The most beautiful places in Indonesia
Before even starting to write this post, it seems like an impossible task. How can one name the most beautiful places in Indonesia, when there are thousands of islands? This post is obviously solely based on my own opinion. From my two visits to the country, and tons of hours spent researching places in Indonesia. I have created an entire travel guide to Indonesia, for those interested. However that is not what this post is about. This is about the most beautiful places, in this incredible country.
Obviously there are tons of places left unexplored, so this guide focuses on the islands, most often frequented by tourists. I will divide it into different sections, depending on the island. I’m focusing on Bali, Java, Lombok, the Komodo Islands, the Nusa islands, Sumba and Sumbawa.
Bali
Bali. The reason many people choose to visit Indonesia in the first place. And for many, the only place they ever visit in Indonesia. There is so much more to this beautiful country though. However there is also a reason that so many people choose to visit Bali. Bali has everything you will want in a tropical paradise. In this section, I will outline, what in my opinion are the most beautiful places to visit in Bali.
Tegalalang rice terrace
One of the most visited places in Bali is Tegalalang rice terraces. Just a short drive from the cultural hub of Ubud, lie this thing of beauty. You can easily walk around the rice terraces for hours, looking for different photos and compositions. Be sure to arrive around sunrise, as it will otherwise get too crowded. It is an absolutely beautiful sight.
Leke Leke waterfall
Probably one of the most picturesque waterfalls in all of Bali. Leke Leke is simply stunning. As you arrive it seems as if the hillsides have opened of to create this beautiful sight. The hillsides are covered with beautiful green leaves, creating a great contrast in colors, that works very well for photography. In between, is this thin stream of water dropping in the most incredible of surroundings. As a photographer you can create some stunning photos here.
Bukit Cinta
During my first visit to Indonesia, Bukit Cinta was one of the places that excited me the most. Back then it hadn’t gained the popularity it has today, so finding the right spot was actually kind of a challenge. I still remember the moment I walked through a gap between the tall trees and saw this stunning view of the volcano in front of me. It almost seemed too good to be true. Bukit Cinta is certainly one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Sumampan Waterfall
Another beautiful waterfall in Bali is Sumampan. Located in a small village just outside of Ubud, this waterfall hasn’t yet gained the popularity some of the other waterfalls has. It is stunning though, and really gives away the idea of being in the jungle. For photographers this is a must visit spot, as it is different compared to the other waterfalls in Bali. At the bottom of the waterfall there is a small rocky outskirt creating a tiny fall, which is stunning in photos.
Tibumana waterfall
A much more popular waterfall, Tibumana is often frequented by tourists, and yo uhave to visit early to enjoy it to the fullest. Tibumana is set in beautiful surroundings, and gives a real tropical vibe. The blue water contrasts perfectly with the cliffs, covered in green leaves, and creates for beautiful photos. Again, be sure to arrive early, if you want to capture the the perfect photo without people swimming beneath the waterfall.
Tukad Cepung Waterfall
Tukad Cepung is very unlike the other waterfalls on this list. Where the others have been located in beautiful green surroundings, Tukad Cepung is located between rocks. During a certain time in the morning, light rays will appear and shine through the scene, creating some incredible photo opportunities. It is an absolutely stunning spot.
Nungnung waterfall
Another waterfall for the list! Nungnung is extremely photogenic, in due part to the force of the waterfall, however also due to the vivid greens surrounding it. The journey to Nungnung is an experience in itself, and visiting early is recommended, even though it doesn’t see as many tourists as some of the other waterfalls do. For photographers there are plenty of opportunity to create something special here. There are so many beautiful photos to be taken, making it not only one of the most picturesque, but also one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Pasut beach
I have a love for black sand beaches. Be it in Indonesia or Iceland, it doesn’t really matter. I never saw a black sand beach until my early twenties, so every time I have the opportunity to visit one, I make sure that I do so. When I think of Pasut beach, I always get a picture of the stark contrast between the green palm trees, the black sand and blue water. Maybe with a beautiful sky from one of Balis popular sunsets. Pasut beach is a must visit.
Lake Tamblingan
Located in the northern part of Bali, Lake Tamblingan is extremely beautiful, especially for sunrise. To me, what is special about this place, comes from a photography point of view. There are so many compositions to play around with, and so much to capture. Be it the perfect reflections, the temple, the small wooden boats or the locals going out on the river. Arriving before sunrise and watching on as the first light starts to appear, is a special experience.
