Indonesia ,officially the Republic of Indonesia (Indonesian: Republic Indonesia), is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania. Indonesia is an archipelago comprising approximately 17,508 islands. It has 33 provinces with over 238 million people, and is the world's fourth most populous country. Indonesia is a republic, with an elected legislature and president. The nation's capital city is Jakarta. The country shares land borders with Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Malaysia. Other neighboring countries include Singapore, Philippines, Australia, and the Indian territory of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Indonesia is a founding member of ASEAN and a member of the G-20 major economies. The Indonesian economy is the world's seventeenth largest economy by nominal GDP and fifteenth largest by purchasing power parity.
The Indonesian archipelago has been an important trade region since at least the 7th century, when Srivijaya and then later Majapahit traded with China and India. Local rulers gradually absorbed foreign cultural, religious and political models from the early centuries CE, and Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms flourished. Indonesian history has been influenced by foreign powers drawn to its natural resources. Muslim traders brought Islam, and European powers brought Christianity and fought one another to monopolize trade in the Spice Islands of Maluku during the Age of Discovery. Following three and a half centuries of Dutch colonialism, Indonesia secured its independence after World War II. Indonesia's history has since been turbulent, with challenges posed by natural disasters, corruption, separatism, a democratization process, and periods of rapid economic change.
Across its many islands, Indonesia consists of distinct ethnic, linguistic, and religious groups. The Javanese are the largest—and the politically dominant—ethnic group. Indonesia has developed a shared identity defined by a national language, ethnic diversity, religious pluralism within a majority Muslim population, and a history of colonialism and rebellion against it. Indonesia's national motto, "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" ("Unity in Diversity" literally, "many, yet one"), articulates the diversity that shapes the country. Despite its large population and densely populated regions, Indonesia has vast areas of wilderness that support the world's second highest level of biodiversity. The country is richly endowed with natural resources, yet poverty remains widespread.
The tourist places in indonesia
Famous Tourist Attractions in Indonesia
Famous Tourist Attractions in Indonesia
Jakarta >>
Kalimantan >>
Lombok >>
Sulawesi Island >>
Sumatra Island >>
Islamic Heritage >>
JAKARTA
The National Monument, or "Monas" as it is popularly called, is one of the monuments built during the Sukarno era of fierce nationalism. It stands for the people's determination to achieve freedom and the crowning of their efforts in the Proclamation of Independence in August 1945. The 137-metre tall marble obelisk is topped with a flame coated with 35 kg of gold. The base houses a historical museum and a hall for meditations. The monument is open to the public and upon request the lift can carry visitors to the top, which offers a bird's eye view of the city and the sea. Istiqlal Mosque: It is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia and the second largest in the world. The mosque took 17 long years to build and the grandeur of its walls and dome is visible from quite far away. Orchid Gardens: Indonesia has some of the most exotic orchid gardens. Several commercial orchid gardens are open to public. Some of the best known of them are located at Slipi and Taman Mini. Condet: This village in southern Jakarta is a protected area where the old rural life style of Jakarta is preserved. Condet is also famous for its fruit orchards. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature): Situated just outside Jakarta, the park has miniatures of all the 27 provinces of the country reproduced in its Central Lake. This is a wonderful place to know about the entire archipelago in just one day. Regular cultural programmes and ceremonies are held in the park representing different regions. Pulau Seribu: This group of islands in the Jakarta Bay offers a haven away from the bustle of city life. There are golden beaches fringed with coconut palms. The surrounding waters are a paradise for scuba divers. The islands can be reached from Tanjung Priok or Pasar Ikan (Sunda Kelapa) by ferry or by chartered boat. Some of the islands in this group developed for tourism are Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Ayer, Pulau Laki and Pulau Putri. Museum Gadjah: The National Museum of Indonesia is situated at Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat. It contains around 85,000 items, the largest in the world of Indonesian artefacts. There is one of the largest and rare collections of Oriental ceramics in this museum.
Kalimantan
Kalimantan Indonesia - Formerly known as Borneo, Kalimantan is the world's second largest island. The North and northwestern part of the island are the East Malaysian state of Serawak and Sabah, with the newly independent state of Brunei Darusalam between them. The rest of the island is part of Indonesia, divided into four provinces - East Kalimantan, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan and South Kalimantan.
Derawan Island: It is a favorite place for marine tourism. There are many rare animals such as the green turtle, the scarlet turtle, star fruit turtle and sea cow. The place is also home to many rare species of marine plants and coral reef. It s also a good place for scuba diving, pearl diving, fishing, swimming and other water sports.
Kalimantan >>
Lombok >>
Sulawesi Island >>
Sumatra Island >>
Islamic Heritage >>
JAKARTA
Jakarta - Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is the largest city in Indonesia. The city has all the modern amenities. But in its quest for modernization the city has not forgotten its past and has carefully preserved its rich cultural heritage. Apart from the skyscrapers, colonial structures built by European powers form an integral part of Jakarta's skyline.
