Whenever you’re looking into Indonesia’s main tourist attractions, Lake Toba will surely be among them. Not only because it has an interesting legend behind it, but also because of its massive size and stunning view.
So as the town perched just at the edge of Lake Toba, Parapat naturally becomes as popular as the lake itself.
It offers serenity for everyone who steps foot there, but ultimately the town also serves as the primary transit point for travelers who are looking to cross the lake to reach Samosir Island – the island located in the middle of Lake Toba.
Interested in exploring Parapat and the Lake Toba area? Here’s a 2D1N itinerary to explore Parapat, only for you! There you go!
Read Also: 7 Things to Do in Parapat, A Hidden Paradise By Toba Lake
Day 1: Fun Water Activities & Deep-Dive Into Indonesia’s History
08:00 – 10:00 – Start Your Day at Kasih Beach
Photo: Google Maps
Is there any better way to get you started than by splashing around in refreshing water? Be sure to get to Parapat as early as possible to be able to enjoy the morning breeze and cool water at Kasih Beach!
The name Kasih itself literally translates to love or affection, making it the perfect place to spend time with loved ones – whether it is your partner, friends, or family, you’ll find activities suitable for all ages here.
You can start your morning slow by swimming around in the water, building sandcastles by the beach, or having a nice breakfast picnic under the trees. Or if you prefer something a little more challenging, you can try going on their Waterfun ride, a bouncy castle full of hurdles that floats on the calm waters of Kasih Beach.
10:30 – 12:00 – Visit “Rumah Pengasingan Bung Karno”
Photo: via tobaria.com
To cool down after your fun water adventures, you can stroll around Rumah Pengasingan Bung Karno, a house where one of Indonesia’s founding fathers was banished during the colonial era.
There’s something empowering in knowing your own history. Soekarno – along with Sutan Sjahrir and Agus Salim – were banished by the Dutch colony in an attempt to reclaim Indonesia from Japan after they lost World War II. Various historical items are still kept in great condition as historical artifacts, including Soekarno’s book collections and the furniture he once used.
Aside from learning Indonesian history, you’ll also find plenty of great photo spots. The building itself has stood strong since the 1820s, with a European architectural style that has its own unique appeal.
12:30 – 13:30 – Fill Your Tummy with Tasty Local Food at La Pinus Damasus Parapat
Foto: La Pinus Damasus via Facebook
After such tiring physical and mental activities, it’s only right that you get re-energized, what better way to do so than by filling your stomach with tasty local foods?
Be sure to stop by La Pinus Damasus Parapat! Offering a vintage rustic vibe, the restaurant is dominated by wooden furniture that gives it a homey feel that makes you want to spend a long time there. Not only that, you’ll also get to sit back and enjoy the relaxing sight of green pine trees.
As for the dishes, you’ll be able to choose from a wide selection of fresh fish-based dishes, caught straight from Lake Toba. Paired with stir-fried veggies and warm rice, it’ll feel like heaven on earth!
Read Also: A Journey Through Time: Exploring Historic Christian Sites in North Sumatra
14:00 – Check-In to Bobocabin Parapat
Don’t forget to rest up after a series of long travels and taxing activities to ensure that you’ll still have some energy to explore the rest of Parapat the next day!
Bobocabin Parapat is the perfect place to stay. You’ll be able to enjoy the stunning view of Lake Toba right from your doorstep, as well as enjoy state-of-the-art modern cabins with facilities such as smart windows for maximum privacy and a built-in Bluetooth speaker for a more blissful rest.
You can also rent out various entertaining knick-knacks to keep you company as you enjoy the beautiful golden hour, such as card games, traditional congklak games, painting DIY kits, or a mini projector for movie night.
Day 2: Be One with Nature and Legends
11:00 – 12:00 WIB – Check-Out of Bobocabin
Start your morning by enjoying the serene view of Toba Lake in the morning. You’ll be greeted by a clear morning breeze that will make you feel energized to tackle the day.
After enjoying a delicious breakfast provided by Bobocabin, don’t forget to pack up and get ready for yet another adventure ahead! Check-out time will be done by 12:00 so be sure to do it before then.
12:30 – 13:30 WIB – Have Energizing Lunch at Biwa Cafe & Resto
Foto: Biwa Cafe & Resto via Facebook
Enjoy a hearty lunch among green trees at Biwa Cafe & Resto! You’ll get a selection of mouth-watering dishes, ranging from Indonesian dishes to Western dishes such as pasta, steak, and many more.
This way, you’ll get properly energized for the rest of the activities you’ll be doing later. Then, be ready for the next item on your 2D1N itinerary to explore Parapat!
14:00 – 15:30 WIB – Interact with Monkeys at Sibaganding Monkey Forest
Photo: via diskominfo.sumutprov.go.id
Witness monkeys in their natural habitat at Sibaganding Monkey Forest! The park was established to conserve the monkey species, once the founder realized that the monkeys were endangering themselves by going out of the forest to beg for food to the passing vehicles on the streets.
Aside from learning about the monkeys, you’ll also get to directly interact with them and see a show of talent from monkeys, such as exceptional biking skills or playing musical instruments.
Be sure not to miss any of the places listed in your 2D1N itinerary to explore Parapat with satisfaction.
Read Also: Breakfast with Orangutans in Bali: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
16:00 – 17:00 WIB – Witness a Legendary “Batu Gantung” for Yourself
Foto: Edward Tanujaya via Google Maps
As we know, Lake Toba’s legend is already well-known among Indonesians. One of the legendary sites, Batu Gantung, has now become a popular tourist site due to its unique mythical charm.
When you visit Batu Gantung, you’ll be able to see a rock formation that looks like the form of a woman and a dog next to her. It is said that the woman was arranged to be married to a dull man.
With no love, she didn’t want to go through with the marriage and ended up running away, accompanied by her loyal dog.
In desperation, she attempted to take her own life by jumping off the cliff along with her dog. But alas, her hair got caught in the tree branches growing at the edge of the cliff. The girl and the dog then turned into a rock, and that’s why the site is called Batu Gantung – literally translated to Hanging Rock.
17:30 – 19:00 WIB – Relaxing Night Stroll at Bebas Beach
Photo: via danautoba.co.id
To close the trip off, enjoy the gorgeous view of Lake Toba during the golden hour. Shaded under the lush trees, you’ll be accompanied by a cool breeze while taking a stroll around Bebas Beach.
Don’t forget to take some pictures of the landscape, it’ll be a great way to remember your trip!
Now be honest, how exciting does it all sound like? If you only have 2D1N to explore Parapat, be sure to follow our itinerary for the best time there!
Don’t forget to download the Bobobox app on the Play Store or App Store and secure your unforgettable stay at Bobocabin Parapat now!
Writer: Sheila Lalita
Header Image: Shahril KHMD via Shutterstock
