It is obvious that you can’t explore a whole country in just a single trip, however, just some of them are truly outstanding. There are couple of places that you don’t want to miss when visiting Indonesia.
1. Bandung
Bandung is one of the most enormous countries in Indonesia, it is also called the Paris of Java. However, the development of the infrastructure has made this city into a crowded place with less road and street and more housing. Bandung is still a good destination to begin the trip in Indonesia since the city still remain of spectacular scene, the restaurant in this city is a must visit.
Best locations based on my experience: Mercune Hotel, The Attic Bed and Breakfast, De Java hotel Bandung.
2. Going to see the volcanoes around Bandung
This mountainous area should not be missed. Travelers will have time to discover the sleeping volcanoes area lying 30 kilometers away from Bandung. This area named Tangkuban Perahu, which was once erected in 1969. Nowadays, you still see the smoke and sulphur gases coming out. It has an alternative name “upside down perahu” since the structure of the lower section had been collapsed through the time.
The crater line can be walked on, however, it will take approximately 2 hours to cross the surface. During the walking trip, visitors can admire the epic sights of the mountain. I would recommend you to take part in this trip as soon as you land on Indonesia.
The south of Bandung lay the Kawah Putih, which is also an impressive location to visit. The area situates 2300 meters above the water surface. The entire area is not big as Tangkuban Perahu but it has a wonderful green lake in the center. In addition, the surrounding is also breath-taking.
3. Joining in local activities in Bandung
Learning the culture and participating in the local activities can be interesting: discover the villages and go to Saung Angklung Udjo. The show is extremely new and fun, especially to foreigners. The goal of this activities is to inform children and their parents about the benefits of going to school and keep their custom and cultural values unchanged. Everyone should be proud of it.
The initial section of the show is performing some traditional dances with colorful clothes. The next section is more exciting, they will choose people and give them an Angklung (an Indonesian instrument) to perform tracks. They will also have a director to control the horde of instrument.
4. Borobudur
Another shining candidate of must-see destination in Indonesia, Borobudur. It is also the most enormous Buddhist temple complex which was constructed somewhere in the 9th century. It lays on a hill fulled with rice paddies and palm tree rows. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered to be the most famous traveling destination by foreigners.
If you are willing to pay, the scene in Borobudur can be witnessed best on a hotel nearby. Amanjiwo is the most decent hotel in this area, located on the Menoreh Hills, Magelang. While enjoy the beautiful sunsets, visitors can also try the most luxurious foods in the restaurant.
Like I have mentioned above, the sunsets in Borobudur is truly spectacular. However, the sunrises scene can even make you astonished, get up early and witness this beautiful creation of natural. It will surely nor waste your efforts.
5. Ullen Sentalu Museum
Kaliurang is a peaceful and quiet place, situated about 25 km away from Yogykarta. The weather in this area is so comfortable since this area is just 900 above the ocean level.
The Museum is the main attraction of Kaliurang, travelers will be surprised by the number of collections in this museum. It focuses on the value of Javanese culture in the past and the wisdom of women of Java tribe.
6. Discovering Yogyakarta
The heart of Indonesia, the most intriguing city, the soul of art… all these features were used to described Yogyakarta city. The city is surrounded by the fast, lively life style. It is a combination of modern figure and ancient value, wisdom. You can find almost any feature of modern city such as traffic jams, scooters, taxi, bus are zipping, skyscrapers, giant advertisement board, numerous fast food store, many restaurants, train station… In addition, you can find the ancient and exclusive rituals, learn how to make some souvenirs, hearing old traditional music. On top of that, Yogyakarta can access to many other intriguing destinations like the temple of Prambanan, Borobudur.
The best thing in this city is perhaps the lively feeling and vibes. The people are genuine and friendly, everything in Yogyakarta is unbelievable.
7. Learning more about the history of Yogyakarta
Another thing is exploring the past and the culture of this city. Discover the Royal Capital, Water Palace by following the tour. These historical destinations have a different atmosphere to the city, mostly life runs much slower in here.
The Kraton is known as Royal Palace, an enormous center area of the fortified city. Some of the parts in Kraton were even constructed in 1755. It still remains to be in good condition until now. Visitors can witness some of the most beautiful carved image, furnished constructions, giant exhibit of the lives of sultans, explore some antique tradition and custom of Javanese people. They held a concert named “gamelan”, which plays traditional instruments at the Royal Capital.
