Indonesia is the largest island country in the world with over 17,000 islands. A place of diverse culture; each island offering a different one, beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes one cannot demand more to make a great travelling experience. The 4th populous country in the world and 15th country in land mass, you know Indonesia will bestow you with a lot of great experiences. But here are some of the things you must do in Indonesia to make your trip even memorable:
What better way to explore Indonesia than to do it with its beaches. The Kuta Beach being the most famous tourist destination in Bali with its close distance to the Ngurah Rai International Airport and luxurious resorts within walking distance is perfect to start with. The waves in the beach cascade gently towards the shore, providing an opportunity to learn surfing for beginners. Surfing lessons by the hours are not hard to come by and for those not wanting to wet themselves can chill in a hammock with a cool drink.
This is where Buddhism prospers and Buddha looks serenely even after centuries. A UNESCO world heritage site, filled with historic 9th century 72 sculpted figures of Buddha is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. In the breathtaking backdrop of hills covered in rice fields and palm trees swept by the wind, the sight is beautiful to behold. For an authentic historic experience, the Borobodur temple is a fit.
The taste of Indonesia lies in the Padang food, named after the capital city of west Sumatra. Padang food is popular among the locals too and is served traditionally all over Indonesia. Tiny individual plates of different dishes are served sometimes even 25 each to be enjoyed with a serving of rice. The good thing is one can only pay for the dishes one touches. Some of the favourites include Beef Rendang, a spicy curry paste made with chillies and coconut which one should try for the ultimate exotic experience.
One of the most important landmarks of Indonesia, famed for its unique offshore setting and sunset backdrops. There is a certain charm in an ancient Hindu temple that overlooks a stunning ocean with its rolling waves. What’s more, the temple is dotted with several smaller shrines along shops, restaurants and a cultural park that showcases regular cultural dances. Located 20 km away from the Kuta beach, you could travel to this mystical temple to say a few prayers.
There is great joy in discovering the world while taking a slow walk. Located four-hour drive from the capital city of North Sumatra, Bukit Lawang offers a great view to observe the natural lifestyle of Sumatran orang-utan in its sanctuary and also forms the entrance to the Gunung Leusar National Park, a less visited park. Although if one wants to experience real jungle then this is it as it is considered by UNESCO to be one of the world’s most biologically diverse conservation areas.
Tana Toraja literally means, ‘Land of Toraja’ and refers to the indigenous people of this area. Visitors often come here to see and experience the traditional culture, ornate homes and to glimpse how the local communities have operated for centuries, that naturally make it the most visited tourist destination after Bali. Some of the intriguing things here are the grave sites of the Toraja people as well as local markets.
One of the pleasures of visiting a new country is to learn about its unique history and culture. Yogyakarta is the perfect place to do this in Indonesia. These historic complexes offer a serenity that isn’t found in the busy city, sometimes in their tiny alleys, artist parlous, mosques and market places. Visit the teh Kraton or the Royal Palace which was the palace of the Sultans, built between 1755 to 1756 while the current Sultan still resides in this historic palace.
Compiled by Shuvekshya Limbu, a Content Writer at Nepal Traveller.
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