It is impossible to see all the sights of Indonesia in one visit. Despite the fact that this country is small, located on islands, there are a lot of wonderful and delightful places here. What are only ancient temples worth, which are in a ruined, dilapidated or well-preserved form! Exotic nature surprises with unexpected surprises, such as a water cloud at a famous waterfall or a “living” wall completely dotted with butterflies. Don’t know what to see in Indonesia? Especially for you, we have compiled a list of the most interesting places in this country.
What to see in Indonesia first of all
No matter how wonderful the local attractions may seem, visiting them unaccompanied is not the best idea. Only guides in Indonesia know when it is better to go to inspect a particular monument and how to behave so as not to violate religious traditions. So in addition to choosing attractive places to visit, be sure to think about who will accompany you.
1. Prambanan Temple Complex (Java Island)
Prambanan Stone Temple Complex
All tourists coming to Java Island must visit the Prambanan Temple Complex, an amazing medieval structure. The complex includes more than a hundred interesting Hindu and Buddhist temples, the main number of which, after major earthquakes and powerful volcanic eruptions, have been preserved only in the form of ruins. In the first half of the 20th century, the buildings were restored and now represent a majestic picture of towering three temples dedicated to the gods Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, decorated with reliefs in the style of “Ramayana” – an ancient Indian epic. Their spires rise high into the sky. Nearby there are ancient shrines dedicated to the deities of mythical animals.
It is impossible to appreciate the sights of Indonesia without visiting this magnificent temple complex. Time seems to have stopped here and it seems that you can wander around the territory, looking at fantastic stories on the walls of buildings, for an eternity. Bas-reliefs depicting ancient gods and demons, birds and animals combined into incredible figurative compositions. Unfortunately, many of the figures were not preserved, some were damaged by earthquakes, and some were stolen. However, some of the fragments have been restored, and the remaining ruins are carefully collected, assembled and gradually restored.
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2. Forest of Monkeys in Ubud (Bali Island)
The atmosphere of the sacred monkey Forest in Ubud
One of the most popular activities for tourists in Bali is visiting the monkey forest. Balinese people revere these animals very much. Monkeys feel at ease, and tourists who regularly feed them, despite the ban, are treated leniently.
On the territory of the sacred forest reserve there is a small Hindu temple, the guardians of which are the macaques living in the forest. As befits all Balinese temples, it is decorated with bas-reliefs and stunning fantastic statues, among which there are many images of monkeys. Such sights of Indonesia as this park attract tourists with lush vegetation, freshness, it is pleasant to walk around it: birds sing, streams murmur, and communication with macaques arouses keen interest among both adults and children. There is a small pond and an alley with animal sculptures in the forest.
The monkeys are so used to tourists bringing them all sorts of goodies that they begin to get impudent and do not even disdain to “search” visitors for something edible. The population of macaques is rapidly increasing and now numbers more than 600 individuals. Excursions to Bali in this park leave a lot of positive emotions and good impressions.
Official website: https://www.monkeyforestubud.com
3. Bat Cave (Bali Island)
Goa Lavah Temple with Bat Cave inside
A very unusual and interesting excursion to Bali is a visit to the bat cave. It is located in one of its six main temples – Goa Lavah, which means “bat”. The temple was built in the XI century.
It is said that the cave has a length of 25 km, many secret passages, some of them lead to other temples. They also say that there is an entrance in the dungeon, a kind of portal to another universe, and whole expeditions have disappeared in mysterious corridors. Similar attractions in Indonesia attract tourists with their mystery. A lot of bats greet visitors right on the threshold of the cave with a desperate squeak and a peculiar smell. By the way, their appearance does not cause disgust at all, cute little faces with beady eyes look somehow human.
In front of the cave, on special altars, locals lay out food for the winged inhabitants of the cave. If you love mysteries and are wondering what to visit in Indonesia, go to the Bat Cave, but be sure at sunset. A fascinating sight awaits you when the mice begin to leave the cave en masse, fly out of it, flapping their wings above your head, and it seems as if the whole sky is filled with an endless stream of mice.
4. Banyar Hot Springs (Lovina Beach, Bali Island)
Sculptural mythical heads at the Banyar hot springs
In Bali, the Banyar hot springs are considered sacred, so visiting them is akin to a pilgrimage, aimed at bodily and spiritual purification. A special feature of this Indonesian landmark is a swimming pool with warm healing water that enters it directly from underground. Everything is decorated in Balinese style, which allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of relaxation and relaxation.
