Indonesia travel guide

Go Temple Hunting in Bali

Bali has over 20,000 temples, so you have no excuse not to visit at least a handful. 

These holy structures are called pura in Balinese; for example, Pura Tanah Lot translates to Tanah Lot temple (one of the best). Other renowned temples include Besakih, Uluwatu, and Ulun Danu Beratan. 

Catch the Sunrise at Borobudur, Java

Catching the sunrise at Borobudur offers the most breathtaking scenery in Java, Indonesia. The gorgeous hues of orange and yellow light up the sky as you’re in the midst of the world’s largest Buddhist temple. Ensure you arrive before six am to see the sunrise.  

Chill Out on the Gili Islands

The Gili Islands or Gili Island triplets are a slice of paradise, away from civilization, that you won’t regret visiting. 

Imagine gorgeous white sands peppered with palm trees and kissed by aquamarine waters – now, envisage yourself sunbathing, snorkelling, or swimming there—pure bliss. 

Visit Komodo Island

Why not visit an island inhabited by Komodo dragons? If your zoologist senses tingle, you’ll love exploring this stunning island. Home to Pink Beach, 4,000 dragons, and famous coral reefs – you’ll have the time of your life. 

Escape to Raja Ampat

Another archipelago worth visiting is Raja Ampat encompassing hundreds of jungle-covered islands. 

This otherworldly site features 500 coral species and the world’s most biodiverse marine life. Kri is the most famous island, with exceptional diving, balmy beaches, and plentiful accommodation options. 

Fill Your Camera at the Gate of Heaven, Bali 

Ignore the Instagram hype around the Lempuyang Temple or “gates of heaven” — influencers go there for the wrong reasons. If you value history and spiritualism, you’ll likely know this is the oldest Balinese temple and one of the Sad Kahyangan Jagad, or the “six sanctuaries of the world”. 

Go Waterfall Hunting

Indonesia is one of the rainiest places on earth, so the prevalence of gushing waterfalls amongst its many rainforests is no surprise. If you love hiking and a refreshing dose of waterfall mist, you don’t want to miss Tibumana, Tukad Cepung, and Tegenungan Falls. 

Explore Gorgeous Rice Fields 

Indonesia’s stunning rice terraces are a big hit among tourists. The landscapes are surreal, and the cultural heritage intrigues you – it’s a rural and authentic experience like no other. Don’t just take my word for it; see it yourself by visiting Jatiluwih, Tegallalang, and Pererenan rice fields. 

Lombok

Lombok is like Bali before the crowds. My advice?  Get there quick before they do. With all the charm of its sister island, but a fraction of the visitors, it’s becoming one of Indonesia’s go-to destinations.

What’s so special? Lombok’s famed for its spectacular black sand beaches (there’s even a pink sand beach too if you know where to look). 

Ready to take on Indonesia with both hands? I’ve devised four fun-tastic itineraries to help you unearth the best way to travel in Indonesia (thank me later). Feel free to add or remove destinations based on your time and preferences. 

Beautiful Bali Beaches

One Week

Blue Point Beach – Kuta Beach – Seminyak Beach – Pemuteran – Diamond Beach – Canggu Beach – Lovina Beach

Go beach hopping on some of Bali’s most gorgeous beaches. 

Tour of the Temples

Ten Days

Borobudur Temple – Sewu Temple – Plaosan Temple – Lempuyang Temple – Pura Tanah Lot – Besakih Temple – Uluwatu Temple

Visit all the must-see temples of Indonesia in one go. 

Best of Ubud 

One Week

Tegalalang Rice Terrace – Tegenungan Waterfall – Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – Ubud Art Market – Puri Saren Palace – Tirta Empul Temple

See the best of Ubud by visiting its standout attractions. 

Best Indonesia Islands

Three Weeks

Lombok – Komodo – Java – Flores – Sumatra – Belitung – Sulawesi

Venture beyond Bali by exploring some of the best Indonesian islands.

Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple

This temple is the perfect alternative to the touristy Tirta Empul. Here, you’ll run into locals who bathe in the holy spring waters. Ensure to stop by the gorgeous Koi pond with intricate stone carvings, typical of a water temple, just without the crowds. 

Rumah Akar, Jakarta

One of Jakarta’s best-kept secrets is also likely the most mystical place that offers an otherworldly backdrop for your travel snaps. 

Located in Pinangsia, West Jakarta City, this mysterious museum, also called ‘roots house,’ looks like a scene from Jumanji, or abandoned jungle city.

The roots creeping up the cracked walls create a sense of eeriness, promising a unique photo session to those who find it. 

Hidden Pools in Mangku Sakti Waterfall, Lombok 

Sembalun, East Lombok, is home to one of the most awe-inspiring natural sites: the majestic Mangku Sakti Waterfall.

This gushing fall plunges a 1.5-meter into a deep pool, hidden within granite stones. The gorgeous crevices of the canyon’s dark grey interior, juxtaposed with baby-blue waters, result in a surreal sight artists can only dream of. 

Cirebon, Java

Escape the crowds by visiting one of Java’s hidden wonders: Cirebon. You’ll find this hush-hush coastal city in northern West Java, where a blend of culture, history, and culinary delights hits you hard. 

