The fourth most populous country in the world, Indonesia is made up of more than 17,000 islands that display an array of stunning beaches, waterfalls, forests and mountains. While many who travel to Indonesia head to Bali, all of the islands offer the perfect getaway and a truly hidden paradise to flirt with nature and embrace the beauty of Asia.
1. The Beaches of Bali
Bali beaches range from palm-fringed white sand coastlines in the south and cliff-guarded hidden shores to black sands on the north and west studded with exotic coves in-between. While the beaches are best from April to October, Nusa Dua and Sanur beaches are less affected by seasonality.
2. Borobudur
One of the most remarkable and impressive ancient monuments in the world and the largest Buddhist structure on earth, Borobudur is located on the island of Java in Indonesia. The temple was built around 800 C.E. as a monument to Buddha and features an attention to detail that is mind blowing, especially with active volcanoes in the background.
3. Tana Toraja
With a vibrant tribal culture and stunning scenery, Tana Toraja is a fascinating area for those who travel to Indonesia. The village’s boat-shaped roofs are surrounded by breathtaking jungle-thick hills, but for the villagers, life revolves around death. The extravagant funeral ceremonies last days, and visitors are welcome to attend or explore the beautiful cliff cemeteries.
4. The Orangutans of Borneo
The island of Borneo is divided among three countries: Brunei, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The Indonesian territory is where the rainforest blossoms and wild orangutans thrive. Because the endangered orangutans no longer have enough jungle to live and roam freely, rehabilitation centers and refuges protect and help the animals.
5. Jatiluwih Rice Fields of Bali
Known as the most beautiful rice terrace, Bali’s Jatiluwih Rice Fields are a popular tourist destination. They unfold from the foot of the mountain and span 636 hectares to the coast. The peaceful island offers stunning views of the green fields rising and falling with the hills, and the fresh mountain air provides a cool atmosphere 700 meters above sea level.
6. Pura Tanah Lot
People travel to Indonesia to view the sunset at the most visited and photographed temple in Bali, Pura Tanah Lot. Today, more than one-third of the rock has been reconstructed due to erosion, and the sea temple is one of the most popular organized tours in Bali.
7. Gunung Rinjani
Located in the Rinjani mountain range, Gunun Rinjani National Park provides stunning views, waterfalls, rainforest, wildlife, hot springs, caves, and a pristine lake. A massive 3,726-meter-tall volcano towers the island of Lombok as well, offering travelers exhilarating camping, climbing, trekking, and hiking experiences. The volcano is active, but there haven’t been any eruptions since 2004.
Travel to Indonesia to explore an array of scenic adventures richly dipped in culture and history while exploring the vast wilderness. A scenery with active volcanoes, gorgeous beaches, and thriving evergreen rainforests wouldn’t be complete without wildlife like the endangered orangutans.