Choose from 113 Fun Things to Do in Indonesia
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 113 listings.
Finns Recreation Club (Canggu Club)
Officially called Finns Recreation Club, but often referred to by its old name, the Canggu Club, this leisure club is a Canggu landmark. With restaurants, bars, tennis courts, a spa, pool, small water park, trampoline center, kids club, fitness center, and coworking space, Finns Recreation Club is a relaxing place to spend the day.
The Basics
A Canggu landmark since its beginnings as the Canggu Club, Finns Recreation Club came under the Finns brand in 2017, following the success of Finns Beach Club in Berawa. The original club was open to members and their guests only, but Finns offers day passes, which you book online. The club’s children’s facilities, including the Bounce trampoline center, Strike! 10-pin bowling, Splash Water Park, and Cubby House Kids Club, make it a popular stop for families.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Finns Recreation Club is a natural choice for families or anyone who wants easy day access to a gym or tennis courts.
- Most taxi drivers known Finns Recreation Club as the Canggu Club. Ask for the Canggu Club, or you may be taken to Finns Beach Club instead.
- Children are welcome to drop in at some of the after-school clubs that run under the Junior Sports Academy umbrella.
How to Get There
Public transport is scarce in Canggu. Complimentary shuttle buses run between Finns Recreation Club and its sibling venues, bamboo-built Finns Beach Club and Finns VIP Beach Club on Berawa Beach. Self-driving in the choked traffic can be both frustrating and dangerous: Many visitors opt to hire a private driver for the day.
When to Get There
The weather is best on Bali between June and August, which is also peak tourist season, but Finns Recreation Club can be visited year-round. Its annual Melbourne Cup gala, held on the first Tuesday of November in honor of Australia’s No. 1 horse race, the Melbourne Cup, is a major event. Book tickets in advance—and dress up.
Know Your Finns
Finns Recreation Club is named after a child of Australian businessman Tony Smith, who bought the club in 2013 and rebranded it in 2017. The range of Finn-branded businesses on Bali include Finns Beach Club and Finns VIP Beach Club on Berawa Beach, a little under a mile (1.3 kilometers) from Finns Recreation Club.
Address: JL Pantai Berawa, Banjar Tegal Gundul, Canggu, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 19
Jimbaran Bay
A strip of golden sand with calm, gentle waters perfect for families—and stand-up paddleboarding—Jimbaran Bay is a popular beach renowned for its beauty. Besides the charms of the ocean, Jimbaran offers stunning Balinese sunsets and a wealth of restaurants serving Indonesia’s signature dish: grilled fish (ikan bakar).
The Basics
Jimbaran Bay is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Bali, so it’s no surprise most activities here revolve around the water. On the beach, sun loungers and water-sports equipment are available to rent, and most vendors—including those at seafront restaurants and the fish market—speak English. Many tours visit Jimbaran Bay as one stop on a broader Bali itinerary, typically swinging by for sunset followed by a fresh-fish dinner.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jimbaran Bay is a must for beach lovers and photographers.
- Be sure to establish prices for the specific fish you are eating in Jimbaran fish restaurants before you dine.
- A good fish restaurant will encourage you to inspect the fish and pick the one you want. Look for bright eyes, red gills, and shiny, firm skin.
- Accompany your fish with sambal, Indonesia’s national chili condiment.
How to Get There
Jimbaran Bay is 5.5 miles (9 kilometers) south of Kuta and Ngurah Rai International Airport and is reasonably well signposted from elsewhere in south Bali. From Kuta, the public shuttle bus Kura-Kura services Jimbaran Bay. If you’re braving Bali’s traffic and left-side driving, parking is ample and inexpensive.
When to Get There
For the Bali sunset connoisseur, Jimbaran Bay is a must, with the sun sinking gently into the ocean between 6 and 7 all year round. While you can eat lunch at the seafood restaurants, dinner is more popular. Seafood is least likely to be fresh on Sunday, when many boats stay in.
Jimbaran Fish Market
Test your haggling skills at Kedonganan fish market (Pasar Ikan Tradisional Kedonganan) in Jimbaran. After you choose your fish, local vendors will cook it up with rice, sambal, and an Asian green known as water spinach (kangkung) for a delicious plastic-chair feast. Pick carefully: Some of the swimmers here are showing their age.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 15
Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)
With a history dating back more than 1,000 years, one of Bali’s holiest Hindu sites (and most popular attractions) is a grotto covered in carvings of mythological creatures. While Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) has uncertain origins, it's believed that Hindu priests dug it out by hand to use as a hermitage.
The Basics
Visitors to Goa Gajah temple enter the cave through the gaping mouth of a demon-like creature and pass into a small T-shaped chamber with several ledges carved out from the walls. A statue of Ganesh was added after the cave was first excavated. The courtyard just outside the cave entrance features a series of decorated bathing pools with carved depictions of women pouring water from urns.
