Indonesia beyond Bali Travel Journal

A 9th-century Buddhist temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site — the world's largest Buddhist monument, with 504 Buddha statues and 2,672 relief panels. Sunrise from the upper terraces is a signature experience for visitors on a Java itinerary.

Best forHeritage and photography

Buy sunrise tickets in advance; arrive by 5 am. Wear modest clothing and walk clockwise around each terrace.

A 9th-century Hindu temple complex dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 240 temples. The Ramayana ballet performance is staged on select evenings against the lit temple backdrop.

Best forHindu heritage and architecture

Visit in late afternoon for cooler temperatures and sunset light. Combine with Borobudur on a day trip from Yogyakarta.

An active volcano at 2,329 m in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The sunrise viewpoint at Mount Penanjakan overlooks the caldera. The Sea of Sand and crater rim are accessible by jeep from Cemoro Lawang village.

Best forVolcano sunrise and adventure

Start from Cemoro Lawang at 3 am for sunrise. Wear warm layers; temperatures at the viewpoint can drop to 5–10°C.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Komodo dragon, the world's largest lizard. The park includes Komodo, Rinca and Padar islands. Diving at Batu Bolong and Manta Point draws divers from across Southeast Asia.

Best forWildlife and diving

Book a 2D1N boat trip from Labuan Bajo. Rangers guide dragon sightings on Rinca and Komodo islands; never approach dragons without a ranger.

A volcanic island within Komodo National Park with a famous viewpoint overlooking three bays with different sand colours. The hike to the summit takes about 30 minutes on a rocky trail.

Best forHiking and panoramic views

Start the hike early morning to avoid heat. Wear sturdy shoes; the trail is uneven and exposed.

A highland region known for traditional tongkonan houses, cliff graves and elaborate multi-day funeral ceremonies. The culture is distinct from coastal Sulawesi. Trekking between villages and homestays are common ways to experience it.

Best forCultural immersion

Hire a local guide to understand funeral customs and respect photography restrictions during ceremonies. Rantepao is the main base.

The world's largest volcanic lake, formed by a supervolcanic eruption. Samosir Island in the middle is home to Batak culture and sits at about 900 m altitude, making it noticeably cooler than coastal Sumatra.

Best forVolcanic lake and culture

Stay on Samosir Island for at least two nights. Swim in the lake and visit Batak villages by rented bicycle or motorbike.

An island with granite rock formations, white sand beaches and clear water. Tanjung Tinggi and Tanjung Kelayang beaches are the most visited. Visitor numbers are significantly lower than Bali.

Best forBeaches and island hopping

Fly to Tanjung Pandan (TJQ) via Jakarta. Rent a scooter or hire a car to reach the beaches, which are spread across the island.

The royal palace of the Yogyakarta Sultanate, still inhabited by the royal family. It showcases Javanese architecture, gamelan music and court culture. Malioboro Street nearby is a hub for street food, batik and transport.

Best forJavanese culture and history

Visit in the morning when the palace is open. Combine with Taman Sari water castle, a 10-minute walk away.

A marine park within the Coral Triangle, known for coral walls and diverse marine life including turtles and reef sharks. Diving and snorkelling are the primary activities, with Bunaken Island as the main base.

Best forDiving and snorkelling

Fly to Manado (MDC) via Jakarta or Makassar. Stay on Bunaken Island for easy reef access and to reduce boat time.

Fried rice with egg, chicken or vegetables — a staple found everywhere from roadside warungs to hotel breakfast menus. Vegetarian versions are available on request at most stalls.

Best forBreakfast or dinner at any budget

Ask for 'nasi goreng tanpa daging' for a meat-free version. Some versions use shrimp paste; mention shellfish allergies when ordering.

Slow-cooked beef in coconut milk and spices, originating from Minangkabau culture in West Sumatra. Rich and mildly spicy, served with rice and a spread of side dishes at Padang restaurants.

Best forLunch or dinner for meat eaters

Vegetarian rendang is rare; look for tempeh rendang at dedicated vegetarian warungs in Yogyakarta and Padang.

Grilled chicken skewers with peanut sauce, often served with lontong (compressed rice cakes). A popular street food across Java with regional variations in sauce sweetness.

Best forSnack or light meal

Confirm peanut sauce is freshly made if you have nut allergies. Tempeh sate is a vegetarian alternative at some stalls.

A salad of boiled vegetables, tofu, tempeh and egg with peanut sauce. Vegetarian-friendly by default and one of the most reliable options for Indian travellers avoiding meat.

Best forVegetarian meal

Ask for no egg if vegan. The peanut sauce is usually mild but ask about chilli level if sensitive to heat.

Chicken soup with turmeric, noodles and fresh herbs, often served with rice on the side. Comforting and mild, it is a common lunch dish across Java.

Best forLight meal or lunch

Ask for 'soto tanpa ayam' for a vegetarian broth version with tofu or mushrooms. Confirm the base stock if strictly vegetarian.