Peran Masyarakat Lokal Dalam Pengelolaan Destinasi Wisata Rumah Pohon Di Desa Tarabunga Kabupaten Toba

Abstract

Tourism is a crucial sector in the economic, social, and cultural development of a region. In Indonesia, tourism villages are a key tourism development strategy, providing authentic experiences through direct interaction between tourists and local communities. Tarabunga Village in Toba Regency, North Sumatra, boasts significant tourism potential, boasting panoramic views of Lake Toba, rich cultural heritage, and the popular Tree House tourist attraction. This study aims to examine the role of the local community in managing the Tree House tourist destination in Tarabunga Village, Toba Regency, North Sumatra. While this destination boasts significant natural and cultural potential, it has not yet been optimally developed. The study employed descriptive qualitative methods through field observations and in-depth interviews with the community and local tourism managers. The results indicate that the community is involved in several aspects of management, such as providing creative economic services, maintaining the environment, and improving tourist comfort and safety. However, this involvement remains limited and poorly organized. The main inhibiting factors are a lack of training, minimal government support, and the absence of a supportive institutional system. This study recommends increasing community capacity through the formation of tourism awareness groups (Pokdarwis), tourism management training, and collaboration between the community, government, and tourism stakeholders to promote sustainability and local well-being. Keywords : Tourist Village, Tree House, Community Role, Tourism Management, Tarabunga, Local Economy, Sustainable Tourism