The 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Indonesia
The 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Indonesia
The
sprawling archipelago with more than 17,000 islands, 300 ethnicities,
and countless natural landscapes is intriguing to explore. From majestic
mountains to glorious temples, discover the most beautiful places in
Indonesia.
Dieng Plateau
Perched
at 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level, Dieng Plateau is one of
the coolest destinations in Indonesia, and not just weather-wise. Both a
natural and cultural destination, there are many things to see and do
in Dieng Plateau. Other than the sweeping mountain view of jungles and
distant villages, this highland also has a multi-colored lake, hot
spring, and ancient Hindu temples. Once a year, tourists flock to the
spot for a much-anticipated festival that includes traditional rituals, performances, and jazz above the clouds.
Beautiful aerial view of Dieng Plateau farmland with road and terraced system | © Creativa Images/Shutterstock
Borobudur Temple
The
world’s biggest Buddhist sanctuary is a must-visit attraction, not only
because of its religious significance but also for its beauty and
charm. Built around the eighth century, this temple is a reflection of
the country’s long and intricate history that covers religion, culture,
customs, architecture, and more. Tourists can observe the ornate and
mesmerizing stone carvings, gaze of the main grand structure, and
immerse themselves in the surrounding scenic view that includes the
sunrise, jungles, and faraway hills.
Borobudur is a 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist Temple in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia | © Udompeter/Shutterstock
Komodo National Park
A
mighty and otherworldly lizard, the Komodo is arguably one of the most
fascinating creatures on earth—one you can only encounter in the wild at
Indonesia’s Komodo National Park.
Captivating as it is, the Komodo is hardly the only interesting thing
in this string of exotic islands that constitute the Komodo National
Park. The three islands—Komodo, Padar, and Rinca—have glorious hills and
a beach view, along with a breathtaking coastline, lush tropical hills,
and thriving underwater wildlife. The Komodo Island even has the famed
pink sand beach, while Padar Island has an iconic hill with a view of
three magnificent bays.
Komodo national park, Indonesia | © Chuckaoo Majkl/Shutterstock
Raja Ampat
With one of the liveliest underwater scenes on the planet, this world-famous tropical paradise
is home to over 530 species of coral, 700 species of mollusk, and 1,300
types of fish. Despite the magnetism of exotic species and a
breathtaking island view, Raja Ampat remains largely pristine because of
its remote location and vast locality. More than just a divers’
paradise, Raja Ampat also makes an unforgettable destination for
birdwatchers, photographers, adventurers, and even those who long for a
luxury vacation with an amazing view in a faraway island.
Raja Ampat Island, Papua, Indonesia | © nmedia / Shutterstock
Mount Bromo
This
volcano, often surrounded by smoke and a multi-colored sky, has become
one of the most iconic sights from Indonesia. Watching the sunrise at
Mount Bromo from Java Island is a popular excursion that offers and
unforgettable experience. The volcano also shares the area with a vast
desert, other lush mountains and hills, sweeping flower fields, and some
waterfalls, most of which can be explored in a day or two.
Mount Bromo volcano (Gunung Bromo) during sunrise from viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan, in East Java, Indonesia | © WATHIT H/Shutterstock
Ubud
Considered
Bali’s art and culture capital, Ubud charms tourists beyond its elegant
art galleries and lively traditional performances. Ubud is also one of
the most beautiful neighborhoods in the popular island destination. The
famed Tegalalang Rice Terrace, for example, is a must-visit spot while
in Bali. Ubud’s lush tropical jungles, calming rivers, and other natural
features have also provided many wellness establishments with a serene
atmosphere. Even a casual stroll or meal in this locality may come with a
lovely view of nature or architecture.
Rice terrace in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia | © Christophe Faugere/Shutterstock
Lake Toba
Toba
is not only Indonesia’s biggest lake, it is also one of its most
beautiful; it is stunning from every angle. Almost twice the size of
Singapore, there are many viewpoints to enjoy the sight of this volcanic
lake, surrounded by hills and lush greenery. While in the nearby
villages, tourists can also explore the fascinating Batak culture, with
its captivating traditions and cultural objects. Tourists can also visit
Samosir, the small charming island in the middle of Lake Toba.
