Desa Na Tolu

North Sumatra Province - Indonesia

Meanings:

The Desa Na Tolu pattern symbolizes the Batak philosophy of existence and harmony in Batak society. It is a code symbolizing the rules of mutual respect, as well as a code of ethics of relations with family members, specifically the clan of one’s spouse and in-laws.

Note:  All contents and batik images are protected by Indonesian cultural property law. This documentation is intended for educational purposes and to facilitate the preservation of Batik UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage 2009. Any use of published materials is allowed only with reference to this website as the original source of publication. 

How to preserve Batik

Philosophical Meanings of Batik

Learn and identify the meaning of the motifs from each region. Are you searching for a meaningful gift for your loved ones? Surprise them with a merry little Batik!

Authentic Batik

Buy the authentic handwritten Batik textiles to add to your prestigious collection. Such support will enhance the well-being of Batik artisans and preserve the living heritage.

Batik Community

If you want to meet the Batik artisans, we encourage you to visit and support Batik workshops in Indonesia. You may discover the local tourism that suits your preference!

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009

Batik Production Process in North Sumatra

Batik production can take 1 month up to 2 years of working time depending on the purposes of the textile creation and the colour complexity. The Batik handwriting textile is generally made with 8 design steps, ranging from wax patterning to colouring process. The artists use Canting, as a tool to put hot melted wax on the cloth. 

Batik Regions 

Overview of North Sumatra Province

North Sumatra is known for its natural landscape, UNESCO natural biosphere of Lake Toba, and living heritage. The acculturation of Hindu, Islam and western culture is reflected in the local living tradition, architecture and traditional dances. 

Batik Villages in North Sumatra Province

Batik villages are the region where the Batik producers mostly reside and open their  Batik workshops, as well as display their Batik products. You could buy the Batik textiles from the artisans and participate in the making process of Batik on the site.

Other Motifs in North Sumatra

North Sumatra 

Tourism

Maria Annai Velangkani Catholic Church

The unique church building was made for and by Catholics of Tamil Indian descendants in

Floating Batak House

The boat tours that adopt the concept of floating Batak house. With this boat,

Al Mashun Historical Mosque of Medan

This mosque was built during the reign of Sultan Ma’mun Alrasyid Perkasa Alam in

Samosir Island – Toba Lake 

This place is an ancient village that exudes a unique culture of the Batak ethnic group

 

Discover

Indonesian

Tourism

Sentani Lake Festival

If you happen to be here around June 19th, you should definitely take part in

Manado City

The city of Manado is famous as a unique city as it is located in a bay near

Historical Grand Mosque of Palembang

Grand Mosque of Palembang, founded in 1738, has a distinctive blend of three cultures,

Pontianak City

The capital city of West Kalimantan that also known as the “Equator Zero”. Apart from this unique

Sandeq Race Festival

Do you want to know one of the world’s fastest wooden boat? Sandeq boat is

Museum of Adityawarman

The museum was built to commemorate Adityawarman, a king of Minangkabau in

Baiturrahman Historical Grand Mosque

The Grand Mosque of Aceh was built in 1612 during the reign of

Cual Woven Textile Museum

This museum is the first and only museum in Pangkalpinang that provides

Fort Marlborough

Fort Marlborough in Bengkulu was once built by the British colonial era during

Setu Babakan – Betawi Cultural Village

This place will make you know and appreciate some cultural heritage of