Best Things To Do in Indonesia Makes You Want To Visit Again

The Republic of Indonesia, situated in Southeast Asia, holds the title of the largest island nation, boasting over 17,000 islands and a population exceeding 225 million. With more than 1.9 million square kilometers, Indonesia extends from Aceh in the north to Papua in the southeast.

Recently, Indonesia has been a popular destination among travelers to choose to come here to spend a holiday. Due to the diverse and multicultural islands, ranging from the devoutly religious Aceh in the north, to the nation's administrative heart in Java and to the tropical haven of Bali. As the world's 4th most populous country and the 15th largest by land area, Indonesia promises to surprise travelers with many beautiful attractions.

Now, let's get into the best things to do in Indonesia, which definitely makes you want to stay in this nation.

Best Things To Do in Indonesia for First-time Travelers

Discover Bandung - The Paris of Java

If you think about choosing a destination for your summer vacation, Bandung might be the perfect spot for you. Visiting Bandung is one of the best things to do in Indonesia. With cool climates throughout the year, travelers can easily enjoy a delightful mix of colonial architecture, modern amenities, and natural beauty.

Moreover, one of the must do things in Indonesia is exploring the numerous volcanoes and craters that are dispersed throughout the nation. When visiting Bandung, visitors can explore Tangkuban Perahu, an active volcano with stunning views, now you still can see the smoke coming out of the volcano.

South of Bandung lies Kawah Putih, another top destination in Indonesia. This stunning crater, situated at an elevation of approximately 2,300 meters, features a beautiful green lake within it. Though smaller than the crater at Tangkuban Perahu, Kawah Putih's surreal and picturesque landscape offers a unique and captivating beauty.

Tangkuban Perahu volcano

Relax in Bali's Beaches

When it comes to Indonesia, one of the best things to do in Indonesia that pops up in travelers' minds is visiting Bali. People know Bali as the beach heaven. The island's coastline offers many beach experiences, travelers can enjoy tranquil stretches of white sand perfect for relaxation and dramatic cliffs providing breathtaking ocean views. Surfers can enjoy the best waves and experience water activities such as snorkeling and diving.

Bali, often referred to as the "Island of the Gods," is famous for its stunning beaches. Some of the most popular ones include:

• Kuta Beach: Known for its vibrant nightlife and surfing opportunities.

• Seminyak Beach: Offers a more upscale experience with luxury resorts and high-end restaurants.

• Nusa Dua Beach: Ideal for families, with calm waters and white sandy beaches.

• Uluwatu Beach: A paradise for surfers, offering challenging waves and breathtaking cliffs.

Kuta Beach

Visit Borobudur Temple

Borobudur, located in Central Java, is the world's largest Buddhist temple, one of the best things to do in Indonesia that you should put on your bucket list. This site was therefore declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its architectural marvels, with huge stone statues and beautiful scenery extending into the countryside that surround it.

On each level of its terraces as one climbs up, there are numerous detailed reliefs having carved images that depict the life of Buddha, as well as various aspects of Javanese life many centuries ago. Each tier that makes up this structure stands for different stages leading to spiritual journey; hence it symbolizes becoming enlightened.

Dawn might be one of the most captivating times to visit this place. When you get there early enough in the morning, you can witness Borobudur bathed in dawn’s light, with a slight fog lifting from other buildings around it.

Borobudur Temple

Trek in Gunung Leuser National Park

While Indonesia is best known for its beaches, maybe for that reason,  tourists have overlooked some special features such as Indo also has a national park with a lot of diverse flora and fauna.

One of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Gunung Leuser National Park in North Sumatra is among the few remaining places on earth where orangutans can be seen in their natural habitat. In this park, travelers can catch sight of these great apes and other animals including tigers, elephants and rhinoceros.

When coming here, travelers can expect to try the game drives like many other countries like Kenya, Tanzania, etc. You didn't expect to be able to experience this in Indonesia, right? You’ll cross rivers, come across high trees, maybe even visit the traditional villages where locals are living in perfect harmony with nature. At each step there are different views and sounds from peculiar bird’s calls to leaves rustling when animals move through the bushes beneath them. That’s why this is one of the best things to do in Indonesia that you should experience when visiting here.

Gunung Leuser National Park

Say a prayer at Tanah Lot

Another one of the best things to do in Indonesia is come to Tanah Lot, which is one of Bali’s most iconic and picturesque landmarks, a must-visit for anyone traveling to the island. The ancient Hindu temple stands on an amazing rock formation surrounded by the Indian Ocean that forms a backdrop that is beautiful and peaceful. It has been named "Tanah Lot," meaning “Land in the Sea,” in recognition of its unique location.

For Balinese people, this temple remains an important part of their cultural as well as spiritual life and it is dedicated to sea gods. This was one of seven chain sea temples that were created along the Balinese periphery so that they could shield it from evil spirits. During high tide when it seems like it floats on water’s surface, visitors often get amazed at how beautiful this temple appears.

While the temple itself is not accessible to tourists, the surrounding area offers plenty to explore. Passages and observation decks give great views of the ocean as well as the temple itself. There are also many stalls and markets dotting nearby areas selling local crafts with eateries offering traditional Balinese snacks for sale.

Tanah Lot

Enjoy the culture in Ubud

One more of the best things to do in Indonesia is visiting Ubud. Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, known for its traditional crafts and dance. Visitors can also experience the Tek Tok dance at the Bali Culture Centre in Ubud, a modern interpretation of traditional Balinese dance introduced in 2013.  Moreover, travelers can have a chance to engage with local artisans in traditional craft workshops, learning batik-making or wood carving, providing a hands-on appreciation of Balinese craftsmanship.

The town is surrounded by lush rainforest and terraced rice paddies. Key attractions include:

• Ubud Monkey Forest: A sanctuary for hundreds of monkeys and home to ancient temples.

• Tegallalang Rice Terraces: Famous for their stunning landscapes and traditional Balinese irrigation system.

• Ubud Palace: A historical building where traditional dance performances are held regularly.

• Art Market: A great place to buy local crafts, textiles, and artworks.

Ubud town

Visit Lake Toba

Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world, is located in North Sumatra. The lake's serene waters and the island of Samosir in its center offer a peaceful retreat. As the largest volcanic lake in the world, Lake Toba is not only a geological marvel but also steeped in cultural significance. Formed by a cataclysmic volcanic eruption over 70,000 years ago, the lake is surrounded by lush green hills and picturesque villages inhabited by the Batak people.

Inside Lake Toba lies Samosir Island, an island within another island where one can explore indigenous Batak villages, ancient stone burials and bustling markets. Its calm beaches and pristine waters have lured visitors for swimming, boating and so on. History enthusiasts should not miss out visiting the Batak Museum in Simanindo which gives information about the Batak tribe’s rich heritage through traditional displays of their dances and cultural artifacts.

Lake Toba

Conclusion

Indonesia offers a wide range of experiences with all the best things to do in Indonesia. Its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality create an irresistible tapestry of adventure and relaxation. Each visit unveils a new layer of its beauty and charm, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for the wonders that make Indonesia a destination like no other.

All the best things to do in Indonesia definitely makes you want to visit here again. For others who haven't gone to Indonesia yet? Now it’s time to visit Indonesia with our best services. Before traveling, you need to check your requirements in order to be qualified for an Indonesia e-visa. You can visit the Indonesian Embassy in your country if you want to apply offline by yourself. Start with visa application, when you apply with us, you won't have to worry about any complicated processes. We will help you to get an Indonesia e-visa within a few days. Now, let’s travel!