Jakarta is a city of many fascinating facets. It is the main gateway to Indonesia. In recent years, Jakarta has expanded its facilities for visitors with multi-star luxury hotels, fine restaurants, exciting nightlife and modern shopping centers. Food is quite cheap in Jakarta and is available in great variety.
History of Jakarta
Jakarta was a small harbor town when the last Hindu Kingdom of Java, Kingdom of Pajajaran, was ruling in 14th century. Muslim ruler Fatahilklah conquered the city and changed the name to Jayakarta or the City of Victory on June 22, 1527. Later on, the Dutch conquered the city in 1619 and built a new city Batavia, which remained the center of power for them in South East Asia for more than 300 years. The city came under the siege of Japanese Imperial Forces in 1941 during the Second World War and its name was changed back to Jakarta (from Jayakarta). The defeat of Japan did not allow them to remain in Indonesia for long. Dutch again tried to capture the city but by now freedom struggle was already quite strong in the country and on August 17, 1945, the Indonesian leaders proclaimed its independence from foreign rule in Jakarta.
Jakarta was a small harbor town when the last Hindu Kingdom of Java, Kingdom of Pajajaran, was ruling in 14th century. Muslim ruler Fatahilklah conquered the city and changed the name to Jayakarta or the City of Victory on June 22, 1527. Later on, the Dutch conquered the city in 1619 and built a new city Batavia, which remained the center of power for them in South East Asia for more than 300 years. The city came under the siege of Japanese Imperial Forces in 1941 during the Second World War and its name was changed back to Jakarta (from Jayakarta). The defeat of Japan did not allow them to remain in Indonesia for long. Dutch again tried to capture the city but by now freedom struggle was already quite strong in the country and on August 17, 1945, the Indonesian leaders proclaimed its independence from foreign rule in Jakarta.
Weather of Jakarta
Jakarta has tropical climate with a high average humidity. There is not much difference in the day and night temperature. Average day temperature is 28ºC while average night temperature is a bit cooler at 25ºC. October to April is the wet season while the dry season is from May to September.
Jakarta has tropical climate with a high average humidity. There is not much difference in the day and night temperature. Average day temperature is 28ºC while average night temperature is a bit cooler at 25ºC. October to April is the wet season while the dry season is from May to September.
Best Time to Visit Jakarta
Dry season is also the best period to visit this part of the world because weather is clear, roads in the interiors are open, and temperatures are at their best.
Dry season is also the best period to visit this part of the world because weather is clear, roads in the interiors are open, and temperatures are at their best.
Tourist Attractions/Places to See in Jakarta :
The National Monument:
The National Monument, or "Monas" as it is popularly called, is one of the monuments built during the Sukarno era of fierce nationalism. It stands for the people's determination to achieve freedom and the crowning of their efforts in the Proclamation of Independence in August 1945. The 137-metre tall marble obelisk is topped with a flame coated with 35 kg of gold. The base houses a historical museum and a hall for meditations. The monument is open to the public and upon request the lift can carry visitors to the top, which offers a bird's eye view of the city and the sea. Istiqlal Mosque: It is the largest mosque in Southeast Asia and the second largest in the world. The mosque took 17 long years to build and the grandeur of its walls and dome is visible from quite far away. Orchid Gardens: Indonesia has some of the most exotic orchid gardens. Several commercial orchid gardens are open to public. Some of the best known of them are located at Slipi and Taman Mini. Condet: This village in southern Jakarta is a protected area where the old rural life style of Jakarta is preserved. Condet is also famous for its fruit orchards. Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature): Situated just outside Jakarta, the park has miniatures of all the 27 provinces of the country reproduced in its Central Lake. This is a wonderful place to know about the entire archipelago in just one day. Regular cultural programmes and ceremonies are held in the park representing different regions. Pulau Seribu: This group of islands in the Jakarta Bay offers a haven away from the bustle of city life. There are golden beaches fringed with coconut palms. The surrounding waters are a paradise for scuba divers. The islands can be reached from Tanjung Priok or Pasar Ikan (Sunda Kelapa) by ferry or by chartered boat. Some of the islands in this group developed for tourism are Pulau Bidadari, Pulau Ayer, Pulau Laki and Pulau Putri. Museum Gadjah: The National Museum of Indonesia is situated at Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat. It contains around 85,000 items, the largest in the world of Indonesian artefacts. There is one of the largest and rare collections of Oriental ceramics in this museum.
Shopping in Jakarta
Jakarta unlike its recent past is now home to glittering shopping arcades full of merchandises. Taman Surapati is full of paintings displayed by peddlers. Glodok and Pancoran in the Chinatown are the best places to buy antique furniture, Old Dutch lamps, and Chinese porcelains. There are many souvenir shops selling the best of Indonesian arts and crafts.
Jakarta unlike its recent past is now home to glittering shopping arcades full of merchandises. Taman Surapati is full of paintings displayed by peddlers. Glodok and Pancoran in the Chinatown are the best places to buy antique furniture, Old Dutch lamps, and Chinese porcelains. There are many souvenir shops selling the best of Indonesian arts and crafts.