Explore two historic palaces, the 16th-century Keraton Kasepuhan and the 17th-century Keraton Kanoman, then visit Sunyaragi Cave, an 18th-century water palace in the shape of a labyrinthine.   

Dishes to try

• Gado-Gado salad – a vibrant salad made of fried tofu, tempeh, hard-boiled egg, and vegetables. 
• Kering Tempeh – deep-fried tempeh served with crunchy peanuts and a sweet and sour glace. 
• Nasi Goreng – egg fried rice with veggies and spicy chilli.
• Pisang Goreng – delicious deep-fried bananas. 

Drinks to try

• Bintang – famous Indo pale lager beer. 

Expect to spend between £20 and £28) / $25 and $35 per day per person in Indonesia on a mid-range basis. Add £50 / $70 if you’re travelling on a luxury basis.

Average Daily Costs 

• Hotel 
  • Mid-Range – £26 – £37 and $33 – $47
  • Luxury – £60 – £122 and $76 – $154
• Food – £5.50 – £12.66 / $7 – $10
• Public Transport – taxis: £0.40 – £1.18 / $ 0.50 – $1.50 ; trains: £5.50 – £9.50 / $7 – $12
• Attractions – £0.40 – £2.40 / $0.50 – $3
• Tours – £20 – £28 / $25 – 35$

Safety

Indonesia is mostly safe, but be vigilant of street crime in popular tourist destinations. Natural disasters, terrorism, and petty theft are pretty common, and there is a (very small) threat of kidnapping. 

Avoid desolate, dark places, don’t walk alone at night or wear expensive jewellery to help.

Health

Covid-19 vaccines are no longer required for travellers to Indonesia. But make sure you’re vaccinated for the following: Hepatitis A, Rabies, Typhoid, Japanese encephalitis, Malaria, Dengue Tetanus, and Yellow Fever. 

Like the locals, avoid drinking tap water and travel with a water purifier in remote areas. Avoid street food if the vendor’s stall and equipment look unsanitary. 

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory when travelling through Indonesia. Most restaurants and bars will include a 5% – 10% tip in your bill. Otherwise, you can tip between Rp10,000 to 10% for most services. 

Tips for travelling

1. Buy a local sim card for your Indonesian travels. While you’d likely have Wi-Fi at hotels and restaurants, you’ll need data beyond these places to call cabs, make reservations, etc. 
2. Respect your host’s religious beliefs and etiquette in temples and holy places. 
3. Dress modestly or mimic what the locals wear to blend in and avoid unwanted attention. Avoid revealing clothing to respect the country’s predominantly Muslim values. 
4. You must get a VISA to stay in Indonesia for over 30 days. If you stay longer than this without one, you’ll pay a fine upon departure. 
5. Plan your Indonesian vacation for at least two weeks. 

How to see the best for free

This wouldn’t be the best travel guide to Indonesia without free activities/attractions for budget travellers. Start by visiting traditional villages for a medley of arts, crafts, dance, and music. Don’t miss Ubud, Trunyan Village, Tenganan and Penglipuran Village.  

Next, consider free tours of iconic landmarks such as the National Monument, Istiqlal Mosque, and Tugu Proklamasi in Jakarta. 

Finally, discovering the best beaches of Bali might be the most rewarding free thing to do in Indonesia. 

Packing

Packing for your Indonesia trip? Don’t forget…

• Hiking trainers: for those treks through forests and rice terraces. 
• Sun protection: protect your skin with sun hats, UV glasses, and high SPF sunblock.  
• Swimwear and flip-flops: so you’re ready for a swim at this beach haven. 
• Waterproof jacket: in case of heavy rainfall. 
• Daypack: to travel conveniently with your belongings. 

Travel insurance

Although travel insurance is not required to visit Indonesia, I still recommend insuring yourself in case of theft, accidents, or medical emergencies. Travel delays, interruptions, and damaged baggage are common anywhere you travel. 

I use AXA Travel Insurance.

Suggested guidebooks

• Moon Bali & Lombok Travel Guide: Outdoor Adventures, Local Cultures, Secluded Beaches  
• The Rough Guide to Indonesia, Second Edition
• Lonely Planet Indonesia (Travel Guide)

Interesting facts

• The world’s biggest flower, Rafflesia Arnoldii, is in Indonesia. 
• The country is home to over 100 endangered animals.
• Indonesia has more than 600 ethnic groups and speaks over 700 languages. 
• Indonesia currently has over 100 active volcanoes. 
• It’s the largest archipelago, with roughly 18,110 islands and islets. 

Handy phrases

Here are some handy phrases in bahasa indonesia:

Hello – Halo

Yes – Ya

No – Tidak

Please – Tolong

Thank You – Terima kasih

How Much Is – Berapa

Where Is – Dimana

How Are You – Apa kabarmu

Goodnight – Selamat malam

What Time Is It – Jam berapa

I Am Lost – Saya tersesat

I Need Help – Saya butuh bantuan

I Apologise – Saya minta maaf

Time zone

Indonesia has three different time zones: 

• Indonesia Western Standard Time (WIB) – GMT +07:00
• Indonesia Central Standard Time (WITA) – GMT +08:00
• Indonesia Eastern Standard Time (WIT) – GMT +09:00 

Electricity and adapters

Indonesia typically uses 230 V with a standard frequency of 50 Hz and mostly type C and F plugs. I recommend travelling with a universal adapter.