Indonesia is rightly known as the Land of Thousand Islands, with nearly 18,330 islands. It is the largest archipelago in the world. It also has around 167 active volcanoes. The Indonesian region has the largest tropical forest in the world. It is something for everyone – adventurers, leisure travellers, party freaks, couples, etc. Indonesia provides you with mind-blowing experiences and activities like walking across the beautiful beaches, hiking, snorkelling, scuba diving, etc. 

Indonesia comes with a stunning variety of locations and dozens of to-do things. You can soak in the steamy hot springs, take pictures of the orangutans and Komkoda dragons, walk through the sacred temples and National parks and hike your walk to the tropical jungles and freezing summit. Taste the local Indonesian cuisine, especially the appetising Nasi Goreng. Speak with the locals and learn more about Indonesian culture. It is a treasure that keeps on giving.

How to reach Indonesia?

The most convenient way to reach Indonesia from India is by air. There are two major airports in Indonesia – the Soekarno–Hatta International Airport in Jakarta and the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar. Indonesia is approximately 4,483 kilometres from India, and the flight duration is around five hours. You can take these flights from major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Bengaluru, Amritsar.

20 places to Visit in Indonesia 

Make sure to add these incredible Indonesia tourist places to your checklist.

• Bali 

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The ‘Land of the Gods’, Bali stands for its natural beauty of the volcanoes and lush green terraced rice fields. Bali gives you a sense of peace and serenity. The region is called Surfers Paradise. Bali’s arts, culture, dances and ceremonies add more beauty to the Indonesian landscape. It is also known for its luxurious beach resorts and enthralling nightlife. One can also spot the intrinsic architectural beauty of ancient temples in Bali. Bali is known for its signature snacks and beverages. You can also find dozens of gift shops in Bali and handcrafted items. The travellers can bring home souvenirs from the Sukawati market, the ultimate souvenir destination. 

The climate of Bali is tropical, warm and humid all around the year. The white, clear beaches of Bali are the favourite destination for travellers. The beach activities that draw in crowds are banana boats, parasailing, jet skiing, swimming, sunbathing, etc. Kuta is the most famous beach in Bali. The beach has several hotels, shops and cafes. 

The nightlife at Kuta is the ultimate party spot with raging music. Seminyak in Bali houses five-star international and luxurious accommodation. Nusa Dua also owns private beaches and deluxe hotels. The divers can reach out to Menjangan Island for the best diving experience. Pemutaran is also known for diving and reef conservation. Jalak Bali and Bali Starling are the two places rich in flora and fauna. The final touch to your Bali trip must be the Balinese spa. The one spot where you unwind and relax your nerves. The spa service is offered best all around Bali. 

Best Time to Visit – April to October 

Average cost of all activities in Bali  – Entertainment and activities in Bali typically cost an average of Rp139,577 per person per day. 

How to reach: 

By air – The International flights to Bali land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (locally known as Denpasar Airport). 

• Ubud 

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Ubud is located in central Bali and is considered Bali’s art and culture capital. The town houses the most elegant art galleries and traditional Indonesian performances. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud is a must-visit spot for tourists. There are several wellness retreats in Ubud amongst the lush green jungles and serene rivers. A casual walk around the locality will give you a scenic view of Balinese architecture and nature.  

You can explore Ubud by renting a bicycle. The region is lined with rice paddies, and the streets are filled with gamelan music. There are also several Yoga sessions conducted for travellers. The art galleries, wood carvings and batik textiles are located in the region to know more about the Balinese culture and practices. In the evenings, the local temples conduct evening performances. The people showcase their Legong ballets and wild Kecak fire dances. 

The Ayung River in Ubud offers you the best adrenaline rafting spot. Ubud is one of the places that feel like home. And sometimes you might want to stay there all your life and forget about your real home. Get first-hand experience of the seductive nature of Ubud on your next visit. Rejuvenation and mindfulness are the two words that are tailor-made for Ubud. 

