Are you planning to travel to Asia and wondering what the best things to do in Indonesia are?
Are you dreaming of a vacation like no other? Do you want to feel closer to nature and make friends with animals you’ve seen only on TV? Does laying on a white sandy beach and getting up only to take a dip in the ocean waters sound like a perfect day?
If the answer is an enthusiastic “yes!”, then Indonesia just might be an ideal holiday destination for you; and here are just some of the unbelievable experiences that you can have there.
Whether you are a first-time or an experienced traveler, this post is for you. Knowing the greatest things to do in Indonesia is definitely a must to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Amazing Things to Do in Indonesia
Discover Ubud’s Tegalalang Rice Terraces in Bali
Why not start your trip by getting to know the traditional side of Indonesia? Tegalalang Rice Terraces are definitely one of the best things to do in Indonesia.
They offer a stunning view on the emerald green rice paddies, that stretch as far as the eyes can see. For a small fee, you can enjoy the scenery from the top of the terrace, get down and explore the paddies, or walk alongside the Subak.
To sum up, the Tegalalang Rice Terrace is a part of Bali Province’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, and definitely an amazing place to visit in Bali!
Opening hours: 7:00 – 18:00
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000 per person
Hike Mount Bromo
If you love hiking and have a soft spot for romantic locations, then Mount Bromo should be at the top of your travel itinerary. It’s an active volcano, towering over East Java at 2,329 meters, that’s named after Brahma, the Hindu god of creation.
The most popular time to hike mount Bromo is at sunrise, and for a good reason. Nothing leaves an impression quite like the sun appearing over the crater’s edges, coloring the skies in soft pinkish hues.
Getting up at 2 a.m. may not be your cup of tea, but who can pass up on an opportunity to greet a new day at the top of a volcano? Hiking up Mount Bromo will make you realize why it’s an unbelievable thing to do in Indonesia!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 217,500 on weekdays, IDR 317,500 on weekends
Surf at Kuta Beach
Surf lovers from all over the world are welcomed at Kuta Beach, where everyone can break out a surfboard, no matter the age, occupation, or level of experience.
The beach stretches for 2 kilometers with waves breaking all the way, and is one of the most popular beaches in Bali because it’s where the tourism on the island has its roots.
Walk along the gorgeous coastline to find a spot that suits your fancy. Forget your troubles riding the waves, or lounge underneath the sun with a cocktail in hand feeling the ocean breeze. At Kuta Beach, there’s something for everyone!
All in all, coming to Kuta Beach is one of the best things to do in Bali, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time!
Feed Your Insta at Nusa Penida
If you’re after the greatest photos of your life, don’t look any further than Nusa Penida – an island southwest of mainland Bali. It is not only one of the most amazing things to do in Indonesia, but it’s a place to see at least once in your lifetime.
To clarify, whether you want to go scuba diving to take a closer look at the ocean floor, venture deep into the island, or discover a secluded spot on the beach, this is the place for you.
Watch the waters in every shade of blue and neither you nor your friends will be disappointed going back home.
In addition, Nusa Penida also has a mysterious side: locals believe that it is home to dark spirits. banished here by priests to keep the peace, and have christened it to be the black magic island.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 25,000 for adults, IDR 15,000 for children
Bangka Belitung Islands
If you want to dive deeper into Indonesian nature and culture, these two islands east of Sumatra are the right place for you.
Bangka Island will welcome you to Bangka Botanical Garden, where pine trees stretch seemingly far beyond the horizon, amaze you with the scenery of Gunung Pading Waterfall, and give you a feel of the local life at Kurau Fishermen Village. In addition, you can try fresh fish and discover traditional Balinese houses.
If you stop at Belitung, make sure to breathe in the green air of Balok Lama Forest, meditate at Balok King’s Tombstone. It is, in short, the final resting place of the first king of Balok. Get a closer look at the Belitung way of life with a visit to Belitung Traditional House.
Hike Mount Ijen
Another vulcanic adventure for hiking lovers. If you love volcanoes, stunning scenery, and waking up with the sun, then the Ijen crater has to be on your must-see list.
It is an active sulfur mining site, so certain safety precautions are needed: you’ll need to wear a mask to avoid inhaling sulfuric gases.
The view, however, will be absolutely worth it and this only makes it one of the best things to do in Indonesia. Witness the sun rises, see the crater bask in a blue glow, and if you’re feeling brave, you can get down and see the blue flames, caused by the combustion of the sulfuric gases. Most importantly, just remember to be careful!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 100,000 on weekdays, IDR 150,000 on weekends
Lake Toba
If you fancy taking a break from the busy city or island life, there’s no better place to do it than at Lake Toba.
Located at 900 meters above sea level, Lake Toba is one of the largest and deepest in the world and boasts not only a refreshing atmosphere but also a stunning view. Also, you can go kayaking and enjoy the scenery, or visit one of the traditional villages and walk through rows of authentic wooden houses.
In addition, you can maybe even pick a souvenir or two along the way.
To sum up, Lake Toba is one unbelievable and unique thing to do in Indonesia that you shouldn’t skip at any cost!
