Iridescent Lake Toba

IF EVER there was a place that could help liberate stress, it would most definitely be Lake Toba. Situated in the middle of the northern part of the Sumatra island in Indonesia, the natural lake sits 900 metres above sea level which gives its surroundings a naturally cooler climate.
This picturesque destination has always been popular with discerning travellers worldwide because of the stupendous views formed by prehistoric volcanic explosions.
As a matter of fact, Lake Toba is marked as the largest volcanic lake in the world with Samosir being the island formed at the centre of the lake that is almost as big as the size of Singapore.
Visitors often stay on the hill town of Berastagi, situated close to Lake Toba or at the mainland shore side of Samosir island, which happens to be the original home of the Batak Toba people.
These natives have been popularly known to take part in cannibalism – but it's important to know that they would not kill people for their meat.
However, if a crime-doer were to be punished to death and left out in the open after his punishment, natives are allowed to eat his meat.
In Berastagi, it's all about coming close to nature. Visit the Tahura National Park to catch a sight of wildlife, go on elephant rides, take a dip in the many hot springs in the area, or head over to the 30-metre-tall Sikulikap Waterfalls to admire the spectacular sight.
Tomok, a small village on the island, is the place to go looking for attractions from ancient times.
Apart from visiting the museum, visitors get to gaze upon former king Sidabatur's royal tomb placed next to his wife's, and a few other stone coffins belonging to his family.
Next, take a short journey by bus to Parapat, a small town located at the edge of Lake Toba.
It's a shopping haven where visitors can browse for souvenirs such as T-shirts and accessories including the ancient Batak calendar, wooden Batak guitar and more.
A true gem among the various accommodations surrounding the lake is Taman Simalem Resort in Tongging, that is strategically located above the lake and dubbed by many as the Pearl of Lake Toba.
The resort offers two types of accommodation – the first being a luxurious waterfall lodge that is tucked away in the forest; and the second, a newer concept style of lodge rooms that sit right at the edge of the hill overlooking the magnificent lake.
I was booked into the latter, which has a character all of its own. Looking out the window, I was mesmerised by the lush green mountain terrain, the cool climate and the outdoor terrace that offers spectacular views of the sunrise over the tranquil lake.
Much like its natural setting, the resort room's interior were mostly wooden elements with a plush-top design that delivers luxurious comfort.
It's impossible to get bored relaxing in the resort as guests can go for a picnic or catch the sunset at the Tea House which also serves oriental food and steamboat.
The resort also offers several other facilities such as a nine-hole golf course, fishing, horseback riding and karaoke sessions.
Guests can also take part in agricultural activities first-hand in the resort's on-site organic farm and fruit orchards as well as tea and coffee plantations.
Considering how agriculture traditionally plays an integral role as the backbone of the country's economy, the resort practises strict social and environmental policies, and it works with local villagers to educate staff members on proper farming techniques.
The writer's trip was made possible by AirAsia. AirAsia operates five daily flights from Kuala Lumpur and one daily flight from Penang to Medan, Indonesia. Travellers to Medan transiting via Kuala Lumpur can use the AirAsia Fly-Thru service which does away with the numerous check-ins, transit visas and multiple baggage transfers.