shared taxi for a quicker trip, board a bus from the Amplas terminal, or choose the train for a longer but scenic experience.

Getting around

You can navigate the city by riding in a becak, a unique form of transportation found only in Siantar. These vintage bikes, originally made by BSA in England, feature distinct designs and special sounds, offering you a unique experience as you travel through the area.

Alternatively, you can choose between traveling by minibus or renting a motorbike. While minibuses provide an affordable way to travel, they operate without set schedules and may require local assistance to navigate. If you prefer independent travel, you can rent a 150cc Classic Vespa at a local guesthouse.

Where to stay

You can find a variety of accommodations depending on your preference for comfort or location. For those seeking modern amenities, the Grand Mega Hotel offers rooms equipped with air conditioning, hot water, and television sets. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, Siantar GH provides a peaceful stay in a garden setting near the bus station in Siatas Barita.

Other options include local guesthouses known as Losmen located within the city center area. You can also find clean budget accommodations at Wisma Tuluy situated north of the city center, or choose to stay at 1 Siantar Hotel if you require a well-known establishment with lobby Wi-Fi.

Food & drink

Savor the diverse flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine, including Batak specialties such as babi panggang—roast pork served with a special blood sauce—as well as ikan mas arsik and cincang. You can also explore local Chinese influences by trying Mie Keriting Siantar, a unique variation of wonton noodles. To find an array of Kedai and Kopi Tiam serving Chinese dishes and fusion foods, head to Jl. Surabaya. For those seeking baked goods, Roti Ganda is a popular destination for its bread.

While you won't find traditional bars here, you can experience the local atmosphere at tuak shops where people gather to drink tuak, a white palm wine. You might also enjoy a bottle of Badak, a root beer-style soft drink produced locally. For your caffeine fix or a sweet treat, visit the cafes on Jl. Cipto; Tok Kong offers a Batak-style experience in an old colonial house, while Café Coca-Cola serves homemade ice cream and wafers.

• Babi panggang
• Ikan mas arsik
• Cincang
• Mie Keriting Siantar
• Tuak
• Badak

What to see and do

Explore the cultural landmarks of the city center, where you can visit the Avalokitesvara Temple to see the Statue of Kwan Im. Nearby, you can find several colonial-style buildings from the Dutch era, including the old city hall and the post office. For a closer look at local history, visit the Museum Simalungun or explore the various houses of worship such as Masjid Taqwa Muhammadiyah and Gereja Kristen Protestant Simalungun.

Experience the local wildlife at the Pematangsiantar Zoo, which features native Indonesian animals like tigers, apes, and birds set among lush tropical trees. If you prefer a change of scenery, travel to the vast Sidamanik Tea Plantation or visit natural springs and fountains located south of the city center. For relaxation, you can swim in the public pool or at one of the local hotel facilities.

Three days in Pematangsiantar

Day one, you can begin your journey in Pematangsiantar as you settle into the local atmosphere of this region in North Sumatra Province. You can explore the area and get acquainted with the surroundings while preparing for your stay.

Day two, you can navigate the local landscape to experience the cultural blend of Batak, Chinese, and Javanese influences. You can spend your time exploring the sights and savoring the local environment.

Day three, you can relax and take in the final views of the area before your departure from the region.