6 Indonesian Islands That Allow You to Rest Completely

Traveling to Indonesian islands can be a totally fun experience, as long as you handle the tropical climate with all its vagaries with aplomb and ease. Indonesia remains hot and humid for most part of the day, and also the year. So, pack clothing that breathes well and absorbs sweat. Preferably, choose low-maintenance fabrics that dry swiftly after being washed and do not shrink or sustain too many wrinkles. Another must-have is a mosquito repellent, not to mention a sun-screen and calamine lotion to safeguard against sunburns.

Out of the 17000+ Indonesian Islands, few stand out in terms of easy accessibility and featuring multiple points of interest. Depending on the length of your stay, you can choose one, or hop between several isles to experience the diversity that each offers. When you plan a trip to Indonesia, make sure your itinerary features one or more of the following islands –  

Bali

As soon as you lay a foot in Bali, mark the day for having crossed the equator into the southern hemisphere. ‘Island of the Gods’ that this Indonesian island is popular as, it lives up to this name in every way. From temples to adventure activities and wellness centers, there is so much to do and see that you will invariably wish for a few more days. Whether you choose to dive beneath the water, wander inland or chill at one of the spas, every experience brings your imagination to life and coaxes you to reset inside out.

While in Bali, watching the sun rise and the sun set holds special significance, depending on the locale. Options include the Uluwatu Temple, which is perched on a cliff, Tegalalang rice fields that are iconic of this region, or the Seminyak beach which is popular for surfing and snorkeling.

Most Indonesian islands sport a distinct coastal vibe. In Bali, it extends beyond scuba diving to include spirituality, like Tanah Lot, a beautiful sea-side temple. A totally different water adventure awaits you at any one of the waterfalls or flowing down the river flanked by caves and countryside on both sides.   

Nusa Tenggara

Indonesian islands that mark the eastern flank of Bali collectively form the Nusa Tenggara. Owing to being widespread, they are broadly categorized into east and west provinces respectively. Both sub-regions maintain a distinct identity, which echoes through physical features, habitat and culture You might need more than a couple of days to do justice to both. But, the experience is sure to have broadened your horizons as a traveler and as a person.

Eastern half of Nusa Tenggara, or NTT, provides you with a golden opportunity to interact with the fearsome Komodo dragons on land, and the gliding manta rays in water. When you step into this predominantly Christian territory, prepare to be astonished at the overall impression of time having come to a standstill. Thread your way through the conical-roof houses of Wae Rebo village, and witness the signature Ikat textiles being woven in Sumba. Count the number of colors you can discern in the crater lakes of Kelimutu, and challenge yourself to find the hidden cave-pool at Goa Rangko.

In western half of Nusa Tenggara, or NTB, marvel at the pink-hued beach sand at Lombok, and enjoy swimming/wading in the turquoise waters. This Indonesian Island also features hiking trails and waterfalls. Particularly noteworthy is the Tiu Kelep that cascades down the verdant Mount Rinjani in North Lombok. Try the local cuisine in the Sumbawa village, and enjoy the traditional festivities that characterize the Moyo festival

Java

This Indonesian Island forms a part of the Indian Ocean’s Sunda Arc, a long belt of active volcanoes in the region. Despite the hazard, active volcanoes form a part of life in Java, not just for locals but also for tourists. You can travel/hike up to the volcanic craters. Having reached the summit, Ijen greets you with a eternal blue sulfuric fire and an acidic lake. Another volcanic peak – Mount Bromo – features a sandy exterior, which is surprising given its high altitude.

Waterfalls commonly feature in most Indonesian islands. However, none compare to the Tumpak Sewu in Java, which breaks its fall several times before finally hitting the ground. Likewise, few cities in world feature a floating market, and Java happens to be one of them. Instead of brick-and-mortar stores, vendors operate from boats. Each boat in turn offers a specific category of items, ranging from snacks to souvenirs and accessories. In addition, kids love visiting the floating market, given the rainbow slide, miniature town of Kota Mini, and a feeding point for fish and ducks.

Courtesy of being home to several ancient temples, Java easily qualifies as your spiritual getaway. The 9^th-century Borobudur Temple still remains the largest Buddhist shrine in the world. Likewise, the Prambanan temple complex remains the largest in Southeast Asia to be dedicated to the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. Delve into the ethnic Javanese culture at Yogyakarta by visiting batik workshops and silver factories.

