When we picture Indonesia, the one place that comes to our mind first is Bali. However, not many people know that Indonesia is much more than just Bali. The country offers cultural diversity and natural beauty, most of which is still unexplored by the tourists. Here are some of the amazing places to visit in the country.
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1) Central Java’s Dieng Plateau
Mountain Prau erupted vehemently at one time and created a caldera which we now call Dieng Plateau. Nearly 2000 meters above the sea level, this Plateau is one of the most amazing and beautiful places to visit in Indonesia. The nearby lowlands already start giving you the hint as to what the spectacle at this place will be. Come and visit place to see the incredible lake which dazzles in multi colours. You will also get to see some amazing landscapes and enjoy the hot springs from the peak of the plateau. There are many Hindu temples that are also quite an attraction. The tone of this place is vastly different from the rest of the city. Foliage covered hills, trekking through the forests, and the feel of the fresh air – all of this is nothing less than mesmerizing.
2) Manado in North Sulawesi
Formerly, Manado was a stronghold of the Dutch Empire and also the cultural hub of the ethnic group of Minahasa. Manado remained as a very prosperous and affluent city for a very long time. It provided the passage for trade with the neighbouring country Philippines. Unfortunately, most of the buildings got converted into ruins in World War 2. However, the city hasn’t lost its historical significance and is the home to some of the most important churches of Indonesia.
3) Thousand Islands in Jakarta
There are certainly more heavens right on our planet than we know and one of them is very close to the Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. Start from marina on a speedboat and reach Ancol in less than 90 minutes where you will become the witness to the heavenly beauty of Pulau Macan, also referred to as Tiger Island. There is so much for you here – crystal clear and glittering water, shining white sand, amazing water fun activities, and delicious food. The island only has one resort but the staff there will make sure that you get the best services as long as you are there.
4) Lombok Island of West Nusa Tenggara
Lombok is nearly as big as its neighbouring city Bali and is also one of the most important tourist destinations of the country. The place has developed well and offers most modern amenities to the visitors. It is also the place from where you can easily access the three very famous Gili Islands – Gili Meno, Gili Air, and Gili Trawangan. These islands are truly wonderful for those who are looking for laidback retreats as well as luxury resorts.
5) Yogyakarta in Central Java
Saying that Yogyakarta is the hub of the art and culture in the Java islands would be no exaggeration. The things get better because you get to taste the finest cuisines here. If you are looking for puppet makers, food vendors, batik, or street art, just leisurely stroll down the streets and you will get it all. But the beauty of the place does not end here. This city is also historically the most significant in the entire Java and you can explore many monuments and temples here. Borobudur, which ages back to the 9th century, is one of the oldest temples of Buddha. If you love arts, culture, and history definitely visit this place once.
6) Komodo Island in East Nusa Tenggara
If you have been fascinated by the gigantic Komodo dragons, but have only seen them on TV so far, you can see them live in the Komodo Island. This giant lizard is native to the country and Komodo Island is the only place where you can see them. It is the biggest lizard in the whole world and an adult could weigh as heavy as 70 kg and grow long as 3 metres. This amazing creature loves to stay in groups and likes the tropical forests. If you are in Komodo National Park, remember that it is a protected site and it is absolutely illegal to hunt these lizards or to harm them in any way.
7) Bandung in West Java
Bandung is a cool city of West Java which offers lots of greenery and pleasant weather. Some people also call Bandung as Paris of Java. If you are someone who loves sceneries and panoramic views, then you will most certainly love this place. The views are extremely breathtaking, especially around the areas close to volcanoes, tea plantations and Kawah Putih (the sulphur lake in turquoise colour). Also, if you are a foodie, you have another reason to love this place as the food here is nothing less than delicious. Bandung is quite commercial and you can buy high quality fabrics at the most affordable prices in the markets.
8) Lake Maninjau in West Sumatra
If you are looking for one of the less visited places that offer the nature completely unspoiled, then pack your bags and get going for the spectacular lake called Maninjau. A little over 450 meters above the sea level, this lake is sheltered by a volcanic crater. The journey to this place is however not exactly very comfortable but it is definitely adventurous. The steep roads that take you to this place are punctuated by more than 40 hairpin turns. With so many bends and twists, for some the ride could be tiresome, but for many it is certainly eventful. Especially when you witness the marvel of the hills and the blue lake, you will feel every bit of your effort was worth it.
9) Pontianak in West Kalimantan
One of the most amazing things about Pontianak is that it takes you right into the heart of the nature which is still undefiled. Kapuas River, one of the longest rivers in the world, takes you through the jungles and all the way into the backwoods. The setting of the nature is truly breathtaking and you can explore the entire region on a boat. You can stay in the longhouses, the traditional dwelling of the native Dayak people and understand how they managed to keep their traditions alive.
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