How to Reach Jakarta
Soekarno - Hatta International Airport is the principle gateway of Indonesia and almost all the major airlines operating in the region stop here. It is situated around 35 km away from the city centre. Taxies and buses are the best transport to ferry you to the city.
Soekarno - Hatta International Airport is the principle gateway of Indonesia and almost all the major airlines operating in the region stop here. It is situated around 35 km away from the city centre. Taxies and buses are the best transport to ferry you to the city.
Kalimantan
Kalimantan Indonesia - Formerly known as Borneo, Kalimantan is the world's second largest island. The North and northwestern part of the island are the East Malaysian state of Serawak and Sabah, with the newly independent state of Brunei Darusalam between them. The rest of the island is part of Indonesia, divided into four provinces - East Kalimantan, West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan and South Kalimantan.
Kalimantan is one of the most bio-diverse places on the earth. It has one of the world's largest tropical rainforests and is home to rare flora and fauna.
History of Kalimantan
According to the Sanskrit inscriptions dating back to 400 A.D., Kalimantan came under the early influence of Indian settlers. But by 15th century, Islamic had great impact on Kalimantan and was rapidly embraced by the different kingdoms in the island.
According to the Sanskrit inscriptions dating back to 400 A.D., Kalimantan came under the early influence of Indian settlers. But by 15th century, Islamic had great impact on Kalimantan and was rapidly embraced by the different kingdoms in the island.
In the early 1600s, the Dutch began to establish trading agreements in Kalimantan and gained monopoly of the spice trade in Banjarmasin and diamond trade in Sambas. They also made contract with Pontianak in 1778. Gradually, they took control of all of what is now Kalimantan.
Kalimantan was occupied by the Japanese forces during the 2nd World War. After the war, the Dutch failed to regain control of the area. Later on Indonesia achieved its independence and Kalimantan became a province and was later divided into four provinces.
Climate of Kalimantan
Kalimantan has tropical climate and very high rainfall throughout the year. Average rainfall is around 3000 mm per annum. The temperature varies between 29º C and 34º C and the humidity is in the range of 95-98%.
Kalimantan has tropical climate and very high rainfall throughout the year. Average rainfall is around 3000 mm per annum. The temperature varies between 29º C and 34º C and the humidity is in the range of 95-98%.
Best Time to Visit Kalimantan
The best time to visit this fascinating island is during the months of September and March, when temperatures are much cooler-in the vicinity of 27°C with pleasant sea breezes.
The best time to visit this fascinating island is during the months of September and March, when temperatures are much cooler-in the vicinity of 27°C with pleasant sea breezes.
Tourist Attractions in Kalimantan
Derawan Island: It is a favorite place for marine tourism. There are many rare animals such as the green turtle, the scarlet turtle, star fruit turtle and sea cow. The place is also home to many rare species of marine plants and coral reef. It s also a good place for scuba diving, pearl diving, fishing, swimming and other water sports.
Bontang: Located in the regency of Kutai with 200.000 ha, Bontang has rare flora and fauna. The Kutai National Park near Bontang is worth visiting to see sceneries, especially those at Bears Bash.
Pontianak: It is the capital of West Kalimantan. Some of the favorite tourist spots include Equator Monument, Caldaria palace in Kampong Dalai, the State Museum, the Kapoks and the Landau Bridges and floating market.
Gunning Palung National Park and Nature Reserve: The Gunung [Mount) Palung national park located in the Ketapang regency is home to rare flora and fauna. The Raya Pasi mountain located in the Singkawang regency is also interesting to visit to see the Rafflesia or the Giant Flower. Singkawang is also a nature reserve. The forest of Sanggau is worth a visit where hot springs, lakes and caves can be found.
Palangkaraya: Palangkaraya is the provincial capital of Central Kalimantan and situated in the upstream region of the Kahayan river. Nowadays, the town has become the center of government, trade and education of the province. The Regional Museum of Palangkaraya contains a collection of historical and cultural interest from all over Central Kalimantan. The Nature Reserve of Tangkiling lies 34 km north of Palangkaraya.
Sampit: Sampit town, on the Sampit river and the capital of Sampit regency, is known as the biggest timber port in Kalimantan as well as in Indonesia. One can find many interesting tourism attractions in Sampit. Pandaran Beach is a park on the seaside at the mouth of the Sampit river. It is quite unique. On the north one can see the river emptying into the sea, while to the south is the wide expanse of the Java Sea. The Orchid Park of Pembuangan Hulu is a natural forest in which a number of rare and beautiful orchid varieties grow. Hunters can engage in their favorite pastime at the Serayan river, which borders on the hunting park of
Kotawaringin Barat.
Shopping in Kalimantan
Some of the favorite shopping items in Kalimantan are ceramic household ornaments, hand-woven silks and cottons, rattan furniture and other handicraft items made of bamboo.
Some of the favorite shopping items in Kalimantan are ceramic household ornaments, hand-woven silks and cottons, rattan furniture and other handicraft items made of bamboo.
