1. Borobudur
Located on the island of Java, the magnificent Borobudur temple is the world’s biggest Buddhist monument, an ancient site widely considered to be one of the world’s seven wonders. The temple sits majestically on a hilltop overlooking lush green fields and distant hills. Built in the 9th century during the reign of the Syailendra dynasty, the temple’s design in Gupta architecture reflects India's influence on the region, yet there are enough indigenous scenes and elements incorporated to make Borobudur uniquely Indonesian.
It covers an enormous area, measuring 123 x 123 meters. The monument is a marvel of design, decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The architecture and stonework of this temple has no equal. And it was built without using any kind of cement or mortar! The structure is like a set of massive interlocking Lego blocks held together without any glue.
The temple has remained strong even through ten centuries of neglect. It was rediscovered in 1815, buried under volcanic ash. In the 1970’s the Indonesian Government and UNESCO worked together to restore Borobudur to its former majesty. The restoration took eight years to complete and today, Borobudur is one of Indonesia and the world’s most valuable treasures.
Get There
Borobudur is only one hour’s drive from Yogyakarta. The easiest way to get there is by joining a tour or renting a car. During your journey to Borobudur, enjoy the fresh cool air of Magelang city with its roads lined with big shady trees. Borobudur itself stands tall against the spectacular backdrop of the Menoreh mountain range that surrounds it.
Entering the temple compound is easy and most visitors choose to wander around on foot. Alternatively, you can chart a cart (pulled by a horse) at a reasonable price.
YouTube Video
Borobudur – The Grand Temple
2. Danau Toba (Lake Toba)
As one of Indonesia's most historical places, Lake Toba has become a destination full of adventurous possibilities, cultural discoveries and nature's wonders. Catch a glimpse of all the excitement and heritage you can uncover in the wonders of Lake Toba.
Get There
From Medan, you can travel to Parapat by taxi/private car/bus and continue by ferry from Parapat to Tuk Tuk, Samosir Island.
YouTube Video
The Heart Beat of Toba
3. Labuan Bajo
As the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Komodo National Park, the home of the famous Komodo Dragon, Labuan Bajo, the once small fishing site has flourished into a favorite holiday destination amongst locals and foreign tourists.
Get There
Labuan Bajo can be accessed easily via daily flights from Bali and Jakarta.
YouTube Video
An exploration of the Wondrous Labuan Bajo
4. Mandalika
Along the south coast of the beautiful Lombok island lies a long and rich of beautiful white sand beach facing the glistening Indian Ocean. On the background are lush green hills and mesmerizing landscapes. Mandalika, once a surfers’ best-kept secret, now it has emerged as the island’s capital of leisure.
The special tourism economic zone boasts vibrant bars and nightclubs, thrilling racing circuits, exciting water parks, luxurious hotels and resorts, fascinating golf courses, rejuvenating spas, and plenty more; there’s everything for everyone at this 1,250-hectare paradise.
The tourism industry in Mandalika is equalling its neighboring island, Bali. Mandalika is also a melting pot of tourists from all parts of the globe. Here, the tourism industry fused seamlessly with the unique and colorful culture of the local people that is still well preserved for generations.
Get There
Flights are available from various major cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali. From Jakarta, the flight will take about 2 hours, while from the nearby Bali, it will only take about 30 minutes. From Bali, you can also take a ferry from Padang Bai Harbor to Lembar Harbor in Lombok. From there you can take a bus or a taxi to Mandalika that will take about 2-3 hours.
YouTube Video
Where the Waves Colide
5. Likupang
North Sulawesi is a province of Indonesia that is well known for its stunning natural attractions. The beaches, the mountainous areas, and lush forests are a must-visit if you visit the area. One of the best places you can find here is Likupang Beach. The beach is located in the northernmost part of Sulawesi and it is just 48 km away from Manado, specifically in a district called Likupang.
From the very first time you lay eyes on Likupang Beach, you are guaranteed to be stunned by its beautiful and vast white sandy beach. Not only that but it also has beautiful clear seawater and also offers several other tourist attractions. In addition, you can also enjoy the scenery under the sea that will hypnotize you and you can dive directly into it. There are a number of attractions such as Pal Beach, Pulisan Beach and the famous Likupang Beach. Meanwhile, for the islands, there are Lihaga Island and Gangga Island which also have amazing underwater beauty.
Get There
From Manado, you can use public transportation from Paal bus station, and the bus will take you directly to the Likupang bus station. If you travel in groups, you better use your own vehicle or choose a car rental service since this beach is relatively far away from the heart of the city.
YouTube Video
Escape to the New World
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