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The places to visit near Indonesia unlock a world beyond Bali and Jakarta, leading to pristine islands, ancient temples, and marine reserves tucked between Southeast Asia’s lesser-known corners. From the coral gardens of East Timor to the hilltop monasteries of Myanmar, these places to see near Indonesia promise unforgettable adventures. Indonesia shares borders and sea routes with unique countries like Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines. These nearby attractions near Indonesia offer cultural depth and natural beauty, perfect for explorers seeking something more than the usual travel route.
10 Best Places To Visit Near Indonesia
Our list of places to visit near Indonesia includes underrated islands, sacred sites, and marine wonders waiting just beyond the usual tourist paths.
1. Bandung
Photo: Glasreifen / Wikimedia Commons
The places to visit near Indonesia include the cool highlands of Bandung, where the Tangkuban Perahu Volcano awaits with its smoking crater. Surrounded by tea plantations and colonial-era buildings, Bandung offers beautiful drives and busy market strolls. The volcano’s rim can be reached easily by car, providing dramatic views and sulphuric steam vents. The city’s cooler climate makes it ideal for a relaxing getaway just a short flight from Jakarta.
Main Attractions: Crater hikes, hot springs, scenic volcanic views
Cuisines To Try: Nasi Timbel (steamed rice wrap), Batagor (fried fish dumplings)
2. Lake Toba, Sumatra
Photo: muhammad aditia sinurat / Unsplash
The places to visit near Indonesia are incomplete without Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic lake in Sumatra. Encircled by traditional Batak villages, visitors can swim in calm waters, trek to nearby waterfalls, or relax in lakeside cottages. Samosir Island, set within the lake, offers cultural experiences and stunning panoramas. With its unique blend of natural beauty and heritage, Lake Toba remains one of the region’s most overlooked yet rewarding destinations.
Main Attractions: Volcanic lake, Samosir Island, Batak culture
Cuisines To Try: Arsik (spiced fish), Bika Ambon (honeycomb cake)
3. Yogyakarta (Prambanan Temple)
Photo: Christopher Michel / Wikimedia Commons
Yogyakarta stands out as the cultural capital of Java. Home to the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple, it showcases intricate Hindu architecture and centuries of history. Visitors can tour the Sultan’s Palace, browse lively batik markets, and watch traditional shadow puppet shows. With a balance of heritage and modern comforts, Yogyakarta offers a fulfilling travel experience. The dry season is ideal for exploring temples, walking tours, and enjoying cultural performances across the city.
Main Attractions: Hindu temple complex, ancient carvings, cultural shows
Cuisines To Try: Gudeg, Bakpia
4. Raja Ampat Islands, West Papua
Raja Ampat tops the list of marine places near Indonesia, offering some of the world’s most diverse underwater ecosystems. Home to over 1,500 fish species, its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving. Visitors can explore coral reefs, paddle through limestone inlets, or relax in stilted cottages along secluded beaches. This remote paradise is ideal for those seeking both adventure and solitude in a pristine natural setting teeming with marine life.
Main Attractions: Coral reefs, diving paradise, marine biodiversity
Cuisines To Try: Papeda (sago porridge), Ikan Bakar (grilled fish)
5. Gili Islands, Lombok
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
The places to visit near Indonesia like the Gili Islands are perfect for a peaceful, car-free escape. These small islands boast white sandy beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkelling with sea turtles. Gili Trawangan attracts travellers with its lively nightlife, while Gili Meno and Gili Air offer calm surroundings for a slower pace. With no cars allowed, bicycles and horse-drawn carts are the main transport, making the experience charming and relaxed from start to finish.
Main Attractions: White beaches, snorkelling, car-free island escape
Cuisines To Try: Ayam Taliwang (spicy grilled chicken), Plecing Kangkung
6. Tana Toraja, South Sulawesi
Photo: Jorge Franganillo / Wikimedia Commons
Tana Toraja is a region in South Sulawesi renowned for its unique funeral ceremonies and traditional Tongkonan houses. Travellers can explore scenic terraced hillsides, ancient burial caves, and remote villages rich in culture. Trekking through rice paddies and forested paths reveals the area’s natural beauty. With the help of local guides, visitors gain insight into the Torajan way of life and its fascinating ancestral traditions.
Main Attractions: Traditional villages, cliff graves, unique funeral rituals
Cuisines To Try: Pa’piong (bamboo-cooked meat), Pantollo Pammarrasan (Toraja black soup)
7. Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, Ubud
Photo: Jorge Franganillo / Wikimedia Commons
Among unique places to visit near Indonesia, the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud offers a blend of wildlife and tradition. Home to over 1,000 long-tailed macaques, it allows visitors to observe these playful primates in their natural environment. Ancient temple ruins, moss-covered sculptures, and dense tree cover create a serene setting. Early mornings provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful stroll and deeper understanding of Balinese cultural belie.
Main Attractions: Forest walk, temples, playful long-tailed macaques
Cuisines To Try: Bebek Betutu (smoked duck), Sate Lilit (minced seafood satay)
8. Komodo National Park, Flores
Photo: Charles J. Sharp / Wikimedia Commons
Places to visit near Indonesia become truly thrilling with Komodo National Park, where the legendary Komodo dragons live in the wild. Trek with local guides to safely view these massive reptiles in their natural environment. The park also offers incredible snorkelling opportunities in coral-rich waters, sunbathing on the unique Pink Beach, and panoramic hikes on Padar Island. Remote and rugged, this UNESCO World Heritage Site delivers an unforgettable mix of adventure, marine life, and dramatic island scenery in one destination.
Main Attractions: Komodo dragons, pink beach, island trekking
Cuisines To Try: Seafood grilled with lime, Plecing Kangkung (water spinach salad)
9. Mount Bromo, East Java
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Places to visit near Indonesia with dramatic volcanic scenery include Mount Bromo, a surreal landscape in East Java. Visitors begin before dawn to catch the glowing sunrise over its smoky crater and surrounding “Sea of Sand.” Adventurous jeep rides or treks take travellers to the best viewpoints like Mount Penanjakan. The area’s cooler climate makes walking comfortable, while the views, especially with morning mist, are ideal for photography. Bromo offers a memorable blend of nature, geology, and adventure in one destination.
Main Attractions: Sunrise views, volcanic landscape, crater exploration
Cuisines To Try: Rawon (beef soup), Soto Ayam (chicken soup)
10. Borobudur Temple, Central Java
Photo: Mike van Schoonderwalt / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Places to visit near Indonesia reflect deep spiritual roots, and Borobudur stands out as a sacred marvel. Built in the 9th century, this UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple features thousands of intricate stone carvings and bell-shaped stupas across nine stacked platforms. At sunrise, mist rolls through the surrounding valleys, casting a magical glow over the monument. Visitors can explore nearby temples and museums to understand its cultural and religious importance, making Borobudur a meaningful stop on any Java itinerary.
Main Attractions: Buddhist monument, sunrise tours, stone stupas
Cuisines To Try: Gudeg (jackfruit stew), Bakpia (sweet bean pastry)
These places to visit near Indonesia open doors to worlds filled with wild nature, fascinating culture, and unforgettable journeys. Whether you crave mountain hikes, coral reefs, or ancient temples, Southeast Asia has it all within a short flight or ferry ride. Don’t stop at Bali or Jakarta and discover these tourist attractions near Indonesia that few others do. Start planning your offbeat escape today with TripXL’s exclusive travel packages and let your journey go beyond the expected and into the unexplored.
Cover Photo: Aaron Rentfrew / Wikimedia Commons