Best time to visit – June to September 

Average cost of all activities in Ubud – Entertainment and activities in Ubud typically cost an average of Rp 1, 938,536 per person, per day. 

• Tegalalang Rice Terrace Entrance Fee – 15,000 IDR per person

How to reach: 

By Air – The International flights to Ubud land at Ngurah Rai International Airport (locally known as Denpasar Airport). You can rent a car or take a bus to get to Ubud. 

• Yogyakarta

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Yogyakarta is known to be the cradle of civilization in Java. It is one of the foremost cultural centres of Indonesia. Yogyakarta comes with the slogan ‘the Never Ending Asia’ (Jogja Istimewa). The tagline of Yogyakarta resonates with the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia. Temples such as Prambanan and Borobudur are famous for watching the sunrise. The city bustles all day, and one can never get tired of it. 

At Yogyakarta, you can witness all the five wonders ranging from natural phenomena to scenic beaches and picturesque landscapes. The famous beaches in the town are Pok Tunggal, Siung, Krakal, Jogan, Indrayanti and Parangtritis. The small city also offers breathtaking views to its travellers – Pinus Pengger, Jurang Tembelan and Puncak Becici. 

Yogyakarta also satiates your taste buds by providing traditional Javanese recipes. The traditional Javanese snack, Bakpia, is a must-try dish. The natural herb drink, Jamu, is prepared using ancient traditions. Wayang is a fascinating art heritage in Yogyakarta. It has Wayang Kulit (leather puppet) organised as a puppet show. 

The region’s tourist villages display the locals’ authentic daily life, including gamelan music, Javanese traditional dance and weaving janur. Yogyakarta offers plenty of space for an adventure through the adrenaline jeep ride in Merpai National Park and hiking in Mount Nglanggeran. Yogyakarta is a city with several attractions and spots. It is considered the second most visited place next to Bali in Indonesia, and you can explore this Indonesian tourist place within 4 days.

Best Time to Visit – April to December 

Average Cost of all activities in Yogyakarta – Entertainment and activities in Yogyakarta typically cost an average of Rp 207,044 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – The International flights to Yogyakarta land at Adisucipto International Airport 

• Komodo National Park

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The Komodo dragon is a fascinating wild creature on Earth. It resides in the Komodo National Park in Nusa Tenggara. The Komodo National Park is the best place for witnessing exotic species. The Komodo National Park is located in the centre of the Indonesian archipelago. The main motive of the National Park is to conserve the Komodo dragons. 

UNESCO declared the Komodo National Park a World Heritage Site and Man and Biosphere Reserve in 1986. The park is known for its biological significance. There are three major islands in the Komodo National Park – Komodo, Rinca and Padar. The park houses other mammals and reptiles such as Timor deer, an endemic rat, whales, dolphins, sharks, manta rays, etc. The Komodo dragons are ancient creatures which can grow up to three metres in length, and their weight is around 70 kgs. 

Best Time to Visit – April to June 

Entry Fees – Rp 150,000 on weekdays and Rp. 225,000 on weekends.

How To Reach: 

There are boats available in Labuan Bajo to reach Komodo National Park. 

• Lombok

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Lombok is known as the alternative to Bali. It is located on the East of Bali and west of Sumbawa. The island has frame-worthy beaches and magical underwater scenery. It is one of the must-visit places in Indonesia. Gunung Rinjani (volcano) occupies the entire island’s region. The travellers are said to enjoy the trekking experience on the coast of the Gili Islands. Lombok is an ultimate region for volcanoes and beaches. 

Lombok is a majestic island which has innumerable places to explore. The rich marine life of Lombok has gathered attention towards it and made it one of the most popular destinations. You can hike or cycle through the lush green rice paddies. Travellers can trek up the volcanic peaks. You can experience the scenic view of Lombok in all activities. 