Today, the cave remains an active worship site for Hindu devotees and a popular stop on sightseeing tours of Bali. Visitors have several options for touring the cave, including small-group and private tours of Ubud’s highlights (usually Elephant Cave, Ubud Monkey Forest, and the villages of Gunung Kawi Sebatu and Penglipuran), or as part of a temple-themed tour of the island. You can also combine a visit to the cave with a trip to Mount Batur volcano near Kintamani or Tegenungan Waterfall.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Goa Gajah is a must-see for all spiritual travelers, history buffs, and first-time visitors.
- Either wear long pants or bring a sarong to cover your knees while visiting the temple.
- Be respectful of worshippers inside the narrow cave by standing back and refraining from photographing them.
- Give your eyes some time to adjust inside the cave; there’s no artificial light illuminating the interior.
How to Get There
Goa Gajah is about a 10-minute drive southeast of Ubud past the monkey sanctuary and toward Bedulu village. For those visiting the site independently, the easiest way to get there is by hiring a motorbike or taxi in Ubud.
When to Get There
The Elephant Cave is open daily from morning to late afternoon. Since the cave is typically visited in conjunction with other outdoor attractions, it’s a good idea to plan for Bali’s dry season, between April and October.
How Old Is Goa Gajah?
Historians believe this sacred cave dates back to the 11th century, though even older artifacts have been discovered in the area. The cave was first mentioned in an early 14th-century Javanese poem. While primarily a Hindu temple, the discovery of a nearby Buddhist temple and several Buddhist relics suggest the cave was significant to early Buddhist practitioners on the island as well.
Address: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 26
Don Antonio Blanco Museum
Ubud’s Don Antonio Blanco Museum celebrates the colorful life and baroque-erotic work of Philippine-born Spanish artist Antonio Blanco. Blanco arrived in Bali in 1952 and married a famous Balinese dancer. Set on a hill amid elaborate gardens and an aviary, the museum’s architecture, a hybrid of Spanish and Indonesian influences, is a highlight.
The Basics
Set in central Ubud, the Don Antonio Blanco Museum is easy to explore independently and advance tickets are not necessary. Besides the gardens and the small aviary of parakeets, which are happy to pose for photos, the gallery includes Balinese sculptures and an elaborate rotunda lined with Don Antonio Blanco’s paintings, many of them nudes and semi-nudes. The artist’s studio is preserved as he left it, complete with an unfinished painting.
Relatively few Ubud tours include the Don Antonio Blanco Museum, although it’s an occasional stop on Ubud art tours and an easy addition to any custom Bali tour. While a well-known artist, Blanco did not greatly influence the Balinese or Indonesian art scenes.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Parents might want to exercise caution before visiting: much of Blanco’s work involves female nudes and topless models.
- The Blanco family are still very much involved in the running of the art museum: it’s not uncommon to meet them on-site.
- Kids will love the aviary, home to a wealth of gaudy parakeets.
How to Get There
Located in central Ubud, up a hill just past the Campuhan Bridge, the Blanco gallery is well signposted for miles around and walkable from many parts of Ubud. There is ample parking for self-drivers, although many, particularly if coming from south Bali, opt for the convenience of a tour or private driver rather than braving Ubud’s choked traffic.
When to Get There
Open seven days a week, including on public holidays—though, of course, excluding Nyepi (Day of Silence)—the Blanco Museum can be visited throughout the year. As the grounds and gardens are a major part of the gallery’s charm, it’s best visited during the dry season (roughly March through September), or on dry days during the rainy season.
Ubud’s Foreign Artists
After the German painter Walter Spies made his home in Ubud in 1927, a variety of foreign artists and painters chose to settle in Ubud, generally in Campuhan (Campuan), with active support from the Ubud royal family, who became patrons of the arts. It was a member of the royal family who gifted Antonio Blanco the land that now houses his museum, above the Campuhan River.
Address: Jalan Campuhan, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
Denpasar
Denpasar, Bali’s biggest city and home of the major airport, tends to see visitors depart for other locations on the island almost as soon as they arrive. It may not appear to have much to offer a tourist to the island, but take a closer look, and you’ll find a multicultural city brimming with excellent restaurants, shopping, temples and friendly residents.
Nearly 800,000 locals call Denpasar home, and while sprawling city doesn’t look it, it’s quite pedestrian friendly in the most interesting central area. The city’s temples and museums offer an off-the-tourist-path way to get to know the Balinese culture a little better.
