Samosir, Mata.co.id – You must have heard about Samosir Island right now, travelers? During this volcanic island with a height of 1000 meters is only known as a small island located in the middle of Lake Toba, the largest lake on the island of Sumatra. Perhaps not many people know if Samosir Island also keep a variety of charm, similar to Lake Toba that surrounds it. What charm is it? Let’s find out.
How to reach Samosir Island?
There are several ways to visit Samosir Island, and this time Mata.co.id will choose the air path because it is easier and safer, especially if you have never traveled to Sumatra. First you take a Medan plane, and your last stop is Kuala Namu International Airport. From here you find the Paradep bus that leads to Pematang Siantar. After traveling for 3 to 4 hours, tell the driver you want to get off at Simpang Dua Taksi Parapat. From here you take a taxi to Parapat which is about 1 hour away. Arrive at Parapat you can take a ferry to cross to Samosir Island.
Lake Over The Lake
Samosir Island is the main area of Samosir regency with an area of about 640 square kilometers. With this area of the island of Samosir became the single largest island in the world that is in the middle of the lake. Samosir Island was formed after the volcanic eruption 75 thousand years ago. And that incident not only formed the island of Samosir, but also the overall geographical condition. Volcanic eruptions have also formed two lakes on the island of Samosir, namely Lake Sidihoni and Lake Aek Natonang, both of which got the nickname as a lake that is above the lake (Lake Toba). Lake Sidihoni and Lake Aek Natonang are both beautiful panorama and the water is clear. Unfortunately there is no adequate access road, so both are often escaped the attention of tourists.
An ancient court in Kampung Siallagan
Kampung Siallagan is suitable for you who are interested in studying the history behind the founding of a place. The name Siallagan comes from the name of a king, the King of Siallagan, who had reigned in this region hundreds of years ago. Here you can find historical traces of rows of houses with traditional architecture built and established during the reign of King Siallagan. Until now the houses are still inhabited and well preserved, complete with stone fences that surround the village to protect people from wild beasts or enemy attacks.
King Siallagan is known to be quite firm in upholding the law. Evidenced by the Parsidangan Stone site that you can see inside the Kampung Siallagan. The shape of a courtroom, complete with tables and chairs made of stone, is used to prosecute thieves, criminals and criminals. If they are found guilty, then they will be sentenced to be beheaded here. Oh yes, do not try to occupy a chair or anything on the site Stone Parsidangan, travelers, because the site is very old and vulnerable to damage.
Dolls that can move on their own
Dolls move by themselves? Ah, not possible. It must be because someone is moving behind it. But, in a Sigale-gale show that you can only find on this Samosir Island, the dolls can really move on their own, travelers! The Sigale-gale show was originally created to amuse the hearts of King Rahat, a ruler who once ruled the island of Samosir. Once, King Rahat is saddened by the death of his son, King Manggale, on the battlefield. To console his heart then the royal shamans create a doll that has been filled with spells so that it can move his own hands in accordance with the accompaniment gondang (typical Batak drums).
Sigale-gale performances are still preserved Samosir Island community until now, and a show that is anticipated by tourists who visit here. Only, the Sigale-gale doll has got a modern twist and no longer uses spells to move it. The Sigale-gale doll has been specially designed to be driven by a pangurdot (Sigale-gale player). In the hands of an experienced pangurdot, the Sigale-gale doll is not only able to dance, but can also cry and really shed tears, like someone who is sad.
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In total there are three groups that usually perform Sigale-gale performances on Samosir Island. With Rp60.000, – only, you can enjoy three Sigale-gale dances with a duration of about 15 minutes. But you will not be able to see the action of the music players, because the accompaniment of music is played only through the audio recording. If you want to watch a Sigale-gale show complete with the music players can also, travelers. It’s just that the cost is bigger, which is about Rp 2.000.000, – for once performances. Understandable because in this original version of Sigale-gale show there will be more than 10 traditional music players who will accompany Sigale-gale dance.
