A scenic country with a religious flavour, Indonesia has fascinated tourists through the ages. Visitors throng to this enchanting land for its historical significance and its breathtaking beauty. Its monuments redefining architectural brilliance are a treat for culture-lovers. It is an abode of nature with its gigantic craters, idyllic coffee plantations and lofty mountain peaks. Indonesia travel should definitely be in your bucket list for some unforgettable memories.
1.Pious Temples
Indonesia is home to old temples of diverse faiths including Buddhism and Hinduism.Besides the scenic landscapes, Indonesia boasts of a wide range of Hindu and Buddhist temples beautifully crafted of stone. Embark on a spiritual journey on the land of temples.Imagine a temple built in the 14th century! The Singosari Temple is a perfect example of an ancient temple with a deity from both the faiths, Hinduism and Buddhism.
Visit Candi Borobudur, one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. It has an overwhelming 504 Buddha statues! Its extraordinary carvings are a delight for both the amateur tourist and professional artists.
Some of the other popular temple with enchanting surroundings
- Prambanan
- Purah Tanah Lot
- Pura Ulun Danu Beratan
- Uluwatu Temple
- Kalasan Temple
2.Exotic Bali
You can gauge the beauty of this island from the fact that whenever you hear the name Indonesia, the word 'Bali' is foremost on your mind. Considered to be among the world's most beautiful islands, Bali's beaches are an epitome of tranquillity. Explore its undersea ecosystem that is home to diverse species of marine life. One can enjoy fabulous cocktails and that too at very affordable rates. Bali is the perfect place to pamper yourself and experience a series of comforting spa treatments. If you are a party lover, you must visit the streets of Kuta with plenty of bars that cater to the young enthusiastic crowds.
For the adventure junkies, Bali offers exciting surfing opportunities, scuba diving and snorkelling also.
3.Enchanting Lakes
You can navigate your way through the picturesque lakes that lace this country. In fact, Indonesia has 521 natural lakes and over 100 reservoirs amongst which, Lake Toba is the largest lake (by both area and volume). Relax and rejuvenate by visiting these beautiful lakes dotted with lush green landscapes.
Besides the normal lakes, adventure travellers can visit Kelimutu Volcanic lakes which is a collective name for three different lakes situated adjacent to one another on the island of Flores.
4.Captivating Mountains
Located at at an altitude of 2329 metres, Mount Bromo is an active volcano. An unparalleled experience, it transports you to another world. Indonesia has 150 active volcanoes over and above the extinct ones. There are fabulous hiking trails and climbing options for mountaineers.
Move over to Ijen Crater with its gushing waterfalls and riveting volcanic scenery. If you wish to move over from the drama of volcanoes, laze around at its coffee plantations.
Some of the best Indonesia mountains with spectacular views are:
- Mount Agung, Bali
- Mount Batur, Bali
- Mount Kerinci, Sumatra
- Mount Penanjakan, Java
5.Engaging Festivals
Besides extraordinary scenic beauty, Indonesia offers a wide mix of art and musical performances. Bung Karno Sports Complex hosts an array of competitions. Businessmen combine work and leisure by attending the Jakarta Fair in July. Indonesia celebrates all round the year in honour of some historical figure or religious occasions.
Some of the famous festivals in Indonesia are:
- Rambu Solo- Sending the Dead to Afterlife
- Nyepi- The day of Silence in Bali
- Bau Nyele Fishing festival
- Baliem Valley Festival
6.Things to avoid in Indonesia
A crime in a peaceful place like Bali is hard to imagine. However, snatch thefts and hotel breaking cases are not unheard of. Also, take a few basic precautions while visiting high altitude regions. Acute Mountain Sickness could trouble you. Its symptoms include headache, breathlessness and fatigue.
A comprehensive travel insurance policy will cover you against the financial shocks from an untoward medical or non-medical incident. These include coverage for expenses related to hospitalization upon falling sick, loss of passport, baggage loss, etc. To learn more about travel insurance and the world of good it can do to you while travelling to Indonesia.