The Bali Museum, located just off Puputan Square, contains four pavilions, each dedicated to a different aspect of Balinese history and culture. Nearby Jagatnata Temple is one of the few without any entrance restrictions for non-Hindus, so you’re free to enter and see the white coral shrine within. When you’re ready to shop, you’ll find the Kumbasari handicraft market, Badung wet market and the bird and animal markets all within easy walking distance of each other.
Address: Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 33
Jimbaran Fish Market
Widely known as Jimbaran Fish Market, the market that locals call Pasar Ikan Tradisional Kedonganan (Kedonganan Traditional Fish Market), is an essential Balinese experience. Every morning, brightly colored traditional fishing boats—and larger commercial vessels—unload an impressive catch. Locals will grill your purchases for a small fee.
The Basics
Jimbaran Fish Market is easy enough to visit independently, though you’ll likely get more out of it with a good guide who can explain the types of fish and the tricks of the vendors’ trade, and direct you to quality product. Kedonganan is a popular stop on Bali food tours, while a few island tours that feature sunset fish dinners on Jimbaran Beach take you to the market first. (In general, due to heavy traffic, winding roads, and language barriers, booking a private guide or joining an organized tour can help you get the most out of your entire Bali trip.)
Things to Know Before You Go
- Jimbaran Fish Market is a must-do for foodies and market fans.
- As you’d expect of a fish market in the developing world, Kedonganan is a smelly place—exercise caution if you’re sensitive to smell or bringing small children.
- Especially late in the day, catch on display can be far from fresh. Purchase fish with bright eyes, shiny skin, firm flesh, and red gills. Or opt for squid or (farmed) shrimp, which are generally safe bets.
How to Get There
Kedonganan is a pleasant, if lengthy, stroll north along the beach from the Jimbaran beach resorts. Your best bet for public transportation from elsewhere—unless you have the Indonesian language skills and patience to navigate the bemo minibus system—is the Kura Kura tourist bus, which departs from the DFS mall in Kuta and stops near the market.
When to Get There
For the best and most authentic experience, visit Jimbaran Fish Market around dawn on a working day. You will see locals unloading their catch, have a chance at the best fish, and might even be able to buy a tasty grouper, red snapper, or parrotfish fresh from the boat. If you’re visiting later in the day, shrimp and squid may be a better choice than not-so-fresh fish. Generally, your chances of clear weather for a fish feast are highest during the dry season, roughly May to October.
Ikan Bakar: Indonesian Grilled Fish
An archipelago nation of approximately 18,000 islands, Indonesia thrives on fish. One of the few elements that unites its disparate population is a passion for grilled fish (ikan bakar), barbecued to perfection over slowly smoldering coconut husks. Accompanied with a selection of sambals—the chile condiment that’s a staple of the nation—and fluffy white rice, it’s both core sustenance and pure deliciousness.
Address: Jimbaran, South Kuta, Badung Regency, Bali, Indonesia, Indonesia
From $ 65
Karangasem
The regency of Karangasem in east Bali was once a powerful kingdom ruling over much of Lombok. Today, it offers a sleepy, untouched charm beneath the towering presence of volcanic Mount Agung (Gunung Agung). Highlights include historic Amlapura, the district capital; traditional villages; Besakih and Lempuyang temples; Tirta Gangga and Taman Ujung water palaces; and Amed and Tulamben for diving.
The Basics
Visitors who explore Karangasem independently often stay in Candidasa or Amed, although Tirta Gangga and Sidemen also offer accommodations, some with rice-field views. Many visitors take in the regency’s diverse attractions on an east Bali tour, whether with a private driver, in a retro Volkswagen, or as a small group. Some Karangasem tours focus on temples and palaces, some hone in on the photogenic landscapes, while others focus on historic villages such as Tenganan.
Things to Know Before You Go
- History buffs appreciate Karangasem’s historic architecture, spiritual sites, and generally unspoiled culture.
- It typically takes a minimum of two hours to reach Amlapura from Kuta. Don’t be too ambitious about how much of Karangasem you can see in a day.
- Serious scuba divers aiming to explore the USAT Liberty wreck should spend the night in Amed and get an early start the next day to avoid day trip crowds from south Bali.
How to Get There
Perama shuttle buses stop in Candidasa, Amed, Tulamben, and Tirta Gangga, with connections to Ubud, Sanur, Kuta, and Lombok. Public buses from Batubulan in Denpasar and Singaraja in the north run to Amlapura. If you want to see more than one destination in Karangasem in a day, you need to drive, join a tour, or hire a driver.
When to Get There
To soak up Karangasem’s volcano vistas and rice-field views at their finest, visit during the dry season (roughly May to early October)—but east Bali can be beautiful on a misty rainy season morning, too. Aim to arrive at popular attractions such as Besakih and Lempuyang temples or Tirta Gangga water palace early in the day to beat the crowds.
