10 Things to Do in Medan Old Town (Kota Lama Medan), Medan, Indonesia
Medan Old Town (Kota Lama Medan) is the oldest part of Medan, the capital of North Sumatra. Located in the heart of the city, this area is full of history and culture, with many fascinating places to explore. From ancient temples and colonial buildings to bustling markets and delicious food, there is something for everyone in Medan Old Town. Here are 10 things to do in this vibrant area.
1. Visit Maimoon Palace
Maimoon Palace is a must-see for anyone visiting Medan Old Town. Built in 1888, this grand palace was the royal residence of the sultan of Deli, and is now a national heritage site. The palace is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture, with intricate carvings and colorful decorations. Inside, visitors can explore the palace’s many rooms and admire its beautiful furniture and artifacts.
2. Explore Great Mosque of Medan
The Great Mosque of Medan is the largest mosque in the city and one of the oldest in Indonesia. Built in 1906, the mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, with its beautiful minarets and domes. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate carvings and colorful decorations. The mosque also offers a great view of Medan Old Town, so make sure to take a few pictures!
3. Take a Stroll Along Pasar Ikan
Pasar Ikan is a bustling fish market located in the heart of Medan Old Town. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh seafood, from prawns and crabs to squid and octopus. The market is also a great place to experience the local culture, with many vendors selling traditional snacks and souvenirs.
4. Wander Through Tjong A Fie Mansion
Tjong A Fie Mansion is a beautiful colonial-style house located in the heart of Medan Old Town. Built in the late 19th century, the house is now a museum that showcases the life of the famous Chinese-Indonesian businessman Tjong A Fie. Inside, visitors can explore the many rooms, admire the beautiful furniture and artifacts, and learn more about the history of the house.
5. Visit Gedung Balai Kota
Gedung Balai Kota is a stunning colonial-style building that was once the administrative center of Medan. Built in the late 19th century, the building is now a museum that showcases the history and culture of the city. Inside, visitors can explore the many rooms and admire the beautiful furniture and artifacts.
6. Explore Vihara Gunung Timur
Vihara Gunung Timur is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the heart of Medan Old Town. Built in the late 19th century, the temple is a beautiful example of traditional Chinese architecture, with its intricate carvings and colorful decorations. Inside, visitors can admire the many statues and learn more about Buddhism.
7. Take a Walk Through Taman Sari
Taman Sari is a beautiful park located in the heart of Medan Old Town. Here, visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens and admire the many trees, plants, and flowers. The park also offers a great view of the city, so make sure to take a few pictures!
8. Visit Sri Mariamman Temple
Sri Mariamman Temple is a beautiful Hindu temple located in the heart of Medan Old Town. Built in the late 19th century, the temple is a stunning example of traditional Indian architecture, with its intricate carvings and colorful decorations. Inside, visitors can admire the many statues and learn more about Hinduism.
9. Visit Mesjid Raya
Mesjid Raya is a stunning mosque located in the heart of Medan Old Town. Built in the late 19th century, the mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture, with its intricate carvings and colorful decorations. Inside, visitors can admire the many statues and learn more about Islam.
10. Try Delicious Local Cuisine
Medan Old Town is a great place to try delicious local cuisine. From street food stalls to fine-dining restaurants, there are many places to choose from. Try some of the city’s famous dishes, such as nasi goreng (fried rice), sate ayam (chicken satay), and mie goreng (fried noodles). You won’t be disappointed!