Bali is the most well known and visited island in Indonesia. Its beautiful beaches, mountains and rice fields have made it world renowned. Bali is one of the most popular tourist destination for those seeking an island retreat.
Most tourists wanting to explore Indonesia gravitate to Bali because it is what they know. But Indonesia has a plethora of magnificent spots that are just as beautiful. Here are some other stunning locations that will show you that Indonesia is more than Bali.
Lombok
Lombok is now becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations of Indonesia. Many tourists prefer visiting Lombok instead of Bali! This island is right next to Bali and has just as many beautiful beaches and surfing spots. People are more drawn to Lombok because the beaches are more pristine than Bali which has been overrun with tourists.
Gunung Rinjani, the second highest volcano in Indonesia, is the perfect hiking spot for trekkers. They can spend days enjoying the lush forests and breath-taking sunrises at the summit. Rinjani also has waterfalls and a crescent-shaped lake within the mountain.
Borobudur
Borobudur is the largest Buddhist sanctuary in the world. This temple was built around the 9th century. The mesmerizing stone carvings make it so unique. You can spend a whole day exploring this magnificent monument with its many levels and 504 Buddha statues. One of the most beautiful views is watching the sunrise at the top of the temple.
Volcanic ash hid Borobudur for ten centuries and it was only rediscovered in 1815. In the 1970’s the Indonesian Government worked to restore the temple for 8 years. Now it is one of Indonesia’s most valuable treasures.
Raja Ampat
This collection of 1,500 islands is one of the most breathtaking views in Indonesia. Raja Ampat is also a popular diving location. It is home to 530 species of coral and 1,300 species of fish! You can see the colorful coral from 10 meters deep. The deeper you go, the more unique the biodiversity is!
Many tourists like to rent boats and explore the rock islets amidst the clear blue water. The distinct hospitality of the local Papuans is also another reason why Raja Ampat is so loved. Tourists can observe their daily life and watch the Papuans perform traditional dances and folk songs.
Komodo Island
The Komodo dragon is the world’s largest lizard and reptile. They originated from the Komodo Island, and surrounding islands in Indonesia and thrive in tropical forests. There are 2,500 Komodo Dragons in the Komodo National Park. This island is a top tourist destination for the beautiful beaches and views. But mainly people come here to get a close up (and risky) look at the Komodo Dragons.
The Komodo island sits on the Asia Pacific Coral Triangle and is home to one of the world’s richest marine environments. There are over 100 world-class dive sites. Padar island is right next to Komodo Island and just a boat ride away. Its breathtaking crescent-shaped beaches make it a perfect place for a scenic hike.
Mount Bromo
Mount Bromo is an active volcano in The Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Named after Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, Mount Bromo is 2 hours from Surabaya, the 2nd largest city in Indonesia.
This mountain is popular because of its cool temperatures, beautiful mountain scenery, and crater you can hike up. Many people will wake up in the middle of the night, hire a jeep driver to drive them up the mountain. Then will watch the sunrise over the mountain and crater. The view is absolutely stunning! After that you can hike or ride a horse up the crater and walk on the edge of it!
