When most people think of Indonesia, gorgeous white sandy beaches and lush rice fields spring to mind. But the truth is Indonesia has so much more to offer! With more than 17 000 islands to explore, this South East Asia country is jam-packed with incredible sights. From sacred temples and lush jungles to pristine islands, steamy volcanoes, and majestic waterfalls – Indonesia is home to some of the most beautiful landmarks in the world!
To help you sift through the huge list of must-visit places, here’s our curated list of 18 breathtaking landmarks of Indonesia!
Ready to discover the best places to visit in Indonesia? Grab a cup of Kopi luwak, and let’s dive right into this epic landmarks in Indonesia bucket list!
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Table of Contents
Indonesian Landmarks Quick Overview
This Indonesian landmark guide includes the most beautiful places that deserve a spot on any Indonesia travel itinerary. From famous historical landmarks to cultural monuments to natural wonders – we’ve got them all!
Here’s a quick look at all the incredible landmarks included in this list.
- Famous landmarks of Indonesia: Borobudur, Uluwatu Temple, Komodo National Park, Kelingking Beach, Mount Bromo, Kawah Ijen, Gili Islands, Mount Batur
- Cultural Landmarks in Indonesia: Tanah Lot, Prambanan Temple, Ulun Danu Beratan, Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud, Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
- Natural Wonders of Indonesia: Broken Beach, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, Mount Rinjani, Kelimutu Volcano, Kawah Putih
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The Most Incredible Landmarks of Indonesia
Uluwatu Temple
The gorgeous clifftop temple of Uluwatu stands 70m above Bali’s rugged shores, and is one of the most famous landmarks in Indonesia.
With a rich history dating back to the 10th century, it is a must-visit historical site in Bali and one of six key temples not to miss during any Bali itinerary.
The sprawling grounds offer countless courtyards to stroll through, ancient sculptures and relics to admire, incredible views, and the chance to watch a traditional Kecak dance. In fact, the 2-hour Kecak dance is one of the highlights of any visit here! Be sure to grab your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Visit in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best sunset in Bali! Just keep an eye out for the cheeky macaques which are believed to guard the temple. They’re notorious for snatching anything from sunglasses and cameras – so make sure to keep your valuables out of sight!
Uluwatu is roughly an hour’s drive from Seminyak, and it’s easy to hire a private driver to get there. If you want to spend a bit more time in the area, don’t miss these gorgeous Uluwatu beaches.
As with most religious sites in Indonesia, dress accordingly, and always carry a sarong on your bag.
- Entrance fee: 30, 000 IDR, but expect to pay much more if you want to see the Kecak Dance.
- Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm
- Address: Pecatu, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia
Tanah Lot
Another iconic cultural landmark of Indonesia not to miss is Tanah Lot.
Tanah Lot is a sacred Hindu temple that sits right on top of a massive coral formation jutting out of the ocean. The temple is one of the most important temples in Bali and is dedicated to the god of the sea, Baruna. While only pilgrims can access the temple’s interior, it’s the incredible setting and mind-blowing sunset backdrops that make this temple such a must-visit place in Indonesia.
Be sure to check the tide schedule before visiting this religious monument, as it’s impossible to cross the path during high tide. As a result, low tide is the best time to visit and offers the best chance to get a close-up view of the temple’s base and even get blessed at the holy Tirta Pabersihan fountain.
Tanah Lot is a 30-minute drive from Seminyak via private driver or Grab taxi, but it’s possible to join a fun sunset tour.
- Entrance fee: 60, 000 IDR for foreigners
- Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm
- Address: Beraban, Kediri, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82121, Indonesia
Ulun Danu Beratan
Bali is scattered with amazing Balinese temples, and Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is just one of them.
Built in 1633, Ulun Danu Beratan is an important Hindu temple and honors Dewi Danu, the water goddess. Famed for its unique setting and beautiful views, this religious monument sits right at the edge of Lake Beratan and overlooks the majestic Bedugul mountains.
