About Medan
Discover Medan — Indonesia's third-largest city and the gateway to North Sumatra's natural wonders, rich culture, and world-renowned cuisine.
Medan, North Sumatera
Medan is the capital city of North Sumatra province and Indonesia's third-largest metropolitan area, home to over 2 million people. It is a major commercial and cultural hub in western Indonesia, known for its remarkable ethnic and cultural diversity — with communities of Batak, Malay, Chinese, Acehnese, Javanese, and Indian origin living side by side.
The city has developed rapidly in recent decades and is well-connected via Kualanamu International Airport (KNO), one of Indonesia's largest and most modern airports, located approximately 39 km from the city center.
The climate is tropical — warm and humid year-round, with temperatures averaging 26–33°C. September, the month of ICIESC 2026, is generally warm with occasional afternoon showers.
Getting to Medan
Kualanamu International Airport (KNO)
The main international gateway to North Sumatra, located ~39 km southeast of Medan. Direct flights from Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and major Indonesian cities. Airport train service connects to Medan station in ~30 minutes.
Airport Rail Link
The Bandara Kualanamu–Medan train runs every 30 minutes from 04:00 to 22:30, connecting Kualanamu Airport to Medan Central Station in approximately 30 minutes. Cost: ± IDR 120,000 one-way.
Taxi & Ride-hailing
Gojek and Grab are widely available and the most convenient option for getting around the city. Airport taxis are available at fixed rates. Ensure to use official airport taxis or ride-hailing apps for safety.
Places to Visit
Maimun Palace
The iconic royal palace of the Deli Sultanate, built in 1888. A masterpiece of Malay-Moorish architecture open to visitors.
~3 km from venueGreat Mosque of Medan
Mesjid Raya Al-Mashun — one of Indonesia's most beautiful mosques, built in 1906 with stunning Mughal and Spanish architectural influences.
~3 km from venueTjong A Fie Mansion
A magnificent 19th-century Chinese-style mansion that reflects Medan's multicultural heritage and the city's history as a colonial commercial hub.
~4 km from venueLake Toba (Day Trip)
The world's largest volcanic lake — a 2-hour drive from Medan. An awe-inspiring natural wonder and the cultural heartland of the Batak people.
~2 hours from MedanBerastagi Highland
A cool highland resort town with stunning views of active volcanoes Mount Sinabung and Mount Sibayak. Excellent local produce markets.
~2 hours from MedanPasar Ikan Lama
A historic traditional market — great for local handicrafts, textiles, and exploring Medan's vibrant commercial culture.
City centerMust-Try Medan Food
International participants may require a visa to enter Indonesia. Please check your country's visa requirements on the Indonesian immigration authority website or consult your nearest Indonesian embassy/consulate well in advance.