How to Reach Kalimantan
There are regular international and domestic flights to Sepinggan Airport in Balikpapan. The airport is well connected to nearby countries such as Malaysia and Singapore and to other domestic destinations such as Jakarta, Denpasar (Bali), Semarang and Makasar.
There are regular international and domestic flights to Sepinggan Airport in Balikpapan. The airport is well connected to nearby countries such as Malaysia and Singapore and to other domestic destinations such as Jakarta, Denpasar (Bali), Semarang and Makasar.
Lombok
Lombok Island in Indonesia - Though less developed than Bali, in recent years Lombok has given Bali a run for its money in the realm of tourism. Lombok has wonderful beaches, volcano and varied landscape. It is an ideal place for those looking for a private holiday away from the hustle and bustle of a normal tourist spot.
History of Lombok
The earliest recorded society on Lombok was the relatively small kingdom of the Sasak. The Sasak people were agriculturalists and animists who practised ancestor and spirit worship. The original Sasak are believed to have come overland from northwestern India or Myanmar (Burma) in waves of migration that predated most Indonesian ethnic groups. Not much is known about Lombok before the 17th century, at which time it was split into four regions; Pagasangan, Pagutan, Mataram and Cakranegara, each ruled by a Sasak king. This disunity was exploited by the neighboring Balinese. Balinese princes ruled Lombok from the mid-18th century until the 1890s, when the Dutch sided with the Sasaks and defeated the Balinese in bloody battles. Under Dutch rule, the eastern islands of Indonesia were grouped together as the Lesser Sunda Islands, administered from Singaraja, Bali. When Sukarno proclaimed Indonesia's independence on 17 August 1945, the Lesser Sunda Islands were formed into the single province of Nusa Tenggara. In 1958, the province was divided into three separate regions - Bali, West Nusa Tenggara and East Nusa Tenggara.
Climate of Lombok
Lombok has tropical climate with average temperature ranging between 28°C and 34°C. There are two main seasons: wet (from October to April) and dry (from May to September). Humidity is high throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Lombok
The best time to visit Lombok is surprisingly during the rainy season (October - April) when humidity decreases and the landscape is lush and green. The dry season (May-September) can be particularly hot and dusty.
Lombok Tourist Attractions
Gili Islands: These small coral-fringed islands are famous for their white sandy beaches and are an ideal place for those interested in sun and sand. The place also offer wonderful opportunities for snorkeling. The absence of automobiles and hawkers add to the pleasure.
Kuta: Kuta is an upcoming beach resort of Lombok. The place offers quiet and laidback atmosphere to the tourists.
Museum Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat: This modern museum has exhibits on the geology, history and culture of Lombok and Sumbawa, and is worth visiting. If you intend to buy any antiques or handicrafts, have a look at the daggers, silver or gold-threaded cloth, basket ware and masks.
Pura Lingsar: Located 6 km east of Mataram-the capital of Lombok-this large temple complex, built in 1714, is the holiest place on Lombok. The temple combines the Balinese Hindu and Wektu Telu religions in one complex. The Hindu temple in the northern section is higher than the Wektu Telu temple in the southern section. It's an especially fascinating place for those interested in Wektu Telu, Lombok's indigenous religion.
Taman Narmada: Laid out as a miniature replica of the summit of Gunung Rinjani and its crater lake, Taman Narmada derives its name from the sacred Indian river, Narmada. Its temple, Pura Kalasa, is still used and the Balinese Pujawali celebration is held here annually.
Rinjani: Rinjani, the highest mountain in Lombok at 3,726m, is an active volcano. The volcano is a popular destination for hikers and treks to the caldera are common. The hot springs located on the northeastern side of the caldera are thought to have amazing healing powers.
Senggigi: Senggigi is the most developed tourist spot on Lombok. It has beautiful beaches and good snorkeling facilities.
Shopping in Lombok
Intricate palm-leaf wedding trunks and armoires with mother-of-pearl inlays is one of the favorite shopping items in Lombok. Bone, wood, and bamboo are good buys, along with ikat and songket, a fabric with silver and gold thread running through it that was traditionally used for sarongs worn by royalty.
How to Reach Lombok
Mataram is the capital city of Lombok, and is served by an International airport. It is also possible to reach Lombok by ferry from neighbouring Bali.
Sulawesi Island
Sulawesi Island in Indonesia - Formerly known as Celebes, Sulawesi is shaped like a tropical orchid. It is Indonesia's third-largest island with an area of 172,000 square km. The island of Sulawesi is divided into the provinces of North Sulawesi, South Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi. Sulawesi has great topographical variety-spectacular mountains, scenic coastline, lakes, rice and dense jungles-and offer wonderful opportunities for travelers.
History of Sulawesi Island
Much of Sulawesi's early history was written in old texts that can be traced back to the 13th and 14th centuries. When the Portuguese, the first western visitors, reached Sulawesi in 1511, they found Makassar a thriving cosmopolitan entre-port where Chinese, Arabs, Indians, Siamese, Javanese, and Malays came to trade their manufactured metal goods and fine textiles for precious pearls, gold, copper, camphor and, of course, the invaluable spices - nutmeg, cloves and mace which were brought from the interior and from the neighbouring Spice Islands, the present day Moluccas.
