There’s More To Indonesia Than Bali – Here Are 7 Alternate Destinations

Upon hearing the word “Indonesia,” many people automatically think of Bali. It’s easy to see why – Bali is a beautiful island, rich in Hindu culture, and home to lush rice paddies, temples and beaches. Sadly, though, it’s arguably become very touristic in recent years. And, given that Indonesia is a colossal archipelago home to over 17,000 islands, there’s a whole lot more to this spectacular country than Bali.

Beyond Bali, you’ll find wild orangutans in the jungles of Sumatra; the world’s largest Buddhist temple near the vibrant city of Yogyakarta; beaches with pink sand in Komodo National Park; and a plethora of volcanic lakes, colourful coral reefs and world-class scenery.

I’ve enlisted the help of 7 travel bloggers to show you 7 alternate destinations that you should consider adding to your Indonesia itinerary.

Padar

By Stephen from A Backpacker’s Tale

Padar is unlike any place I’ve seen. This tiny island is sandwiched between Rinca and Komodo islands and has stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscape. Padar feels like you’ve just stepped into the set of a Jurrasic Park movie. Two large inlets engulf the part of the island sitting at sea level, separating the islands into two sides that are barely connected by a narrow land bridge.

This isn’t your typical tourist destination. You’ll find no beach resorts, noisy markets, or backpacker bars here. Actually, there are zero buildings on this island. Padar is all about the outdoors: hiking, swimming, and the natural beauty of Indonesia reign as king here.

At one of the highest points on the Island, there is an incredible viewpoint, which is the main draw of Padar. It requires a steep 30-minute hike (make sure to bring water), but once at the top, you are treated to one of the most scenic views in the world. From the top, you get an epic view of the lush island and the sapphire-coloured waters unique to Indonesia.

If you are looking to bust away from the busyness of Bali and see one of the most beautiful places in all of Southeast Asia, I can think of no better place than Padar! Even to this day, this island has remained one of the most memorable day trips I’ve ever taken.

Jakarta

By Stella from Stella’s Out

After visiting Bali and the Gili islands, I knew that I had to explore more of Indonesia. Luckily for me, Jakarta, the capital of the country, was a short plane ride away from my home base of Bangkok. I booked a ticket for a weekend there, and was so glad I did! Most people only stop in Jakarta for a layover on their way to Bali, arguably the most popular place in Indonesia. I discovered that the city actually has a lot to offer!

The National Monument, known as MONAS, is a tall-obelisk structure and is the icon of the city. Located in the centre of Merdeka Square, you can’t miss it. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for unparalleled views of the surrounding city. If views are your thing, then you will love all of the rooftop bars that are appearing all over Jakarta; Awan Lounge and Skye Bar are two of the best, in my opinion.

There is a lot of history in Jakarta, and the many museums help to explain it. Make sure to save time for the National Museum or the Museum Bank of Indonesia, which is housed in a beautiful colonial building. Another fun activity is to wander through Old Town to take in the architecture influenced by the Dutch. While in Old Town, stop by Cafe Batavia for a drink in a place with a classic Dutch colonial atmosphere.

If this has convinced you to visit Jakarta, make sure to check out Stella’s post on ten things to do while visiting!

Komodo

By Nicola from See Nic Wander

The first time I saw Komodo, I thought I must have accidentally sailed into the set of Jurassic Park. I was in the front of a wooden boat and we had just left the harbour of Labuan Bajo. The view seemed to open for miles of rugged, prehistoric-looking mountains and perfect strips of white sand beaches.

After spending a few weeks in lush Bali, I was shocked to see a landscape so different just an hour’s plane ride away. Komodo National Park is a breathtaking chain of islands off the main island of Flores. The best way to experience Komodo is to take a flight to Labuan Bajo and book a Komodo National Park tour in town. Labuan Bajo is the major hub for all Komodo tourism and there are dozens of tour companies to pick from. You can find day trips, overnight camping trips, PADI scuba courses, and live-aboard options to fit any travel budget and style.

There are so many amazing things to do in Komodo. The snorkelling and scuba diving here are some of the best in the world and the reefs aren’t overrun by tourists. Sea turtles and massive manta rays are common sightings in colourful reefs. On land, you can tour the islands of Komodo and Rinca to see the infamous Komodo dragons. On hikes with a trained guide, you get a chance to explore the landscape and see these fascinating lizards up close. If you’re a reptile-lover like me, you’ll be in heaven. Take a hike on Padar island for amazing views of the whole park or relax on the nearly deserted Pink Beach (and yes, it’s really pink!)

Komodo is a place to experience the natural wonders of Indonesia away from the crowds. It’s a quiet place to spend time among some of the most unique wildlife in the world.

Sumatra

By Rosie from Flying Fluskey

Sumatra, Indonesia’s most westerly island, is far too often overlooked by tourists. However, for the plucky few who make it here, there is a real treat in store. Not only will you escape the hoards that throng to Bali, but Sumatra is one of the world’s best places to see orangutans.

