Sibandang Island is the second biggest island inside Lake Toba, i.e., after Samosir. It is a hilly island with a size of 8.5 square kilometers (3.3 sq mi). Mango dominates its vegetation, but there are also coconut and bananas. Sibandang has a population of about 2,000 people who live as farmers and fishers. To see it on the map, click here.
What’s Special
Sibandang Island is the second largest island in Lake Toba, after Samosir Island. It is located about 40 kilometers from the city of Parapat. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and mango plantations.
Here are some of the things that make Sibandang Island special:
- The beaches: The beaches on Sibandang Island are some of the most beautiful in Lake Toba. They are white sand beaches with clear blue water.
- The vegetation: The island is covered in lush vegetation, including coconut trees, banana trees, and mango trees.
- The mango plantations: Sibandang Island is known for its mango plantations. The mangoes are sweet and juicy, and they are a popular souvenir to take home.
- The fishing: The waters around Sibandang Island are home to a variety of fish, including tilapia, catfish, and carp. Fishing is a popular activity on the island.
- The hiking trails: There are several hiking trails on Sibandang Island that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
- The local culture: The people of Sibandang Island are friendly and welcoming. They are proud of their culture and heritage, and they are happy to share it with visitors.
What to Enjoy
Here are 4 things you can find and enjoy when traveling to Sibandang Island:
- Ulos in Papande Village
You can witness the process of making ulos in Papande Village. Ulos in the village are still made with traditional looms by hand. In the past, the ulos from Papande Village were not intended for ordinary people, but only for the kings. Therefore, Sibandang is also famous as a luxury ulos producer.
- Hoda-Hoda
You can also enjoy Hoda-Hoda, one of the ancient rituals of the Sampuran Village community combined with the Mossak dance. This dance is a kind of martial arts from Batak land. The dance pattern is comparable to lumping horse dance in Java.
- Mango Sibandang Island is also known as Mango Island.
Buy some mangoes from the local residents and try them. January to February is the perfect time to enjoy mangoes in this village. The size is not too big, but the taste is sweet.
- Historic Relics
Visit the house of the Head of Nagari Raja Gukguk, the first king of Sibandang. It is a regular site of historical tours. The house is approximately 300 years old.
What to Expect
The sea condition in Sibandang Island is generally calm, with average wave heights of 1 to 2 meters. However, there can be strong winds and waves during the monsoon season. The water quality in Sibandang Island is generally good, with visibility of up to 10 meters. However, the water quality can deteriorate during the rainy season due to runoff from the surrounding mountains.
Here are some tips when visiting Sibandang Island:
- The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is generally sunny and clear during this time, making it more comfortable to explore the island.
- There is no public transportation to Sibandang Island, so you will need to take a private boat or charter a boat. The boat ride from Parapat to Sibandang Island takes about 1 hour.
- There are a few homestays and resorts on the island, but it is a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be strong in the dry season.
- Be respectful of the local culture and environment.
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