Pura ulun danu batur
This is one of the more visited sights in Bali, attracting many tourists. Pura ulun danu batur is located in the north of Bali, quite close to Lake Tamblingan. I would recommend visiting as early as possible, to get the best possible light, the less amount of tourists, and possibly also the best chance of a good reflection. The temple is located just at the edge of the water, and is really beautiful, especially when the first light starts to appear on the sky.
Sekumpul waterfall
Sekumpul waterfall is different compared to the other waterfalls on this list. Different in the sense that it is not just one waterfall but three smaller ones. I loved visiting Sekumpul, and at my time in Bali, I found it to be one of my favorites. As with most places on this list, you have to visit early as it attracts many tourists. This waterfall can be seen both from above as well as on the ground, and I would advise you to do both. There is another waterfall very close by that is worth visiting as well.
Pantai Karang
Pantai Karang is a beautiful beach located in southern Bali. It is very popular especially around sunset, as you can get some beautiful photos from here. People venture out between the rocks to try and capture the perfect sunset photo. Another thing about the beach is the fact that it has a couple of caves along the very end of it. When visiting Pantai Karang it is definitely worth it to take a look at the caves as well.
Karang Boma Cliff
Another very popular spot for sunset is the Karang Boma cliff. Here you can capture some seriously dramatic photos due to the drop off the cliff, especially if a person is standing on top of the cliff in order to create scale. It is a beautiful sight with stunning views and huge contrast in color.
Kusamba village
Probably the least known place on this list, Kusamba village is definitely worth a visit. In Bali it is known due to the fact that this is where traditional salt farmers work. They can often be seen walking on the beach in the early morning, doing their work. It is possible to capture some stunning photos here, however if you do so, make sure to ask for permission to take their photos, and don’t just interrupt their daily work.
Lahangan Sweet
An absolutely incredible sight, located in Eastern Bali, that is definitely worth the early wakeup call, in order to shoot sunrise. From the little platform in one of the trees, you will have an absolutely beautiful view, that will leave you speechless. If you get lucky with the weather, you will capture some of the most memorable photos from your entire trip here.
Sidemen
Sidemen is one of the most beautiful areas in all of Bali, in is often described as Bali as it used to be. You will find less Western tourists here, but instead you will find incredible views. Small villages, waterfalls, rice terraces and stunning views of the volcano. Sidemen is a must visit place in Bali and is certainly one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia. Spend your days wandering around on your own, discovering hidden treasures, or hire a guide to tell you about the most stunning sites.
Pinggan village
Watching sunrise from the Pinggan viewpoint is a magical experience. With fog rolling into the valley, a beautiful sky, and the magnificent volcano, lurking over the city. You have to experience this place when in Bali, and you can probably do so without tons of other tourists.
Tianyar beach
For something a bit different and probably one of the most beautiful beaches to fly your drone, head to Tianyar beach. Black sand beach, palm trees and the towering volcano above. For drone photographers this is one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia to fly your drone. You can get some incredible photos here, both during sunrise and sunset.
This wraps up the first part where my focus has been on the beautiful island of Bali. It was so difficult to choose, and I could easily have added more places, such as the monkey forest as an example, but these are the best places to visit for me. Next part will focus on Java, mainly eastern Java, and a bit towards the center. I haven’t yet visited the western part of Java, and haven’t done much research on it either.
Java
Ijen crater
This place is something truly special, and a place I have never seen similar anywhere else. Simply getting there is an experience in itself. When visiting Mount Ijen, many excursions start around or before midnight in order for the visitors to experience the blue flames. One will get equipped with a mask to prevent breathing in the gasses. However the locals who work there on a daily basis, and carry incredibly heave weights have none of it. They expose themselves to it every single day. It is inspiring to see them work, but it must be one of the hardest jobs in the world.
Besides from the blue flames, the magic really happens once the sun starts rising above the blue crater. It is absolutely amazing and definitely one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Coban Talun
A very beautiful waterfall located a few hours from Mount Ijen. Just after the rainy season, or in the rainy season, it is at its most powerful, and is a stunning sight. For photographers there are so many compositions to work with, and it is possible to capture some amazing photos here.
Jodipan colorful village
A sight different to anything else on this list. Jodipan clorful village is everything the name suggests. Colorful. The houses and streets have all been colored in various colors, making for a really interesting sight. I don’t know the exact reason for the coloring of the city, but if it has been to attract more tourists, it has worked wonders. It is beautiful to witness, but a quick visit should be enough.
Coban Sriti
Coban Sriti is one of the most beautiful waterfalls you will experience. It is extremely photogenic, and you will be able to capture so many stunning photos there. Not only that, but the journey to get there is an experience in itself. It’s like walking in the jungle. Once at the actual site you will have the greens of all the plants that create a perfect contrast with the red/brown from the cliffs as well as the two waterfalls. There are plenty of opportunity to include a person in your photos in order to create some scale as well. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Indonesia.