Karangasem’s Holy Mountain: Mt. Agung
East Bali’s sacred volcano, Mount Agung shapes Bali culture. Traditionally, directions follow not the points of the compass but a speaker’s orientation to the mountain. Its stark profile and spirituality heavily influence Karangasem. When volcanic activity permits, the hike to its 9,944-foot (3,031-meter) summit is as rewarding as it is challenging.
Address: Bali, Indonesia
From $ 25
Kawah Putih (White Crater)
Kawah Putih (or White Crater in English) is a natural phenomenon situated near the market town of Ciwidey, 50 kilometers south of the city of Bandung. This unique lake crater is one of two created by the dormant volcano, Mount Patuha.
Kawah Putih has a striking, almost surreal, appearance to it; the lake transforms from a bright white to a light green or turquoise color, depending on the amount of sunlight present, while the soil surrounding it is completely drained of color due to the water’s high sulfur content. In addition, on cloudy days, the entire crater can often be found shrouded in a cloak of mist. The altitude here (around 2500 meters) brings with it low temperatures of around 10 degrees Celsius, making it a pleasant respite from the heat and humidity of the cities from which most visitors travel.
There are a range of simple facilities near the lake, including a car park, toilets, and food stalls. In particular, fresh strawberries and juice are commonly sold, as these are widely grown in the area. The smell of sulfur at the site is strong due to the steam and sulfurous gas bubbling from the lake, and masks are available for those who can’t stand the odour.
Practical Info
It takes around two hours to reach Kawah Putih from the center of Bandung. The turnoff from the main road to the lake is well-signposted with a large board directing visitors to the left of the road through a large entry gate. Vehicles can then be left in the main car park and a shuttle bus used to travel the final five kilometers to the crater.
Address: Kawah Putih, Ciwidey, near Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, Indonesia
Hours: 7am-5pm
Admission: Rp 30,000
From $ 35
Klungkung (Semarapura)
Klungkung is a small Balinese town of great historical, cultural, and artistic importance. It was the seat of rule for Bali's most powerful dynasty of rajas, Dewa Agung. During this time, the island experienced an illustrious period of rich cultural and artistic significance, and Klungkung was at the center of it all.
Klungkung Palace was built in the early 18th century, but largely destroyed by the Dutch at the beginning of the 20th century. The most fascinating remains of the palace include the Bale Kambang, also known as the Floating Pavilion, and the famous Kertha Gosa, or Hall of Justice. The latter was used as a court for the Klungkung kingdom, where disputes and cases were raised and settled. This open-sided pavilion is a superb example of traditional Klungkung architecture, and has a ceiling completely covered with intricate murals.
Elsewhere in Klungkung, there are a number of markets and shops to amble around, along with several museums and galleries, with a particular focus on the traditional Indonesian wayang artform.
Practical Info
Klungkung is situated around 25 kilometers from Ubud on the main route towards the eastern towns of Padang Bai, Candidasa, and beyond.
Address: Klungkung, Bali, Indonesia
From $ 39
Jalan Surabaya Flea Market
Jalan Surabaya Flea Market is tucked away in the affluent suburb of Menteng in Jakarta. Established in the 1970’s, the market was initially only open on the weekends, when vendors would walk among the locals with their wares, selling mainly household items. At some point in the 1980s, one of the stallholders began to sell antiques, and seeing its popularity, the other vendors soon followed suit!
This half-kilometer stretch of shops and stalls now offers everything from old gramophones and vinyl records to art, woodcarvings, furniture, and textiles, along with a whole range of antiques (both of the genuine and slightly more dubious variety). Haggling is expected, of course, with good-natured vendors starting transactions with high prices in the expectation that buyers will drive a hard bargain.
Practical Info
Those not familiar with Jakarta may find the market hard to reach via public transport, so taking a taxi to Jalan Surabaya is recommended instead.
Address: Jalan Surabaya, Jakarta 10310, Indonesia
From $ 38
Jomblang Cave
This unique cave was caused by a geological shift that created a massive sinkhole that stretches some 300 vertical feet below the surface. Travelers who wish to explore the rocky crags and impressive natural light shows this destination is famous for must navigate a well-worn path using a single rope line, which may prove challenging for some. Not for the faint of heart, visitors must wear coveralls, boots, a helmet and headlamp on their journey into Jomblang.
While vegetation above ground is mostly barren and dotted with hardwood trees, adventurers will find lush green landscapes and fertile fields visible from one of the cave’s most popular vantage points, which makes this trip a truly memorable experience. Those in the know recommend hiring an expert guide since the descent can be rather technical, and local operators will also be able to point out rock, crystal and fauna to interested travelers.
