6 incredible destinations in Indonesia beyond Bali

Bali remains Indonesia’s most visited island, but the country’s vast archipelago offers many lesser-known destinations with equally striking landscapes and experiences. Travellers can explore Buddhist temples in Java, snorkel among coral reefs in Raja Ampat, hike active volcanoes, spot Komodo dragons and cruise through rainforest rivers in Borneo. These destinations offer a mix of nature, culture, wildlife and luxury travel away from Bali’s crowded beaches.

Yogyakarta, often called the cultural heart of Java, is home to Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 9th century. The region is known for traditional batik art, Javanese culture and scenic rice field landscapes. Travellers can visit nearby villages such as Candirejo, trek to secluded temples like Selogriyo and enjoy views of Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes.

Raja Ampat, located in West Papua, is one of the world’s richest marine biodiversity regions. Its turquoise waters are home to coral reefs, reef sharks, sea turtles and hundreds of fish species. Travellers can explore the islands through private cruises, sunrise snorkeling trips and kayaking routes through hidden lagoons. With limited crowds and remote island settings, Raja Ampat is considered one of Indonesia’s top destinations for diving and marine tourism.

Sumba offers a quieter alternative to Bali with a combination of beaches, waterfalls and local tribal culture. The island is known for surfing spots, horseback riding along the shoreline and eco-luxury resorts surrounded by nature. Travellers can visit traditional villages, take part in artisan workshops and trek through jungles to hidden waterfalls. Sumba’s food experiences also focus on local Indonesian flavours and seafood-based cuisine.

Mount Bromo, located in East Java, is one of Indonesia’s most visited volcanoes. The experience usually begins before sunrise with a drive to King Kong Hill, where travellers watch the first light spread across the volcanic landscape. Visitors then cross the ash plains and climb a staircase leading to the crater rim for close-up views into the active volcano. The surrounding mountain scenery and volcanic smoke make it one of Indonesia’s most photographed landscapes.

Labuan Bajo on Flores Island serves as the gateway to Komodo National Park, famous for its Komodo dragons — the world’s largest lizards. Visitors can trek across rugged islands, snorkel with manta rays and hike to viewpoints on Padar Island overlooking pink beaches and volcanic landscapes. The region has also emerged as a luxury tourism destination with overwater resorts, island cruises and seafood-focused dining experiences.

Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo, offers rainforest expeditions and wildlife encounters deep inside tropical jungle ecosystems. Travellers can cruise along the Sekonyer River on traditional wooden houseboats called klotoks while spotting wild orangutans in the forest canopy. The region is also home to Tanjung Puting National Park and Camp Leakey, a conservation centre known for orangutan rehabilitation and rainforest research. Night stays on riverboats allow visitors to experience the sounds and wildlife of the jungle after dark.