8. Mount Bromo, East Java – Volcano In An Active State
Mount Bromo, also known as Gunung Bromo, is an active volcano and one of Indonesia’s most breathtaking and dangerous places. The crater at the top of Mount Bromo emits white smoke regularly, adding to its dramatic landscape. Part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, the volcano is surrounded by a sea of volcanic sand, offering an otherworldly experience.
Tips: Arrange for a private car in advance if you plan to visit. Things to do: Hiking and trekking. Best places to stay: Java Banano Bromo. Tourist Attractions: Luhur Poten Temple, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Lautan Pasir Bromo. Places To Eat: Lava View Lodge Hotel, Jiwa Jawa Bromo, Teras Bromo. Best Time To Visit: April to October. How To Reach: Fly to Juanda International Airport in Surabaya and continue to Mount Bromo via a travel agent or by driving the Surabaya-Pasuruan-Wonokitri-Mt Bromo route.
9. Mount Rinjani, Nusa Tenggara Barat – Second Highest Volcano Of Indonesia
Mount Rinjani, or Gunung Rinjani, is an active volcano on Lombok Island and the second highest in Indonesia. The Crater Lake, Segara Anak, dominates the landscape with its natural hot spring, making it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
Tips: The hike is challenging and not suitable for casual travelers or novices. Things to do: Hiking and exploring the serene beauty of the volcano. Best places to stay: Hakiki Inn, Green Orry Inn, Dewi Tunjung Biru, and various homestays. Tourist Attractions: Gunung Rinjani National Park Office, Rinjani Samalas Tour & Trekking, Senaru Crater Rim. Places To Eat: Rinjani Samalas, Cafe Rifka, Sinar Rinjani Cottages & Restaurant. Best Time To Visit: April to July. How To Reach: Fly to Lombok International Airport and drive to the foot of Mount Rinjani.
10. Ijen, East Java – For Mining Activities
Ijen is a group of volcanoes with a strikingly acidic blue-water crater in East Java. Known for its sulfur mining activities, Ijen is a unique and beautiful destination in Indonesia.
- Tips: Wear masks and warm clothes due to the sulfur stench and cold weather.
- Things to do: Trek to the crater or explore the foothills and local villages.
- Best places to stay: Berlian Abadi, Manyar Garden Hotels, Ijen Resorts and Villas.
- Tourist Attractions: Mount Bromo, Semeru, Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, Madakaripura Waterfall.
- Places To Eat: Arumanis Restaurant, Melati Restaurant, Sarkies Seafood Restaurant.
- Best Time To Visit: May to September.
- How To Reach: Take the ferry from Bali’s Gilimanuk port to Ketapang port in East Java.
11. Dieng Plateau, Central Java – An Abode Of God
Dieng Plateau, formed after a volcanic eruption, is a caldera situated 2000 meters above sea level. Known as the “Abode of God,” it is a picturesque and serene destination.
- Tips: Guesthouses offer basic amenities; pack warm clothing.
- Things to do: Trek to Telaga Warna lake and explore Arjuna temple.
- Best places to stay: Kresna Gallery Hotel, Arjuna Hotel, Surya Asia Hotel, and homestays for backpackers.
- Tourist Attractions: Sikidang Crater, Arjuna Temple.
- Places To Eat: Losmen Bu Djono, Dieng Plateau Homestay & Coffee, Kedai.
- Best Time To Visit: May to October.
- How To Reach: Travel by land to Wonosobo from Yogyakarta, stopping in Magelang. Buses depart from Yogyakarta’s northern bus terminal.
12. Torajaland, South Sulawesi – Relish The Culture
Torajaland, located in South Sulawesi, is known for its unique culture, rituals, and high-peaked roof houses called Tongkonan. The Toraja people and their distinct customs make this a fascinating place to visit.
- Tips: Be prepared for unique cultural experiences, such as traditional funerals.
- Things to do: Hiking and exploring the model Toraja settlement at Kete Kesu.
- Best places to stay: Luta Resort, Riana Guest House, Hotel Indra.
- Tourist Attractions: Pallawa, Londa, Ke’te Kesu, Batu Tumonga, Lemo.
- Places To Eat: Cafe Aras, Tropical Cafe, Mambo Restaurant, Rimiko, Celebes.
- Best Time To Visit: June, July, August.
- How To Reach: Fly to Hasanudin Airport in Makassar and drive six hours to Torajaland.
13. Borobudur Temple – World’s Biggest Buddhist Sanctuary
- Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist sanctuary in the world, is admired for its architectural beauty and historical significance. Built in the 8th century, it offers a glimpse into Indonesia’s rich heritage.
- Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds and weekends.
- Things To Do: Seek blessings and explore the religious and spiritual aspects.
- Places To Stay: Plataran Borobudur, The Amrta, Amanjiwo, Plataran Heritage Hotel.
- Tourist Attractions: Borobudur Temple, Pawon Temple, Taman Wisata Candi Boro Borobudur.
- Places To Eat: Stupa Restaurant, Patio Restaurant.
- Best Time To Visit: April to October.
- How To Reach: From Jogjakarta, take a bus to Magelang or Muntilan and then another to Borobudur.
14. Ubud – Hike Through Rainforests & Rice Paddy Fields
Ubud, Bali’s art and cultural capital, offers scenic surroundings, art galleries, and traditional dances. Surrounded by rainforests, rivers, and wellness centers, it is a serene destination.
- Tips: Carry a water bottle as shops may charge high prices or have limited availability.
- Things To Do: Hiking, cycling, Bali Swing, Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
- Tourist Attractions: Tegalalang Rice Terrace, Ubud Monkey Temple.
- Places To Stay: Ubud Inn & Spa, Halaman Depal Hostel.
- Places To Eat: Bridges Bali restaurant, Blanco par Mandif, Spice By Chris Salans.
- Best Time To Visit: June to September.
- How To Reach: Fly to Denpasar Bali Airport and drive or take a bus to Ubud.
