Daya Tarik Wisata di Taman Hutan Raya Bukit Barisan Tongkoh di Kecamatan Dolat Rayat Kabupaten Karo 1988-2019

Abstract

This research discusses the Tourist Attractions of the Bukit Barisan Grand Forest Park located in Tongkoh, Dolat Rayat Subdistrict, Karo Regency, during the period 1988–2019. The study aims to explain the background of the transition from the Sibolangit Forest to the Bukit Barisan Grand Forest Park. It also seeks to describe the utilization of the park as a tourist destination by identifying its main attractions. The research applies historical methodology, which consists of five stages: topic selection, heuristics (data collection), verification (source criticism), interpretation (analysis), and historiography (historical writing). Data were collected through literature studies and fieldwork, including interviews with tourism managers, the Central Bureau of Statistics of Karo Regency, the Department of Environment and Forestry, and local communities. Additionally, the study analyzes various documents such as books, journals, theses, and dissertations. The findings reveal that the Bukit Barisan Grand Forest Park was established as a transformation from the Sibolangit Forest, covering an area of 51,600 hectares. Tourism in the area initially emerged from interactions between local communities and visitors who used the site as a rest area. Over time, it developed into a formal tourist destination, supported by public awareness and government initiatives. The park's main attractions include: (1) a collection of flora and fauna, (2) conservation and educational activities, and (3) cultural attractions.