Practical Info
Jomblang Cave is located in Gunungkidul in the Karst Hills. Visitors can access Luweng Grubug via an easy to navigate 300-meter alley that connects the two. Travelers will find the best time to visit the caves is between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m., when the sun lights paths from above.
Address: Indonesia
From $ 15
Imogiri Kings Cemetery
Just outside Yogyakarta, the Imogiri Kings Cemetery (Pajimatan Girirejo Imogiri) is the final resting place of the rulers of the Muslim kingdoms of Mataram, Yogyakarta, and Surakarta. Also called the Imogiri Royal Cemetery, the 17th-century site is well worth the effort involved in visiting—including dressing up in Javanese court costume.
The Basics
While it’s possible to visit Imogiri independently, most visitors join an Imogiri Kings Cemetery tour not only for the convenience of round-trip transportation and the cultural insights of a guide, but also for help with dressing up in the appropriate costume. A typical Imogiri guide explains the symbolism that lies behind the cemetery architecture, tells you how the three kingdoms came to be, and shows you some significant resting places. A guide might also introduce you to the abdi dalem, or cemetery guardians, and translate as they speak with you about their lives. It’s best to hire a guide in Yogyakarta, though if you speak Indonesian and want to visit on your own, the guardians will be happy to introduce the site to you directly.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its colorful culture and long history, Imogiri is perfect for heritage buffs.
- You can rent the required Javanese court dress for a small fee on arrival. The women’s costume is strapless, so plan accordingly (e.g., wear a strapless bra).
- Women who are menstruating are not allowed to enter the sacred site. Please respect this prohibition. Children are allowed if they are of an age to behave respectfully.
- You must leave all belongings at the registration desk.
- The site is reached by a long series of stone steps with no wheelchair access.
How to Get There
Imogiri Kings Cemetery is about 11 miles (17 kilometers) from the Sultan’s Palace (Kraton) in Yogyakarta. Getting there by public transport is fiddly: catch a city bus to the Giwangan Terminal and then, if your Indonesian is good enough, pick up a bemo minibus. Given the logistical and cultural complexities, many visitors opt to join a tour.
When to Get There
The graves open to the public three times a week, on Monday morning (generally the quietest time), Friday afternoon, and Sunday morning. Imogiri is closed during the Muslim month of Ramadan. Three times a year, on 1 and 8 Sawal and 10 Bulan Besar per the Javanese calendar, they open for special ceremonies; guides and Yogyakarta Tourist Information can advise when these fall.
A Tale of Three Kingdoms
Sultan Agung Hanyokrokusumo, king of the Islamic Mataram Kingdom, built the Imogiri Kings Cemetery for himself and his regal descendants in 1632. Per a civil war treaty dating from 1755, Mataram’s heirs now rule over two separate sultanates (Muslim kingdoms): the cities of Yogyakarta and Surakarta, also known as Solo. Therefore, today, the cemetery is home to kings, queens, and royal descendants from three separate kingdoms.
Address: Imogiri Hill, Yogyakarta 55782, Indonesia
From $ 45
Kehen Temple (Pura Kehen)
Partially shaded by the dripping trunks of an old banyan tree, Kehen Temple, also known as Pura Kehen, is a many-tiered stone homage to the Hindu pantheon. Bearing stelae inscribed in Sanskrit, Balinese and Javanese that seem to indicate an 11th century founding, this is the state temple of the Bangli kingdom and considered one of the region’s finest. It is said to be a miniature version of Bali’s most significant temple, Pura Besakih, just 13 miles (21 km) away. The complex is comprised of a sloping terraced entryway, the main temple with three interior courtyards and a series of smaller meru shrines and altars.
The main temple is accessed by a series of 38 stone steps, passing eight well-manicured terraced gardens. Its elaborate carvings and tall, slender doors give way to three courtyards, the second bears inlaid Chinese porcelain and the innermost courtyard features an 11-tiered meru roof. Along the base of the buildings’ exteriors, it’s possible to see stylized carvings of snakes and turtles, representing the underworld. Within the central courtyard is an impressive moss-blanketed stone lotus throne. During the many annual religious ceremonies, like Pangerwesi when locals visit temples to guard against evil, it’s possible to see colorful dances on the temple grounds and baskets of fruit laid in tribute.
Practical Info
Kehen Temple in the southern portion of the Bangli region, is just over a mile north of the town of Bangli. It’s 26 km (16 miles) northeast from Ubud (about an hour’s drive in normal traffic) and 43 km (27 miles) north of Denpasar. Adult admission is around 15,000 IDR ($1.15) and children are free. Hours are approximately 9am- 5pm; many visit as part of an organized tour of Bali.
