Sibolang Durian

Medan


If you haven't tried durian, then stop by this 'aromatic' open-air eating establishment dedicated to the world's smelliest fruit. It's not just some random street vendor, this is a brightly lit neon 24-hour temple to durian, with picnic tables full of locals eagerly scooping out the flesh of this gooey local treat.

It's along the main strip, but you'll smell it before you see it. You pay by the weight, but it can be a little pricey out of season (which is generally December to June).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Medan attractions

1. Sri Mariamman Temple

0.7 MILES

Dating to 1884, Medan's oldest Hindu temple has a classic Dravidian style typical of South India, with a storied tower adorned with ornamental deity…

2. Town Hall

1.24 MILES

One of several fine examples of ornate Dutch colonial buildings in downtown Medan is the stately town hall, constructed in 1908.

3. Tjong A Fie Mansion

1.36 MILES

The home of a famous Chinese merchant who died in 1921 – formerly the wealthiest resident of Medan – this mansion mixes opulent Victorian and Chinese…

4. Istana Maimoon

1.67 MILES

The grand, 30-room Maimoon Palace was built by the Sultan of Deli in 1888 and features Malay, Mughal and Italian influences. Only the main room, which…

5. Mesjid Raya

1.88 MILES

The impressive Grand Mosque was commissioned by the Sultan of Deli in 1906. The Moroccan-style building has a grand entrance, towering ceilings, ornate…

6. Museum of North Sumatra

2.64 MILES

Housed in a striking traditional building, this museum has a well-presented collection ranging from early North Sumatran civilisations and the Hindu,…

7. Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni

4.31 MILES

One for advocates of religious diversity and quirky architecture, this surreal Catholic church combines Hindu and Islamic architecture styles with a…

8. Gunung Sibayak

24.52 MILES

Famous for its steamy sulphurous fumaroles, Gunung Sibayak (2094m) is one of Indonesia’s most accessible volcanoes. Getting to the summit for sunrise is a…