The hot springs borrowed their name from the village near which they are located – Banyar. It is located in the north of Bali, near Lovina beach. Locals believe that this water cures many diseases, so they often come here themselves.
Upon arrival, you will see two pools that have a connection between each other. The water is not very hot, and it is pleasant to stand under the stream, which falls from a height of 3.5 m. Water has a massaging effect and lifts the mood. There are always a lot of people here, both tourists and locals, so bathing is almost always massive.
The smell of water can alert you, but you should not be afraid – it appears due to the high sulfur content. Everything is provided for a comfortable stay here: there is a place to put things, eat in a restaurant, admire the picturesque surroundings, visit the spa. Local stalls sell a variety of souvenirs, you can safely bargain, as sellers always call the cost several times too high.
5. Jati Luvi Rice Terraces (Tabanan District, Bali Island)
Jati Luvi Rice Terraces
The sights of Indonesia are very unusual and attract the attention of tourists. What rice fields are worth! The plantations are the pride of the island, as the locals consider this culture a gift from higher powers. Rice is grown in the same way as a hundred years ago, the technology has hardly changed.
Rice plantations are located near the town of Tabanan. If you are wondering what to see in Indonesia, first of all go here. The main thing is to bring flip–flops with you, because, in addition to the beautiful views, there are a lot of puddles and mud under your feet. Bakutaru Mountain is located near the plantations. The air here is always fresh and a little cool due to being at an altitude of 700 meters above sea level.
Local residents conduct religious rituals here, as beliefs say that without worshiping higher powers, you can not expect a good harvest.
Rice terraces have been known as a tourist attraction for a long time, but only the last 50 years have been in a hurry to actively visit them. The government has taken control of it, and every year it becomes more convenient for foreign citizens to visit. There is a parking lot, toilets, a place where you can eat and relax. Only local cuisine and drinks are on the menu.
See the beautiful places of Indonesia in this wonderful video!
6. Lake Bratan (Bali Island)
The main water temple of Oolong Danu on Lake Bratan
The sights of Indonesia are most often natural objects, mountains or reservoirs. Lake Bratan was loved by tourists due to its unusual landscape and close location to the Batur volcano. There is not only one, but there is also a Tamblingan and a Brawler, but the most popular of them is a Bro.
The locals call Bro Lake of the Holy Mountain and believe that if you swim in its waters, you can gain longevity and prolong youth. The water in the reservoir is cool, as the depth in some places reaches 35 meters. Guides in Bali bring tourists here to show the temple of Oolong Danu, which is located on the shore and is dedicated to the local deity Devi Danu. There are always more locals in it than tourists. Although the temple was built in 1663, it is still active. All believers can bring treats and gifts here to honor the spirits. Entrance to the territory of the sacred place is paid.
The temple looks very picturesque and unusual against the background of mountains and lakes, and you will not see anything like it anywhere else in the world. The reservoir is a source of fresh drinking water for the entire island, so it is closely monitored and cared for. Water pollution or disrespectful attitude are unacceptable.
7. Krakatoa Volcano (Sunda Bay, between the islands of Java and Sumatra)
The active volcano of Krakatoa
The Indonesian picturesque volcanic island of Krakatoa, formed more than a million years ago, is a cone–shaped mountain and is located between two islands – Java and Sumatra. For thrill seekers, the beautiful Krakatoa volcano is one of the first places in the list of attractions, and it also attracts the attention of volcanologists from all over the world.
The powerful eruption of 1883 completely destroyed the island on which the crater was located, and the tsunami formed as a result of the explosion killed a huge number of people. The whole planet felt the terrible tremors, the sunsets turned fiery red, and the air temperature dropped by several degrees. When the eruption ended, most of the island disappeared, and the volcano became much lower. Volcanologists claim that Krakatoa changes its height every year, increases and continues to grow. To date, the volcano remains active, and therefore the Indonesian government has banned locals from settling close to it, and tourists from approaching a distance of less than one and a half kilometers. However, nothing prevents surfers from honing their skills at Tanjung Setia Beach in Lampung Province, which is famous for high and unusual waves in its complexity.
8. Tirtaganga Water Palace (Bali Island)
Non-standing stones and statues in the pond of the Tirtaganga Water Palace
The Tirtaganga Palace Complex, which means “sacred water of the Ganges”, is a unique combination of picturesque water pools with a sculptural ensemble and occupies an area of 1.3 hectares. The three–level palace is a symbol of the Universe, where all three levels were divided into Swah – the highest divine, Bwah – the mortal human, Bhur – the lower dark world of demons. The magnificent fountain, which is located in the central part of the water palace complex surrounded by Hindu gods, is a symbol of the supreme deity.