Lombok is divided into five main regions – North Lombok, Central Lombok, East Lombok, West Lombok and Matatam city. It is occupied by an ethnic group of people named Sasak. North Lombok gives a chance to hike Mount Rinjani and see the beautiful beach sunsets in Gili. 

Central Lombok consists of beaches – Kuta Beach, Tanjung A’an, and Mawun beach. East Lombok offers exploration on the Sumbawa Island and Obel-Obel sand beach. Senggigi Beach and Monkey Forest occupy West Lombok. Mataram is the central spot for Government and Industry. You can easily explore this place to visit in Indonesia within 3 to 5 days.

Best Time to Visit – July to August

Average Cost of all activities in Lombok – Entertainment and activities in Lombok typically cost an average of Rp 674,997 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – The International flights to Lombok land at Lombok International Airport. 

• Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

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The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is the largest volcanic region in the Indonesian province. The National Park covers nearly 800 square kilometres of East Java’s centre. People interested in volcanoes must visit this place to learn about the volcano region. One can witness the smoke of ashes from Mount Semeru in the National Park. Mount Semeru is an active volcano that is 3676 metres above sea level. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is Indonesia’s sole conservation region with ten kilometres of Sand known as Tengger. You can easily explore this place to visit in Indonesia within 3 to 5 days.

Four new volcanic cones have emerged from the National Park – Mount Batok (2470 metres), Mount Kursi (2851 metres), Mount Watangan (2661 metres), and Mount Widodaren (2470 metres). Among them, Mount Bromo is the only active volcano in the region. The temperature on top of Mount Bromo ranges up to five to eighteen degrees Celsius. 

The south of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park consists of rolling upland plateaus divided by valleys and picturesque lakes. The tourists can walk on foot to arrive at the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. You can also hire a jeep or horse from Cemero Lawang to get around the park. 

The outdoor activities of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park include hiking to the top of Mount Bromo and Mount Semeru. You can watch the fairytale sunrise from Ranu Kumbolo. There are also waterfalls nearby the National Park, such as Coban Sewa, Coban Pelangi, Coban Jahe and Madakaripuri. The region consists of Hindu temples such as Kidal Temple, Mandara Giri Semeru Agung Temple, Jago Temple and Luhur Poten Temple. 

Location – Gn. Bromo area, Podokoyo, Tosari, Pasuruan district, East Java.

Best Time to Visit – July to September 

Average Cost of all activities in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park – Entertainment and activities in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park typically cost an average of Rp 105,717 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – The nearest major airport is in Surabaya, which is approximately a 4 hour car ride away from the park. 

• Bukit Lawang

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Bukit Lawang is located 96 km northwest of Medan (capital city of North Sumatra). The presence of the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center in Bukit Lawang has increased the number of tourists visiting annually. It has also become one of the most popular destinations in Sumatra. The rehabilitation centre also paved the way for the Sumatra Orangutan Conservation Programme. Bukit Lawang is a famous tourist spot located on the edge of Gunung Leuser National Park. 

The Gunung Leuser National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also home to a variety of birds, animals and plants. The National Park houses a rare type of orangutans named Pongo Abelli. The orangutans can be seen in the Bukit Lawang jungles. 

Bukit Lawang is a small village, and one can quickly get around by foot. Three bridges provide access to the other side of the river. You can stroll around the region’s rice fields and rubber plantations. The locals are friendly, and you can hang out with them at the market. The surroundings of Bukit Lawang are an excellent spot for birdwatching. You can also dip your foot or swim in the nearby Landak River. 

You can also find many local birds, butterflies, reptiles and mammals. There are also jungle guides who take you on forest expeditions. On trekking, you can watch the naughty orangutans jumping from one tree to another. Another exquisite monkey is the mohawk-styled hair Thomas Leaf Monkey. The region also hosts workshops for tourists in traditional medicine making, cooking, etc. You can easily explore this place to visit in Indonesia within 5 days.