By the 16th century, Makassar had become Sulawesi's major port and centre of the powerful Gowa and Tallo sultanates. The arrival of the Dutch in the early 17th century caused an upheavel in Sulawesi. To create their hegemony over the spice trade they captured the fort of Makassar in 1667, which they rebuilt and renamed Fort Rotterdam. From this base they managed to destroy the strongholds of the Sultan of Gowa who was then forced to live on the outskirts of Makassar.
The town again became a collecting point for the produce of eastern Indonesia- the copra, rattan, pearls and sandalwood. Although the Dutch controlled the coast, it was not until the early 20th century that they gained power over the interior through a series of treaties with local rulers. Meanwhile Dutch missionaries converted many of the Toraja people to Christianity. Later on when Indonesia became independent, Sulawesi became a part of it.
Sulawesi Weather
Sulawesi has warm tropical climate with wet and dry seasons lasting approximately six months each. The dry season is from April to October and the wet season is from November to May.
Best Time To Visit Sulawesi
The best time to visit Sulawesi is during dry season from April to October. June to October offers the best chance of witnessing a major Torajanese funeral.
Places to Visit in Sulawesi
Manado: It is the capital of North Sulawesi Province. Manado offers a variety of terrain with hills, volcanic mountains and scenic plateaus.
Bunaken Sea Garden: The world famous Bunaken Marine National Park, with an area 75.26 hectares, is located very close to Manado and comprises of 5 islands: Bunaken, Manado Tua, Siladen, Mantehage and Nain. The superb diving and snokelling sites puts the Marine Park in one of the top 10 dive area of the world and is a mecca for seasoned and beginner divers alike.
Manado Tua Island: This island is the main island of the group. There is a hiking path to the top which takes several hours to climb, and offers a spectacular view of all the islands of Manado Bay. The place offers excellent opportunuties for diving and snorkeling.
Kendari: Capital of Southeast Sulawesi. It is the seat of government and tourist center of the province. It lies along the sloping hill and seaside of Kendari Bay.
Moramo Waterfall: The fall is unique in itself. It traverses a 2 km plateau, with 127 separate terraced plumes, with the top of the waterfall some 100 meters above its basin pool. the falls have seven main terraces, each with its own natural bathing pool.
Moramo Bay: This clean, pollution-free bay is only one and one half hours by car or speedboat from Kendari. The white sand beaches of Moramo Bay are host to all sorts of water activities and sports
Shopping in Sulawesi Indonesia
Some of the favorite shopping items in Sulawesi are filigree silverware and ornaments, hand-woven silks and cottons, hand carved wooden panels and pictures, bamboo household ornaments and brassware.
How to Reach Sulawesi
Makassar is the main airport. There are several flights each day from all major cities of Indonesia.
Sumatra Island
Sumatra Island in Indonesia - Sumatra is a complete tourist destination-sunny beaches, rich flora and fauna, large rivers and great history. Sumatra has the richest wildlife in Indonesia and hence it is known as "Africa of Asia". It is full of tropical rainforests and if you are a wildlife lover then Sumatra is the ideal place for you. Trekking is another option that you can opt for in Sumatra. Sumatra attracts fewer tourists than its neighbors like Java and Bali. So if you are looking for a quiet holiday away from maddening crowds then Sumatra fits the bill perfectly.
History of Sumatra Island
The first large empire to make Sumatra its home was Sri Vijaya Empire- the first Hindu kingdom of Indonesia-in the 7th century. In 10th century the Arabs established their Sultanate of Achin (now Aceh) in a part of Indonesia. By the 14th century, most of the power of Sri Vijaya Kingdom waned and Sumatra came under the direct control of Javanese rulers. Later on, in the 17th century, the Dutch established their control over Sumatra. In 1942, during Second World War, Sumatra came under the control of Japan and remained so for a year. When Indonesia attained independence and became a republic in 1949, Sumatra became a part of Indonesia. But, the Achinese protest against the Indonesian government continued and in 1958 a full-scale rebellion was launched by the army officers. Internal struggles and problems have still not waned and it is advisable to check the current situation before going to Sumatra.
Weather of Sumatra
Sumatra is located on both sides of the equator in equal halves; hence it is divided in two climatic zones. In north of equator October to April is the rainy season, while May to September is the dry season. In south of equator, rainy season is from December to February.
Best Time To Visit Sumatra Island
The best time to visit Sumatra is in September and October. It is the beginning of the rainy season and generally there are no torrential rains during this period. One can travel to inner countryside without much of a problem during this time.
Sumatra Tourist Attractions
Medan: Medan is the capital of Sumatra and an ideal gateway for those wanting to explore this island. The architecture of the city shows strong Dutch influence. Some of the better-known attractions in the city are Istana Maimoon, Masjid Raya, building of Bank Indonesia, and High Court, Bukit Barisan Military Museum, and the Museum of North Sumatra.