Address: Bangli, Indonesia
Hours: Hours are approximately 9am-5pm
Admission: Adult admission is 15,000 IDR ($1.15), children are free
From $ 60
Fatahillah Square
Fatahillah Square (Taman Fatahillah) is the heart of the Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua) with a cobbled square with historic colonial buildings. Notable landmarks include the Cafe Batavia restaurant and bar, Wayang Museum of puppetry, and Jakarta History Museum, housed in the old town hall.
The Basics
Fatahillah Square in Jakarta Old Town is a pleasant place to explore, whether to learn more about the puppets at the Wayang Museum, to soak up history at Jakarta History Museum, or for a stop at the historic Cafe Batavia for a drink.
As the center of colonial-era Jakarta and one of the city’s most photogenic locations, Fatahillah Square is an essential stop on any Jakarta history tour. Most Jakarta full-day tours will make a stop here, and it’s a great place to start a guided or self-guided walking tour of Old Town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its refurbished colonial buildings, Fatahillah Square is a must for fans of history and architecture.
- Wear comfortable shoes to cope with the cobbled square and streets.
- Save time navigating Kota’s confusing warren of streets by pre-booking an organized walking tour or a comprehensive Jakarta tour that includes hotel transport.
- Fatahillah Square takes its name from the Indonesian national hero Prince Fatahillah, who captured the port from the Portuguese in 1527.
How to Get There
Fatahillah Square sits at the heart of the city’s historic quarter. The pedestrianized square is an easy walk from Kota train station—which you can reach riding the Korridor I busway from Jalan Thamrin. Save time navigating and explore Jakarta with the help of a private driver or on an organized tour. Self-driving is not recommended.
When to Get There
If visiting Old Town’s museums are on your to-do list, avoid visiting Fatahillah Square on Monday, when its museums are closed; a few also close for prayers at Friday around lunch. Museums in Indonesia shut early—typically around 3pm—so aim to visit in the morning or at lunch. Photographers will find the light best and the square less crowded in early morning.
From Fatahillah Square to Kota
Many Jakartans know Jakarta Old Town simply as “Kota” (City), and its crumbling buildings are part of the atmospheric. A wander around Fatahillah Square reveals the shapes of the Dutch colonial-era city, Old Batavia, with its canals, grand houses, and administrative buildings. While much of Kota remains slum land, some historic sites are undergoing restoration.
Address: Fatahillah Square (Taman Fatahillah), Jakarta 11110, Indonesia
From $ 38
Devdan Show
Devdan: Treasure of the Archipelago takes viewers on a 90-minute tour of Indonesia through the story of two young children who stray from a tour group and discover a treasure chest filled with items that transport them — and the audience — to several of Indonesia’s most famous islands.
Traditional and modern dance, Cirque du Soleil-like acrobatics, intricate costumes and an interactive set bring the islands of Bali, Sumatra, Java, Borneo and Papua to life. The theater, located in Nusa Dua, offers four classes of seating at various price points, three of which include free shuttle service to and from your hotel.
Practical Info
Devdan Show runs four nights a week and is a hit with kids as well as adults.
Address: Jl. Nusa Dua Kuta Sel. Kabupaten Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Hours: Four nights a week
Admission: Pricing Varies
From $ 40
Ijen Crater (Kawah Ijen)
An East Java highlight, the Ijen Crater (Kawah Ijen) towers above the Ijen Plateau. A highly acidic crater lake yields sulfur for local miners, while burning gases emit an eerie blue glow at night. Views of Java’s most perfect volcanoes, including Mount Merapi and Mount Raung, make the summit worth bagging.
The Basics
Visitors usually climb Iljen Crater, set between Banyuwangi and Bondowoso, before dawn to see the celebrated Ijen blue fire ("blueflame"). The straightforward route eliminates the need for guides, although transport is problematic. Tickets for foreigners cost up to 10 times the price of tickets for Indonesian nationals.
Ijen tours from Bali typically include a night spent in transit, in order to wake up for the summit climb. Ijen tours coming from within Java may include accommodation near the Ijen Crater or the Ijen Plateau. Unless you have your own wheels, an organized tour to Ijen volcano is generally the easiest option. Some Java tour packages include a Bromo tour, and one or more of Malang, Surabaya, and Yogyakarta.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Fumes from the lake can be highly irritating to eyes, nose, and throat—even worse when they’re absorbed into mist. The ranger station sells masks, but they’re of dubious effectiveness.
- Besides the blue fire of Ijen Crater, the cool, coffee-growing landscapes of the Ijen Plateau are a highlight for many travelers.
- Between the early start and the toxic gases, this is not a tour for families with small children.