Sulawesi

At first glance this Indonesian island reminds you of an octopus, except that instead of eight, it features four tentacles. A mountain serves as the heart, and the four arms extend into the Indian Ocean, with each sporting a distinct identity of their own. So, make sure you visit this locale with sufficient time to venture out into each of the arms and experience the varied ambience.

On reaching ashore, head north towards Minahasa Peninsula if biodiversity appeals to you. Enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, trudging up and down the volcanic peaks and identifying the various species of land and aquatic creatures. Try out the spicy cuisine, which beats the culinary delights of all the other Indonesian islands. Minahasa also ranks on top of the spiritual ladder due to Bukit Kasih, the hill of ‘love’.

The southern arm carries a charm of its own, with rituals and landscapes that date back millions of years. Mingle with the inhabitants of the Toraja village, and learn how they construct the unique boat-shaped dwellings. Attend a traditional funeral ceremony that has endured through centuries, and sail down a narrow channel flanked by stark limestone formations.

Gili Islands

In the sasak lingo, ‘Gili’ translates to small island. And in this context, it refers to a group of three small Indonesian islands that carry a vibe of their own. Largest among these – Gili Trawangan – gets its name from ‘Terowongen’, a Japanese tunnel used during the Second World War. Next in size – Gili Air – showcases the bohemian way of life. The smallest of the three – Gili Meno – serves as an ideal couple’s getaway.

To get around on these three islands, you can simply walk, or use a bicycle. Since the three islands are in close proximity of each other, you can also swim across instead of relying on a boat. Dive under the water to the 48-statue circle and marvel at the architectural geometry. Watch turtles of all sizes at the turtle sanctuary. Given the ecosystem burgeoning around these spots, diving can reveal the secrets of the seas.

After soaking in the beautiful sunset from one of the beaches, do make it a point to visit the night market on the largest Gili island. Ambience notwithstanding, enjoy the delightful street food that features every kind of local fare, from barbeque to seafood.

Sumatra

Central Sumatra offers you the unique opportunity of being in both northern and southern hemispheres at the same time. Just identify the equator and put a foot on either side of it. With its unique biodiversity and natural wonders, this Indonesian Island stands out in a number of other ways too.

Owing to the equatorial climate, tropical rainforests cover the maximum area, and are home to several rare species, like tigers and orangutans. Check out the Sumatran elephant in the wild. You can watch them being tended to and taken care of at Tangkahan, a sanctuary dedicated solely to nurture this lineage.

Several active volcanoes render hiking a worthwhile activity in this region. Having hiked up to popular peaks like Mount Sibayak and Mount Kerinci, enjoy the stunning vistas as the sun goes down over the horizon. Descend from the volcanic slopes to sail through the channel created by the Batang Sianok Riven squeezed between the steep cliffs of the Sianok Canyon.

One of the must-visits in these Indonesian Islands is Lake Toba, another example of enduring volcanic legacy. Being the largest of its kind in the world, it is home to Samosir Island. At this huge bustling cultural hub, meet ethnic inhabitants, visit mystical burial sites, and try out contemporary cosmopolitan cafes and eat-outs. Between admiring the traditional Batak architecture and cuisine, you must spend some time relaxing in the natural hot springs that characterize this traditional Indonesian Island.

Final Thoughts

Before you embark on your tour of Indonesian islands, become familiar with some commonly used terms, like ‘ring of fire’ and ‘Bali belly’. Indonesia forms a part of the volcanic belt in the Indian Ocean, which is popularly referred to as the ring of fire owing to consisting of multiple active volcanoes. Many of these might feature in your itinerary and enrich your journey given their sheer fiery presence.

Bali belly refers to your tummy being in a perpetual state of turmoil owing to having consumed contaminated water, and hence should be best avoided.

Doing research prior to traveling ensures that you remain aware of these terms and many more, along with other travel advisories pertaining to the Indonesian islands. In case of any doubt, feel free to reach out to a reputed travel operator, such as Flipside Leisure, for a safe, smooth and soothing trip to the Indonesian Islands.