Pengembangan Peapira Lakeside sebagai Destinasi di Desa Sibolangit Kecamatan Merek Kabupaten Karo

Abstract

Sibolangit Village, located in Merek District, Karo Regency, has untapped natural tourism potential, one of which is Pea Pira Lakeside. This study aims to develop Pea Pira Lakeside as an attractive and sustainable tourism destination. The research employs a descriptive method with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and data analysis. The results indicate that the development of Pea Pira Lakeside has the potential to increase local community income, create job opportunities, and preserve the natural environment. An analysis of tourist visits in 2024 shows the highest surge in August, with 1,500 visitors. Although environmental awareness exists, scattered waste is still found in the tourist area. These findings serve as the basis for designing sustainable tourism management strategies. With proper management, Pea Pira Lakeside has great potential to enhance local community welfare while preserving environmental sustainability. Keywords: Pea Pira Lakeside, sustainable tourism, destination development, community welfare, natural environment.