How to Get There
You’ll need your own transport, a private driver, or an organized tour to reach Ijen Crater. The nearest town is Banyuwangi, which is also the arrival point for ferries from north Bali’s Gilimanuk port. Coming from East and Central Java, your jump-off point is the town of Bondowoso, on the other side of the Ijen Plateau. Given the complexities, most opt to reach Mount Ijen with a tour package.
When to Get There
Climbers typically set out around 4am during the dry season (roughly March to October) and as early as 1am during the rainy season (roughly November to March). Be aware that the crater is occasionally closed due to toxic gases.
The Sulfur Miners of Ijen
As you hike the path to Ijen Crater, you’ll meet sulfur miners coming down, heavily laden with yellow slabs of pure sulfur. They do a grueling and dangerous job, condensing sulfur from clouds of poisonous gas, for very, very little money. Consider buying their little carvings as you return from your Ijen Crater tour.
Address: East Java, Indonesia
From $ 69
Gunung Mas Tea Plantation
Set in Puncak, high in the cool West Java hills around Bogor, the Gunung Mas Tea Plantation dates back to the Dutch colonial era. At the 6,000-acre (2,428-hectare) site, today owned by the Indonesian government, visitors can tour the tea factory and plantation and opt for hiking, horseback riding, and even paragliding in season.
The Basics
A private Gunung Mas Tea Plantation tour includes a visit to the tea fields, a factory tour, a tasting, the opportunity to buy some tea, and perhaps a guided hike or horseback ride. Gunung Mas is also a popular stop on wider Java highland tours, which typically include the Bogor Botanical Gardens.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Gunung Mas is a must for tea tipplers.
- Java’s roads are overloaded, so don’t underestimate your travel time.
- Temperatures in Puncak can drop as low as 64℉ (18℃), so bring layers—and extra if you plan to paraglide.
- The Gunung Mas Tea Plantation is often rainy. You can pick up an inexpensive poncho at minimarts such as Indomaret, Alfamart, Coco Mart, or Circle K.
How to Get There
The Gunung Mas Tea Plantation is located just before the Puncak Pass, a couple of miles off the highway between Bogor and Bandung. Most visitors opt for a round-trip door-to-door tour or private driver. Alternatively, you can catch the bus or train from Jakarta to Bogor, then pick up a Bandung-bound bus. Expect the journey by private transit to take at least five hours.
When to Get There
Tea is harvested in Indonesia year-round, so it’s possible to visit Gunung Mas Tea Plantation at any time. If tandem paragliding in Puncak is on your agenda, then June, July, and August offer the best potential for dry weather, although paragliding is possible year-round if the weather cooperates.
Tea in Indonesia
Javanese tea has a legacy dating back to the 19th century. The Dutch in Indonesia were the first colonial power to grow tea outside China, and tea plantations are still scattered across Java, Sumatra, and other islands. Today the 12th-largest tea producer in the world, Indonesia exports almost all of its tea for brands such as Twinings.
Address: Puncak, West Java, Indonesia
From $ 84
Gitgit Waterfall
A popular stop between Singaraja and Denpasar, Gigit Waterfall is considered to be one of the most beautiful on the island. Easy to reach from the road, the falls have a drop of 131 feet (40-meter) into a picturesque pool where visitors can swim. There are actually three falls in the area—the other falls being smaller twin waterfalls. All are signposted from the road and reached by a short hike.
The Basics
Most travelers visit Gitgit Waterfall en route to somewhere else on the island, including Sekumpul Waterfall. Many tours to the dolphins at Lovina or the attractions at Bedugul, including Ulun Danu Bratan, stop at Gitgit Waterfall en route to south Bali. Gitgit Waterfall tours typically include a short hike, a photo stop, and a swim or splash in the pool below.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can swim, or at least splash, in all three Gitgit falls just about year-round. Bring your bathing suit: There are simple changing rooms.
- Local myth claims that couples who visit Gitgit together will ultimately split up.
- Souvenir vendors can be persistent. A raised hand and a polite “no thank you” will often do the trick.
- The hike to the main falls is well made but includes stairs.
How to Get There
The Gitgit falls sit on the main road between Denpasar (and south Bali) and Singaraja, on the north coast. Unless you speak enough Indonesian to negotiate the “bemo” minibus system, they are not accessible by public transport. It’s possible to self-drive, but most visitors prefer to join a tour or arrange a private driver/guide, and combine the trip to the falls with visits to Bedugul, Lovina, or north Bali.
When to Get There
As with most Bali waterfalls, the Gitgit falls are at their most impressive during the rainy season (roughly October to May), or after rain during the dry season. The falls can get very busy so it’s best to arrive in the morning, before 10am, to avoid the crowd.
