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THE REGENCY OF NIAS
Nias is one of the outstanding tourist attractions in North Sumatra. It lies in Latitude 1º 30' north and longitude 97º 98' east around 80 miles from Tapanuli bay. It covers an area of 5,625 km2 which is mostly lowland area of about 800 m above sea level.
This area consists of 131 islands and Nias is the biggest. It supports a population of about 620,000 people from various ethnic groups including Batak, Malay and Chinese.
Nias has a very unique culture and nature which is far different from other areas in North Sumatra. This is because of its separate and remote location from the rest of Sumatra.
It is well-known for its wonderful huge waves which make this place popular for water sports such as diving, fishing and surfing. It is also rich in impressive cultural heritage like stone megaliths, traditional Nias houses, customs, and dances (especially war and Maena dances).
Access to go to this place is easy and smooth. Ferries are available every day to take tourists from Sibolga to Gunung Sitoli and Teluk Dalam. Additionally, there are also domestic flights flying twice a day from Medan to Gunung Sitoli. The flight only takes less than one hour.
Gunung Sitoli is the capital city of Nias supporting almost 30,000 people. It is the centre of administrative and business affairs of the regency. There are now several travel agencies, hotels public bases and rental cars to support tourism here.
Likewise, some government and private banks have been established to make money transfers and provide money exchange services.
Tourist Information or tourist guidance can be obtained through the office of Kantor Pelayanan Wisata Nias (Nias Tourist Service Bereau), Jl. Sukarno No. 6. Telephone: 21545, Gunung Sitoli.
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