Everyone has heard of Bali. It’s a stunning island that’s become one of the world’s top holiday spots. But Indonesia has much more to offer than just Bali.
If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, you’re in the right place. We’re going to talk about some fantastic places you should consider visiting in Indonesia. Some are even close to Bali, so you can see multiple destinations in one trip. Sounds like a great plan, right?
If you’re short on time and can’t visit all these places, our top tip is to see at least one volcano. It’s quite easy, given that Indonesia has 127 active volcanoes and is made up of thousands of volcanic islands. There’s a reason Indonesia is called The Volcano Nation.
So, let’s dive into the best places to visit in Indonesia!
Bali is undoubtedly the most popular spot in Indonesia. With its gorgeous beaches, unique culture, and stunning natural beauty, it’s easy to see why so many people flock there. Bali is a haven for surfers, and many visitors come to meditate, practice yoga, or find spiritual peace. If you’re in Bali, make sure to visit its neighboring island, Nusa Penida, known for its untouched beaches and fantastic snorkeling spots.
Mount Bromo in East Java is another must-see. This active volcano is part of the Tengger volcanic complex and is one of Java’s top attractions. You can join a tour group in Probolinggo or head to Cemorolawang to explore Bromo. While you’re traveling, don’t miss the Madakaripura waterfall, a breathtaking 200-meter-tall cascade.
Ijen, also in East Java, is famous for its stunning landscapes and a turquoise sulfuric lake. One unique sight at Ijen is the blue fire at night, caused by sulfuric gas igniting from volcanic cracks. Here, you can also watch sulfur miners at work. Like Bromo, you can visit Ijen with a tour group or independently.
Next, we have Flores and Komodo, part of Indonesia’s Lesser Sunda Islands. These islands are gaining popularity due to their unique landscapes and wildlife but are still relatively quiet and perfect for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. On Komodo, you can see the famous Komodo dragons and swim with rays at Manta Point. Flores boasts the tri-colored volcanic lakes of Kelimutu, breathtaking spider web rice terraces in Ruteng, and traditional villages in Bajawa.
Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, is another major destination. Surrounded by lush green rice fields, this impressive temple features nine stacked platforms and a central dome. Built in the 9th century and restored in 1911, Borobudur is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While in the area, also visit Prambanan, a nearby Hindu temple that is another 9th-century UNESCO site.
For a quieter beach experience away from Bali’s crowds, check out Lombok. This beautiful island lies just east of Bali and can be reached by a short plane ride or a two-hour boat trip. Lombok’s unique beaches include Pink Beach, with its pink-tinted sand, and Semeti Beach, known for its dramatic volcanic formations. Tanjung Poki features rock formations with blowholes that create spectacular water eruptions at high tide. Besides relaxing on the beach, you can hike up Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, or opt for a shorter trek up Bukit Pergasingan for sweeping views.
Tana Toraja is home to the Toraja ethnic group and is notable for its unusual burial sites and ceremonies. Visiting one of these grave sites offers a glimpse into the unique death rituals of the Toraja people. You can also explore a traditional Torajan village at Ke’te Kesu and enjoy stunning views from Gunung Sesean, with picturesque trails and viewpoints along the way.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, don’t just stick to Bali. Explore these incredible destinations for a more diverse and enriching experience.