- Karang Anyar Spring in Simalungun, North Sumatra, offers a natural and refreshing swimming experience sourced from Bah Pamujian. Known for its clear water and cool ambiance, it remains an affordable and family-friendly outdoor retreat near Pematangsiantar.
- Fed by the Bah Pamujian spring, Karang Anyar in Simalungun blends cultural heritage with natural beauty. Since the 1970s, it has become a peaceful recreation spot famed for its clean water and tranquil forest setting.
- A short drive from Pematangsiantar, the Karang Anyar bathing site highlights North Sumatra’s eco-tourism charm. Its fresh spring water, low entrance fees, and lush surroundings make it a hidden gem for weekend travelers.
Pemandian Karang Anyar, a natural spring bathing site in Simalungun Regency, North Sumatra, has quietly become one of the most beloved local destinations for those seeking a refreshing getaway in nature. The site draws its pristine waters from the Bah Pamujian spring, a continuous natural flow that keeps the pool crystal-clear and cool throughout the year. Located in Karang Rejo Village, this recreational retreat invites residents and travelers to experience the serenity of an unspoiled landscape.
The spring’s hydrological source, Bah Pamujian, carries both historical and cultural significance. Local folklore recounts that the site once served as a sacred space for traditional worship among the early Simalungun people. Hydrologists believe the spring is part of a subterranean network connected to the vast Lake Toba system nearby. Since the 1970s, the area has evolved from a modest bath site into a cherished community recreation ground, maintaining its natural charm despite gradual development.
Sheltered by tall trees and dense greenery, Karang Anyar offers a consistently cool climate, even under midday tropical sun. The stable water temperature and forest canopy create a microclimate that enhances comfort for visitors. This balance of shade and freshwater flow makes it a year-round favorite among locals seeking relief from urban heat.
One of its most recognized features is water clarity. The Bah Pamujian stream continuously refreshes several bathing pools with varying depths, designed to accommodate both children and adults safely. The natural sandy and rocky bottom, partially reinforced for convenience, provides an authentic touch to the swimming experience. The surrounding flora and occasional sight of monkeys perched on overhanging branches add to the site’s natural allure, reinforcing its identity as a genuine eco-tourism destination in North Sumatra.
Visiting Karang Anyar remains a highly affordable activity. Entrance fees range between Rp2,000 and Rp3,000 per person, with parking rates of Rp3,000 for motorcycles and Rp5,000 for private cars. Despite its minimalist operation, the site is sufficiently equipped with essential amenities such as gazebos, rinse rooms, and public toilets. Rental huts start from Rp30,000, offering rest areas for families or groups enjoying a day by the water.
Those arriving without packed meals will find small local eateries lining the entrance, serving traditional snacks and refreshing drinks such as fresh coconut water at friendly prices. These small warungs are managed by local residents, helping sustain the community’s economy through tourism.
Situated approximately 13 to 20 kilometers from downtown Pematangsiantar, Karang Anyar is accessible within 30 to 45 minutes by road. The route remains fairly straightforward, although some road sections near the village may require maintenance, particularly during the rainy season when potholes can fill with water. Visitors are advised to drive cautiously.
For the best experience, early morning visits are recommended. The air is freshest before midday, and the area remains tranquil before weekend crowds arrive — offering a more immersive encounter with nature’s calm.
Indonesianpost.com | GNFI