The entire area is full of natural beauty, so you could easily spend hours here taking photos, strolling the gardens, or even paddling around the lake. What’s more, if you time your visit, you’ll get to see the temple “floating” on the water. It’s one of the most picturesque settings you’ll ever see – don’t forget a camera on your packing list for Bali, because you’ll definitely want to photograph the scenery here!
Since Ulun Danu Beratan is not the easiest place to reach, it’s best to hire a private driver or join an organized tour to get there. If you don’t mind self-driving, Ulun Danu Beratan is roughly 1h30 from Ubud and 2h30 from Seminyak.
- Entrance fee: 75,000 IDR for tourists
- Opening hours: 5 am to 7 pm
- Address: Danau Beratan, Candikuning, Baturiti, Tabanan Regency, Bali 82191, Indonesia
Komodo National Park
Recommended by De Wet & Jin of Museum of Wander.
Just off the island of Flores, Komodo National Park has become one of the most sought-after Indonesian landmarks that visitors wish to see when visiting the country.
The incredible natural beauty of Komodo, both above and underwater, is some of the best there is in Indonesia. While many associate this part of the world with Komodo dragons only, there is so much more to see than just the dragons.
Taking a boat trip to Komodo is the best way to see this national park’s wonders and natural landmarks. The most famous (and extremely photogenic) landmarks to include in your island-hopping adventure are Padar Island, Pink Beach, the Taka Makassar sandbank, and of course Komodo or Rinca islands to see the dragons.
A short hike to the top of Padar Island offers visitors an iconic view over Komodo National Park. From the top of this rugged island, you’ll see three beaches, each with a different color. Separating the white, gray, and pink beaches is the unworldly looking ruggedness of Padar Island itself, which looks like something straight from Jurassic Park.
Visit Komodo to see these incredible landmarks, the prehistoric dragons, and for world-class diving and snorkeling. You won’t leave disappointed.
Komodo National Park is reached from the town of Labuan Bajo on Flores island. Go on an organized tour or arrange your own boat if you value your freedom. The park is open throughout the day, and visitors can overnight on liveaboards/ boats inside the park.
- Entrance fees for independent visitors: 300,000 IDR per person. Just a heads up, additional fees apply for renting a boat, snorkeling and hiking.
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Address: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Kelingking Beach
Recommended by Stephanie of Let’s Venture Out.
One of the most popular Indonesian landmarks to visit is Kelingking Beach! Located on the island of Nusa Penida, this beach is famous for its Instagrammable T-Rex-shaped cliff.
To get there, you first need to take a fast boat from Sanur harbor in Bali and then rent a motorbike or hire a taxi with a driver. If you prefer not to plan a thing, join an organized tour from Bali instead. There are tons of options, and some even include a private photographer, like this one!
While most people choose to enjoy Kelingking from the viewpoint, you can also hike down to the beach, provided you wear appropriate hiking shoes and aren’t afraid of heights. The stairs along the “T-Rex spine” are quite steep and uneven but are secured by wooden railings.
The beach at Kelingking is absolutely pristine with soft white sand and crystal-clear water! The waves can get pretty rough, so be careful if you decide to go for a swim. During low tide, you can also visit the small beach cave found on the right side of the beach.
- Entrance fee: Free, but there’s a parking fee of 10,000 IDR
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Address: Bunga Mekar, Nusa Penida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Mount Batur
Recommended by Ilse of Digital Travel Couple
Mount Batur volcano is one of the famous landmarks in Bali, located in the Kintamani district. This 1717 meters high active volcano is open for the public to hike to its summit. This is one of the popular activities to do on the famous Indonesian island.
Although Mount Batur is an active volcano, it is safe to hike up to its crater. From the summit, you’ll have an incredible view over Bali’s other volcano, Mount Agung, Lake Batur, and the surrounding area of Kintamani.