Location – North Sumatra 

Best Time to Visit – February to July 

Average Cost of all activities in Bukit Lawang – Entertainment and activities in Bukit Lawang typically cost an average of Rp 2,21,98,125 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – The nearest major airport is Medan. 

• Toraja land

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Tana Toraja is located about 328 kilometres north of Makassar (capital of South Sulawesi Province). The place is known to be the ‘Land of Heavenly Kings’. Tana Toraja is famous for its historical importance. It is the home to the Toraja ethnic group. 

Tana Toraja is known for its odd and eerie burial rites. The culture of the region emphasises Death and the afterlife. The local religion in Tana Toraja is known as Aluk To Dolo, which means Way of the Ancestors. The area revolves around myths and traditions from Protestant Christianism in 1820. 

The region organises several festivals such as Buffalo fights, pig slaughtering, and ritual folk dances for the dead person. These festivities last elaborately up to a week. Coffee, clove, rice and cacao are the most cultivated staples of this region. The place has its unique cultural background. It also has the most frame-worthy sceneries. 

The houses in the areas are built in the traditional and artistic Tongkonan style. The architecture involves iconic curved rooftops. The leading site of attraction in Tana Toraja is the historical Tana Toraja tomb. The people in Tana Toraja are friendly and welcoming to travellers. You need 3 days to explore Tana Toraja.

Location – South Sulawesi  

Best Time to Visit – February to July 

How To Reach: 

By Air – To get to Tana Toraja, one must fly to Sultan Hasanuddin airport in Makassar, the capital of the province of South Sulawesi. 

• Flores Island

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Flores Island is a part of Nusa Tenggara and is the most beautiful island in the Indonesian region. The island is 14220 square kilometres and 360 kilometres long. Bali is situated near the island of Flores. Flores Island has been emerging as an exotic destination in recent times. There are several pristine lakes and waterfalls in the region. You can dive at one of the fifty spectacular diving spots in the area. There are also spots for kayaking among the mangrove shores and coasts. You can explore the mysterious caves of Flores Island. You need 7 days to explore Flores Island. 

The local people are friendly to the travellers. The natives welcome you to the island through their dances and rituals. The island stands for diving, eco-tours, adventures, and mountain climbing. You can drop by the region’s prehistoric heritage sites, cultural and traditional events. Flores Island has the most scenic underwater life. One can find a variety of dolphins, manta rays, and dugongs on the island. 

Location – East Nusa Tenggara

Best Time to Visit – April to June 

Average Cost of all activities in Flores Island – Entertainment and activities in Flores Island typically cost an average of Q204 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – The flight from Denpasar or Labuan Bajo to Flores takes about 1 hour. 

• Jakarta 

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Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia and serves as a home for over ten million people from diverse backgrounds. Jakarta is situated northwest of Java Island. Jakarta has expanded and grown as a Megapolitan city over the years. It is the central point of the National Government and Provincial Government. It is the leading political centre of Indonesia. The city is also the hub of National finance and trade in Indonesia. Jakarta has five main districts: Jakarta Pusat, Jakarta Utara, Jakarta Barat, Jakarta Timur and Jakarta Selatan. Jabodetabek is the Greater Jakarta region which consists of megacities. 

Central Jakarta or Jakarta Pusat is an iconic landmark with unique destinations such as The Merdeka Palace, The National Museum, Istiqlal Mosque, Monas, The Jakarta Cathedral and Monumen Selamat Datang. You can also spot several shopping malls and star hotels in Central Jakarta. North Jakarta or Jakarta Utara is known for Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, also called Ancol Dreamland. North Jakarta consists of Seaworld, Atlantis Adventure Park, Art Market, Ecopark and Dufan Theme Park. Jakarta Barat, or West Jakarta, has the renowned historical heritage Museum Fatahillah. You can also explore the Old Jakarta district on a bike. Jakarta Timur or East Jakarta owns the miniature of the Indonesian Archipelago, Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. South Jakarta has the Setu Bakatan, representing Betwai Culture’s story. Do not forget to taste the five national foods of Jakarta – Nasi Goreng, Gado-Gado, Sate, Soto, and Rendang. You can explore Jakarta in 4 days.

