Last Updated on December 27, 2021

Written by the Gamin Traveler

 

Indonesia, with thousands of islands, is the largest archipelago in the world. Wondering what to see in Indonesia? See its wonderful beaches and active volcanoes are a major draw for the tourists. One is sure to find everything here in Indonesia, whether they are here for a relaxing vacation or to experience adventure. Enjoy its culture and history as well as explore the amazing mountains to glorious temples around and the diving and trekking. The island nation is well famous for several scuba diving and snorkelling spots. The sprawling archipelago scattered around the Pacific Ocean boasts of natural landscapes and intriguing ethnicities. The gorgeous archipelago houses a unique range of marine flora and fauna and is one of the most gifted countries in Oceania.

 

 There are several interesting must-see places to visit in Indonesia and many exciting things to do. 

Discover the most popular and most beautiful places to visit in Indonesia.

 

 

1. Dieng Plateau – The coolest destinations in Indonesia

Dieng Plateau is a natural and cultural destination. About 2,000 meters above sea level, one can enjoy a sweeping mountain view of jungles and distant villages. The plateau is cool not just weather-wise but also because of its festivals, performances, and traditional rituals. Enjoy exploring the ancient Hindu temples as well as multi-coloured lake and hot springs.

 

2. Nusa Penida – The Maldives of Bali

Nusa Penida is part of the string of three islands, Nusa islands. The tropical paradise carries its own unique speciality along with the two islands – Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan. One can look forward to enjoying thriving wildlife, and a splendid underwater scene. Enjoy swimming in the calm and translucent waters that are perfect for water sports, diving, and snorkelling  This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Indonesia.  Click here to see availability and prices for the best places to stay in Nusa Penida.

 

3. Tanjung Puting National Park – A popular ecotourism destination

Tanjung Puting National Park is known for its boat tours, wildlife, and research centres. Located on the island of Borneo, explore the wildlife filed with clouded leopards, gibbons, macaques, sun bears, pythons, and crocodiles. It is guaranteed that you will see the free-roaming orangutans on your journey with a world-class adventure appeal. Take a klotok, a ramshackle, multistorey boat to see the park.

 

4. Bintan Island – A spectacular beach holiday destination

Bintan is the largest island in the Riau Islands, and with its high-end resorts and world-class golf courses, it offers a perfect getaway. It is just a short ferry ride away from Singapore and Malaysia. Bintan Resorts are the main tourist attraction of the Bintan Island. Enjoy a refreshing holiday on the sandy white coast and participate in extreme sports and golf challenges.  Click here to see availability and prices for the best places to stay in Bintan

 

5. Yogyakarta – A historical and cultural hub

Yogyakarta is a favorite destination among the tourists and there is a lot to do and see here apart from shopping and food. Explore the main streets as well as the narrow valleys to understand the real culture. You will come across puppet makers, silversmiths, street arts and food vendors. Visit the magnificent temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, devoted to two different religion – Buddhism and Hinduism. Get to know the people of Indonesia, their cultures, and food habits.  Click here to see availability and prices for the best places to stay in Yogyakarta

 

6. Mount Rinjani- The active volcano in Indonesia

The second highest volcano in Indonesia, Mount Rinjani is also the most active one. Located on the mighty Rinjani mountain range, the massive volcano towers over the Lombok Island. It is indeed one of the most exhilarating experiences to climb to the top and enjoy the best views in the country. Mount Rinjani holds a spiritual significance for the locals and is a part of the famous ‘ring of fire.’

 

7. Ubud – The art and culture capital of Bali

Ubud draws tourists because of its lively traditional performances and elegant art galleries. It is indeed one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods you have come across. Well famous as the art and culture capital, you will also love the famed Tegalalang Rice Terrace, the lush tropical jungles and other natural features of Ubud. Even a casual stroll in Ubud offers a unique experience of nature or architecture.  Ubud has some of the most beautiful places to stay in Bali which won’t break the bank too.

 

8. Torajaland – home of the Toraja people

The highland region of South Sulawesi, Torajaland is home to the Torajans or the Toraja people. The sight of their massive peaked-roof houses, tongkonan, indeed offers a spectacular view. These people are well known for their strange funeral rites where the dead body is kept for several years.  Click here to see availability and prices for the best places to stay in Sulawesi

 

9. Baliem Valley – the lands of Lani, Dani and Yali tribes

Explore the Baliem Valley, located in the Papua area in Indonesia. Learn about the Lani, Dani and Yali tribes which are still practising ancient rites and ceremonies. Enjoy the fresh air of the misty purple mountains and explore the lands of the tribes. You must visit the most popular destination in Papua’s interior and trek through the high mountain scenery and explore the Dani villages.

 

10. The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is named after two mountains, Mount Semeru and Mount Bromo. The Tengger people inhabit the land of impressive scenery and ancient volcanic craters. Mount Bromo, surrounded by the towering cliffs stands in a sea of volcanic sand and is one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes.

 

11. Lake Toba – The biggest lake in Indonesia

Lake Toba is not only the biggest lake of the country but the most beautiful too. It is stunning from every angle and offers excellent views from every point. Enjoy looking at the hills and lush greenery that surround the volcanic lake. Tourists love exploring the nearby villages and get familiar with the Batak culture and its captivating traditions. Do not forget to visit Samosir, the small island in the middle of Lake Toba.

 

12. Lombok – the alternative to Bali

The closest neighbour of Bali, Lombok Island is indeed one of the best places to visit in Indonesia. The enormous volcano of Gunung Rinjani dominates the island’s northern area. Tourists enjoy trekking the island and explore the northwest coast of the three Gili Island that is known for great beaches. There are lots of activities and attractions here for every traveller.  Land of volcanoes and beaches, it is indeed one of the last best-kept secrets of Indonesia.  Click here to see availability and prices for the best places to stay in Lombok.

 

 

Other articles you might love:

• Top 5 Beautiful Villas in Canggu, Bali
• The Top 10 Best Things to do in Bali
• 73 Underrated and Off The Beaten Path Places To Visit In 2019

 

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