Before the eruption of Mount Agung in 1963, as a result of which the entire complex was severely damaged and partially destroyed, there were sculptures of people on the site of the current swimming pool, which symbolized the human world. The lower level in the form of a maze with sculptures of evil spirits and animals is a symbol of the mysterious world of demons. All the sights of Indonesia are unique, each in its own way, while it is the Water Palace of Tirtaganga that impresses with its elegance and splendor. Wondering what to see in Indonesia, tourists first of all choose this complex with picturesque parks, alleys, ponds, fountains and sacred springs, leaving unforgettable impressions in their memory.
9. Java Island
Java Island
The island of Java impresses with its truly amazing beauty of nature and is divided into three provinces:
- The central one is the historical and cultural center of the island; the Western one is high mountains and green valleys; the Eastern one is rich in beaches, lakes, majestic volcanoes and nature reserves.
Wanting to get an indescribable feeling and visit the sights of Indonesia, tourists first of all come to the island of Java. After traveling through all the provinces, guests will see unique ancient monuments, formidable volcanoes, endless rice plantations and national parks, and will receive a tremendous boost of energy.
Visitors begin to get acquainted with Java from the metropolis, the capital of the island – Jakarta. The city is quite interesting and ambiguous, here you can feel the whole great history of Indonesia, see its symbol in the center of the capital – the majestic National Monument. There are many active volcanoes on the island (there are more than 120 in total). Among the most popular and visited places by tourists are the ancient temple complexes Borobudur and Prambanan, the Taman Sari Water Palace created in the XVIII century, the amazing Bromo–Tenger-Semeru National Park, on the territory of which there are not only beautiful waterfalls and dense impenetrable forests, but also several active volcanoes.
10. Elephant Cave (Bali Island)
The head of a mythical creature above the entrance to the Elephant Cave
Not far from the village of Bedulu is the Goa Gajah Temple, which is located in a man-made cave called the Elephant Cave. The choice of location for the Hindu shrine is not accidental – the aborigines considered the confluence of two streams endowed with divine power.
The sights of Indonesia almost always have unusual names, the Elephant Cave is no exception. It got its name due to the Ganesha statue located in the temple. This deity has the head of an elephant. However, there is another version that says that the Petanu River influenced the choice of the name, the locals call it “elephant creek”.
Entrance to the territory is paid, but you can only pass if you wear a sarong (local traditional clothes). Here you can see many fragments of sculptures and architecture that have been preserved since ancient times.
Three statues and a sculpture of Hariti attract special attention of tourists. This giantess was known in Bali as Men-Breyut. You can enter the cave only through the main entrance, which is decorated in the form of an open mouth of a terrible monster. Different scholars see different mythological characters in him, for example, Kebo Iwa, the demoness Rangda or the god of hunting Pashupati.
Sights of Indonesia: what else to visit while in Indonesia
Check out a few more tourist sites that are often included in excursions in Indonesia, because the wider the choice, the more likely it is that the vacation will be amazing! All the information provided is up-to-date, and the photos allow you to appreciate the stunning beauty of the sights waiting for you in this country.
11. Munduk Waterfall (central part of Bali Island)
Munduk Waterfall in the thickets of the rainforest
The sights of Indonesia are famous all over the world for their beauty. Especially when it comes to waterfalls, as they look powerful and spectacular. One of them is a Chest. They walk to it along a narrow path, which is surrounded by greenery and stretches along a cliff directly above the river. The main thing on the way is not to be distracted by the beautiful views of the valley, and carefully look at your feet.
When making a list of what to visit in Indonesia, you should not miss this object. Munduk Waterfall is a stream falling from a height of 25 meters, which does not dry up even during a drought. It is the rainy season in these places from November to February, and the spectacle will be especially impressive.
The stream of rushing water against the background of the green jungle looks exciting. There is a parking lot nearby, for which you will have to pay a purely symbolic amount. Going up to the observation deck of about 500, you can hear the sound of water, but the waterfall itself is not visible until the last. You will not be able to get close to it, since there is a cloud of water dust nearby. If you stand for a few minutes, you can get soaked through.
Pura Ulan Danu Temple, Tamblingan Lake, and a Buddhist temple are located near the waterfall.