Location – Northwest coast of the island of Java

Best Time to Visit – June to September

Average Cost of all activities in Jakarta – Entertainment and activities in Jakarta typically cost an average of Rp 824,603 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – Jakarta is well connected to major cities of the world through air routes. The most famous and largest airport of Jakarta is Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. It operates on both international and domestic routes. Another famous airport in Jakarta is 

Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport. 

• Raja Ampat Islands

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Far from the hustle-bustle of city life, you can find a pristine paradise where Mother Nature lives. Located at the northwest tip of Bird’s Head Peninsula in West Papua is the Raja Ampat Islands, the most enchanting place on the whole planet. 

It is considered to be the most Eastern Island of the Indonesian Archipelago. Raja Ampat stands for ‘The Four Kings’, an archipelago of over 1500 small islands, cays and shoals. It is surrounded by the four main islands of Waigeo, Batanta, Salawati and Misool. The island’s name is said to be from a legend where a woman found seven eggs. Four of the seven eggs are believed to have hatched and become the Kings of the four main islands. The three other eggs hatched and turned into a woman, a ghost and a stone. The Nature Conservancy and Conservation International report that around seventy-five per cent of the world’s species are on Raja Ampat Islands. 

Raja Ampat Islands is a fairyland of cone-shaped islands against the blue turquoise water. It is one of Indonesia’s most spectacular sights. There are hundreds of islands that make up this tropical paradise. The warm and clear underwater of the islands consists of colourful fishes and a wide variety of marine life. Raja Ampat Islands is a popular spot for diving and snorkelling in Indonesia. Set aside at least a week to explore this island.

The clear and pristine Raja Ampat Islands are a great tourist attraction in Indonesia. The island covers an enormous area of 9.8 million acres of land and sea. It is the home of over 540 corals, 1000 varieties of coral fish and 700 kinds of molluscs. It makes the island the most biodiverse place on planet Earth. Raja Ampat Islands is a tropical paradise, and many exotic species on the island provide an incredible and lively underwater scene. The island’s remote location has made it look like a rare jewel on the Crown. The Raja Ampat Islands are a piece of heaven for divers, birdwatchers, photographers and adventurers. 

Raja Ampat Islands were visited only by scuba divers in the past. The scene is different in the present as it has come under the must-visit place for all travellers. The island is filled with blue lagoons and turquoise seas to form the coral heart of the triangle. Bird lovers can witness a mini paradise of birds on the islands. The thick jungles and rainforests provide an enthralling and fascinating experience for travellers. A place that lives up to all the beautiful adjectives in the English language. 

Location – West Papua 

Best Time to Visit – September to April 

Average Cost of all activities in Raja Ampat Islands – Entertainment and activities in Jakarta typically cost an average of Rp 350,000 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – You can take a flight from Jakarta or Makassar to Sorong to reach Raja Ampat Islands. There are also other small aircrafts that take you to Waisai, the capital of the district of Raja Ampat. You can also take a ferry from the port of Sorong to the islands.

• Gili Islands

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Gili Islands is the one spot for all the backpackers, adventure junkies, beach lovers and party animals. It is located off the coast of Lombok. The place has attracted travellers from all around the globe. The Gili Islands consist of three small islands: Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno. Gili Trawangan (Gili T) is the largest and most developed among the three islands. The island is known for its cafes, shops and massage parlours. Gili Meno is a small and traditional island. Gili Air is famous for its yoga lessons. The white beach sands, turquoise waters and blue skies are the staples of the Gili Islands. The islands are also renowned for their beachfront cabanas.  