Kapas Biru
Kapas Biru is in my opinion located in some of the most stunning surroundings. Experiencing the waterfall is like being in a fairytale. It just seems too perfect. Kapas Biru is located very close to Coban Sriti and the two can easily be done together. From a photography point of view, there is so much to capture. You have leading lines, contrast in color, different points of view that all create stunning photos. This is one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Kabut Pelangi
Another waterfall located very close to the two just talked about. Kabut Pelangi seems a bit more powerful than the other two, but the location is just as stunning. The vivid greens in this region simply does something to the photos from here. It is an incredible area to explore. Again, from a photography point of view there is so much to play around with, both regarding foregrounds, scale and leading lines.
Tumpak Sewu
This is probably the pick of the bunch, as the most beautiful of the waterfalls on the list until now. Very unlike all the others on the list, these waterfalls create a half circle with a stunning volcano as a backdrop. An incredible sight. Tumpak Sewu can be experienced from above as well as below, and both are equally stunning, and very recommended. There is so much beauty to be capture here. If you have been blown away by some of the other waterfalls, this one will do wonders. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia, and one that has to be visited.
Mount Bromo
This place will take you breath away. Mount Bromo is an area with three volcano craters located right next to each other. From the opposite side of the hill, you will have an incredible view of the volcano craters for sunrise. It is an absolutely magical sights and one of the best travel experiences I have ever had. Mount Bromo is like something taken straight out of a movie. It seems so unreal that a place like this can actually exist. Mount Bromo is not only one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia, but the entire world, in my opinion.
Borobudur temple
Probably one of the most popular places in Java, Borobudur is a must visit sight. This is such a beautiful sight, not only because of the temple itself, but also because of the incredible surroundings. On clear days, you will be able to have views of the volcano in the distance and it can make for some epic photos. When visiting Borobudur temple, make sure that you arrive as they open, in order to experience it with the least amount of people possible.
Kedung Kayang
Located in Magalang, this is one of the most special waterfalls on the list. Not as popular as many of the other waterfalls, but equally beautiful. Visit for sunrise, and you will experience a magical sight from the small platform, as you watch the sky change color, and the first light appers. As a backdrop to the waterfall you have a stunning volcano, and together they create an incredible sight.
Nepal van java
This one, is a dream for drone photographers. One of the most special places one will experience in Indonesia. A villageis build on the mountain side with colorful fields surrounding it. If you have a drone this is a must visit place as you can create some stunning photos of this special village.
Trawas Rice terraces
One of the most beautiful rice terraces in all of Indonesia, this place is incredibly beautiful. Depending on the season, you can be lucky to experience it both underwater, where it reflects the sky, or in vivid greens creating a leading line towards the towering volcano. When in Indonesia, this is a must visit place. It is one of the most beautiful and special sights you will experience, especially as it is not as visited as many of the other places on this list.
This wraps up the part on East and Central Java. Obviously there are many more beautiful sights to experience, I’m just not familiar with them yet, but would love to hear if you have suggestions. Next on the list are the Nusa islands.
Nusa islands
Seaweed farmers, Nusa Lembongan
On the South coast of the island you will find this interesting sight, that has made it back to Nusa Lembongan after covid hit. To experience this sight try to arrive in the early morning, and make sure you don’t interrupt the locals daily work. The workers can only work depending on the low tide however, so they might work early morning, midday or even in the middle of the night. It is an interesting experience, and you can get some great photos, just make sure that you ask permission beforehand.
Dream beach, Nusa Lembongan
Probably the most popular beach on the island, but also the most beautiful. Dream beach has stunning golden sand, beautiful blue water, caves and even the opportunity to cliff jump. This is the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings. Not only is it a great spot to relax, but wander around the beach, and you will find some epic viewpoints from where you will be able to take beautiful photos. It is definitely worth a visit.
Devils tear, Nusa Lembongan
Devils tear is one of the most visited places on the island, and for good reason. A cave pool, located on the edge cliffs, this is an astonishing sights, especially around sunset. The waves crash into the cliffs with huge force, and is then spit right back out. The force of the water ensures that some of it creates small pools on top of the cliff, where you can get some epic reflection photos.
Manta Bay, Nusa Lembongan
Unlike every other places on this list, Manta bay is not located on land, but in water. One of the best experiences you will have on your trip to Nusa Lembongan, is a trip to Manta Bay. It is almost certain that you will be able to swim with manta rays, which is an incredible experience. Life underwater in this part of the world is simply unique.
