Best Places to Explore in Indonesia

Uluwatu Temple , South Kuta 

Uluwatu Temple, also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is one of Bali’s most famous attractions. This ancient Balinese Hindu sea temple sits on a high cliff, about 70 meters above the Indian Ocean. It is located in Uluwatu, on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula in Bali, Indonesia. Built in the 11th century, Uluwatu Temple is one of Bali’s six most important temples and is believed to protect the island from evil spirits. It is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in his manifestation as Rudra. The name "Uluwatu" means "land's end rock" in the Balinese language. 

The temple is best known for its stunning views, especially at sunset. From the cliff’s edge, visitors can enjoy breathtaking sights of the endless ocean and golden sky. The Kecak dance performance, held every evening at the temple, is a major highlight. This traditional Balinese dance is performed with rhythmic chanting and fire, making it a unique experience. Uluwatu Temple is among Indonesia’s best tourist places.  

Tips for visitors 

• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon (around 5 PM) to catch the sunset and the Kecak dance.
• Entry Fee: Approx. IDR 50,000 (USD 3) for adults and IDR 30,000 (USD 1.82) for children ages 4–12.
• Dress Code: Wear a sarong and sash (available at the entrance) as a sign of respect.
• Beware of Monkeys: Keep sunglasses, phones, and loose items secured.

Borobudur Temple, Central Java 

Borobudur is a Buddhist temple located in Central Java, Indonesia. It was built in the 9th century by the Sailendra Dynasty. It is considered to be one of the largest Buddhist monuments in the world and is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also classified as one of the best archaeological sites in Southeast Asia and is a top-rated tourist attraction in Indonesia.

Borobudur Temple was built between 780 and 840 AD as a tribute to Buddha. The temple is located approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Yogyakarta, which has an international airport. Most tourists visit Borobudur from Yogyakarta because it is the easiest way to get to the temple. Among all the tourist attractions in Indonesia, Borobudur is among the most visited monuments.

Borobudur is constructed in the shape of a massive mandala, a religious icon in Buddhism that represents the path to enlightenment. The temple has nine levels, lower tiers for material life and worldly attachments, where human desires are located, and the upper levels representing spiritual awakening, which leads to nirvana. At the top is a large central stupa, surrounded by 72 small stupas, each containing a Buddha statue inside.

The temple is built of dark volcanic grey stone and has over 2,600 carved Buddhist teaching story reliefs. Even though Borobudur is a Buddhist temple, it has Hindu mythological elements. The temple complex also worships Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, the three chief gods in Hinduism and is the best place to visit in Indonesia.

Tips for visitors 

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 6 AM) to catch the sunrise and avoid crowds. 
• Entry Fee: Approx. IDR 455,000 (USD 30) for adults and IDR 210,000 (USD 14) for children ages 3–10. 
• Dress Code: Wear a sarong and modest clothing (sarongs are provided at the entrance). 
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water, as exploring the temple involves walking and climbing. 
• Beware of Monkeys: Keep sunglasses, phones, and loose items secured.

Bali, the Westernmost part of the Lesser Sunda Islands

Bali is an Indonesian island between Java and Lombok and is one of Indonesia's tourist places. Bali has beautiful beaches along its coast and mountains inside and is reasonably inexpensive to visit. Bali is also known as "The Island of the Gods" since it has many Hindu temples and a religious atmosphere. It is one of the most popular destinations in Indonesia, with more than 5 million tourists annually.

Bali, Indonesia, is famous for its stunning beaches like Kuta Beach, Seminyak Beach, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, and Sanur. Some of the best beaches in Indonesia are found in Bali. The majority of the beaches are best for surfing and are frequently visited by surfers from around the world. Bali is also famous for its stunning rice terraces, the most sought-after one being the Tegalalang Rice Terrace in Ubud.

Bali is Indonesia's only province that has a majority Hindu population and many cultural landmarks of interest, including Tanah Lot Temple, Besakih Temple, and Uluwatu Temple. It is an Indonesian tourist destination with some adventure spots like Mount Agung, Mount Batur, and waterfalls for a thrilling experience. TripAdvisor in 2017 ranked Bali as the top destination in its Traveler's Choice Awards, and it was again awarded in January 2018.

Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (April to October) is ideal for visiting Bali, as the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities. 
• Respect the Culture: Bali has a strong Hindu culture. Dress modestly when visiting temples, and follow local customs, such as wearing a sarong and sash. 
• Traffic & Transport: Traffic can be heavy, especially in popular areas like Kuta and Seminyak. Renting a scooter or using ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab can be convenient. 
• Beach Safety: Some beaches have strong currents and waves. Always check warning signs before swimming or surfing. 
• Be Cautious with Wildlife: Monkeys in places like Uluwatu and Ubud’s Monkey Forest can be mischievous and might snatch belongings. Avoid feeding or teasing them. 
• Adventure Activities: Bali offers great adventure experiences like hiking Mount Batur for sunrise, exploring waterfalls, and diving in Nusa Penida. Always use trusted tour operators for safety.  