The hike up to Mount Batur’s summit is best to do before sunrise. This 11 kilometers out and back hike is a moderate hike and can only be done with a local guide. You can book a complete tour, including pick up and drop off and a guide, or only book a guide and get to the trailhead with your own transport. Prices vary depending on what’s included or not and which area you need to pick up. The average price is between 350,000 IDR per person up to 700,000 IDR.
The parking area where you need to get before starting the hike is located at an unnamed road, but you will get there if you type in Google Maps Mount Batur car park/motorbike park!
- Address: Central Batur, Kintamani, Bangli Regency, Bali 80652
Borobudur
Recommended by Corinne of Reflections Enroute.
Traveling on the Indonesian island of Java, one of the most iconic sites is Borobudur Temple. It’s located only about an hour from Yogyakarta, making it accessible by car (rented or with a service like Uber).
Seeing the sunrise at Borobudur is a big deal, and there are plenty of tours that will pick you up at your hotel. The hardest part is rising early. However, the views are more than worth it! The goal is to reach the top of the temple before the sun begins to rise.
Going down, you can take your time and be enchanted by the many stupas, bas-reliefs, and other ornate decorations, such as the 504 Buddha statues. The Buddhas are carved in various poses, and the reliefs teach lessons about cause and effect, human passions, and inherent nature.
Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, and it’s reasons like this that make traveling in Asia, and especially Indonesia, a must.
- Entrance fees: Adults (included children 10 and over) are 50,000 IDR, and children 3-10 years are half price.
- Opening hours: 6am – 5pm daily
- Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Kec. Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
Broken Beach, Nusa Penida
Recommended by Haley of Haley Blackall.
Broken Beach is located on Nusa Penida, the largest of 3 islands off the southeast tip of Bali’s mainland. This incredible Indonesian landmark can be found on the island’s western coastline, close to other attractions like Angel’s Billabong.
Broken Beach’s name comes from an ancient tale of a large snack and an old man that collapsed the land near the cliff. This action created an arched rock formation and land bridge. The arch now acts as a gate for water to pass through Manta Bay to the natural inlet. The crystal clear water within the inlet is a beautifully saturated turquoise color, and you can see coral growth from your view above.
Broken Beach Nusa Penida is not actually a beach, but this Nusa Penida landmark should be visited simply for the spectacular example of nature. If you walk around the top of the circle towards the arch, you may even see the magnificent manta rays cruising around in the water.
You can reach Nusa Penida by catching a 30-minute fast boat ride from Bali’s Sanur port. But if you prefer to travel with a group, this full day Nusa Penida tour is a great stress-free alternative.
- Entrance fees: 10, 000 IDR
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Address: Bunga Mekar, Nusapenida, Klungkung Regency, Bali 80771, Indonesia
Kawah Ijen, Java
Recommended by Martina & Jürgen of PlacesofJuma
One of the most interesting landmarks in Indonesia to visit is the Ijen volcano in Java. The main attraction is the turquoise crater lake Kawah Ijen, known as the biggest acid barrel in the world. Here sulfur is mined under the harshest conditions. A hike up to the top is an impressive experience that you should put on your travel list when traveling to Indonesia.
A well-maintained path of about 3 km length goes up to the crater. Together with the sulfur workers, you start the walk. You will see incredibly fascinating scenery at the top of the hole, with the piping hot crater lake. More adventurous travelers (or at least those who can stand the stench of the toxic sulfur) can hike down to the lake’s southeast shore. It is one of the most active solfataras on earth and the most significant sulfur accumulation in Indonesia. But beware, officially, it is forbidden to go down the crater because it is very dangerous. Nonetheless, most tourists go down together with the sulfur workers.
The easiest way to get to Kawah Ijen is to hop in a taxi or a join a tour from Banyuwangi. Alternatively, there are loads of tours from Bali as well.