Kelingking beach, Nusa Penida
The pick of the bunch for many people when it comes to the Nusa islands. Kelingking beach is extraordinary beautiful, both from above and below. From above you have the stunning view of the cliffside resembling a t-rex as well as views of the waves crashing onto the beach. Below at the actual beach you have the beautiful white sand the turquoise ocean and the beautiful surroundings. One of the most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Angel’s Billabong, Nusa Penida
A magical site on the east coast of Nusa Penida, Angel’s Billabong is a must visit site. A tidal pool which is absolutely crystal clear, created by the waves crashing into the cliffside. Below, in the ocean, Manta Rays swim around. It really is a magical sight. Make sure that you visit during low tide, as you will otherwise be disappointed, and wont get the tidal pool that you hoped for.
Broken beach, Nusa Penida
Located right around the corner from Angel’s Billabong, Broken beach is one of the places you can’t miss. A beautiful archway, formed over millions of years, wraps around the bay. It is a beautiful sight to be able to witness this stunning creation of mother earth. At broken beach you can get some incredible photos as the water flows in and then out through the archway. Especially during sunrise and sunset.
Thousand island viewpoint, Nusa Penida
One of the best views you will have on the entire island, thousand island viewpoint will blow you away. You won’t exactly be seeing thousand Islands, however the view is absolutely incredible. The beautiful turquoise ocean creates a stunning contrast to the cliffs covered in green. You will be able to capture some awesome photos here. It is located very close to the famous treehouse.
Diamond beach, Nusa Penida
Atuh beach itself is stunning, but the view you get from the top is even better. The viewpoint from atop is absolutely epic. It almost seems as if the huge cliffs rise straight from the water. The view is incredible and so is the beach. There is another viewpoint as well, which is located on the right hand side of Atuh beach. There is small set of stairs that leads up on the hillside, from where you will most likely be charged a small fee from a local. The view from there is equally beautiful and seems rather dramatic as well.
Gamat Bay, Nusa Penida
For underwater photographers, or underwater lovers in general, Gamat bay is a must visit. With great visibility, coral structures and lots of underwater life Gamat bay is a fantastic snorkel site and somewhere you have to visit.
Blue Lagoon, Nusa Ceningan
A rocky cove with amazingly blue water. This is a fantastic site to spend the day relaxing, but also to take some stunning photos. The blue water creates a beautiful contrast with its surroundings, and you can capture something epic here. However more than that, there is the possibility of doing some cliff jumping, if that’s your thing.
This wraps up the Nusa islands. Next on the list is Lombok and the Gili islands.
Lombok
Selong Balanak
A beach where time has seemingly stood still. Often frequented by local farmers and their cows, but less frequented by tourists. We will have this stunning beach to ourselves, and can take some amazing photos. A great beach to just relax, but even better to capture some beautiful photos.
Mount Rinjani
A stunning sight where we have an open view of the volcanic crater once reaching the top. The hike to the top of Mount Rinjani is quite strenuous, and requires 1-3 days of hiking, depending on the tour chosen. However once at the top, with a view over the entire crater, every hard effort will be rewarded with this beautiful sight. It is one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia, and one of the best things to do in Lombok.
Tetebatu Village
Once down from your trek to Mount Rinjani, make sure that you stay in the Tetebatu village. As the sun rises, grab your scooter, and head out to some of the nearby rice terraces, laying by the foot of Mount Rinjani. You can capture some truly epic photos in very close proximity to the village. Wander around, camera in hand, and try to interact with the locals starting their daily work. It is a beautiful way to start the day.
Tiu Kelep
By now I have lost count of how many waterfalls are actually on this list. However there are so many of them in Indonesia, and each offer something completely different. That is the case with Tiu Kelep as well. By far the most popular waterfall in Lombok, Tiu Kelep is truly a stunning sight. Surrounded by a lush green forest, Tiu Kelep is very different to every other waterfall on this list. Running down the cliffside are various different waterfalls, creating the beginning of a cirkle. Then from a top a much more powerful waterfall springs out over the others, creating an incredible sight. When visiting, make sure that you arrive here early.
Bukit Selong Rice Field Viewpoint
The Bukit Selong rice field viewpoint is one of the best views in the entire country. From the viewpoint, you have an open panorama of the different patterned rice terraces, with the beautiful structure og the mountain in the background. From here you will be able to capture some stunning photos, and you will be left in awe from your experience.
