The Indonesian archipelago is the largest in Southeast Asia and features 17,504 stunning islands. Home to the world’s biggest islands Java, Sumatra, and Borneo, the archipelago features the most spectacular beaches, rich culture, oriental cuisine, beautiful climate, and exotic volcanoes that make it the ultimate destination that match people’s souls. Some of the six most popular and treasure islands are Sunda Islands, Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Maluku Island, and New Guinea. Here are 10 magnificent Indonesian islands that will take one’s breath away and give them a glimpse of Indonesia’s bewitching attractions.
10 Bali
Bali is one of the most charming travel destinations. Home to diverse forests, beautiful landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and rich oriental culture setting it apart from the rest of the world, it is a land of natural beauty, scenic views, and looming volcanoes that exude peace and serenity. Only in Bali can visitors experience the tripartite concept called Tri Hita Karana, which is a beautiful way to understand life and means a pretty harmony built between man, God, and the environment.
9 Yogyakarta
People wishing to experience some cultural aspects of Indonesia away from the beach scenes and the business should head towards Yogyakarta. It is one of the most stunning sites, reached from Sumatra Island and encompasses the Indian Ocean ahead of it and Mount Merapi at its back. People can learn about Yogyakarta’s cultural heritage and traditional art, see the remains of the ancient temples, and see the legends and myths that come alive through their art.
8 Bangka-Belitung Islands
Surrounded by Bangka and Belitung small islets, Bangka-Belitung’s 2 main islands are blessed by glamorous sandy beaches featuring granite rock formations. Tourists come to enjoy sunbathing at the gorgeous beach shores and enjoy their pristine beauty and colorful fish. In contrast, others visit to admire the architecture of ancient lighthouses and buildings marked by 19th-century Dutch colonialism.
7 Gili Islands
Gili Islands are a paradise for scuba divers and a perfect destination for honeymooners looking for a romantic getaway. Accessed from Lombok’s airport, Gili islands have gained lots of fame among tourists worldwide. Gili Trawangan and Gili Air, the largest of all the Gili Islands, have become one of the best sites for scuba diving, surfing, and relaxing. On the contrary, Gili Meno is an ideal destination for a romantic vacation with beloved ones.
6 Flores Island
Flores island, one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia, is a true manifestation of nature’s perfect wonder. Lying east of Komodo Island, Flores provides stunning views of the landscape and is the most famous approach to the Komodo National Park, famous for its carnivorous Komodo dragons and waters full of sea life, including turtles and manta rays and offering amazing snorkeling experiences. Another renowned attraction visitors see on the island is the changing water colors in the three lakes of Mount Kelimutu, which makes Flores so unique and pretty.
5 Bands Island
Located in South Maluku, Bands Islands is one of Indonesia’s magnificent must-visit islands. Dominated for years by the Dutch, Portuguese and British, it got influenced by their culture, which is still part of its signature. It is famous for spices, particularly nutmeg. The island is renowned for hiking since it features the highest peak in Indonesia, Gunung Api. Visitors reach the island by taking a 5-6 hours fast ferry from Ambon to experience various water sports, such as surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
4 Ternate Island
Ternate is one of the Maluku Islands, which had once been the sole supplier of nutmeg, mace, cloves, and many other rare spices. Apart from the astonishing landscapes of Sulamadaha Beach and the inspiring Volcano Gamalama, it is an exciting spot for history lovers as they can learn about the colonial reminiscences of Dutch, Portugal, and Spanish reigns on this land. Tourists visit essential landmarks such as Fort Oranje and Fort Tolukko.
3 Raja Ampat Islands
Raja Ampat islands comprise more than 600 jungle-covered islands in the Papua region: Waigeo, Misoo, Bantana, and Salawati. This site features fascinating beaches, ancient rock paintings, caves, and coral reefs rich with marine life. it is famous for its diving experience, biodiversity, snorkeling, and bird watching, and is reached through a ferry heading from Sorong to Waisai in Raja Ampat Islands.
2 Mount Batur
Mount Batur is one of the most famous islands in Indonesia and the most visited by tourists because of its volcanic sites. People experience the incredible trekking journey and hike to the top of Mount Batur at sunrise or sunset to watch the breathtaking panoramic view of the still-active volcano, with its most recent eruption in 2000.
1 Ubud
Known as the heart of traditional crafts and dance, Ubud is the cultural hub of Bali and has been home to Bali’s royal families. Surrounded by terraced rice paddies and rainforests, Ubud features fantastic landscapes, gorgeous lofty mountains, and Hindu shrines and temples. Ubud is a must-visit for every tourist and one of the best places in Indonesia, accessed by bus taken from Denpasar Airport.