Berastagi: The beautiful town of Berastagi is located in karo highlands about 70km from Medan. The town is dominated by two volcanoes-Gunung Sinabung and Gunung Sibayak. There are plenty of trekking and wildlife options in Berastagi. The town is famous for its fruits, vegetables and flowers.
Lake Toba: Situated at a height of around 1000 metres above the sea level, this picturesque lake is located at a distance of 175 km from Medan. The lake surrounds the densely populated island of Samsoir and its cool upside countryside is covered with tobacco, rubber, and palm oil plantations.
Danau Ranau: The beautiful mountain lake of Danau Ranau is in the Bukit Barisan Mountains of southern Sumatra. It is one of the least spoiled of Sumatra's mountain lakes, and offers cool and quiet atmosphere.
Aceh: Aceh lies is north Sumatra. It is strikingly beautiful but not very popular among visitors as it is infested with insurgency. Islam is the predominant religion in the country and people represent different ethnicity like Chinese, Indonesian, Tamil, and Arab. Some of the popular destinations here include extension of Gunung Leuser National Park, beaches, Orang-utan rehabilitation centre (one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation centres in the world).
Shopping
One of the most popular places for shopping in Medan is Jln Jend A. Yani. The place is full of souvenir and art shops. Some of the souvenirs that you can look for here include paintings, antiques, batik, statues and carvings. Ulos (hand-woven cloths) and accessories made of seashells, boar-tusks and buffalo horns are some other good bargains here.
How To Reach Sumatra
Medan has an airport connected to Jakarta, Penang, and Singapore. Daily flights from Medan to other cities in Sumatra are available as well. Direct flights to other cities of Sumatra from Java and places outside Indonesia are also operational.
Lombok Island in Indonesia - Though less developed than Bali, in recent years Lombok has given Bali a run for its money in the realm of tourism. Lombok has wonderful beaches, volcano and varied landscape. It is an ideal place for those looking for a private holiday away from the hustle and bustle of a normal tourist spot.
History of Lombok
The earliest recorded society on Lombok was the relatively small kingdom of the Sasak. The Sasak people were agriculturalists and animists who practised ancestor and spirit worship. The original Sasak are believed to have come overland from northwestern India or Myanmar (Burma) in waves of migration that predated most Indonesian ethnic groups. Not much is known about Lombok before the 17th century, at which time it was split into four regions; Pagasangan, Pagutan, Mataram and Cakranegara, each ruled by a Sasak king. This disunity was exploited by the neighboring Balinese. Balinese princes ruled Lombok from the mid-18th century until the 1890s, when the Dutch sided with the Sasaks and defeated the Balinese in bloody battles. Under Dutch rule, the eastern islands of Indonesia were grouped together as the Lesser Sunda Islands, administered from Singaraja, Bali. When Sukarno proclaimed Indonesia's independence on 17 August 1945, the Lesser Sunda Islands were formed into the single province of Nusa Tenggara. In 1958, the province was divided into three separate regions - Bali, West Nusa Tenggara and East Nusa Tenggara.
Climate of Lombok
Lombok has tropical climate with average temperature ranging between 28°C and 34°C. There are two main seasons: wet (from October to April) and dry (from May to September). Humidity is high throughout the year.
Best Time to Visit Lombok
The best time to visit Lombok is surprisingly during the rainy season (October - April) when humidity decreases and the landscape is lush and green. The dry season (May-September) can be particularly hot and dusty.
Lombok Tourist Attractions
Gili Islands: These small coral-fringed islands are famous for their white sandy beaches and are an ideal place for those interested in sun and sand. The place also offer wonderful opportunities for snorkeling. The absence of automobiles and hawkers add to the pleasure.Kuta: Kuta is an upcoming beach resort of Lombok. The place offers quiet and laidback atmosphere to the tourists.
Museum Negeri Nusa Tenggara Barat: This modern museum has exhibits on the geology, history and culture of Lombok and Sumbawa, and is worth visiting. If you intend to buy any antiques or handicrafts, have a look at the daggers, silver or gold-threaded cloth, basket ware and masks.
Pura Lingsar: Located 6 km east of Mataram-the capital of Lombok-this large temple complex, built in 1714, is the holiest place on Lombok. The temple combines the Balinese Hindu and Wektu Telu religions in one complex. The Hindu temple in the northern section is higher than the Wektu Telu temple in the southern section. It's an especially fascinating place for those interested in Wektu Telu, Lombok's indigenous religion.
Taman Narmada: Laid out as a miniature replica of the summit of Gunung Rinjani and its crater lake, Taman Narmada derives its name from the sacred Indian river, Narmada. Its temple, Pura Kalasa, is still used and the Balinese Pujawali celebration is held here annually.
Rinjani: Rinjani, the highest mountain in Lombok at 3,726m, is an active volcano. The volcano is a popular destination for hikers and treks to the caldera are common. The hot springs located on the northeastern side of the caldera are thought to have amazing healing powers.
