Indonesia, the world’s largest archipelago with over 17,000 islands, attracts around 14 million international visitors annually, contributing nearly 5% to its GDP. The country offers an unmatched mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and biodiversity from Bali’s beaches and Borobudur’s temples to Komodo’s dragons and Raja Ampat’s coral reefs.
This article highlights Indonesia’s top 15 must-visit attractions to help plan your ideal itinerary.
- 1. Explore Bali Island
- 2. Visit the Magnificent Borobudur Temple
- 3. Discover Komodo National Park
- 4. Dive into the Raja Ampat Islands
- 5. Experience Sunrise at Mount Bromo
- 6. Explore the Cultural Heart of Ubud
- 7. Admire the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
- 8. Witness Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
- 9. Visit the Cliffside Uluwatu Temple
- 10. Experience the Heritage of Yogyakarta
- 11. Explore Lake Toba’s Volcanic Beauty
- 12. Relax in the Gili Islands
- 13. Visit the Majestic Prambanan Temple
- 14. Discover the Energy of Jakarta City
- 15. Cruise through Tanjung Puting National Park
- FAQs
1. Explore Bali Island
Bali, often called the “Island of the Gods,” is Indonesia’s most visited destination. It combines surfing beaches, vibrant nightlife, lush rice terraces, and serene temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. The island also hosts world-renowned yoga retreats, coral diving spots, and culinary tours for every traveler’s taste.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: Bali, Indonesia
- Timings: Open year-round
- Price: Free to explore (activity costs vary)
2. Visit the Magnificent Borobudur Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage marvel, Borobudur Temple is the world’s largest Buddhist monument built in the 9th century. Its nine stacked platforms and 2,600 relief panels illustrate Buddhist cosmology and Javanese artistry. Sunrise tours reveal a breathtaking silhouette of stupas emerging from morning mist, an unforgettable experience for travelers.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: 96R3+VG Borobudur, Magelang Regency, Central Java, Indonesia
- Timings: 6:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Price: Entry fee applies
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3. Discover Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park is home to the endangered Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard species. The park, spread across multiple islands, is a haven for diving, coral reefs, and pink sand beaches. Trekking routes allow visitors to observe Komodos in their natural habitat alongside panoramic island vistas.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: East Nusa Tenggara
- Timings: Open daily
- Price: Park and boat tour fees
4. Dive into the Raja Ampat Islands
Raja Ampat, located in West Papua, offers some of the richest marine biodiversity on Earth. The archipelago features 1,500 islands and reefs with over 1,300 species of fish and 550 coral species. Divers and snorkelers experience pristine waters, dramatic limestone formations, and remote eco-lodges surrounded by nature.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.9/5
- Location: West Papua, Indonesia
- Timings: Daily tours and diving sessions
- Price: Tour fees (varies)
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5. Experience Sunrise at Mount Bromo
Mount Bromo’s sunrise is among the most spectacular in Asia. The volcano, standing at 2,329 m, is part of the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park. Visitors trek or ride jeeps before dawn to witness a golden glow over mist-filled calderas, a surreal scene framed by volcanic ridges and clouds.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: East Java
- Timings: Early morning hikes
- Price: Park entry + guide fee
6. Explore the Cultural Heart of Ubud
Ubud is Bali’s cultural capital, filled with art galleries, temples, and jungle retreats. Highlights include the Sacred Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, and the traditional market selling handcrafted goods. Surrounded by emerald rice paddies, it’s ideal for yoga, wellness retreats, and authentic Balinese cuisine.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: Ubud, Bali
- Timings: Daily
- Price: Free to explore
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7. Admire the Tegalalang Rice Terraces
The Tegalalang Rice Terraces are a UNESCO-recognized landscape showcasing Bali’s subak irrigation system. Visitors walk scenic trails through stepped fields carved into emerald hillsides. It’s a favorite photography spot and a peaceful escape from urban Bali.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: Gianyar, Bali
- Timings: 7:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Price: Small entry fee
8. Witness Sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
Tanah Lot Temple sits on a rocky offshore outcrop and is one of Bali’s most photographed temples. Dedicated to sea deities, it offers unparalleled sunset views as waves crash dramatically below. Visitors also enjoy traditional dance shows and local handicraft markets nearby.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location: Tabanan, Bali
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Price: Entry fee applies
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9. Visit the Cliffside Uluwatu Temple
