Indonesia 
is home to numerous lesser-known destinations that offer unique experiences beyond the popular spots like Bali and Jakarta.
Discover These 4 Hidden Gems in Indonesia:
Raja Ampat Islands: Located in West Papua, these islands are perfect for kayaking through turquoise lagoons and exploring vibrant coral reefs. The marine life here is incredibly diverse, making it a top spot for snorkeling and diving. Although a bit expensive to fly there, it is absolutely worth being there for a few days to experience a completely untouched underwater world - no wonder they call it “the last paradise”.
Flores: This island is known for the stunning Mount Kelimutu, where you can hike to witness three crater lakes that change colors due to volcanic activity. Komodo Island is also close-by where you can experience giant monitor lizards called the Komodo Dragons.
Sumatra: In the northern part of this island, you can trek through lush jungles to see wild orangutans in their natural habitat. The Gunung Leuser National Park is a prime location for these encounters and offers an immersive jungle experience. Besides, Sumatra is the closest part of Indonesia, to ‘neighbouring’ India (particularly Andaman & Nicobar Islands as you’ll notice on the map) - so you may discover a lot more of Indo-Indian culture there that’s evolved over centuries. And the most beautiful islands of Mentawai are located here - it is also home to the unique Mentawai tribe.
Yogyakarta: This city on Java island is a cultural hub, rich with ancient temples like Borobudur (Buddhist) and Prambanan (Hindu) - which is quite stunning to know, was built nearly a thousand years ago! It also offers traditional dance performances and local crafts, providing a deep dive into Javanese-Indonesian culture. There are many hidden pieces of traditional architecture inside the many criss-crossing alleys of the old town area.
Some other hidden gems across the country:
- Nusa Ceningan Island (near Nusa Penida)
- Kupang, East Nusa Tengara Timor
- Sumba, East Nusa Tengara Timor
- Sulawesi, Borneo (Sunda Islands)
These hidden gems highlight Indonesia’s natural beauty and cultural diversity. Share your own experiences and photos of these or other hidden spots using #HiddenGemsofIndonesia to inspire more travelers to explore the lesser-known wonders of this incredible country.