Senggigi: Senggigi is the most developed tourist spot on Lombok. It has beautiful beaches and good snorkeling facilities.
Shopping in Lombok
Intricate palm-leaf wedding trunks and armoires with mother-of-pearl inlays is one of the favorite shopping items in Lombok. Bone, wood, and bamboo are good buys, along with ikat and songket, a fabric with silver and gold thread running through it that was traditionally used for sarongs worn by royalty.
How to Reach Lombok
Mataram is the capital city of Lombok, and is served by an International airport. It is also possible to reach Lombok by ferry from neighbouring Bali.
Sulawesi Island
Sulawesi Island in Indonesia - Formerly known as Celebes, Sulawesi is shaped like a tropical orchid. It is Indonesia's third-largest island with an area of 172,000 square km. The island of Sulawesi is divided into the provinces of North Sulawesi, South Sulawesi and Southeast Sulawesi. Sulawesi has great topographical variety-spectacular mountains, scenic coastline, lakes, rice and dense jungles-and offer wonderful opportunities for travelers.History of Sulawesi Island
Much of Sulawesi's early history was written in old texts that can be traced back to the 13th and 14th centuries. When the Portuguese, the first western visitors, reached Sulawesi in 1511, they found Makassar a thriving cosmopolitan entre-port where Chinese, Arabs, Indians, Siamese, Javanese, and Malays came to trade their manufactured metal goods and fine textiles for precious pearls, gold, copper, camphor and, of course, the invaluable spices - nutmeg, cloves and mace which were brought from the interior and from the neighbouring Spice Islands, the present day Moluccas.
By the 16th century, Makassar had become Sulawesi's major port and centre of the powerful Gowa and Tallo sultanates. The arrival of the Dutch in the early 17th century caused an upheavel in Sulawesi. To create their hegemony over the spice trade they captured the fort of Makassar in 1667, which they rebuilt and renamed Fort Rotterdam. From this base they managed to destroy the strongholds of the Sultan of Gowa who was then forced to live on the outskirts of Makassar.
The town again became a collecting point for the produce of eastern Indonesia- the copra, rattan, pearls and sandalwood. Although the Dutch controlled the coast, it was not until the early 20th century that they gained power over the interior through a series of treaties with local rulers. Meanwhile Dutch missionaries converted many of the Toraja people to Christianity. Later on when Indonesia became independent, Sulawesi became a part of it.
Sulawesi Weather
Sulawesi has warm tropical climate with wet and dry seasons lasting approximately six months each. The dry season is from April to October and the wet season is from November to May.
Best Time To Visit Sulawesi
The best time to visit Sulawesi is during dry season from April to October. June to October offers the best chance of witnessing a major Torajanese funeral.
Places to Visit in SulawesiManado: It is the capital of North Sulawesi Province. Manado offers a variety of terrain with hills, volcanic mountains and scenic plateaus.
Bunaken Sea Garden: The world famous Bunaken Marine National Park, with an area 75.26 hectares, is located very close to Manado and comprises of 5 islands: Bunaken, Manado Tua, Siladen, Mantehage and Nain. The superb diving and snokelling sites puts the Marine Park in one of the top 10 dive area of the world and is a mecca for seasoned and beginner divers alike.
Manado Tua Island: This island is the main island of the group. There is a hiking path to the top which takes several hours to climb, and offers a spectacular view of all the islands of Manado Bay. The place offers excellent opportunuties for diving and snorkeling.
Kendari: Capital of Southeast Sulawesi. It is the seat of government and tourist center of the province. It lies along the sloping hill and seaside of Kendari Bay.
Moramo Waterfall: The fall is unique in itself. It traverses a 2 km plateau, with 127 separate terraced plumes, with the top of the waterfall some 100 meters above its basin pool. the falls have seven main terraces, each with its own natural bathing pool.
Moramo Bay: This clean, pollution-free bay is only one and one half hours by car or speedboat from Kendari. The white sand beaches of Moramo Bay are host to all sorts of water activities and sports
Shopping in Sulawesi Indonesia
Some of the favorite shopping items in Sulawesi are filigree silverware and ornaments, hand-woven silks and cottons, hand carved wooden panels and pictures, bamboo household ornaments and brassware.
How to Reach Sulawesi
Makassar is the main airport. There are several flights each day from all major cities of Indonesia.
Sumatra Island
Sumatra Island in Indonesia - Sumatra is a complete tourist destination-sunny beaches, rich flora and fauna, large rivers and great history. Sumatra has the richest wildlife in Indonesia and hence it is known as "Africa of Asia". It is full of tropical rainforests and if you are a wildlife lover then Sumatra is the ideal place for you. Trekking is another option that you can opt for in Sumatra. Sumatra attracts fewer tourists than its neighbors like Java and Bali. So if you are looking for a quiet holiday away from maddening crowds then Sumatra fits the bill perfectly.History of Sumatra Island
The first large empire to make Sumatra its home was Sri Vijaya Empire- the first Hindu kingdom of Indonesia-in the 7th century. In 10th century the Arabs established their Sultanate of Achin (now Aceh) in a part of Indonesia. By the 14th century, most of the power of Sri Vijaya Kingdom waned and Sumatra came under the direct control of Javanese rulers. Later on, in the 17th century, the Dutch established their control over Sumatra. In 1942, during Second World War, Sumatra came under the control of Japan and remained so for a year. When Indonesia attained independence and became a republic in 1949, Sumatra became a part of Indonesia. But, the Achinese protest against the Indonesian government continued and in 1958 a full-scale rebellion was launched by the army officers. Internal struggles and problems have still not waned and it is advisable to check the current situation before going to Sumatra.
