Culture of Batak People in Lake Toba, Indonesia

by Muhammad Hussein Bin Abdullah (Malaysia)

I didn't expect to find Malaysia

Trust me, I didn't expect to find graveyards that even bigger than a house, yes this is true in Samosir Island of Lake Toba, Indonesia. What even more surprised me is that they name it as the family graveyard. The richer you are, the bigger the family graveyard so that is rules apply here on the size of graveyard. Interestingly most of the graveyard decorated, painted and built creatively so it's a must for you to visit and witness yourself! Do you have heard any king eating humans in the past? If you didn't hear any before, then a visit to Samosir Island in Lake Toba, Indonesia should be in your mind. But, don't worry the King is no more exists and you will not be eaten there, haha! You will be listening do the true story at the place where the King ate those humans hundred of years ago during your visit to the Batak Village. Do you know Lake Toba is the biggest lake that formed from the giant volcano eruption in the past? Yes, and the lake is even 100km in the length. Lake Toba is a mesmerizing lake for panoramic experience with the loved one, you will just feel you are surrounded with the green hill, crystal clear lake water, wooden heritage houses and small boat for the lake cruise. It's a must-try place if you are planning for your honeymoon with a small budget! Another interesting thing that I manage to explore is the wedding ceremony for the Batak people. You will see the whole street filled with wishes billboard of fresh flowers, dance, and songs, mass gathering outside of the wedding house. I know Muslims serve beef or buffalo on the wedding day, but I didn't expect to find that the richer you are in Lake Toba, the more buffalo you will serve for the public. I come to know some even serve 5 to 6 buffalo portions of meat during the wedding ceremony and buffalo prices are just like gold prices there, full of fluctuation due to high demand. Travelling is always something fun if you enjoy the places, the scenery, the culture, the people, the topography, the climate and of course the new things that you going to explore. So, keep your eyes and heart open for traveling in your life. Believe me, you should see the magnificent atmosphere and distinct culture of Lake Toba, Indonesia at least one time in your life!