Gili Islands
Gili is the origin, the mother of all of Indonesia’s laid-back beach destinations. With each step you take through fine, powdery sand of these islands you will end up even more convinced that popular destinations can be amazing too. Gili Trawangan, in particular, is a feast for the heart and soul, except for the nightlife strip on the east coast (especially during high-season).
Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta (or Jogja) is one of the most special places to many travelers. Located on the island of Java, this charming city is a paradise for culture and history lovers. Most people come to Yogyakarta to visit the famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples which are located not far from the city center. You can take a private driver or a tour to visit these gorgeous temples.
Watching the first rays of light hit the bell-shaped stupas of Borobudur is a unique experience, and so is watching the golden hues of the sunset over Prambanan. Yogyakarta is often referred to as the cultural soul of Indonesia and here you will find some of the best local Indonesian artisans. You can watch the skillful artists, or participate in one of the many workshops, from Batik and silver to ceramic and traditional leather puppets. If you would like to explore the cultural side of Indonesia, there is no better place than Jogja.
Borobudur
Borobudur is one of those bucket list places, the ones that leave an indelible mark on the soul of a globetrotter. A sunrise visit is a magical time. Song birds begin to sing, and a low lying mist blankets the lush valley below. As the sky brightens, the surrounding volcanoes, terraced fields, and stone reliefs began to show themselves.
Located in Central Java, Borobudur is one of the most remarkable architectural sites in the country. It is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, in a predominately Muslim nation. It dates back over 1200 years, much of that time it was buried under dirt and volcanic ash. It was not until it was re-discovered in the 19th century, and then fully resorted by the late 20th century, that it was listed as UNESCO world heritage site.
Padar
This tiny island is sandwiched between Rinca and Komodo islands and has stunning views of the sea and surrounding landscape. Padar feels like you have just stepped into the set of a Jurrasic Park movie. Two large inlets engulf the part of the island sitting at sea level, separating the islands into two sides that are barely connected by a narrow land bridge.
This is not your typical tourist destination. You will find no beach resorts, noisy markets, or backpacker bars here. Actually, there are zero buildings on this island. Padar is all about the outdoors. Hiking, swimming, and the natural beauty of Indonesia reign as king here.
Tana Toraja (Sulawesi)
Here you will find holy sites with unique architecture, caverns where the dead are laid to rest and the ritual sacrificing of bulls. A visit to Tana Toraja, located on the island of Sulawesi, is a simultaneously enchanting and disconcerting due to some of the places and customs that you will experience here.