A Warm Welcome at Nachelle Homestay

As I stepped off the train and into the embrace of Kabanjahe’s lush landscapes, I was immediately enveloped by a sense of nostalgia. The journey had been a leisurely one, reminiscent of the many train rides I had taken across Europe in my youth. The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels had lulled me into a state of reflection, and now, as I arrived at Nachelle Homestay, I felt a familiar warmth. Meri, our host, greeted us with a smile that could rival the sun’s glow. Her hospitality was unparalleled, and she provided us with a detailed map of the local area, complete with notes on Indonesian dishes and useful phrases in Bahasa. It was a thoughtful touch that reminded me of the kindness I had encountered in small European villages.

The room at Nachelle was a sanctuary. Spacious and immaculate, it offered a hot shower and windows that framed the majestic Sibayak and Sinabung volcanoes. As I gazed out, I was transported back to the days when I would watch the Swiss Alps from a train window, the peaks standing tall and proud against the sky. Here, in this corner of Indonesia, I found a similar sense of awe and wonder.

The Journey to Sipiso-piso Waterfall

The next morning, we embarked on our journey to the Sipiso-piso Waterfall, guided by Meri’s husband, Abdi. His jovial nature and infectious laughter made the drive a delight. Abdi’s knowledge of the volcanic rocks and local flora was impressive, and he shared stories of their healing and nutritional properties with a passion that was contagious. It reminded me of the many guides I had met in my travels, each with their own tales and wisdom to impart.

As we approached the waterfall, the sound of cascading water grew louder, a symphony of nature that resonated deep within me. The Sipiso-piso Waterfall, one of the tallest in Indonesia, was a sight to behold. The water plunged from a cave in the Lake Toba caldera, creating a mist that danced in the sunlight. It was a moment of pure magic, akin to the times I had stood before the great waterfalls of Europe, feeling the power and beauty of nature in its rawest form.

A Taste of Tongging Village

After the waterfall, we made our way to Tongging Village, where the aroma of freshly grilled fish greeted us. The local Batak cuisine was a revelation, with flavors that were both bold and comforting. As I savored each bite, I was reminded of the meals I had shared with strangers in quaint European towns, where food was a bridge that connected us all.

The village itself was charming, with its vibrant community and picturesque surroundings. It was a place where time seemed to slow down, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the experience. As we made our way back to Berastagi, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the journey I had embarked upon. It was a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, where every moment is savored and every encounter cherished.

In the end, my trip to Kabanjahe was more than just a visit to a waterfall; it was a journey back in time, a chance to relive the romance of travel and the joy of discovery. And as I boarded the train once more, I knew that this experience would linger in my heart, much like the many journeys I had taken before.