Lake toba in North Sumatra, Indonesia | © littlewormy/Shutterstock
Tana Toraja
Mostly
prized for its bewitching funeral traditions, Tana Toraja is also a
beautiful destination. This highland in South Sulawesi has a majestic
backdrop of mountain scenery, lush tropical jungles, and ornate villages
with captivating traditional houses. Tourists can start the day
watching the sun rise from above the clouds, then continue exploring the
villages and picturesque hills, including the eerie but fascinating
burial cave.’
Traditional Tana Toraja village | © Iuliia Shcherbakova/Shutterstock
Tanjung Puting National Park
Just
in case a vast, mostly untouched tropical jungle with fresh air,
mystical morning fog, birds chirping, and rivers gushing are not
enticing enough for you, factor this in: Tanjung Puting National Park is home to the wild orangutan, the adorable primate that steals the hearts of many, with its loveliness and wit.
A baby orangutan clings to a tree in Borneo | © GUDKOV ANDREY / Shutterstock
Derawan Islands
This
archipelago in East Kalimantan is one of Indonesia’s best examples of
tropical paradise, comprised of six staggering islands and some smaller
islets, each with its own adventures and charm. Maratua Island, for
example, is known for its sublime sea caves, lakes, and lavish resorts.
Kakaban Island offers swimming in a lake full of stingless jellyfish.
Sangalaki Island is popular for diving and snorkeling, due to its
thriving underwater scene, filled with coral, manta rays, turtles, and
more. The relatively remote location helps conserve the natural beauty
of this archipelago, making it a pristine and beautiful island paradise
in Indonesia.
Diver and green sea turtle in Derawan, Kalimantan, Indonesia | © fenkieandreas / Shutterstock
Bangka Belitung Islands
Located
off the coast of mainland Sumatra, Bangka Belitung Island is famed for
its idyllic beaches with blissful white sand, iconic granite boulders,
and palm trees. But beyond the translucent water and hypnotizing
sunsets, the locality is also home to impressive cultural and historical
landmarks—many of which are heritage buildings from the colonial
era—that suit the charming natural view. From this archipelago, tourists
can also venture to the surrounding smaller inhabited islands for even
more pristine natural beauty.
Clear blue man made lake, Tanjung Pandan, Belitung Island | © Eduard Todikromo/Shutterstock
Wae Rebo Village
This
charming Indonesian village in Flores has been gaining more recognition
worldwide for its unique charm. Its iconic cone-shaped main houses,
aligned beautifully against the backdrop of picturesque mountains and
occasional mist, are adored by domestic and international tourists
alike. Located in a remote highland, don’t miss the surrounding nature,
with its thriving orchids, wildlife, and tropical greeneries.
Bird eye view of indigenous conical huts in Wae Rebo Village, Flores Island, Indonesia | © Suwida Boonyatistarn/Shutterstock
Lombok
Some say Lombok
reminds them of Bali decades ago, before the island became a tourist
magnet. Lombok’s landscape and beaches are no doubt on par with Bali,
and are arguably more beautiful because of their pristine state. Among
the most glorious sights in Lombok is the volcano Mount Rinjani and Pink
Beach. The world-famous Gili Islands, just off the coast of Lombok, are
also a must-visit, offering a mix of natural beauty and modern
attractions such as luxury resorts and hip bars.
Rice Terraces at sunrise in Tetebatu, Lombok | © Jakob Fischer/Shutterstock
Nusa Islands
Often
referred to as “The Maldives of Bali,” this string of three islands off
the coast of Bali is an up-and-coming tropical paradise with natural
attractions that many would argue outshine the famed mainland. Nusa Penida,
Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan each have their own specialty, but
all three offer a splendid underwater scene, with thriving wildlife,
translucent water, and a calm surface. The areas are perfect for diving,
snorkeling, or water sports. Other favorite activities include
cliff-jumping in Nusa Ceningan, crossing the yellow bridge between Nusa
Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan, caving, hiking, and more.
Nusa Islands | © Galjan / Shuttertock
Bukittinggi
This
charming town in West Sumatra is at the forefront of tourism in the
province. At 930 meters (3,051 feet) above sea level, this town has a
glorious highland view and crisp fresh air. Bukittinggi has breathtaking
nature, a long history, and extraordinary cultural values, all of which
attracts many tourists each year. Popular destinations include the
majestic Sianok Canyon, the Japanese WWII underground tunnels, Dutch
hilltop fortress Fort de Kock, Pasar Atas traditional market, and the
iconic Jam Gadang clock tower, which was built during the colonial era
in 1926.
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