Labuan Bajo,  West Manggarai Regency

Labuan Bajo is a small fishing town at the western end of Flores Island in Indonesia. It is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia besides Bali. It serves as the gateway to the Komodo National Park, where people can view the legendary Komodo dragons, the largest reptiles on our planet.

Labuan Bajo also has a busy port with many boats carrying tourists to the nearby islands. Many tourists stay in Labuan Bajo before and after visiting the Komodo dragons or taking in the beautiful waters around the islands.

Labuan Bajo offers beautiful sunsets that can be observed from restaurants and hotels on top of hills. The waters of Labuan Bajo are blue with plenty of fish of various colors and coral reefs, making it great for diving and snorkeling.

Visitors can find old markets with local food and handicrafts, along with new restaurants and accommodations. Close to Labuan Bajo, there are a lot of nature spots like Pink Beach (which has pink sand), Padar Island (known for its scenery), and Rinca Island (where Komodo dragons live). Most tourists come to Labuan Bajo mainly to take boat tours to the islands nearby.

Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: The Dry season between April and October is the best time to enjoy clear skies and calm seas. Don't visit during the rainy season (November–March) as boat tours may be canceled.
• Island Hopping is a must: A visit to Komodo Island, Padar Island, and Pink Beach is not to be missed. Book the boat tours beforehand and select a good company for safety purposes.
• Komodo Dragons are risky:  Keep away from them and always follow the rangers whenever you are on Komodo or Rinca Island.
• Hotels get booked up fast: Reserve your accommodation in advance, particularly during peak seasons, since Labuan Bajo is a small town with limited options.
• Snorkeling & Diving: A must-visit is Manta Point, where you can swim alongside manta rays. Consult diving conditions with qualified operators.

Lake Toba , North Sumatra

Lake Toba, located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, is the world's largest volcanic lake, covering an area of around 1,130 square kilometers. It was formed after a massive volcanic eruption around 74,000 years ago. It is now a peaceful place surrounded by green hills and small villages.

In the center of Lake Toba lies Samosir Island, which is nearly as large as Singapore. It is populated by the Batak people, who are renowned for their unique culture and traditions. Traditional Batak houses, cultural shows, waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and natural hot springs can be found here.

Lake Toba is a paradise for nature lovers and recreation. It has cool weather and fresh air, which distinguish it from the majority of Indonesia. Visitors can swim, boat, or just enjoy the scenery of the lake. As for the trip to Lake Toba, visitors can fly to Medan, the capital city of the province of North Sumatra. From Medan, it is a four to five-hour car ride to Parapat, the main access to the lake. From Parapat, ferries transport tourists to Samosir Island.

Tips for Visitors

• Best Time to Visit: May to September is the best time to visit when the weather is most suitable for visiting and experiencing the lake.
• Pack for Cool Weather: Lake Toba is cooler than Indonesia, so carry a light jacket, especially for evenings.
• Respect Batak Culture: Batak people hold special traditions. Be respectful while visiting villages and request permission first before photographing locals.
• Transportation Can Be Slow: Winding roads on the lake are slow to travel. It's best to hire a private driver or rent a motorbike.
• Try Local Food: Don’t miss Batak specialties like Naniura (marinated raw fish) and Saksang (pork or beef stew).

Ubud , Gianyar Regency 

Ubud is located in the central part of Bali, about 35 km from Denpasar. This town is surrounded by green rice fields, jungles, and rivers.

People know Ubud as a cultural and art-filled place. Locals produce galleries, traditional dance shows, and handicrafts that cover the town. Travelers also go to historic sites and temples, like the Sacred Monkey Forest, where monkeys run freely.

Ubud is famous for its mix of nature, culture, and wellness. Visitors visit Ubud for yoga retreats, spa therapies, and healthy food cafes. The Tegalalang Rice Terrace is world-renowned for its breathtaking views of Bali's mythical landscapes.

Tips for Visitors 

• Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season).
• Entry Fees:
  • Monkey Forest: IDR 80,000 ($5 USD)
  • Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Free (donations welcome)
  • Ubud Palace: Free
  • Goa Gajah: IDR 50,000 ($3 USD)
• Dress Code: Modest clothing is required for temples (shoulders and knees covered).
• Transportation: Rent a scooter or hire a driver for easy exploration.

Komodo National Park , East Nusa Tenggara 

Komodo National Park is in Indonesia, situated between the islands of Flores and Sumbawa. It comprises three big islands, i.e, Komodo, Rinca, and Padar, and numerous smaller ones, surrounded by blue waters. It's one of the top destinations to visit in Indonesia, apart from Bali, with its one-of-a-kind wildlife and breathtaking scenery.

The park is renowned for the Komodo dragon, the largest lizard in the world. The huge reptiles live on the Komodo and Rinca Islands, walking freely and attracting tourists from across the globe.

