20 x Best Places to Visit in Indonesia
Last Updated On June 19, 2023
Bali would easily make any traveler's bucket list, but few realize that Bali is only a small part of Indonesia's nearly seventeen thousand magnificent islands. Indonesia, the world's largest island nation, is best known for the tourist island Bali, which is known for its beautiful beaches, extreme water sports, jungle vistas, and hippy attitudes. Aside from a few well-known towns such as Bali and Jakarta, innumerable unexplored islands are dotted throughout Indo-Oceania.
Photo by Marcus Woodbridge on Unsplash
From the tranquil island of Lombok to the east of Bali to Komodo - the home of the Komodo dragon – Indonesia provides a choice of reasonably priced yet remarkable experiences for visitors. Let's look at the top spots to visit in Indonesia for your next vacation.
1. Nusa Penida, Bali
Nusa Penida, Indonesia's secret treasure, is the most exotic of the three Nusa Islands and is relatively less traveled. It is located in the Klungkung district, just off the coast of Bali. During this season, the island is generally dry, making it ideal for sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. Despite these attributes, Nusa Penida remains mainly unknown and awaits travelers to discover this intriguing region. Atuh and Nusa Penida beaches, with their pristine white sand, attract visitors worldwide.
2. Borobudur Temple
The world's largest Buddhist sanctuary is a must-see not only for its religious significance but also for its beauty and charm. This temple, built around the eighth century, reflects the country's long and intricate history, incorporating religion, culture, customs, and architecture. Visitors can marvel at the ornate and mesmerizing stone carvings, stare at the majestic main tower, and take in the surroundings.
3. Jakarta
Jakarta, Indonesia's capital city, is also the cultural, economic, and political center of the country. Stroll around Kota Baru, or Jakarta's Old Town, where Dutch colonial architecture has been preserved as it was before Indonesia's independence. Take in the sights and smells of Glodok, Jakarta's ancient Chinatown, before going to central Jakarta to see MONAS, Indonesia's National Monument commemorating its Liberation War.
4. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
5. Lempuyang Temple, Bali
6. Tanjung Puting National Park
7. Derawan Islands
This East Kalimantan archipelago is a shining example of a tropical paradise. It is made up of six islands and a few smaller islets, each with its own set of adventures and charm. Maratua Island, for example, features magnificent sea caves, lakes, and opulent resorts. You can swim in a lake full of stingless jellyfish on Kakaban Island. Meanwhile, Sangalaki Island is well-known for diving and snorkeling, with a rich underwater scene teeming with coral, manta rays, turtles, and other marine life. The archipelago's somewhat secluded location helps to preserve its natural splendor, keeping it pristine and attractive.
8. Maluk Beach
8. Ubud, Bali
10. Mount Bromo
This volcano, which is frequently surrounded by smoke and a multi-colored sky, has become one of Indonesia's most recognizable landmarks. The dawn above Mount Bromo from Java Island is a wonderful experience. The volcano is also surrounded by a vast desert, beautiful mountains and hills, sweeping flower fields, and waterfalls, most of which may be explored in a day or two.
11. Bunaken National Marine Park
12. Gili Islands
13. Pura Tanah Lot, Bali
14. Kalibiru National Park
Kalibiru National Park, a rich natural setting shrouded in calm and seclusion, is not only a terrific spot to immerse yourself in nature but also a place to experience fascinating sunsets and exhilarating outdoor activities.