Weather of Sumatra
Sumatra is located on both sides of the equator in equal halves; hence it is divided in two climatic zones. In north of equator October to April is the rainy season, while May to September is the dry season. In south of equator, rainy season is from December to February.
Best Time To Visit Sumatra Island
The best time to visit Sumatra is in September and October. It is the beginning of the rainy season and generally there are no torrential rains during this period. One can travel to inner countryside without much of a problem during this time.
Sumatra Tourist Attractions
Medan: Medan is the capital of Sumatra and an ideal gateway for those wanting to explore this island. The architecture of the city shows strong Dutch influence. Some of the better-known attractions in the city are Istana Maimoon, Masjid Raya, building of Bank Indonesia, and High Court, Bukit Barisan Military Museum, and the Museum of North Sumatra.Berastagi: The beautiful town of Berastagi is located in karo highlands about 70km from Medan. The town is dominated by two volcanoes-Gunung Sinabung and Gunung Sibayak. There are plenty of trekking and wildlife options in Berastagi. The town is famous for its fruits, vegetables and flowers.
Lake Toba: Situated at a height of around 1000 metres above the sea level, this picturesque lake is located at a distance of 175 km from Medan. The lake surrounds the densely populated island of Samsoir and its cool upside countryside is covered with tobacco, rubber, and palm oil plantations.
Danau Ranau: The beautiful mountain lake of Danau Ranau is in the Bukit Barisan Mountains of southern Sumatra. It is one of the least spoiled of Sumatra's mountain lakes, and offers cool and quiet atmosphere.
Aceh: Aceh lies is north Sumatra. It is strikingly beautiful but not very popular among visitors as it is infested with insurgency. Islam is the predominant religion in the country and people represent different ethnicity like Chinese, Indonesian, Tamil, and Arab. Some of the popular destinations here include extension of Gunung Leuser National Park, beaches, Orang-utan rehabilitation centre (one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation centres in the world).
Shopping
One of the most popular places for shopping in Medan is Jln Jend A. Yani. The place is full of souvenir and art shops. Some of the souvenirs that you can look for here include paintings, antiques, batik, statues and carvings. Ulos (hand-woven cloths) and accessories made of seashells, boar-tusks and buffalo horns are some other good bargains here.
How To Reach Sumatra
Medan has an airport connected to Jakarta, Penang, and Singapore. Daily flights from Medan to other cities in Sumatra are available as well. Direct flights to other cities of Sumatra from Java and places outside Indonesia are also operational.
Islamic Heritage
Islam has also contributed greatly to the cultural society in Indonesia. As of 2006, 88% of Indonesia's recorded population were Muslim. Islamic culture is prominent in Sumatra, and a few of the remaining sultanate palaces can be seen in Medan and Tanjung Pinang.
The Islamic heritage tourism is also popular, especially among Indonesian Muslims and Muslims from neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei that shared common Southeast Asian Islamic heritage. The activity usually linked with Islamic ziyarat pilgrimage to historical Islamic sites, such as historical mosques and tombs of venerated Islamic figures. However for visitors in Islamic sites, either local or foreign, Muslim or non-Muslim, the rules of conduct and dress modesty is applied, such as removing the footwear while entering mosques or makam (tombs), visitor should not entering the site wearing shorts (sarong usually lended near the entrance to cover lower torso of the visitors), and wearing kerudung (head-dress covering) for women.
In Aceh the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque and tombs of Aceh Sultanate kings is popular destination, while in Medan the Medan Great Mosque and Maimun Palace is also major Islamic heritage destination. Most of Indonesian major cities have their own historical or monumental Masjid Agung (Grand Mosque) that become city's landmark as well as tourism attraction. Istiqlal mosque, the Indonesian national mosque and the largest in Southeast Asia is Jakarta's major landmark as well as tourist attraction. In Java the ziyarat pilgrimage is usually linked to historically important Islamic figures of Wali Sanga (Nine Saints), they are important because of their historic role in the Spread of Islam in Indonesia. Their tombs and mosques scaterred along Java's north coast towns, such as Demak, Kudus, Cirebon, Gresik, to Ampel in Surabaya. The 15th century Agung Demak Mosque hailed as the first mosque established in Java. Menara Kudus Mosque is notable for incorporating Majapahit Hindu-Javanese architecture. The tomb of Sunan Gunungjati near Cirebon, is also the important ziyarat site in West Java.
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