Indonesia remains one of the most popular travel destinations in Southeast Asia. With more than 17,000 islands stretching across nearly two million square kilometers, the country offers endless natural wonders and cultural treasures waiting to be explored.
While Bali is the most recognized destination globally, Indonesia has many other incredible places worth visiting. Lonely Planet has highlighted the top 10 must-see spots across the archipelago, including Ubud, Jakarta, the Gili Islands, and more.
Here’s the full list of Indonesia’s top tourist destinations!
1. Ubud, Bali
Though Bali’s famous beaches like Kuta continue to attract visitors, Ubud offers a different side of the island. Surrounded by lush rice terraces, Ubud is rich in culture, arts, and traditions.
Don’t miss the Sacred Monkey Forest or an evening of traditional dance performances such as kecak or legong at a local temple.
2. Gili Islands, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara
Lombok stands as an impressive alternative to Bali, and the Gili Islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Air, and Gili Meno—are among its main highlights.
Snorkeling with turtles, diving, kayaking, riding a banana boat, or simply enjoying a quiet sunset are just a few of the activities you can enjoy here.
3. Jakarta, DKI Jakarta
Indonesia’s capital offers more than skyscrapers. Explore the historical Old Town by foot or bicycle, visit the National Museum for a deep dive into the nation’s past, and discover artworks at the National Gallery or Museum Macan.
Jakarta blends modernity with rich history, making it an intriguing stop for travelers.
4. Borobudur, Central Java & Yogyakarta
If Jakarta sparks your interest in history, Borobudur Temple is a must-visit. Dating back to the 8th–9th centuries, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the development of Buddhism in the region.
From Borobudur, travel to Yogyakarta to experience traditional Javanese culture, shop for batik on Malioboro Street, and try the city’s signature dish, gudeg.
5. Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, East Java
Situated in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” Indonesia is home to numerous magnificent volcanoes—including Mount Bromo.
Lonely Planet praises the national park for its breathtaking sunrise views and epic volcanic landscape. Many travelers hike early in the morning to witness its iconic scenery.
6. Kerinci Valley, Jambi
Kerinci Valley welcomes visitors with refreshing greenery and cool mountain air. Activities range from climbing Mount Kerinci—the tallest volcano in Southeast Asia—to exploring waterfalls or trekking through forests inhabited by langurs and gibbons.
7. Tanjung Puting National Park, Central Kalimantan
Indonesia’s diverse ecosystems also include habitat-rich rainforests. Tanjung Puting is renowned for its orangutan conservation efforts and remains one of the best places in the world to see them in the wild.
Explore Camp Leakey, Tanjung Harapan, or Burung Lake for deeper insights into the area’s wildlife and natural beauty.
8. Komodo National Park, East Nusa Tenggara
Komodo National Park is another top recommendation by Lonely Planet. Covering around 1,817 square kilometers, the park is home to the famed Komodo dragons—giant lizards found only in Indonesia.
Visitors can also enjoy mangrove forests, vibrant underwater ecosystems, and iconic spots like Pink Beach in nearby Labuan Bajo.
9. Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi
Tana Toraja captivates visitors with its preserved traditions, most notably the ma’nene ritual.
Held every five years, families clean and dress the mummified bodies of their ancestors as a form of respect—a cultural practice rarely found elsewhere in the world.
10. Raja Ampat, Papua
Raja Ampat concludes the list with its world-class natural beauty. From above, visitors see clusters of lush islands scattered across turquoise waters.
Below the surface lies some of the most biodiverse marine life on Earth, making Raja Ampat a dream destination for divers and nature lovers.