Indonesia

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Entry posted by korver · September 1, 2020

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Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a country of nearly 270 million people in Southeast Asia. It consists of more than seventeen thousand islands, including Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Sulawesi, and New Guinea. Indonesia offers some of Asia's most diverse and beautiful landscapes - from massive volcanoes, lush rice terraces, ancient temples, sprawling modern cities, and much more - any trip here will keep you in awe. Let's explore some of the country's most incredible sights as we take a lengthy trip across a few of the country's most iconic islands in today's update.

Our journey across Indonesia begins on the island of Java - which is home to a number of impressive natural wonders like Mount Bromo. This active volcano has had recent eruptions and is part of the Tengger massif in eastern Java, rising 7,641 feet tall. Although it may not be one of the country's highest peaks, its stunning caldera (which is often shrouded in heavy fog) and sweeping massif makes it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Indonesia.

After experiencing one of Indonesia's most incredible natural wonders, we head to the country's massive, sprawling capital city of Jakarta to visit one of Indonesia's most iconic man-made wonders - the National Monument, or Monas. This 433 ft tall tower in the center of Merdeka Square is known for symbolizing the fight for Indonesia - and was also built to commemorate the struggle for Indonesian independence. Construction began in 1961 under the direction of President Sukarno and has been a symbol of the country ever since.

The last destination we'll check out on Java is also one of the country's most iconic landmarks - Borobudur. This impressive 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple in Magelang Regency is located near central Java and is the world's largest Buddhist temple. Consisting of nine stacked platforms, six square and three circular, all topped by a massive central dome - it's a truly a one of a kind wonder.

After exploring some of Java's most iconic sights, we hop aboard a ferry and embark for another one of Indonesia's most famous islands, Borneo. The third largest island in the world (and Asia's largest island) is home to vast rainforests - although in recent years, logging has picked up and many of these pristine landscapes have become threatened. In the parts that have been untouched however, many of the local Dayak tribe still live in longhouses - as they have for centuries. These imposing structures can vary greatly in size, with the largest reaching 200m long - and provide a safe, sturdy residence for these indigenous people who call the heart of the jungle their home.

After exploring Borneo, we head to another one of Indonesia's most beautiful islands - Bali. This Indonesian island is well known for its beautiful temples and religious monuments, and few match the beauty of Pura Ulun Danu. This important Hindu shrine is located on a small island in a lake near the middle of the island - and the history and beautiful scenery of the site makes it a popular tourist destination.

Bali is also renown for it's stunning natural landscapes - and the Tegalalang Rice Terraces are one of the region's most beautiful highlights. This area offers sweeping views of scenic, terraced hillsides of rice paddies amid lush greenery - and for the adventurous visitor, there's zip lines & jungle swings as well.

Our look at Indonesia concludes with a trip to the island of New Guinea and Indonesia's highest point - Puncak Jaya. This 16,024 foot tall peak is noted for having some of the closest glaciers to the equator - but unfortunately, they've been rapidly receding in recent years. This imposing peak towers over the surrounding Sudirman Mountain range, and it's truly one of the country's most majestic sights.