Perched 70 m above the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple offers breathtaking views and spiritual serenity. It’s also famous for its Kecak fire dance performed every evening at sunset. The temple complex embodies Balinese craftsmanship and coastal charm.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: Pecatu, South Bali
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Price: Entry and show tickets
10. Experience the Heritage of Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is the soul of Javanese culture and a gateway to ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan. Explore batik workshops, wayang kulit shadow-puppet shows, and the royal Kraton Palace. Its vibrant streets and student vibe make it both historic and youthful.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: Yogyakarta, Java
- Timings: Daily
- Price: Free to explore
11. Explore Lake Toba’s Volcanic Beauty
Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake, spans 1,145 sq km in North Sumatra. Formed by a super-eruption 74,000 years ago, its calm blue waters surround Samosir Island, home to the Batak people. Visitors can enjoy hot springs, hiking, and traditional music by the lakeshore.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: North Sumatra
- Timings: Daily
- Price: Free to explore
12. Relax in the Gili Islands
The Gili Islands, Trawangan, Air, and Meno, offer pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving. With no cars or motorbikes, visitors get around by bicycle or foot, making it an eco-friendly paradise ideal for couples and solo travelers alike.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: Off Lombok, Indonesia
- Timings: Daily
- Price: Free (ferry transfer applies)
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13. Visit the Majestic Prambanan Temple
Prambanan, a 9th-century Hindu temple complex, is Southeast Asia’s largest. Its 47-meter-tall central tower dedicated to Lord Shiva is surrounded by intricately carved shrines honoring Hindu deities. The evening Ramayana ballet performed against the lit temples is a must-see cultural event.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: Central Java
- Timings: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM
- Price: Entry fee
14. Discover the Energy of Jakarta City
Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, blends modern skyscrapers with Dutch colonial landmarks. Visit the National Monument (Monas), Istiqlal Mosque, and old town (Kota Tua). Culinary streets like Jalan Sabang and luxury malls showcase the nation’s urban heartbeat.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.3/5
- Location: Jakarta, Java
- Timings: Daily
- Price: Free (museum fees vary)
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15. Cruise through Tanjung Puting National Park
Tanjung Puting National Park in Borneo is Indonesia’s leading orangutan reserve. Visitors travel by klotok houseboat along jungle rivers, observing orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and hornbills. Camp Leakey research station provides insight into decades of orangutan rehabilitation and forest conservation efforts.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: Central Kalimantan, Borneo
- Timings: Guided tours daily
- Price: Park & cruise fees
FAQs
What are the best things to do in Indonesia at night?
Best night experiences in Indonesia include watching the sunset at Tanah Lot Temple, enjoying Kecak dance performances at Uluwatu, dining on Seminyak’s beachfront, night diving in Gili Trawangan, and exploring Jakarta’s rooftop bars or Bali’s lively night markets.
What are the best things to do in Indonesia for tourists?
Top things to do include exploring Bali’s temples and beaches, visiting Borobudur and Prambanan in Java, trekking Mount Bromo, diving in Raja Ampat, seeing Komodo dragons, and relaxing in the Gili Islands for a complete Indonesia experience.
What are the free things to do in Indonesia?
Free experiences include walking Ubud’s rice terraces, exploring beaches in Bali and Lombok, visiting local temples and markets, hiking around Lake Toba, and enjoying street art and culture in Yogyakarta.
What is Indonesia famous for?
Indonesia is famous for its tropical islands, volcanoes, coral reefs, cultural heritage, and diverse cuisines. Iconic attractions like Bali, Borobudur, Komodo dragons, and Java’s ancient temples make it a top Southeast Asian destination.
Is Indonesia worth visiting?
Yes. Indonesia offers incredible diversity, from pristine beaches and UNESCO sites to wildlife adventures and traditional villages, making it ideal for culture, nature, and adventure travelers alike.
Is Indonesia expensive?
Indonesia is budget-friendly compared to many Asian destinations. Local transport, street food, and homestays are affordable, while luxury resorts and guided tours are available for higher budgets.
What is the best time of year to visit Indonesia?
The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to October, perfect for sightseeing, diving, and beach trips. The rainy season (November–March) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
Do Indians need a visa for Indonesia?
Yes. Indian citizens generally require a tourist visa to visit Indonesia. Depending on trip duration, travelers can apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or an e-Visa through official Indonesian immigration channels.
