Aceh Tsunami Museum, Banda Aceh

Lake Toba is said to be the largest volcanic lake in the world. It is spread across 1,707 km. sq. and it is even bigger than Singapore with an island in its center. The lake is said to be formed some 70,000 years ago due to gigantic volcanic eruptions and it is probably the largest resurgent caldera on Earth. Highlights: Tourists can experience lovely hot springs that are to the western side of the island across the causeway from Panguran. Trek lovers can also explore the jungle trekking options and visit the beautiful Sipisopiso waterfall surrounded by green vegetation all around. The traditional Batak dance in Bagus restaurant every Wednesday and Saturday from 8:15pm onwards is frequented by locals and tourists alike. One can also buy traditional Bataknese handicraft items, weaved clothes, Sarungs and fragrant clothes among other things from Kain harum market here. Location: Lake Toba is situated in Sumatra, Indonesia. Timings: Open round the year. Price: Entry to the lake is free of cost but some activities inside are chargeable.

Aceh Tsunami Museum is a museum that is designed as a symbolic reminder of the Tsunami disaster and Indian Ocean earthquake that shook the country in the year 2004. Highlights: When you enter the Aceh Tsunami Museum at the main gate, you will come across a dark hall. In this hall there is water falling from above. It gives an illusion of being in a tsunami wave. Walking from here, you’ll arrive in the exhibition room that is dominated by the dark color. This room is adorned with a number of pictures of the Tsunami and the pictures depicting the devastation caused by this heartbreaking event. Next, you’ll come across the Cahaya Tuhan (God's Light) room. You’ll also experience yourself facing the tsunami waves. Further, if you walk to the next room, you’ll see Jembatan Harapan (Bridge of Hope). In this room, you can watch 15 minute long tsunami documentaries that are played here. Location: Aceh Tsunami Museum is located at Jalan Sultan Iskandar Muda No. 3, Sukaramai, Baiturrahman, Kota Banda Aceh, Aceh 23243, Indonesia. Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM Price: Entry is free.