Borobudur Temple
Prepare to be stunned by some architectural wonders! The world’s biggest Buddhist monument on the island of Java was built in the 9th century, survived a thousand years under piles of ash, and currently welcomes pilgrims and tourists alike.
Located among green fields and forests, ancient and enormous, the stone carvings decors will tell you the story of Buddha. In conclusion, the Borobudur Temple is a living and incredible piece of Indonesian history and culture.
Opening hours: 6:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: IDR 320,000 for adults, IDR 190,000 for children
Dive in Raja Ampat
Add a splash of color in your life and go diving in Raja Ampat. The archipelago is home to 75% of the world’s marine species, including 540 types of corals, 1,000 types of coral fish, and 700 types of mollusks.
Explore the vibrant Sardine Reef (which surprisingly has no sardines), get a close look at corals brimming with life at Boo Rock, or get your introduction to diving at Cross Wreck, a sunken Japanese navy boat from WWII. Needless to say, you’ll be diving into a good company!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 500,000
Sunrise at Borobudur Temple
Enjoying the sunrise seems to be a common theme in Indonesia. In fact, but once you see it at the ancient Borobudur Temple, you’ll understand why. Whether you’ve already been to Borobudur and want to see it from a different perspective or you wish to make your first visit to this Buddhist sanctuary, it is worth waking up at sunrise to see its magnificent stone structures in the first morning light.
Admiring the sunrise at Borobudur Temple is one of the best things to do in Indonesia during your trip.
Opening hours: Sunset is usually around 5:30
Entrance fee: The sunrise tour costs IDR 450,000. You can also buy a regular ticket at IDR 320,000/adult and IDR 190,000/child
Become Fruitarian For a Day
Indonesia is the best place to try your hand at a diet consisting of nothing but fruit. While feasting on your favorite pineapples, papaya, and mango, don’t forget to try something that may not be as popular back home.
Taste sweet and juicy mangosteen fresh from a tree, snack on a crunchy chestnut-like snake fruit, and drink a glass of Sirsak juice. To sum up, take your tastebuds on a sweet adventure and your Balinese adventure will be complete!
Komodo National Park
Nature lovers will feel right at home at Komodo National Park, one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia. It’s a stunning natural preserve through green valleys and forests on several islands and is popular for its main residents – Komodo Dragons.
These giant lizards are extremely rare but seem to be happy to call this wonderful place their home. Also, after you’ve met the lizards, you can say hello to other inhabitants of the park, like deers, wild buffalos, and monkeys. Also, use your diving gear to swim through coral reefs to catch a glimpse of their vibrant marine life.
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 150,000 on weekdays, IDR 250,000 on weekends
Padar Island
Let’s hope you’re not in a rush to leave Komodo National Park because Padar Island is one of its main attractions. While you won’t see any Komodo Dragons in this particular part of the National Park, Padar’s beautiful scenery is guaranteed to leave you breathless.
Wear your most comfortable shoes and hike a hilltop to enjoy nature in all its glory from the best views around. In other words, azure waters and green forests are quite the combination!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 150,000 on weekdays, IDR 250,000 on weekends
Play With the Elephants in Lombok
Lombok Island is waiting to give you an experience of a lifetime – a chance to spend your day with elephants. Lombok Elephant Park is a one-of-a-kind animal sanctuary that offers an interactive experience. Apart from satisfying your curiosity, they also make sure that the elephants are happy and healthy.
You can find out what an elephant does in a day, go on a short safari ride in the jungle, and snap a picture of a colorful parrot or cockatoo right from an elephant’s back. No one has left the Park without making new friends!
Opening hours: 9:00 – 17:00 daily
Entrance fee: IDR 200,000
Mount Batur
If you can’t get enough of stunning panoramic views, make sure to pay Mount Batur a visit. Climb to the top of this active volcano at sunrise to see the sky turn from pink to golden over the edge of the crater. Also, take a hike during the day to watch neverending fields of green disappear beneath the clouds.
Climbing Mount Batur is definitely one of the best things to do in Indonesia that you just can’t miss.
Don’t forget to stop by the mineral hot springs on your way down to restore your strength and take a few last pictures of Lake Batur up close. There’s no better way to spend your day than in nature!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 30,000 for adults, IDR 15,000 for children
Prambanan Temple
Marveling at ancient structures never gets tiring, and Prambanan Temple is just another example of that. Built in the 9th century and with nearly 250 temples, it is the largest Hindu site in Indonesia, looking more like a city than a religious ground.
Its temples are dedicated to gods Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma – the Destroyer, the Preserver, and the Creator. They stand up to 50 meters tall, incredibly carved inside and outside. Walking through this enormous sanctuary is a rare chance to feel total peace and tranquility, so definitely consider adding it to your list.
Opening hours: 6:00 – 17:00
Entrance fee: IDR 350,000 for adults – IDR 250,000 for children
Find Ourangoutans in Bukit Lawang
A trip to Northern Sumatra promises you a meeting with people of the forest – orangutans. In fact, trekking through the Gunung Leuser National Park around the village of Bukit Lawang, you will find the animals in their natural habitat.
