6 Indonesian Destinations Beyond Bali Praised by Global Travel Media

When talking about travel in Indonesia, the name Bali is almost always the first destination that comes to mind for travellers worldwide. However, Indonesia actually holds countless other hidden paradises that are just as stunning.

International travel publication Travel + Leisure has even highlighted a number of other remarkable destinations across the archipelago that deliver far more authentic, exotic, and Memorable Holiday experiences.

With over 17,000 islands spread from west to east, Indonesia is considered to have the perfect combination of natural beauty, traditional culture, Adventure Tourism, and world-class luxury resorts.

Notably, the destinations selected by Travel + Leisure still retain unspoiled natural character and one-of-a-kind local experiences that are difficult to find in any other country.

Below is the list of top Indonesian destinations according to Travel + Leisure, outside of Bali, that deserve a place on your travel bucket list.

1. Yogyakarta and Borobudur: Where Culture Blends With Spirituality

Yogyakarta always holds unique charm for travellers seeking an authentic side of Indonesian Culture. Its biggest attraction is undoubtedly Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist monument in the world and officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travel + Leisure assesses that the Borobudur area offers more than just historical sightseeing. Visitors can take in panoramic views of Mount Merapi, explore traditional villages such as Candirejo, and taste the legendary local speciality gudeg.

For those who prefer quiet, off-the-beaten-path travel, the hike to Selogriyo Temple is an excellent choice, with peaceful surroundings set amongst sprawling rice fields and rolling green hills.

2. Raja Ampat: Marine Paradise With The World's Finest Biodiversity

Raja Ampat has long been recognised as one of the best diving destinations on Earth. Crystal clear ocean waters paired with dramatic karst island clusters create scenery that feels almost otherworldly.

Travel + Leisure names Raja Ampat as home to thousands of marine species, including reef sharks, sea turtles, and breathtaking colourful coral reefs. Beyond diving and snorkelling, visitors can explore hidden lagoons by kayak or enjoy stays at exclusive overwater resorts.

The ideal period to visit Raja Ampat generally falls between October and April, when sea conditions are calmer and underwater visibility is exceptional.

3. Labuan Bajo and Komodo: The Complete Tropical Adventure Package

Labuan Bajo has developed into one of the most popular premium destinations for international travellers. This small town on Flores Island serves as the gateway to the globally renowned Komodo National Park.

Aside from observing Komodo dragons in their natural habitat, travellers can snorkel alongside manta rays, go Island Hopping to exotic outlying islets, and trek up Padar Island famous for its iconic panoramic views.

Beyond natural scenery, Labuan Bajo also offers luxury accommodation with tropical resorts and fine dining restaurants that look directly out over the Flores Sea. Sunsets in this region are regularly cited as some of the very best in Indonesia.

4. Sumba Island: An Exotic Destination Still Free From Tourist Crowds

Sumba Island is the perfect choice for travellers wanting to escape busy tourist areas for a while. This island offers a combination of exotic coastlines, living traditional culture, and nature-focused luxury resorts.

Travel + Leisure highlights that local communities on Sumba still strongly uphold their indigenous ancestral traditions. Visitors can tour customary villages, view the island's distinctive high-roofed traditional homes, and witness unique Sumbanese cultural rituals.

Additionally, Sumba is famous for world-class surf breaks and the unforgettable experience of horse riding along the shoreline at sunset.

5. Mount Bromo: The Perennially Enchanting Land Above The Clouds

Mount Bromo is one of the most favoured destinations for International Travellers seeking the thrill of Indonesian Nature Adventure.

Travel + Leisure describes watching sunrise at Bromo as one of the most spectacular travel moments possible. From the Penanjakan viewpoint or Bukit King Kong, visitors can look out over the vast sea of sand, soft drifting mist, and active volcanic crater to witness a truly dramatic landscape.

Alongside its natural wonders, the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park also offers rich cultural experiences, with the traditional customs of the Tengger people still preserved intact to this day.

6. Kalimantan: Adventures Cruising The Ancient Tropical Rainforest

Kalimantan is the ideal destination for ecotourism enthusiasts and wild nature adventurers. One of its most iconic experiences is travelling along the Sekonyer River aboard a traditional klotok wooden boat, heading into Tanjung Puting National Park.

In this area, travellers can observe wild orangutans in their natural habitat, as well as visit the famous Camp Leakey conservation research centre. Spending the night anchored on the river while listening to the sounds of the rainforest is an experience that stays with visitors long after they leave.

For international travellers, Kalimantan is regarded as one of the most authentic destinations in Indonesia, with vast untouched wilderness that remains almost entirely free from modern development.