Pergasingan Hill
Home to another incredible view and one of the most beautiful places to pitch your tent and spend the night. The view from the top is something else. Overlooking villages, rice terraces and Mount Rinjani, you can capture some amazing photos from here during sunrise and sunset. At night, once the stars start to appear on the sky, you might be lucky enough to capture the milky way as well.
Benang stokel
Benang Stokel is a beautiful set of three waterfalls, surrounded by lush green jungle. Different than the other waterfalls on this list, as it is three smaller waterfalls located a few meters from each other. The result is absolutely dreamy and it is a must visit site in Lombok.
The Gili islands
When visiting Lombok, the Gili islands are a must visit as well as they are located very close to Lombok. The Gili islands are known as great places to relax and get away from it all, as well as the amazing snorkeling. Gili Meno is probably the best island for snorkeling, as you will be able to discover the famous Gili island wreck, as well as the underwater statues. Besides from that turtles are often spotted just off the shores of the islands.
That’s it for Lombok, next up on the list is Komodo.
Komodo
Padar Island
Padar island is one of those places that just seem too good to be true. As I was there we arrived midday, not the best time for photos, but anyway, once I reached the lookout point, I was left speechless. This is an incredibly beautiful little island, that is extremely photogenic. From the top of the lookout point you have a view of three different colored beaches. How crazy is that. The textures, colors and contrast. It is marvelous. This is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Pink beach
As I was told about the pink beach I was a bit skeptical. Honestly I had never heard of such a thing and therefor didn’t know what to believe. However it turned out to be true, and I was taken aback. Instead of going snorkeling, as is said to be incredible there I was too busy taking photos and didn’t even have time to go in the water. It was an awesome experience and certainly one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever visited.
Wae rebo
Wae Rebo is an extremely unique village build in an altitude of 1100 meters which is rather difficult to access. The village was build some 100 years ago and is a rebuilding of the traditional Mbaru Niang. The village is surrounded by the mountains and lush forest and is extremely beautiful. When in Komodo it is one of the places that you simply cannot miss.
Kelimutu volcano
Kelimutu is known for its three different colored crates. It’s an extremely beautiful sight and one that mustn’t be missed. Behind the craters you have the tip of the volcano pointing towards the sky, creating a magical sight. Visiting for sunrise or sunset you will get incredible photos. It is one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia, and a sight you have to experience for yourself.
Slowly reaching the end of the list, the last islands are Sumba and Sumbawa.
Sumba and Sumbawa
Waikelo Sawah, Sumba
A truly magical place, that I can’t believe it exist. Its honestly one of those places that just seem too beautiful to exist. Palm trees, ponds, small waterfalls and rice terraces all combine to create this incredible place. Visit in the early morning and you are in for something truly incredible. If visiting SUmba, this place has to be on top of your list of places to visit. It is certainly one of the most beautiful places in all of Indonesia.
Mata Jitu, Sumbawa
An astonishing waterfall located on a small island just off the shore of Sumbawa, Mata Jitu is said to have been visited by quite a few celebrities. Mata Jitu is a little piece of paradise which is much less frequented than the waterfalls of Bali. You will be able to create some incredible photos here, and chances are that you will have the waterfall entirely to yourself.
Bungin Island, Sumbawa
Another island located off the shore of Sumbawa, Bungin island is particularly beautiful from the air, so seeing it this way requires a drone. What is remarkable about this island is that seemingly every inch of space has been used to build upon. Meaning that even though it’s an island, there is no shore or no beach at all. The houses there almost seem to cling to each other.
Ai Lemak beach, Sumbawa
Unlike many of the other beaches which are on here due to the surrounding nature, Ai Lemak is on here due to the trees located in the water. This is a place that is on here for the photographers, as you will be able to create beautiful photos from here, in the right conditions. It is a unique place that you are unlikely to find equal in most parts of the world.
Satonda Island, Sumbawa
Visit for sunrise and you will be absolutely blown away by your experience. Especially if you happen to fly a drone over the island. Satonda is an island with lush green forest around the shores. However in the centre of the island is a crater filled with water. For drone photographers this means that you can get some incredible photos. Though it is small, from the air, this is one of the most beautiful places in Indonesia.
Kenawa island, Sumbawa
Another island located in the Sumbawa regency, Kenawa, like Satonda is extremely beautiful when photographed from the air. The contrast created by the colors of the water and the colors of the island create a stunning contrast. On the island itself you can capture some great photos, as well as finding your perfect spot on the beach and just relax all by yourself.
This wraps up my list of the most beautiful places in Indonesia. As I said in the beginning of the post I’m aware that there are tons of more incredible places, and I would love to know which you have in mind! I’m eager to explore even more of this beautiful country.