Venture into the heart of the jungle to see these amazing animals that are on the brink of extinction. For instance, why not find out more about orangutans in the wild while one is sitting on a tree right in front of you?
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 150,000
Visit the Pink Beach in Komodo Island
Its name pretty much gives it away. A strip of pastel pink sand wraps around Komodo Island, like a bow on a present, but you really have to see it to believe it. The beach owes its color to Foraminifera, microscopic animals that produce a red pigment that mixes with white sand, and that gives the island such an unusual look.
Once you’ve admired the inland scenery of Komodo and greeted its residents the Komodo Dragons, it’s time to turn your attention to its marine life.
Avid divers and snorkelers will be happy to explore an abundance of corals and take a swim amidst hundreds of species of fish; there’s certainly plenty of ocean for everyone to enjoy!
Pink Beach is some of the nicest things to do in Indonesia that you shouldn’t miss out on!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 375,000 to enter the island
Spend the Night on Gili Trawangan Island
The best way to learn about Indonesian nightlife is to experience it first hand. Trust me, no one in Indonesia parties better than people on Gili Trawangan. Go on a party cruise to go around all three Gili islands, and dance your worries away on a sunlit deck.
Also, check out the Trawangan night market and try local delicacies from fresh seafood to traditional desserts. Lastly, visit some of the many bars and clubs that will have everything you want for the perfect night out.
To conclude, nothing compares to a night out on Gili T!
Rent a Private Villa in Bali
If Indonesia was your choice for your honeymoon or a romantic getaway, this is definitely something to consider. Renting a private villa in Bali is certainly an unbelievable thing to do in Indonesia. In fact, it’s a unique chance to taste luxury for a surprisingly affordable price if you plan the right way.
For a week or two, you can have anything you could possibly want. From private pools and floating breakfasts to personal gardens and picturesque ocean views.
Whatever reason is behind your vacation, renting a private villa will make your experience even more special!
Swim with Jellyfish on Derawan Islands
Are you afraid of jellyfish? Maybe a stay on Derawan Islands will change your mind on these magnificent creatures. Derawan is an archipelago of 31 islands and one of the places in the world where you’ll see stingless jellyfish.
They’re harmless since they no longer have any natural predators. Also, their striking colors and shapes should convince you to take a dip into the lake on Kakaban Island. Let your curiosity take the best of you and dive in!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 100,000
Mount Rinjani
A height of almost 4,000 meters that can take up to 3 days to climb – are you ready for the Mount Rinjani challenge?
If you can endure hiking through volcanic ash, sleeping in tents, and ever-changing temperatures, this is the place for you. In fact, once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view from the top of the crater. The clouds and the colorful sky reflecting in the sulfur lake make it a unique thing to see in Indonesia.
Also, don’t forget to treat yourself and stop at the hot springs on your way down – your body will thank you!
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entrance fee: IDR 150,000
Best Time To Visit: May – July
Dieng Plateau in Central Java
If you’re not a fan of hikes but still want to visit a volcanic area, you’ll enjoy Dieng Plateau. Its vastness will allow you to wander for hours through volcanic craters and rice fields. Also, its remote location will let you enjoy solitude out of the busy islands.
Moreover, take a short hike to the nearby village to see the sun rising above lakes while making its way through the clouds.
In conclusion, you pretty much have your volcano experience covered with the Dieng Plateau!
Opening hours: 7:00 – 18:00
Entrance fee: IDR 350,000 for adults, IDR 210,000 for children
Enjoy Life in Seminyak, Bali
This is where you get the feel of modern Indonesia. You can have a cup of coffee and head to Nyaman Gallery to support Balinese artists or get an introduction to the yoga scene.
Moreover, visit Pura Petitenget, the beautiful sea temple, and Pura Masceti, the agricultural temple.
In addition, you can get lost in the shopping jungles of Jalan Laksmana and its designer boutiques. Other than that, you’ll bikinis and souvenirs bags, and brand outlets.
Last but not least, end the day with a massage. You’ll have the full package of the best thing to do in Indonesia.
To sum up, no matter what you get up to, Seminyak will certainly not disappoint you!
Pura Lempuyang Temple – “Gates of Heaven” in Bali
The grand finale – one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bali. There are 7 different sanctuaries in this complex, and it can take up to 4 hours to explore it all. When you go up to the temple gate, you’re greeted with “Gates of Heaven”. These are two beautifully carved stone columns reaching for the sky.
Pura Lempuyang’s remote location and beauty make it a unique thing to do in Indonesia.
While taking in the breathtaking scenery, remember the sanctity of this place. It’s certainly best to cover your shoulders and abstain from public displays of affection with respect for the religion.
Opening hours: 6:00 – 18:00
Entrance fee: While there’s no entrance fee, you’re expected to give a small donation to the temple. You can also rent a sarong to cover up for IDR 10,000.
Conclusion
From the majestic temples and vibrant festivals to the pristine beaches and world-class diving spots, there’s an adventure around every corner. Now that you know the best things to do in Indonesia, start planning your trip – I’m sure you’ll have an incredible time!
