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A Quick Guide to Indonesia

Tue, 08/21/2012 - 00:00 /

Country Guides

Indonesia, with 17,500 islands and a population of over 235 million people, has become a popular tourist destination for millions of Australians annually. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of paradise or the desire to explore without venturing too far from home, Indonesia offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant lifestyle.

Climate

Indonesia’s climate remains surprisingly consistent throughout the year. The main variation lies in rainfall, which can be abundant during certain seasons. The average temperature is roughly 28 degrees Celsius, although cooler temperatures of approximately 26 degrees Celsius are found in mountainous regions.

Indonesia experiences two distinct seasons:

Dry season (June to September): Influenced by currents from Australia.

Rainy season (December to March).

Transition months (April-May) may also see some rain.

Sightseeing and Touring Suggestions

Bali

Bali is a tropical paradise known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking luxury, Bali has something for everyone.

Key attractions:

Pura Tanah Lot: Located northwest of Kuta, Pura Tanah Lot is an iconic temple built on a rocky islet. It offers a stunning seaside setting, especially during low tide.
Mount Batur: Early risers can hike this active volcano for breathtaking sunrise views of the surrounding landscape.
Uluwatu Temple: Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, Uluwatu Temple hosts traditional Kecak dance performances at sunset.
Ubud Monkey Forest: A lush sanctuary in Ubud, where playful macaques roam among ancient temples and tall trees.
Tegallalang and Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Marvel at the intricate rice terraces—perfect for photographers—in Tegallalang and Jatiluwih.
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan: This stunning temple on Lake Bratan is devoted to the goddess of water, set against the misty mountains.

Java

The island with the highest number of inhabitants in Indonesia is home to approximately 112 million people. It serves as the country’s main economic and political hub.

Key attractions:

Borobudur Temple: A UNESCO-listed Buddhist temple dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries. It’s the largest Buddhist temple in the world.
Prambanan: An impressive Hindu temple complex near Yogyakarta.
Kraton Palace: A royal palace in Yogyakarta, which reflects Javanese architecture and culture.
Mount Bromo: Witness an incredible sunrise over this active volcano. Remember to wrap up—it can get chilly!
Malang: Discover beautiful waterfalls, green tea plantations, and the colourful village of Jodipan.

Lombok

An island dominated by the Rinjani volcano offers deserted beaches and breathtaking landscapes.

Key attractions:

Rinjani Trek: Embark on a challenging trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani for breathtaking views.
Deserted Beaches: Lombok offers pristine, uncrowded beaches such as Tanjung Aan and Selong Belanak.
Gili Islands: Hop over to the nearby Gili Islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air) for crystal-clear waters and relaxed vibes.

Samatra

As the third-biggest island in the archipelago, Sumatra is an exotic paradise. Here, you’ll find abundant leisure activities and thrilling adventures.

Key attractions:

Lake Toba: Visit the world’s largest volcanic lake, surrounded by beautiful flora.
Bukit Lawang: Explore the rainforests and encounter orangutans in this wildlife sanctuary.
Padang: Try the native cuisine such as rendang and explore the picturesque West Sumatran coastline.

Culture and Religion

Indonesia is predominantly Islamic, with approximately 85% of the population practising Islam. Bali stands out as the hub of Hindu culture in Indonesia. Balinese Hinduism is a unique combination of Hindu beliefs, local customs, and ancient traditions. While Islam is the largest religion in Indonesia, there are more than 17 million Christians, primarily in regions like North Sulawesi and Papua.

When visiting temples (such as Pura Besakih in Bali or Prambanan in Java), to dress modestly. Wear a sarong (a traditional cloth) to cover your shoulders. Wearing a scarf to cover your head is respectful.

Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water or boiled while on your travels. Bargaining is common in markets and small stores. Feel free to negotiate prices but do so politely. Indonesia has diverse cultural practices. Respect local customs, such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home. Be aware that there’s an airport tax when entering and departing Indonesia. Keep some cash handy for this purpose.