With 17504 islands, 6000 of them inhabited, Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world. Straddled between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, Indonesia is the 4th most populous country in the world. Indonesia markets itself as 'Wonderful Indonesia', and this is quite true. The country’s capital, Jakarta, is the world’s 2nd most populous urban area. Despite its large population and densely populous regions, Indonesia has a vast area of wilderness that supports one of the highest levels of biodiversity. It boasts of 1537 species of birds and 515 species of mammals. Its flora and fauna are a mixture of Asian and Australian species. Nature and architecture are the prime attractions of Indonesian tourism.
Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a land of pristine beaches, exotic water villas on islands, vibrant tribes, and their cultural ethos. Here’s a list of some of the most beautiful places in Indonesia, covering islands, beaches, and lakes for the water babies, and places for city explorers:
1. Gili Islands
Gili Islands, off the west coast of Lombok, is a series of three tiny islands namely Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, where everyone from party lovers to honeymooners look to. They are about three hours from Bali. Fringed by white sands and blue water, and overwater romantic villas, these tiny islands bear unique scenic appeal while making it to the list of most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Best time to visit: September to November
2.
Raja Ampat Islands
Raja Ampat which literally means “The Four Kings” is an archipelago comprising the islands Waigeo, Misool, Salawati, and Batanta, besides 1500 minor ones. For underwater enthusiasts Raja Ampat offers some of the world’s ultimate experience. There are a lot of diving and snorkeling spots to choose from in these vast waters. One of the famous Indonesian tourist spots, it is rich in marine flora and fauna diversity, including rare species of corals.
Best time to visit: October to April
3.
Maluk Beach
One of the stunning beaches of Indonesia is located on the western coast of South Sumbawa Island. Maluk Beach is an exotic beach with white stretches of sand, shimmering blue sea water increasing the beauty of the beach. The changing colours of sun rays and the small whispering of waves closely visible wetting the lips of the beach add to the beauty of the beach Maluk. It is indeed one of the best places to visit in Indonesia.
Best time to visit: May to December.
4. Mount Bromo
Better known as Gunung Bromo, it is a volcano in an active state. The top of Bromo forms a crater that emits white smoke at regular intervals. This volcano surrounded by smoke and a multi-coloured sky has become an iconic sight of Indonesia. The name Bromo comes from the Javanese pronunciation of Brahma, the Hindu God of Creation. This is one of the most beautiful places to go to in Indonesia. The area is one of the most visited places in East Java.
Best time to visit: April to October.
5.
Mount Rinjani
Locally known as Gunung Rinjani it is an active volcano on Mount Lombok. It is the second-highest volcano of Indonesia after Mount Kerinci in Sumatra. Within its huge 50 sq km caldera sits the crater lake called Segara Anak, which has a hot spring. It is one of the best and popular places to visit in Indonesia for trekkers. Once a trekker reaches the top after a strenuous trek, he/she will be rewarded with breathtaking sunrise and a view of the whole island including Gili and even Bali.
Best time to visit: April to July
6.
Torajaland
Considered among the best Indonesian to visit places, this highland region located in South Sulawesi, is home to the Toraja tribe, which is known for its culture, tradition, rituals, and a high peaked roof –houses called Tongkonan. Their unique pattern makes it a distinct and beautiful place in Indonesia. Torojans are renowned for their elaborate funeral rites which are important social events usually attended by hundreds of people and lasting for several days. South Sulawesi is a delightful potpourri of people and cultures and is probably one of the most interesting regions of Indonesia.
Best time to visit: June to September
7.
Borobudur Temple
Borobudur temple is the world’s biggest Buddhist sanctuary which not only has a religious significance but is also admired for its architectural beauty, making it amongst the best tourist places in Indonesia. This ancient temple is home to ornate stone carvings, a grand structure to gaze at, and the scenic view that surrounds the monument. The temple is decorated with 2672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The central dome is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues each seated in a perforated stupa and the temple is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Best time to visit: April to October
8. Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua which literally means ‘Two Islands”, is home to gorgeous beaches and offers luxury resorts. It is amongst the best beautiful places in Indonesia. Capital of Bali province, the place offers water sports and a safe area to stay in. It holds crystal clear waters, and the pearly soft white sandy beaches surrounding Nusa Dua make it a perfect place to have fun for all the members of the family.
Best time to visit: June to September
9. Jakarta
Capital of Indonesia is a dynamic lifestyle and the melting pot of cultures. The beautiful amalgamation of Malay, Chinese, Arabian, Indian and European cultures can be seen in its architecture, food, and language, and this makes it one of the famous places to go in Indonesia. Dutch colonial buildings are a major attraction in the old town of Kuta Tua. It is a historic mixture of cultures. It is one of the best places in Indonesia to visit.
Best time to visit: June to September
10. Bali
Known as the ‘Island of Gods’ This Indonesian tourist spot certainly deserves it. This most popular tourist spot is an inclusive tourist destination that offers the visitor everything from beautiful temples, lofty mountains, rich heritage and culture to exciting nightlife. Renowned for its highly developed arts including traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, metalworking, and music, it is said to be the only Hindu majority province in the Muslim majority Indonesia. It is also an area with the highest biodiversity of marine species, especially fish and turtles.
Best time to visit: April to October.
11. Kelimutu Lake ( Nusu Tenggara Tumir)
Of all the Indonesian tourist places, Kelimutu Lake, situated in Kelimutu National Park, is a league apart, and certainly one of the most visited beautiful places in Indonesia. There are three lakes formed by the volcano of the same name Kelimutu meaning ‘the boiling lake’ and believed to be the resting place of the departed souls. These lakes offer the most spectacular wonder of nature as these change colours- sometimes into green, blue, and black while other times turn to white, red and blue. These crater lakes are the must-visit tourist spots in Indonesia.
The beauty of Indonesia, what with famous islands and beautiful landscapes, cannot be listed, however, I have tried to present before you a few of them which are a must-visit at least once in your lifetime.
Pics and Inputs Google, Unsplash, Blogger Sukanya Sen
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