When you hear the word “Indonesia”, a magical destination comes in our minds named Bali. Bali indeed is an amazing destination. It’s a place where you can enjoy breathtaking views. It offers so many things to do. It is a home of beautiful rice fields, Hindu temples, active volcanoes, Beautiful beaches, Yoga, amazing food, and hospitable people. It’s a pure romantic destination and perfect for honeymooners, but there are also 10 best places in Indonesia that are not Bali.
But this isn’t it, Indonesia offers many incredible places other than Bali. If you are planning to visit other places or if you’ve already explored Bali, and you want to explore other parts of Indonesia, this guide will help you to plan your next trip.
Sumatra
If you want to experience outstanding wildlife, Sumatra is the must-visit place in Indonesia. This Island is the largest among the group of Islands. In Sumatra, you will find wild Orangutans which are mostly found in Sumatra and Malaysia. You will also find Sumatran tigers which are hard to spot. If you want to see orangutans in their natural habitat you can book hikes in Bukit Lawang.
On this coastline, there are lots of islands and atolls but for those who want to experience unmatchable scuba diving, go for Pulau Meh. It is one of the best place in the whole world for scuba diving. Trip to Sumatra is also best for those who want to get PADI open water certification here you can sign up for a course to explore oceans.
Nusa Islands
The Nusa Islands are a group of three Islands. Nusa Penida which is famous for its Kelingking Beach, Nusa Lembongan and Nusa Ceningan is best for those who want thrilling cliff jumping. Nusa Islands are off the coast of Bali. Some people call these islands Maldives of Bali. And when you visit you will see for yourself.
All these three islands offer extraordinary snorkelling or diving, also you will find lots of accommodation options according to your budget. If you don’t want to stay on these islands you can book tour to Nusa Islands from Bali.
Lombok
Those who are planning a Bali trip should add Lombok in their itinerary. Lombok is a small island off the coast of Bali, we suggest you stay in South Lombok and from here planning day trips all over the Islands.
Lombok beaches and waterfalls are so amazing. Start your day with hiking towards Sendang Gile waterfall through the jungle and end your day by relaxing at Tanjung Aan beach. If you want to see a 360-degree view of two bays there is a lookout and believe us it’s the best place to watch the sunset on Lombok.
East Java
If you are craving for an adventure and want to go far away from the crowd, East Java is the best place which offers so much to explore. You can book a flight from Bali to East Java and discover the remote jungles that are home to crater lakes, heavy volcanoes and breathtaking waterfalls.
Here you can easily spend a week to explore East Java top attractions. Waterfalls are so incredible especially Tumpak Sewu, it is one of the best in Indonesia. Hike from Mt.Bromo (an active volcano) to visit the colourful village Jodipan. We recommend you to spend at least 2, 3 days to feed your adventures soul.
Padar Island
If you are a hiker and photographer Padar Island is the right place for you. It’s a third largest island inside Komodo National Park. You can trek challenging trails that will take you to the tallest peaks of the Islands and experience the breathtaking view of nearby areas.
You can plan a day trip to Padar Island with Manta Ray, Pink Beach and Komodo Island.
Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan is a small Island less than six square miles in total, located off the coast of Bali. Here you can rent a bicycle or you can walk around and go anywhere you want. From Bali, direct ferries are available every day that will take you away from the Bali crowd where you can relax and enjoy the simple life.
Beaches of Gili Trawangan are so amazing. Scuba diving and snorkelling here are top-notch, and here you will find swings in the ocean which are famous on Instagram.
Flores Island
Flores Island is a group of islands that have an attractive history, amazing landscapes, astonishing adventures, it’s a perfect place in Indonesia
Here you can spend a day by doing challenging hikes on past active volcanoes, Flores offers top dive sites which are some of the top dive sites in Indonesia, keep your eyes open because here you can also see manta rays and sea turtles, also you can learn about the real-life Hobbits who lived on this islands hundred years ago.
The Biggest Flores Island highlight is Kelimutu Volcanic Crater Lakes. The water of these three lakes changes colours due to chemical reaction from some adjacent volcanoes the view of these lakes from the top is so mesmerizing.
Raja Ampat
If you don’t have much time and you are planning to stay more days in Bali, so we suggest you to must add Raja Ampat in the top of your must-see list, this place is perfect for those who want to experience remote and untouched islands, these group of Islands are covered with hundreds of jungle, also you will see its beautiful beaches, coral reef and rich marine life, Raja Ampat is an ideal location for divers.
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta located between Mount Merapi and the Indian Ocean, here you will find matchless natural beauty, ruins and temples. Yogyakarta is the house of two most popular temples Borobudur and Prambanan, these temples are considered few of the greatest Buddhist monuments of the world. we recommend you to hire a guide to know about the myths and stories of legends if you want to explore alone so hire a scooter or rent a car because there isn’t public transport available for these temples.
Komodo National Park
Komodo National Park is a home of over 5000 world’s largest lizards, awaken you are inner Khaleesi and see these Komodo dragons. These lizards weight is more than 200 pounds and can grow up to 8 feet long.
Komodo National Park is for nature lovers, who want to experience beautiful Islands, peak beaches and forests, even you can enjoy incredible diving here, also you can book tour from Labuan Bajo and visit dragons, swim in Pink Beaches, enjoy a hike up Padar and experience amazing diving at Manta point.