12. Borobudur Temple (Java Island)
Borobudur Buddhist Temple
Going to the island of Java, you should add the Temple of a Thousand Buddhas, or, as it is also called, Borobudur, to the list of places to visit. This is the second largest sanctuary, after the well-known Angkor Wat. This Indonesian landmark has only 50 sculptures, but in addition to them there are almost 3 hundred stone bas–reliefs that create a fantastic sight. The length of the temple is about 5 km, and this object is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In fact, this is a Buddhist textbook that tells about all the reincarnations of the Buddha and the pillars of his teachings. Many tourists make a wish by touching the foot of the Buddha.
It is not known for certain who exactly was involved in the construction of this amazing architectural structure and for what purpose it was done. Gunadharma is considered to be the architect, but Japanese legends speak about this, and there are no other sources that would confirm this. The approximate time of construction is 750 AD. It took about 75 years to fully complete the construction of the complex.
But Borobudur fell into disrepair after the locals left these lands. Scientists believe that the reason for this was a volcanic eruption. This is confirmed by the fact that for several centuries the complex was buried under volcanic ash and hidden in thickets of tropical vegetation. When looking for something to see in Indonesia, it is better to go here first.
13. Pura Tanah Lot Temple (Beraban, Bali)
“Land in the sea”
The sights of Indonesia are very diverse, and it will take a lot of time to explore them all. However, if you get to the city of Beraban at low tide, then you should definitely visit one of the most important attractions – the Tanakh Lot temple, whose name literally translates as “land in the sea”. It is impossible to get there before low tide, because it is located on a rock in the sea.
According to legend, this functioning temple was built in the 15th century by a Hindu priest. Today, the rock on which the temple was built is more than one-third artificial, since in the 80s of the last century the temple began to slowly collapse, and in the 90s it was already on the verge of complete destruction. The Japanese government has given Indonesia a loan of about $130 million to restore not only Pura Tanah Lot, but also many other attractions throughout the country.
It is worth planning a visit to the rock in the afternoon, because it is very hot there during the day. Only true believers are allowed to enter the temple itself, so tourists are not allowed to go there. However, from the lower part of the Tanakh Lot cliff, you can see very well. If you take a camera with a good magnification, you will not only be able to see the temple in all its details, but also take wonderful photos.
Official website: https://www.tanahlot.net
14. Taman Sari Water Castle (Yogyakarta, Java Island)
Taman Sari Water Palace Swimming Pool
If you do not know what to visit in Indonesia, then be sure to start your acquaintance with this amazing country with the Taman Sari water castle, which is located on the island of Java.
This castle was built in the XVIII century by an architect from Portugal and had a huge number of magnificent canals and pools. Today, there are two artificial lakes, islands, gazebos and swimming pools on its territory.
According to legend, the castle had a huge number of secret passages and rooms. So that no one would know about their location, the architect who built this magnificent structure was killed by order of the Sultan. Another version is that the sultan did not want such a luxurious park to ever be repeated, and therefore ordered the unfortunate architect to be killed.
After the eruption of Mount Merapi, the park was significantly damaged, and even if it had secret passages and labyrinths, they were littered with ash.
Today, a significant part of Taman Sari has been restored and restored. This is a wonderful place to relax, which, despite the creepy legends associated with it, attracts a huge number of tourists.
15. Bunaken National Park (Sulawesi Island)
The sea depths of Bunaken Park is a place for divers to relax
When the question arises what to see in Indonesia, the name of Bunaken National Park immediately comes to mind. It is rightfully considered a marine park, since almost 97% of its entire area is occupied by a water area. The land of Bunaken Park consists of five islands: Siladen, Nine, Montehage, Bunken and Manado Tua, which is an extinct volcano.
Bunaken Marine Park is a national nature reserve that was founded in 1991 to protect the flora and fauna of Indonesia. Despite the amazing beauty of the islands and their coastal areas, the part that hides under the water is of the greatest interest to tourists in this park. Not far from it is the center of the Coral Triangle, which is home to a lot of different species of fish, corals and shellfish.
For diving enthusiasts, this marine park will be a great place to relax. The number of dive sites here is at least 30, all of them are distinguished by excellent visibility at a depth of at least 20 m, the minimum water temperature is 27 ° C. The greatest depth of these places is about 100 m, however, experienced divers do not recommend diving deeper than 30 m, since a very large number of predators live in the water, which prowl in search of prey. Also read about the sights of Malaysia and get inspired for your further journey through Southeast Asia!
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