- Entrance fee: 25,000 IDR National Park Fee
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Kawah Ijen,, Curah Macan, Kalianyar, Sempol, Bondowoso Regency, East Java 68288, Indonesia
Gili Islands
If it’s dreamy beaches you’re after, you don’t need to look much further than the Gili Islands!
Located roughly 1h30 hours by speedboat from Bali and mere minutes from Lombok, this group of tiny islands is among Indonesia’s top landmarks.
The Gili Islands consist of several stunning islands, with Meno, Air, and Trawangan being the only ones offering accommodation. Gili Trawangan, the largest of the Gilis, is the most popular among the three and has an array of amazing things to do! Whether you’re swimming with sea turtles, lounging on the beach, taking a sunset cruise, or swinging in one of the famous Gili swings – you’ll never get bored! With that said, though, it’s best to base yourself on one of the other two islands if you’re looking for something a bit more secluded.
While all three Gilis are absolutely breathtaking, each island is unique in its own right guaranteeing an amazing experience. Deciding which island to visit is arguably the hardest part! But overall, no matter which one you end up choosing, expect to find crystal clear water filled with aquatic wonders, pristine beaches, and laidback vibes. Just a heads up, there are no vehicles on any of the Gilis, so it’s best to travel light.
For those traveling from Bali to Gili Islands, the easiest way to get there is to hop on a fast boat at Padang Bai, which is less than an hour’s drive from Ubud and 1h30 from Seminyak.
- Address: Gili Islands, West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Mount Rinjani
Recommended by Chantae from Tropical Go
Mount Rinjani is an iconic volcano found in the heart of Lombok, the island next to Bali. From its crater rim, visitors can enjoy an incredible view of a bright blue caldera lake.
A trek to Mount Rinjani’s summit to watch the sunrise reveals views of Lombok’s varied landscape, stretching out over the open ocean to neighboring Indonesian islands.
While it’s possible to visit Mount Rinjani on a one- to three-night trek, the three-night trek offers the best experience. With more time, hikers can soak in hot springs, take their time at the many viewpoints, and enjoy the landscape at a slower pace.
Treks to the summit of Mount Rinjani start in either Senaru or Sembalun, the two base points of Mount Rinjani. It’s best to splurge a little bit when it comes to booking a trek. Make sure to go with an operator who has more staff to cook delicious meals, carry high-end camping gear, and take any found trash off the mountain. Three-night guided treks cost around $200-500 USD per person, depending on the group size and standard of service. Expeditions only take place during the dry season, from April to October.
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Address: Sembalun Lawang, Sembalun, Kabupaten Lombok Timur, Nusa Tenggara Bar.
Gunung Bromo
Recommended by Sarah from ASocialNomad
Located on the island of Java, Gunung, or Mount Bromo, is an active volcano and one of the most visited landmarks of Indonesia. You’ll find Mount Bromo located within the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and inside an area called the “Sea of Sands.”
Most visitors arrive in Mount Bromo on an organized tour, but you’ll get a better experience if you visit Bromo independently. It’s easy to take a train to Probollingo and then a shuttle up the mountain to the village of Cemoro Lawang – a tiny town on the edge of the Bromo crater.
Whether you take an organized jeep tour from Cemoro Lawang or simply walk to the viewpoint on Mount Penanjakan, seeing Bromo at sunrise is almost a rite of passage. The walk to the outlook isn’t difficult but takes around 2.5 hours in the dark. After seeing the volcano at sunrise, head to the Bromo crater for breakfast. You’ll find a plethora of mobile kitchens here – usually run from the back of motorbikes.
If you visit independently, you’ll also have the chance to see Bromo in the afternoon. Hiking across the crater after the majority of visitors have departed is an incredible experience!
- Entrance fee: 220, 000 IDR for tourists
- Address: Area Gn. Bromo, Podokoyo, Tosari, Pasuruan, East Java, Indonesia
Kelimutu Volcano
Recommended by Nicole from Go Far Grow Close.