Bali’s Best Waterfalls
Lush landscapes and stark black rock make Bali’s waterfalls stand out, despite their relatively small scale. Besides Gitgit, Sekumpul Waterfall, near Singaraja, is a popular attraction; Tegenungan Waterfall near Ubud offers a theatrical cascade; and Melanting Waterfall is the tallest and most impressive of the three falls around Munduk.
Address: Jalan Raya Tumanggal, Sukasada, Buleleng, Indonesia 81161, Indonesia
From $ 29
Kintamani Volcano
Two hours by road from Denpasar in Bali’s northeastern highlands lies the region known simply as Kintamani Volcano. The Indonesian island’s only district without a shoreline, it’s famous instead for its volcanoes. On the rim of the Batur caldera, 4,921 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, several villages (Penelokan, Batur, and Kintamani) afford impressive views of Mt. Baturn, an active, sacred volcano.
The Basics
Visitors come to Kintamani Volcano not for its beaches (there are none) but for its stunning active volcano, outdoor adventures, and cultural appeal. One of the most popular activities in the region is a sunrise trek to the top of sacred Mt. Batur—an active volcano—though it’s also possible to cycle downhill through UNESCO-listed rice terraces, soak in the hot springs on the shores of Lake Batur, tour a coffee plantation, watch a traditional Barong dance performance, or visit one of the island’s most important directional temples, Pura Ulun Danu Batur.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Kintamani Volcano is a must-see for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Bring a warm layer of clothing; the temperatures here are significantly cooler than the towns of Bali’s coast.
- Experience the region by volcano trekking, downhill cycling, or Balinese cultural sightseeing.
How to Get There
Situated about two hours from the beaches of South Bali, many travelers visit Kintamani on a day trip from Ubud. Daily buses run between Ubud and the villages of the area, but the most convenient way to get there is a guided full-day tour.
When to Get There
It is best to arrive at Kintamani early, as cloud cover and fog often set in by late afternoon, disrupting the views.
Bali Aga Culture in Kintamani
The indigenous Balinese of the highlands, often called the Bali Aga or “mountain Balinese,” have their own distinct traditional culture, often well-preserved due to their isolation in the island’s interior. To experience this ancient culture in Kintamani, pay a visit to the village of Trunyan, known for its excellent views of Mt. Batur and its unusual cemetery, where the deceased are laid to rest out in the open at the foot of a holy tree, simply covered with cloth beneath canopies of bamboo.
Address: Kintamani, Indonesia
From $ 29
Jakarta Chinatown (Glodok)
Jakarta Chinatown, better known to locals as Glodok, was born after the massacre of 5,000 Chinese in 1740, when the remaining population were moved to a separate settlement outside the city walls. Today it’s a bustling hub where Chinese eateries, temples, street markets, and medicine shops nudge up against electronics stores.
The Basics
Glodok highlights include the historical Jin De Yuan temple (built in 1755), the Da Shi Miao temple (built in 1751), and the chaotic Petak Sembilan street market. While it is perfectly easy to explore independently, many opt for the cultural and historical insights—and expert food recommendations—that come with a guided Jakarta Chinatown tour. Glodok is also a common stop on Jakarta night tours and city overviews.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to Chinatown is a must for foodies and history buffs—the latter often pair it with a trip to Kota, the old city.
- Tensions between ethnic Indonesians and the Chinese community still exist. Anti-Chinese racism last had a major impact on Jakarta Chinatown in 1998, when rioters swept through Glodok.
- Even in Chinatown, do not expect all Chinese Indonesians to speak Mandarin. Some speak Hokkien and other dialects; others speak only Indonesian.
How to Get There
Until the long-awaited MRT opens, getting around Jakarta by public transit is difficult, and driving is even more so in one of the world’s most gridlocked cities. If you’d like to experience the bus, Glodok is on the Kota-Blok M Transjakarta route. Alternatively, book a tour for cultural insights into the rich world of Jakarta Chinatown—along with transportation.
When to Get There
As with Chinatowns the world over, Glodok is at its most colorful during the big Chinese festivals—especially the Lunar New Year celebrations, when lanterns deck the streets alongside colorful symbols of the animal that represents the incoming year. You might well see the occasional lion dancer. Even outside festival times, Glodok is lively throughout the day and into the evening: time visits to avoid the worst of Jakarta’s gridlock (rush hours are typically 8am–10am and 4:30pm–8pm).
Chinese Indonesian Food
Chinese communities have lived in the Indonesian archipelago for many centuries and shaped the nation’s cuisine. One of the joys of any trip to Glodok is trying classics of Chinese Indonesian fare, such as mie pangsit (pork dumplings, noodles, and more), ayam saos mentega (butter chicken), or sop asparagus kepiting (crab and asparagus soup).
Address: Jalan Kemenangan, Jakarta 11120, Indonesia
From $ 38