The Gili Islands have rich marine life and coral formation. One can never think twice about whether to scuba dive or not. If you are interested in turtles, you can spot them in the island’s turtle sanctuary. Hundreds of turtles are born every year on this island. The Gili Islands are a paradise on Earth, and you must visit them at least once in your lifetime. The islands are worth the hype. The Gili Islands is also the best destination for tasting local Indonesian food. The islands are known for loud blasting parties and dances. If you are a party freak, then this is your go-to place. Unleash the party animal in you (for 2 days only, after that, you might want a change in scenery)! 

The activities that can be done in Gili Islands are diving, snorkelling, fishing, island hopping, horse riding, and so on. Kayaking is the most popular activity in the region. You can also enrol yourself in yoga classes if you are looking for one. The Gili Islands are your mind and body’s best friend. The tourist population in Gili Islands increases year after year. The picturesque islands are the free therapy for your wellness.

Location – South East Asia 

Best Time to Visit – June to early-October

Average Cost of all activities in Gili Islands – Entertainment and activities in Gili Islands typically cost an average of Rp 463,184 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – Gili Islands are easily accessible from Bali and Lombok. 

• Lake Toba

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Lake Toba is said to be the extraordinary natural wonder of the world. It comprises over 1145 kilometres with a depth of 450 metres. The lake is an ancient crater developed from a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Lake Toba is the largest lake in Southeast Asia. In the middle of Lake Toba is Samosir Island. The island’s population consists of Tomok and Simanindo ethnic groups. 

Samosir island is one of the most charming islands in the middle of Lake Toba. The locals in the nearby villages follow the Batak culture. Keep in mind to check out the Batak-style houses. You can learn about the local people’s culture and tradition. The land is famous for its Tor-Tor traditional dance, Sigale-Gale Wooden Puppetry, Ulos handwoven clothes and many more. The tourists can also indulge in kayaking around Lake Toba and taking in the exhilarating view of the sunset over the boat. 

Lake Toba is one of the deepest lakes in the world. It is also the most beautiful lake in Indonesia. Lake Toba is almost double the size of Singapore. You can spot an endless number of viewpoints and capture the scenic beauty of the volcanic lake. Luscious green hills and valleys surround it. Lake Toba formed 69,000 to 77,000 years ago due to a catastrophic eruption. The favourite activities of the tourists at Lake Toba are swimming, water skiing, fishing, canoeing, etc. Lake Toba is a picturesque region where you can sit back and absorb the pristine scenery. You can explore the surrounding area of Lake Toba on foot or by bike. Riding on a motorbike is the most recommended way to explore Lake Toba. You will fly high as the wind touches your face. Many travellers also prefer tuk-tuk rides on Samosir Island. The calm, clear lake will make you experience the ‘Heaven on Earth’ vibes. Why not soak it in while you’re there?

Location – North Sumatra 

Best Time to Visit – May to July

How To Reach: 

By Air – Kualanamu International Airport is near Lake Toba. 

• Dieng Plateau

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The word ‘dieng’ in Dieng Plateau stands for an abode of the Gods. The place is known for its natural wonder and cultural significance. There are several ancient temples in the landscape of Dieng Plateau. The sulphurous springs and coloured lakes add more beauty to the panoramic landscape. The tourists are immediately transported to ancient times after stepping into this place. The ancient temples in the Dieng Plateau are remnants of the Hindu empire in Java. The temples date back to the seventh and eighth centuries. The plateau is 2000 meters above sea level at 6500 feet. The temple setting is a sight to behold and leaves a remarkable memory for travellers. The locals have chosen the Dieng Plateau to be their sacred spot because of the eye-worthy landscape. 

 The plateau is surrounded by thick mist all around the year and is said to have supernatural powers. The temples in the Dieng Plateau are named after the characters in Mahabharata. They are called Bima, Arjuna, Srikandi and Gatotkaca. In the past, the temples have used Hindu priests as religious residences to teach about Hinduism. 