Divers and snorkelers adore the Komodo National Park because it is so rich in marine life. The coral reefs are home to manta rays, sea turtles, and multicolored fish. Thrill-seekers also trek to places such as Padar Island to gain breathtaking views of the sea and islands.

Tips for Visitors 

• Best Time to Visit: April to December (dry season), with July to September being the peak months.
• Entry Fees:
  • Komodo Island: IDR 150,000 ($10 USD)
  • Rinca Island: IDR 100,000 ($6 USD)
  • Marine Entrance Fee: Around IDR 50,000 ($3 USD)
• Dress Code: Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes for trekking. Swimwear for snorkeling and diving.
• Transportation: Most visitors arrive by boat from Labuan Bajo. Private boats and group tours are available.
• Safety: Follow park ranger instructions regarding Komodo dragons and other wildlife.

Pink Beach, Komodo National Park 

Pink Beach is located in Komodo National Park, Indonesia. It is renowned for its beautiful pink sand, which is created when white sand mixes with red coral. The beach's strange pink color makes it special and attracts many tourists. Pink Beach is loved by people mainly because of its clear water and rich underwater life, which also makes it a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving.

The beach is quiet and less populous compared to other beaches in Indonesia. It offers a calm spot to connect with nature. A person can swim, snorkel, or just sit on the beach. The waters of Pink Beach are home to coral reefs and a rich assortment of fish, making it a great spot for people who enjoy underwater activities.

Tips for Visitors 

• Best Time to Visit: April to December (dry season), with July to September being the peak months.
• Entry Fees: Entry to Komodo National Park includes a fee for Pink Beach, typically around IDR 150,000 ($10 USD).
• Dress Code: Swimwear for beach activities and comfortable clothes for exploring the area.
• Transportation: Visitors usually reach Pink Beach by boat from Labuan Bajo or via organized tours to the Komodo National Park.
• Safety: Be cautious while swimming and snorkeling, as the currents can be strong. Follow safety instructions from guides.

Penida Island, Southeast of Bali 

Penida Island is the largest of the three Nusa Islands, southeast of Bali, Indonesia. It's a mere 30-45 minutes by boat from Bali, yet still less developed and more genuine in its experience. 

The island is famous for its beautiful landscapes, such as grand limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise sea waters. Kelingking Beach, with the shape of a T-Rex cliff beach, white-sand Diamond Beach, and rock-grabbed Atuh Beach are some of its famous beaches. Crystal Bay is the ideal place to be for snorkeling and diving, particularly to see mola mola (ocean sunfish) in some seasons of the year. 

The waters off Penida Island fall under the Coral Triangle, where aquatic life thrives. It also has a manta ray sanctuary for preservation purposes. 

Tips for Visitors 

• Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season) for the best weather and clear views.
• Entry Fees: Most attractions are free, but some, like Kelingking Beach or Atuh Beach, may have small donation fees.
• Dress Code: Casual, comfortable clothes for exploring. Swimwear for beach visits and water activities.
• Transportation: Rent a motorbike or hire a local driver to get around. Boats from Bali to Penida take 30-45 minutes.

Mount Bromo, East Java

Mount Bromo is an active volcano in East Java, Indonesia, and stands at 2,329 meters (7,641 feet) tall. It is one of the most popular Indonesian tourist sites because of its stunning landscapes and scenery. The active volcano erupts with sulfurous smoke. The Tenggerese also possess an annual ceremony, Yadnya Kasada, offering food, money, and livestock to the mountain deities by throwing them into the crater. Hiking to Mount Bromo is among the 10 best things to do in Indonesia.

The most popular activity is viewing the sunrise from Mount Penanjakan, which has a breathtaking view of Bromo, the Sea of Sand, and Mount Semeru. Tourists can then hike across the Sea of Sand to reach Bromo's foot and climb 253 steps to the crater rim after sunrise. The area has a cool climate, with the temperature dropping to 3-5°C (37-41°F) at night. 

Tips for Visitors 

• Best Time to Visit: April to October (dry season) for the best weather and clear views.
• Entry Fees: Around IDR 220,000 ($15 USD) for the park entrance fee.
• Dress Code: Wear warm clothing, as temperatures can drop to 3-5°C (37-41°F) in the early morning. Comfortable shoes for walking.
• Transportation: Visitors usually reach Mount Bromo from Probolinggo by car or jeep. Many hire local drivers or join tours.

Conclusion 

Indonesia has wonderful places to visit, which include beautiful beaches and ancient temples. The top 10 experiences of Indonesia are naturally experiencing the ocean scenery at Uluwatu Temple, observing the ancient Borobudur Temple, having beaches in Bali, island-hopping in Labuan Bajo, admiring Lake Toba's peaceful scenery, experiencing Ubud's cultural atmosphere, observing the Komodo dragons in Komodo National Park, experiencing the one-of-a-kind Pink Beach, witnessing the cliffs of Penida Island, and witnessing the sunrise in Mount Bromo. With its own diverse culture, friendly people, and varied terrain from coastlines to volcanoes, Indonesia provides an unparalleled experience for any tourist.