Karo regions
Where Karo people live and speak Karo: regencies and cities in North Sumatra and Aceh, with their districts and villages. Based on the sources cited; additions and corrections are very welcome.
Kabupaten Karo
Sumatera UtaraThe highlands around Sinabung and Sibayak, homeland of the Karo — Taneh Karo Simalem. About 422,000 inhabitants.
Kabupaten Deli Serdang
Sumatera UtaraThe uplands from the slopes of the Bukit Barisan towards Medan, long in contact with the coastal Malays.
Kabupaten Langkat
Sumatera UtaraThe uplands of Langkat, settled gradually since colonial times through trade and land clearing.
Kabupaten Dairi
Sumatera UtaraThe part of Dairi bordering Karo Regency, known for its fertile coffee gardens.
Kabupaten Simalungun
Sumatera UtaraThe districts in northern Simalungun bordering Karo have a sizeable Karo community.
Kabupaten Aceh Tenggara
AcehOutside North Sumatra, Karo also live in Southeast Aceh; the Karo language is closely related to Alas-Kluet.
Kota Medan
Sumatera UtaraThe main destination of Karo migrants. According to tradition, the village of Medan was founded by Guru Patimpus Sembiring Pelawi in the late 16th century.
Kota Binjai
Sumatera UtaraA city between Medan and Langkat with a large Karo community.