The Dieng Plateau has two pristine lakes, Telaga Warna and Telaga Pengilon (mirror lake). The Telaga Pengilon lake stands true to its nickname since it reflects the landscape of the Dieng Plateau. The travellers can explore the plateau on foot. You can also hire motorcycles at an affordable price. Don’t miss capturing the double sunrise at Dieng Plateau, a natural phenomenon. The double sunrise consists of golden dawn and a silver sunrise. Plan an itinerary of 2 days to experience the magic of Central Java.

Location – Central Java 

Best Time to Visit – May to October

How To Reach: 

By road – Dieng Plateau is well connected with all major cities. 

• Borobudur Temple

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The Borobudur Temple, built around the eighth century, stands as the most prominent Buddhist sanctuary in the world. The temple is located in Magelang, Central Java. It is a point where ancient culture meets stunning beauty. The temple comes under the must-visit place for any tourist. It is not only known for its religious significance but stands for its old-world charm and beauty. 

The Buddhist temple is a reflection of the deep national history of Indonesia. The temple’s structure and intricate designs resemble the people’s religion, culture, customs and architecture. The main structure is grandeur in nature and immerses with the Indonesian culture and traditions. One can get lost in observing the temple’s ornate and intricate stone carvings. 

The Borobudur temple is one of Indonesia’s most renowned and culturally significant landmarks. The temple’s construction is shaped like a traditional Buddhist mandala. The temple ranks as one of the world’s top UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It was included as a World Heritage Site in 1991. It is also one of the greatest Buddhist sites across the world. 

The Borobudur temple was erased from history for centuries. It came back when people moved to East Java due to the volcanic eruptions. The local people in the 1800s rediscovered the temple. The temple is known for its high artistic value and is a historic relic. The Borobudur temple has been a destination for domestic and foreign tourists worldwide. Nearly 2.5 million people visit the temple every year. Visit the Borobudur temple at sunrise to witness the breathtaking lifetime view. The temple is bathed in sunlight during the golden hour, a sight to behold in your memory forever. You can also plan a visit to Yogyakarta, the oldest city in Java. It is famous for its rich cultural heritage and historical offerings.  

Location – Central Java 

Best Time to Visit –  Early mornings 

Average Cost to enter Borobudur Temple – IDR 750

How To Reach: 

By Air – Borobudur Temple is close to the airport in Yogyakarta. 

• Mount Bromo

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Mount Bromo is an iconic volcano site in Indonesia surrounded by smoke and a multi-coloured sky. It is located on East Java Island. The volcano is surrounded by a vast desert, lush hills and green mountains. You can also take in the scenic beauty of the flower fields and waterfalls in the area. One must never miss the opportunity to watch the sunrise at Mount Bromo. 

Indonesia is said to have a place on the Ring of Fire. It has the most volcanoes in the world. The active volcanoes in Indonesia, such as Mount Merapi, are known for their violent eruptions and stunning beauty. Mount Bromo stands tall among all the volcanoes and is best known for its picturesque views. 

The peaks of Mount Bromo blew off in an eruption, and you can see the white smoke spewing from the mountains to date. The volcano is a part of Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. It has the highest peak in India, named Mount Semeru. The National Park is also the home to Tenggers (an isolated ethnic group who belong to the ancient Majapahit empire). 

The volcano is a four-hour drive from Surabaya (capital of East Java). The dramatic landscape of Mount Bromo covers a massive space of 800 square km. Mount Bromo is 2392 metres tall and is magnificent in structure. Mount Bromo has several myths about it because of its eerie landscape. The Tengger people believe that the site was once where a prince sacrificed his life for his family. 

The Tengger people have the custom of conducting their yearly Kasada festival to appease the Gods. The offerings such as vegetables, chickens and money are thrown into the volcano’s crater. The volcano has witnessed visitors from all around the globe. You can never leave the site without capturing a good photograph against the scenic background. 