One of the most spectacular attractions in Indonesia is Kelimutu Volcano in Kelimutu National Park. It is located on Flores Island, a 2-hour drive from Ende Airport.
Kelimutu Volcano is a dormant volcano with three enormous different colored lakes at its peak. The lakes sit in massive lake-size craters formed from previous eruptions. Amazingly, these lakes change color during the year, responding to the change in mineral deposits in the lakes, the weather, and volcanic gas.
A special experience is to wake at 4 am and hike to the top of it to watch the sunrise. The hike takes around 45 minutes. The first half is only a gentle slope, but the last half is up steep stairs. Overall, you only need comfortable walking shoes with good treads to complete the hike – you don’t need hiking shoes.
Once you reach the top, you watch as the sun rises, slowly illuminating each lake in turn. With mist and clouds coming and going, it is magical and, of course, beautiful.
Join this multi-day tour to see all of Ende’s best bits!
- Entrance fee: 10 USD for a day pass
- Opening hours: 5 am – 6 pm
- Address: Woloara, Kelimutu, Kabupaten Ende, Nusa Tenggara Tim.
Ubud Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Ubud Monkey Forest is a gorgeous natural oasis that offers a tranquil escape from Ubud’s bustling streets. Located mere 15 minutes from downtown Ubud, this holy site is one of the top tourist attractions in Ubud. And for a good reason.
The complex covers more than 30 acres and is situated in a lush forest filled with towering ancient trees and hundreds of free-roaming long-tail monkeys. Within the grounds, you’ll also find a few temples to admire (although it’s not permitted to enter them) and dozens of paths to stroll along.
Besides the peaceful forest scenery, it’s the cheeky monkeys that are the star attraction here. More than 700 monkeys live in the forest, and you won’t need to wander too far to spot them playing in the trees or loafing around. While the monkeys are undeniably adorable, it’s important to practice good common sense when visiting this Indonesian landmark. Always keep a safe distance and never look them in the eye. It’s also a good idea to leave all your belongings in your car or scooter.
Since the Monkey Forest is right in Ubud town, it’s easy to walk there (if you don’t mind the heat). Alternatively, consider this Ubud hidden gems tour or catch the free shuttle bus in town.
- Entrance fee: 80, 000 IDR
- Opening hours: 9 am – 4 pm
- Address: Jl. Monkey Forest, Ubud, Kecamatan Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Kawah Putih
Recommended by Dani from No Hurry To Get Home.
Set on the outskirts of Bandung, Kawah Putih is a striking turquoise-colored crater lake set on Patuha Volcano. Locally named “the White Crater,” a visit to this insane-looking spot is a must on your Java itinerary, especially if you’re up for visiting a volcanic lake that looks just as good as Mount Ijen without the crowds (and sulfur!).
Even though the crater can get a bit crowded (mostly by locals), you can tackle a 25-minute hike to Sinan Ibu, which is a viewpoint offering an amazing 360-degree view of the crater. The best part? You’ll literally have it all to yourself! If you’re not up for the hike, there’s also a canopy walk that ends at a treehouse-like viewpoint, where you can get a pretty peaceful view of the lake.
To get to Kawah Putih, join a day tour, hire a scooter or arrange a driver via your guesthouse in Bandung. Once there, you can either walk 5 kilometers to the crater’s rim or take a shuttle bus for IDR 20,000 each way.
- Entrance fee: 75,000 IDR
- Opening hours: 7 am to 5 pm
- Address: Kawah Putih, West Java
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Just one hour’s drive north of Ubud, you’ll find one of Bali’s best gems, the gorgeous Jatiluwih Rice Terrace.
While this Indonesian landmark is not nearly as famous (or crowded) as Tegalalang Rice Terrace, it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and a huge must when staying in Ubud.