Ten years ago, Bukit Lawang was a sleepy little town edged by the river Bohorok and the large Gunung Leusur National Park. Back then, there was a feeding platform designed to tempt these great creatures in for the few travellers that made it here.

Things have changed now. Instead, you will have the chance to trek into the jungle on the hunt for the man of the forest. During the walk, expert guides will help you track orangutans. This is better for the environment, lets the orangutans live naturally, and means you can enjoy a more natural and authentic encounter with them. Plus, it’s a fun way to get a jungle trek under your belt.

Before or after your trek, you can unwind with a swim in the river, or even take to it in an inflatable inner tube. Elsewhere on the island, you will find Lake Toba (the largest volcanic lake in the world) where you can relax on a totally chilled-out island. Spend your days chatting with the locals who are still genuinely interested in learning about visitors. Alternatively, if you are after adventure, then you can scale the side of fiery Mount Merapi, an active volcano on the island. Be brave and take the path less travelled, and Sumatra will reward you.

Yogyakarta

By Maya and Sari from Chasing Lenscapes

Yogyakarta (or Jogja) is one of the most special places we’ve ever been to. Located on the island of Java, this charming city is a paradise for culture and history lovers. Most people come to Yogyakarta to visit the famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples which are located not far from the city centre. You can take a private driver or a tour to visit these gorgeous temples.

Watching the first rays of light hit the bell-shaped stupas of Borobudur is a unique experience, and so is watching the golden hues of the sunset over Prambanan, but for us, the major attraction was the local artists. Yogyakarta is often referred to as the cultural soul of Indonesia and here you’ll find some of the best local Indonesian artisans. You can watch the skilful artists, or participate in one of the many workshops, from Batik and silver to ceramic and traditional leather puppets. If you’d like to explore the cultural side of Indonesia, there’s no better place than Jogja.

Another highlight for us was the gorgeous murals that can be found all over the city, as well as the colourful and authentic markets. You can easily spend 2-3 days here exploring the area and the various attractions. There are daily flights from Yogyakarta’s airport to many places all over Asia and Indonesia, including Bali, so you could easily add it to your itinerary, and explore one of the most charming cities in Indonesia.

Flores

By Megan from Into Foreign Lands

I still remember the first time I laid eyes on Flores. I was on an aeroplane, one of those tiny metal birds with propellers that hop from country to country around Southeast Asia. My head rested against the vibrating wall of the plane and I gazed out the window at the view below. Green islands jutted up out of the vibrant blue sea like emeralds. Palm trees popped up all over the islands and the long grass glittered in the sun.

Flores is an enchanting wonderland of adventure and beauty. Just a few islands over from Bali, it is a world away from that over-touristed island. On Flores, life is slower. In the main town of Labuan Bajo, travellers of all stripes come to hang out on boats in the harbour, spend days diving in the reefs and explore Rincon and Komodo islands, the only place in the world where you can see the famous Komodo Dragons.

For my part, I took a 3-day tour to Komodo, and spent a few days lounging in the sun; eating Gado Gado from roadside stalls in Labuan Bajo—but eventually, adventure called. With my limited time, I explored some of the more remote places on this small island, staying in small towns and climbing volcanoes as packs of local village children chased me, giggling. If you’re a mountain lover like me, may I suggest Inerie?

Such a small island, and yet, in a single week, you can experience such diversity of adventure. It’s not on everyone’s Indonesia list, but I wouldn’t miss it for the world.

Lombok

By Brittany and Jason from WorldWideWakleys

Lombok, the island just East of Bali, has so much to offer! If you’re looking for an adventure, you can visit Sembalun, a small mountain town known for its strawberry fields and hiking trails. It’s also the base camp for anyone daring to conquer the hike up the 2nd highest mountain in Indonesia, an active volcano known as Mount Rinjani. If mountain climbing isn’t your thing, you could hike around some of the many waterfalls throughout the island. We personally recommend taking the incredible trek back to Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu, where you can swim at the base of the waterfalls and experience Lombok’s natural beauty. You can easily hire a guide at the entrance of the park where the waterfalls are located.

There is no shortage of sun and surf on the little island of Lombok either. You can spend the day in the south of the island on Selong Belanak Beach learning how to surf, soaking in the sunshine, and relaxing with a delicious coconut in hand. Then enjoy a romantic dinner on the beach in Senggigi where you can see Bali to the west – and sometimes Mount Agung – while watching a gorgeous tropical sunset. Senggigi is also a great place to shop for local, handmade items such as jewellery, clothing, paintings, and more!

If you’ve had your fill of breathtaking sunsets, unbelievable hikes, and warm, sandy beaches—and you’re feeling the need for some fast-paced city life—Mataram is the largest city and provincial capital of Lombok. As the nickname Land of 1,000 Mosques would imply, there are many to visit throughout the island, with the beautiful Islamic Center NTB being the largest. Feel free to do some shopping or catch a Premium new-release movie at Epicentrum Mall for about 5 USD while you’re there! Enjoy!

Indonesia is packed full of beautiful islands and vibrant cities – do you have any other suggestions to add to this list?

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