Tongging, Hillside town near Lake Toba, Indonesia
Tongging is a town situated on elevated terrain in Karo Regency, North Sumatra, overlooking a large lake below. The settlement occupies a hillside position with structures spread across the landscape facing the water.
The area is linked to King Silalahi, a major ruler in Batak history who shaped regional development. His influence left a lasting mark on how settlements and communities organized themselves across the territory.
Three Batak peoples—Toba, Pakpak, and Karo—share this place and speak their own languages in daily life. This cultural mix shapes how the community looks and functions, from the houses you see to the way people gather.
The drive from Medan takes roughly two hours by car, with local guesthouses and food stalls scattered around the area. Getting around on foot is manageable since the settlement is compact and residents are accustomed to helping travelers find their way.
Local fish farmers raise tilapia and goldfish in the lake waters, supplying the ingredient for Arsik, a regional dish. Each family prepares it differently according to recipes passed down through generations.
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