Jatiluwih covers quite a large area, with several low-key hiking trails that you can explore either with a guide or independently. Besides the sweeping views, you’ll find several points of interest along the way. These include an outdoor amphitheater, a UNESCO monument, several small temples, and even a handful of warungs where you can take a rest, grab some nasi goreng or sip on a freshly cracked coconut.
Unless you’re just doing a quick photo stop, you could easily spend a couple of hours here wandering among the rice fields. Even though, Jatiluwih is beautiful any time of day, come in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures. Oh, and extra water, decent shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are key – especially if you plan to hike the trails.
- Entrance fee: 40, 000 IDR
- Opening hours: 8 am – 5 pm
- Address: Village, Jl. Jatiluwih Kawan No.Desa, Jatiluwih, Penebel, Kabupaten Tabanan, Bali 82152, Indonesia
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Recommended by Christian from Unusual Traveler.
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall might be the newest landmark of Indonesia, but it is certainly one of the most impressive!
Located on the island of Java, this spectacular waterfall became famous after an Instagram photo went viral. And it’s not hard to see why! (But judge for yourself by the photo included).
What really makes this waterfall so impressive is that it is actually not just one waterfall. Although it is unknown how many there are, locals refer to it as thousand falls. So there’s a lot!
The waterfall is still much a hidden gem in Indonesia. As a result, you are likely to have the whole place completely to yourself, both at the viewing platform and at the waterfall base. It’s a steep climb down to the bottom, so be sure to bring good footwear along! With that said, though, it’s from the viewing platform on top where you will get the best view over Tumpak Sewu with Mount Semeru, an active volcano, in the background.
Reaching Tumpak Sewu is still a bit of an adventure with its location in the eastern part of Java. The closest city is Malang, and most likely where you will be traveling to and from Tumpak Sewu. If you aren’t comfortable navigating the area by yourself, it’s best to join an organized day tour.
- Entrance fee: 10,000 IDR
- Opening hours: 7 am – 4 pm
- Address: kampung siji, Jl. Raya Sidomulyo, Besukcukit, Sidomulyo, Pronojiwo, Kabupaten Lumajang, Jawa Timur 67374, Indonesia
Prambanan Temple
Recommended by Milijana from World Travel Connector.
Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia and arguably one of the most fascinating landmarks in Indonesia.
Located on the island of Java, this sacred 47m-tall temple dates back to the 9th century. Interestingly, an earthquake and volcanic eruption hit it during the 11th century resulting in the entire complex being covered in ash. It was forgotten for the next six centuries until it was miraculously rediscovered in the Javanese jungle. Today, Prambanan Temple is an iconic historical monument and also an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The complex includes three main temples and hundreds of smaller guardian shrines, all housed on about 40 hectares. The three main temples are dedicated to Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva). These hold some of the most beautiful stone carvings ever seen and depict mythical stories. Allow ample time to explore the various chambers and get a close-up look at the statues and stone reliefs.
Prambanan Temple is about 11 miles northeast of Yogyakarta, making it easily accessible – both by organized tour or public transport. Transyogya Bus runs from the Jombor Bus Terminal in Yogyakarta, and the ride takes about an hour. Most visitors opt to buy a combo ticket and visit Prambanan and Borobudur in one day.
- Entrance fee: 25 USD for foreigners
- Opening hours: 6 am – 5 pm
- Address: Jl. Raya Solo – Yogyakarta No.16, Kranggan, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta 55571, Indonesia
Landmarks in Indonesia in Conclusion
As you can see, the Emerald of the Equator is a fascinating country filled with loads of incredible places to visit. While this Indonesia travel guide has barely scraped the surface of famous landmarks in Indonesia, we hope it’s given you a host of ideas to add to your Indonesia bucket list!
Well, that wraps up the very best landmarks of Indonesia! Have you visited any of these famous places in Indonesia? Feel free to share your top tips, the best places to visit in Indonesia, and anything in between below!
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