Location – East Java 

Best Time to Visit – April to October

Average Cost of all activities in Mount Bromo – Entertainment and activities in Mount Bromo typically cost an average of Rp 280,150 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – Mount Bromo is near Juanda international airport in Surabaya. 

• Nusa Islands

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Nusa Islands are called the Maldives of Bali. The string of islands off the coast of Bali is a tropical paradise. The Nusa Islands serve as the epitome of Balinese culture. You can take a ferry ride from Sanur (Bali) to the Nusa Islands. The three islands, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, provide a splendid underwater view. The Nusa Lembongan is near Bali and is the most famous one. The translucent water in the islands provides the perfect arena for diving, cliff jumping, snorkelling and water sports. The other activities are caving and hiking between Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. 

The ideal time to visit and get the much-needed vacay tan is between October to April (wet season) and May to September (dry season). The Nusa Islands experience heavy rainfall during January and February (not recommended). You can hire a motorbike to drive around the little islands, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan. The Sand is a must-visit place to witness the clear waters with a side of lunch and beverages. It is a perfect spot to satiate your taste buds and hunger. 

You can travel through the mangroves for about 100,00 Rupiah and do some snorkelling. The Blue Lagoon is another spectacular spot to experience the blue, clear waters. If you are an adrenaline junkie, you must jump off the Mahana Point Cliff. It also gives you the perfect viewpoint of the island. The Devil’s Tear and Tide Pools is where the waves crash up on the face. Be ready to get yourself drenched. 

Location – Bali 

Best Time to Visit – October to April and May to September

Average Cost of all activities in Nusa Islands – Entertainment and activities in Gili Islands typically cost an average of Rp 463,184 per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Sea – There are ferries available to reach Nusa Islands. 

• Tanjung Puting National Park

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An orangutan can live up to 60 years in prime living conditions and has been observed eating around 300 types of fruits. You can witness it in real life if you get a chance to visit the Tanjung Puting National Park in Kalimantan. The Tanjung Puting National Park is the home of orangutans. It is the largest and most diverse example of an extensive coastal tropical swamp forest south of Borneo. It was first declared a game reserve in 1935 and turned into a National Park in 1982. 

The orangutans live in the wild, but the sanctuaries have rescued them to protect them. Borneo holds the largest orangutan population in the world. It also serves as a safe haven for several birds, reptiles and primates. If you cannot make it to Borneo, you can also view the orangutans at the Bohorok Orangutan Centre in Bukit Lawang. 

The great apes of Borneo can be spotted in the neighbouring Sumatra islands. The Tanjung Puting National Park is a coastal tropical swamp forest. The travellers hire liveaboard boats to travel up to the Sekonyer River and Camp Leakey to have a serene wilderness experience. The blackwater rivers of the Tanjung Puting flow into the Java Sea. The sea coast is covered with nipa or mangrove swamps. 

The best-known species in Tanjung Puting are the orangutan. The National Park also has the privilege of housing monkeys with ‘Jimmy Durante’ noses. In the park, you can also find clouded leopards, barking deer, sambar deer, wild cattle, civets and Malaysian sun bears. 

The Tanjung Puting is a nest for nearly 230 birds, including deep forest birds, hornbills, etc. It has several species of crocodiles, snakes, frogs and many other endangered species. Here, you can spot the highly endangered dragon fish called ‘arwana’. The national park is considered one of the world’s natural wonders. Your trip to Indonesia would be incomplete without seeing this species. Do not forget to visit Borneo and look at the beautiful and endangered creatures. 

Location –  Central Kalimantan

Best Time to Visit – June to September 

Average Cost of all activities in Tanjung Puting National Park – Entertainment and activities in Tanjung Puting National Park typically cost an average of 120,000 IDR per person, per day. 

How To Reach: 

By Air – Nearest airport is Pangkalan Bun, Kalimantan.

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