The last thing you need to see is the Water Palace, with pools, canals… It causes a feeling of harmony when walking around and enjoy the great moments by lazy laying on the grass, admire the beauty of a star night.
8. Joining in workshop crafting activities
If you want to participate in some manufacturing goods and bring it to home as gift, take a trip to Kota Gede. Kota Gede is a small district in Yogyakarta, a well-known place for its famous silver products. Visit the factory to witness the procedure this form of art to make the finest silver crafts.
9. Shopping and making Batik
If you are planing to the market to buy some batik, just visit markets in Yogyakarta. You can participate in classes that the teacher can teach you how to make it. They will show you some secret of the Indonesia people and assist you to make it. Though it is not an easy task to do!
After finishing batik, wander around those markets to buy some stocks that you like. There are numerous stalls of foods, clothes, souvenirs for you to choose.
10. Exploring the archeological sites in Kraton Ratu Boko, Prambanan
Yogyakarta can access to its nearby archeological sites and ancient temples nearby, Kranto Ratu Boko is situated not far from Yogyakarta, the place consists of many terraces. The only demerit of walking on this temple is the high temperature.
Next is the Prambanan, also an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The enormous Hindu temple in java is the main attractions, the outside area leads to a smaller park. Visitors can walk to this place to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Return the Prambanan, explore 8 buildings located all around the core of the temple. After the exciting trip, you can spend more time in this place to witness the sunsets. In the night, they temple is decorated with many light bulbs, which can create a wonderful time if you visit at night.
11. Seeing Prambanan at night
This spectacular view can be witnessed directly at Prambanan, however, if you are willing to pay, go to a nearby restaurant and enjoy it with a dinner. Decent foods and great views, do they already make you feel excited?
12. Performances in Yogyakarta
Don’t miss this chance to see the Ramayana show since it is so intriguing and can’t be found anywhere beside Indonesia. The performance will occur at a open air theater, it lasts about more than 2 hours, they show is amazing with music and special clothes and decoration… However, visitors should have some background knowledge about the Ramayana to have a deeper insight.
13. Climbing to Bromo mountain and seeing the sunrise
This tour is one of the cheapest tours in Java. The mount situated in the Bromo Tengger National Park, though it may not be the tallest point in this area, however, it offers the greatest views. Recently, this place has attracted many visitors so you feel it’s pretty crowded here. Unfortunately, your experience can be altered since Mount Bromo has lost its peaceful atmosphere.
You can still visit on weekdays, to avoid the noisy atmosphere of other visitors. Remember to choose a proper guide and be nice to the environment.
14. Going to the crater of Mount Bromo
After the trip to see the sunrises from Mount Bromo, climb back to the crater. You will cross a sandy area, then an hour of walking to reach the site. If you can organize to hike, it is essential to state that do not hire horses to climb to this area.
15. Going to Komodo Islands
Komodo islands are perhaps the most unique destination in all over the world. This numerous islands and isle system offer a wonderful sight of natural habitats. The surrounding is calm and peaceful, you won’t find any noises of modern life since the citizen popularity is quite low.
16. Exploring the Flores Archipelago’s culture
This tour will help you interact more with local. Flores is a place that contains numerous different ethical values in Indonesia. The locals are hospitable and friendly, they are always eager to show you some aspects of their normal life.
17. Admiring the Indonesia’s wildlife
This fantastic experience can make you become dazzled with the spectacular wildlife in Indonesia. Just visit the Komodo Islands, a sole place that the Komodo dragons inhabit. They are huge lizard that can grow to 3 meters long and over 100 kilograms. This creature is among protected species by UNESCO, though they have previously attacked human and be considered to be dangerous animal.
18. Komodo National Park
You can choose your path between numerous trails in this area. Climb to a hill and enjoy this peaceful atmosphere with a wonderful sight. This is one of the nicest and simplest trips to participate in Indonesia.
19. Pink Beach
The beach will not let you down, even if you are the picky person. Pink beach is truly outstanding. This a beautiful, vibrant, pristine coastal beach is located in Komodo Islands. You can barely notice any visitors in this beach since it can only be reached by the ocean way.
Read more: What to Prepare for Your Journey to Bali, Indonesia
20. Snorkeling in Indonesia
Snorkel is fun and interesting in anywhere in the world and Indonesia is not an exception. You can also participate in diving activities, witness the sights beneath the water surface, see many marine creatures and rest in the cool breeze in the morning… This trip is good for both recreation and relaxation.
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