Things to Do in Indonesia

Indonesia is predominantly known for its rich and abundant culture and historical heritages influenced by several diverse ethnic groups spread out throughout the country. You can visit Yogyakarta, the cultural capital of the country and experience the culture of the native Javanese group. Additionally, there are a number of temples, one of them being the Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the country. As you step into Bali, you can also catch cultural performances like the Kecak Fire Dance at the Uluwatu Temple and the Legong Dance at the Ubud Palace, among others, which provide an insight into the culture and traditions of the country.`For an added twist, visit Jogakarta, specifically Kota Tua, which has ancient colonial architecture and museums, all of which have their own stories to tell.

Being an island country, there are a number of water sports to engage in, making it one of the top things to do in Indonesia. If you are someone who loves surfing, then visit Bali, particularly places like Uluwatu, Canggu and Kuta, which are known surfing spots. For scuba diving and snorkelling, you can visit Raja Ampat, Bunaken, Bali and the Gili Islands, where you can swim alongside vibrant coral reefs and manta rays. For those looking for a more exciting and exhilarating experience, you can also go jet skiing, flyboarding, or parasailing in Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa and white-water rafting on the Ayung River or Elo River.

The adventure activities in Indonesia do not just stop at the water sports. If you love to trek, then make sure to go on a sunrise trek up to the volcanic Mount Bromo while getting to witness some gorgeous views. For those who love some extra challenging hikes, then consider going up Mount Rinjani in Lombok, where you are also rewarded with marvellous views of the crater lake. Next, visit the Sumatran and Kalimantan tropical rainforests, which are home to the endangered orangutan species. These rainforests cater to travellers of all levels, those who want to take a peaceful stroll and those who want to go on jungle treks or river safaris. For a less intense activity, check out Lake Toba for its absolutely breathtaking and serene landscapes and the Batak culture, all housed in the largest volcanic lake in Southeast Asia.

Any trip needs to have a balance, so for a more modernistic experience, consider visiting the Monas, Jakarta’s National Monument. This serves as a symbol for independence and also acts as an observation deck overlooking the entire city, providing you with the perfect balance of history and modernity. Additionally, explore the skyscrapers and shopping complexes in the city to get the touch of urban life.

No trip is complete without a shopping experience and Indonesia will provide you with a range of options from luxurious malls to traditional markets. If you are a premium or luxury shopper and are looking for options that cater to that style, then Grand Indonesia Mall and Plaza Indonesia in Jakarta are your paradise. If you are looking for a more authentic shopping experience, Malioboro Street is the spot to shop for batiks, handkerchiefs and other souvenirs. Another market selling authentic handicrafts is the Ubud Art Market in Bali, where you can find handcrafted goods like jewellery, wood carvings and textiles. Finally, for budget shopping, visit Pasar Baru in Bandung, which sells good-quality clothes and fabrics.

A visit to a new country always calls for a culinary indulgence and Indonesia has a flavourful palette. One of the most popular and must-try dishes is Nasi Goreng, an Indonesian fried rice, Satay, which is a skewered grilled meat and Rendang, a slow-cooked beef in coconut milk and spices. If you are more into street food, then Glodok or Chinatown in Jakarta or the night markets in Bandung are good options to explore for an authentic culinary experience.

The varied options of things to do in Indonesia extend beyond this list, like theme park experiences, island hopping, safaris and even a vibrant nightlife. This island country will give you the best bite of all experiences, giving you the perfect and wholesome experience found nowhere else. Regardless of your recreational interest, Indonesia is sure to satisfy your travel goals and provide you with a fabulous vacation!