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Known for being secluded on the northeast coast of Sumatra, visitors frequently pass over Medan since this city is found off-the-beaten-path in comparison to others around Indonesia; yet those who explore this bustling locale receive a host of historical impressions coupled with insight into traditional cultures and stunning views. Being the fourth biggest city of Indonesia, Medan flavor is a cosmopolitan blend of Indian, Chinese Malay and Batak culture with distinctive influences. Here we provide an overview of the city to inspire you for your next amazing journey in Medan Tropical City by another travel tour guide.
Background of Medan
Because as colourful its past, Medan is a melting pot of Indonesia with population from many different ethnics background. The village was founded at the end of 16th century and raised very rapidly due to its good location and inflow of traders. However, when it became an essential center with respect to the tobacco crop which was just starting at that time under Dutch colonial rule. Much of Medan's architecture reflects its colonial past, with numerous old edifices that blend elements of indigenous and Dutch design.
Maimun Palace
The Maimun Palace remembers the city's royal heritage and is one of Medan's most iconic historical landmarks. Built by the Sultan of Deli in 1888, it is an extravagant palace fusing both traditional Mughal, Italian and Malay architectural styles. The palace's intricate marble interiors, with wood carvings and heavy ornamentation as well as a predominantly yellow front attempts to provides an idea of the riches of Deli Sultanate. Unlock yards out of the sultanate's history and also find grandiose makes a beeline for roam by checking out illustrious curios in the royal residence gallery.
The Mansion of Tjong A Fie
The next architectural marvel on our list is the Tjong A Fie Mansion: a beautifully restored building belonging to one of Medan city's most famous Chinese businessmen and philanthropist. This beautifully preserved house, built in 1895 as a remarkable mix of Chinese and European elements with significance to the earlier style is lauded here. It has now become a museum with some historical objects about people of china in Medan and also the life story Tjong A Fie. The mansion features nicely decorated rooms, and gardens filled with verdet greens making a pleasant oasis from the endless busy metropolis.
Cultural Fusion
THE MIX OF CULTURESOne of the things that makes this city so interesting is probably the wide range of different cultures in Medan. The city's festivals, temples and food etc. reflect the vibrant cultural heritage of Coimbatore offering a visitor too enjoyable experience
The Raya Al Mashun Mesjid
This is the Great Mosque of Medan also widely known as Mesjid Raya Al Mashun. The exterior of this stunning mosque is an interesting blend of Middle Eastern, Indian and Spanish architectural integration dating back to the year 1906. Its elegant black dome and striking minarets make it a widely-recognized tourist attraction. You are free to explore the beautifully decorated interiors of the mosque, where chandeliers swing and stained glass windows dance.
The Temple of Sri Mariamman
Medan is also the home of Sri Mariamman Temple, known as “House of worship” for Hindus in Medans based on religions. Located in colourfull RettnaMalyer's temple which is built 1884, devoted the godness Mariamman. The temple has a grand exterior and lots of fine carvings. It commemorates several Hindu festivals during the year, and is a spiritual center for Indian community in Medan. When inside the temple, visitors can soak in the colourful atmosphere and learn about Hindu rites and rituals
Gourmet Treats
Have To Try Medan Delightful Foods With the city's multicultural roots, it has a tasty heritage consisting of representitives from Malay Chinese, Indian and Batak food.
To Medan Soto
Another obligatory signature dish to try is Soto Medan, a yummy soup made from coconut milk and turmeric mixed with local spices. More of a heartier comfort, this rice dish served with boiled eggs and meat varieties is really tasty. Most warungs have Bajigur soup.
Ambon Bika
Bika Ambon is a popular choice for people who are still looking to sugar up their intake. A kind of cake that is very unique, the structure has a pandan flavour and characteristic honeycomb texture sifted with tapioca flour,sugar,eggs &coconut milk. Because of its lasting quality, it makes for the perfect souvenir to take home.
Durian Ucok The king of fruit durian, this a native Medan fruits. Though its aroma is controversial, durian has a cult following for it's decadant flavors and custard-like texture. Durian Ucok stand, reputed for selling many varieties of durians is one of the best place to taste this peculiar fruit. It is an absolute must-do experience, whether you have never tried durian before or if it's your favorite fruit.
Natural Enchantments
Medan Medan is more than just the gateway to its historical and cultural gems but also a base for some of Sumatra's most remarkable natural wonders. From serene woods to glimmering lakes, the surrounding area provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure
Toba Lake
Situated just a few hours outside of Medan is the largest volcanic lake in the world, called Lake Toba. Lake Toba, set amid verdant hills and quaint mountain towns is a stunning natural wonder created by one of the largest volcanic eruption to have occurred on earth over 70.000 years ago. The most interesting part of the lake is a well known india platform, Samosir Island. The guests will, here, be able to immerse themselves in the peacefulness of the lake during day time and pamper at hot springs; as well as visit traditional Batak settlements.
Berastagi
For those people who are after cooler temperatures, and the lovely view then Berastagi is definitely recommended. The renowned village in Karo Highlands is famous for a picturesque backdrop of flower beds, cool climate and vistas of Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak. For those who are more adventurous hikers, you can climb up the active volcano Mount Sibayak for a glorious sunrise. Definitely, visit the bustling markets in town selling local produce flower and bananas.
Bukit Lawang
A nature lover's paradise, Bukit Lawang is a small village on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park. This is one of the last strongholds for Sumatran orangutans in the wild. Visitors can see these incredible animals in person by taking guided tours that bring them deep into the rainforest. Seeing orangutans swinging through the trees. The park also contains an abundant fauna including gibbons, Thomas's leaf monkey alongside few birds.
Useful Advice for Vacationers
So when you do get a chance to come and visit, try following some of these tips below in order for your trip to be as fulfilling as possible.
Getting There: The main hub that connects Kuala Lumpur with the rest of the world, Kualanamu International Airport. It handles domestic as well as international flights and is located around 40 kms away in the city. From the airport, you can take air rail o taxi to reach city.
Navigating
While it can feature a traffic, Medan is an easy city to navigate for the most part. There are also many taxis and Grab ride-hailing services available to get around unto your next destination. Alternatively, you could get a slice of real local life by touring the city's neighborhoods on becak: motorized trishaws.
Ideal Time to Go
Medan has a tropical climate with annual temperatures ranging from 23°C to 32°C. If you want to experience the island without having monsoon rain ruining your plans, May until September is the perfect time since it's blue skies all day every day. However, Medan is on deemand throughout the year since its tourist attractions ar not much affected by climate activities.
Spoken Word and Spoken Word
Even though English is popular in Medan, especially at the tourism sites and big companies, Bahasa Indonesia will remain as being official language for this country. Learning a few basic words in Bahasa Indonesia could add to your experience and relationships with the locals.
Security and Well-being
Medan is quite a safe city for tourists but just take the normal precautions. Watch your stuff, especially in crowded areas and be careful when taking public transport. It is advised that you only drink bottled water while adhering to a basic level of cleanliness in order to avoid getting sick.
Money and Transaction
Theyale local currency used here is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). ATMs are very scattered in Medan, and major retailers such as restaurants or hotels also accept credit cards. Bringing some cash with you is always a good idea for small buys and dealings in the local markets.
Anyone who visit Medan would not need a reason to fall in love with her.EXIT Close everything. This place is quite interesting because here, you would never run out of things to explore as this city offers some awesome food and beautiful natural boundaries along with its enriched history and cultural diversity too. From gorgeous food, amazing palaces to jungle treks and searching for orangutans - a visit here is like nothing else.
Packing up your bags and get ready to uncover the magic of Medan, because surely here lies ahead an amazing journey!