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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia is one of the countries that is quite popular as a tourist destination, especially in the Southeast Asia region.
Among approximately 17,000 islands that spread over an area of 1,919,440 square kilometers, various natural and cultural beauties are waiting to be explored endlessly.
While the world knows Indonesia mainly because of Bali with its exotic charms, this equatorial country still has other spots that are equally captivating for travelers.
Lonely Planet shares the top 10 best places to visit in Indonesia, including areas such as Jakarta, Ubud, and the Gili Islands. Ready to explore further into the Indonesian archipelago? Scroll to read the full list!
10 Best Tourist Attractions in Indonesia, According to Lonely Planet
1. Ubud, Bali
The beaches of Bali, such as Kuta Beach-which is the most mainstream, act like a magnet attracting foreign tourists. However, take a moment to shift to Ubud to experience Bali with a slightly different feel.
Feast your eyes on the lush green view of the terraced rice fields. Take the time to stop by the Sacred Monkey Forest to see the wandering monkeys "disturbing" the visitors. Then, end the day by watching the traditional dancers performing legong or kecak dance at the nearest temple.
2. Gili Islands, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara
In addition to Bali, Lombok is an alternative tourist destination that is equally stunning, especially the Gili Islands. Consisting of three islands, Gili Trawangan is the most popular of the islands.
Marine tourism is the main activity while in Gili Trawangan. Apart from enjoying the beauty of the coastline under the hot sunshine, visitors can dive and snorkel with turtles. For those who enjoy water sports, you can go surfing, ride a banana boat, or explore the waters of Gili Trawangan on a kayak.
3. Jakarta, DKI Jakarta
Jakarta is more than just Indonesia’s capital. Beneath its towering skyscrapers lies a rich history that shapes the nation. Visitors can explore the Old Town on foot or by rented bicycle while admiring its colonial-era architecture.
For a similar historical experience, the National Museum offers an extensive collection of artifacts from the past.
Art lovers can head to the National Gallery to discover classic works by local artists, while those interested in contemporary and modern art will find an impressive collection at the Macan Museum.
4. Borobudur, Central Java and Yogyakarta
Not satisfied with the historical offerings Jakarta has? That means you must visit Borobudur Temple. Estimated to originate from the 8th and 9th centuries, the official UNESCO site states that this historical site provides an idea of how Buddhism developed in the archipelago.
From Borobudur Temple, located in Magelang, Central Java, take a train to Yogyakarta to experience the strong Javanese culture.
Stop by Malioboro Street to buy the best batik cloth with interesting motifs. Don't forget to fill your stomach with gudeg, a typical Yogyakarta dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
5. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java
Indonesia, an archipelagic nation, also sits on the "Ring of Fire," giving it both breathtaking and potentially dangerous mountains—one of which is Mount Bromo.
Lonely Planet recognizes Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park as one of Indonesia’s top destinations, thanks to its stunning natural beauty. Many visitors hike to the summit to witness the mesmerizing Bromo landscape at sunrise.
Visitors to Mount Bromo await the sunrise moment at Penanjakan. TEMPO/Abdi Purmono
6. Kerinci Valley, Jambi
Similar to Mount Bromo, this tourist spot will greet visitors with a refreshing green natural scenery.
There are various activities that visitors can do, from embarking on a journey to the peak of Mount Kerinci, which is the highest volcano in Southeast Asia, cooling off under the waterfall, or trekking through the forest to greet various primate species, such as langurs and gibbons.
7. Tanjung Puting National Park, Central Kalimantan
Indonesia's natural wealth extends beyond its breathtaking landscapes to its diverse flora and fauna.
Tanjung Puting National Park, located in Central Kalimantan on the island of Borneo, is a prime destination for observing orangutans in their natural habitat.
According to Central Kalimantan Tourism’s official website, the park was originally a nature reserve and wildlife sanctuary before gaining national park status in 1984.
As Indonesia’s first orangutan rehabilitation center, Tanjung Puting offers more than just wildlife encounters. Visitors can explore Tanjung Harapan, Camp Leakey, and Burung Lake for a deeper experience of the park’s natural wonders.
8. Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara
Komodo National Park is one of the best places to visit in Indonesia according to Lonely Planet.
Encompassing an area of approximately 1,817 square kilometers, based on Indonesia Baik, this tourist destination located in East Nusa Tenggara is home to a group of giant lizards, commonly known as komodos.
In addition to witnessing the herd of komodos, you can also find the mangrove forest ecosystem that adorns the coastal areas. Furthermore, as Komodo National Park is still in the Labuan Bajo region, don't miss the opportunity to visit other interesting places, such as setting foot on Pink Beach with its reddish sands.
9. Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi
The attraction of Tana Toraja lies in the traditions that are still preserved by the local community-ritual ma'nene is one that is very unusual.
According to Tempo's news archives, the ritual held every 5 years provides an opportunity for relatives to clean the bodies of their family members, which have been mummified, and also change their clothing.
This tradition is not just about cleaning activities; more than that, the ma'nene ritual is a form of honoring the ancestors who have passed away.
10. Raja Ampat, Papua
Rounding out the list of Indonesia’s top tourist destinations is Raja Ampat, located in the country’s eastern region. Prepare to be mesmerized by landscapes unlike anywhere else in the world.
From a boat, visitors can take in the sight of lush, tree-covered islands scattered across the sea. For an even deeper experience, dive into Raja Ampat’s crystal-clear turquoise waters and explore the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface.
LONELY PLANET | KALTENG.GO.ID | INDONESIA BAIK
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