Unique Places in Indonesia: Beyond Bali

Have you ever seen orangutans in real life? Visiting Bukit Lawang can be your best opportunity to see the species' natural habitat. The endangered animal's rehabilitation is inside the green hillside, offering you a chance to experience the wildlife by night camping in a jungle trek. Be prepared with extra clothes and shoes, as you'll pass through some rivers, and cover your skin to prevent mosquito bites.

Adding cultural and historical experience to your itinerary? Borobudur Temple is a must-visit destination, consisting of nearly 2,000 stone reliefs, divine and carved architecture, and 504 Buddha statues and 72 stupas on the terraces. You can climb up staircases to achieve the perfect angle to view the wondrous landscape to the horizon.

Just outside Singapore's coast, a lesser-known spot of an island offers its remote and awe-striking view, added by turquoise sea water that's clear to the point you can see the sea floor. The tropical island is home to plenty of marine life, including manta rays, turtles, and even dolphins! You can go hiking, visit mangrove forests, or explore local markets and nightlife events.

A thick culture runs through the veins of Yogyakarta. Every corner of the large city represents the dedication to persevering in a traditional culture, from the buildings to the cuisines. A lot of people will sacrifice their time just to experience the authenticity of the city, and they have never been disappointed after their visit.

Another wildlife destination worth visiting is Tangkoko National Park, which is very much unknown to the public. Located in the north of Sulawesi, the underrated park shelters numerous flora and fauna, including Macaca Nigra—the rare species of monkey. Numerous bird species will impress you through your trekking exploration. You'll be guided throughout your journey, but mind that the ticket entrance to the park increases during weekends.

Bali is famous, but have you ever imagined a more tranquil version of the island? Lombok, located on the east side of Bali, offers premium sightings of beaches, forests, and volcanoes at the same time. If you have never visited the place, I highly recommend a beach called Selong Belanak. The beach is quiet and peaceful, and you can lie down on the white sand, play with the water, or dive to see the beauty beneath.