Simalungun

Simalungun is an administrative region in North Sumatra divided into 32 districts across a wide area. Raya serves as the administrative center where government functions are based.

The region took its current form in the early 1900s when Dutch colonial authorities organized seven kingdoms in the area. This restructuring established the foundation for modern administrative divisions.

The Simalungun community is organized around traditional family clans identified by surnames such as Saragih, Damanik, Purba, and Sinaga. These kinship structures remain visible in how people today maintain social bonds within the region.

The White Crater in Dolok Tinggi Raja is located roughly 90 kilometers from Medan and serves as a popular day trip destination. From Parapat town, visitors can access ferry connections to nearby islands.

The region provides access to Lake Toba, one of the world's largest crater lakes, making it a gateway to a major natural landmark. It also hosts the Sei Mangkei Special Economic Zone, which focuses on resource processing industries.

Location: North Sumatra

Capital city: Raya

Elevation above the sea: 597 m

Shares border with: Pematangsiantar, Batu Bara, Asahan, Toba, Karo, Deli Serdang, Serdang Bedagai

Website: http://simalungunkab.go.id

GPS coordinates: 2.90000,99.00000

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:15