Must-see famous landmarks in Indonesia beyond Bali

Mas Bellboy
28 Oct 2025 - 8 min read

Indonesia is so much more than just Bali; it's a vast archipelago, packed with rushing waterfalls, historic temples, soaring volcanoes and colourful coral reefs.

Known for its diversity, the country boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, languages and customs. Each island has its own unique character, making Indonesia a fascinating place to explore, with thousands of islands waiting to be discovered.

Among Indonesia's most iconic landmarks are Borobudur Temple, Prambanan Temple, Komodo Island, Raja Ampat, Mount Bromo, Tana Toraja, Lake Toba, and Bunaken Marine Park. But this is just a glimpse of what Indonesia has to offer in terms of history, culture and natural beauty.

Borobudur Temple

Where is it? 40km from Yogyajarta Stay: Find hotels in Yogyakarta Fly: Search for flights to Yogyakarta

Borobudur Temple, a 9th-century Buddhist monument in Central Java, is one of the most iconic and well-preserved ancient structures in the world. Famed for its intricate relief panels, stupas and statues, the temple provides a glimpse into Indonesia's rich history and culture. As the largest Buddhist temple in the world, Borobudur attracts many visitors from all over the world, cementing its status as a symbol of Indonesia.

Experience it:

Travel Activity

Borobudur

AU$5

AU$4

Taman Sari Water Castle

Taman Sari, located in Yogyakarta, was once the royal garden and bathing place of the Sultan of Yogyakarta. Located close to the Kraton, the garden was designed for various purposes, including rest, meditation, work and defence for the Sultan's family. Over time, only some of the original buildings remained.

Today, parts of Taman Sari have been repurposed as homes for local residents, while visitors can explore the mosque, bathing area, and underground tunnels that are now accessible to the public.

Experience it:

Kraton

Kagungan Dalem Taman Sari Keraton Yogyakarta

9.3/10

Kraton

AU$1

Prambanan Temple

Where is it? 17km from Yogyajarta Stay: Find hotels in Yogyakarta Fly: Search for flights to Yogyakarta

Located in Central Java, Prambanan Temple is a stunning 9th-century Hindu temple complex famous for its soaring towers and intricately carved stone reliefs. As one of the most remarkable historical sites in Indonesia, Prambanan rivals the fame of Borobudur Temple. Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex is an important cultural landmark and a must-visit destination for travellers.

Travel Activity

Prambanan

AU$5

AU$4

Monumen Nasional (Monas)

Where is it? In Jakarta Stay: Find hotels in Jakarta Fly: Search for flights to Jakarta

Known as Tugu Monas, this iconic Indonesian landmark stands 132 metres tall, symbolising the pride and resilience of the nation. Initiated by Indonesia's first president, Ir. Soekarno, the monument was built to honour the struggle for independence.

Construction began on 17 August 1961, and it was officially opened to the public on 12 July 1975. The signature feature of Monas is its golden flame at the top, a striking element that makes it a prominent identity in the Jakarta skyline.

Experience it:

Pinangsia

City Tour Jakarta, Old City, China Town, Monas, Istqlal, Cathedral and surrounding areas

Pinangsia

AU$34

AU$29

Mount Bromo

Where is it? 100km from Surabaya Stay: Find a hotel near Mount Bromo Fly: Search for flights to Surabaya

Mount Bromo, located in East Java within the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, is one of Indonesia's most famous and active volcanoes. With an elevation of 2,329 metres, the mountain attracts hikers and photographers around the world with its stunning landscape, especially at sunrise.

The volcano is located in the Tengger caldera, surrounded by the Sand Sea, a vast expanse of black volcanic sand. Visitors can walk across this dramatic terrain or go on horseback to enjoy unique panoramas of this stunning natural wonder, making a trip to Bromo an unforgettable experience.

Experience it:

Travel Activity

Bromo (AREA)

AU$40

AU$30

Lake Toba

Where is it? 175km from Medan Stay: Find a hotel near Lake Toba Fly: Search for flights to Medan

Lake Toba, located in Sumatra, is the largest volcanic lake in the world, with an area of more than 1,145 square kilometres and a depth of 450 metres. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, traditional Batak villages and the picturesque Samosir Island, it is the largest lake in Southeast Asia and one of the deepest in the world.

Formed by a massive eruption some 75,000 years ago, the lake sits 900 metres above sea level amidst volcanic peaks. Its stunning beauty, combined with winding mountain roads, rich history and unique cultural traditions, make Lake Toba one of Indonesia's most stunning natural wonders.

Experience it:

Parapat

Lake Toba Tour

9.5/10

Parapat

AU$55

AU$53

Komodo Island

Where is it? About 45km off the coast of Labuan Bajo Stay: Find a hotel in Labuan Bajo Fly: Search for flights to Labuan Bajo

Komodo Island, part of Komodo National Park, is famous for being home to Komodo dragons, the largest lizards in the world. The rugged terrain and diverse wildlife on the island make it an attractive tourist destination. The park features dramatic volcanic islands with steep, sunburnt hillsides, surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, mangrove forests and tropical beaches.

Alongside the famous Komodo dragons, the park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including wild horses, birds, monkeys, fruit bats, wild boars, civets and snakes. It is a paradise for nature lovers, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing, trekking, swimming and diving.

The waters of the national park are teeming with marine life, including turtles, dolphins, sharks and more than 1,000 species of fish, making it a haven for underwater exploration. A number of boat trips also offer scenic routes between islands and across the stunning sea.

Experience it:

Travel Activity

Labuan Bajo

AU$138

AU$132

Green Canyon

Hidden at the end of the winding mountain roads and forest trails of West Java, the meanders through the rocky valley between Pengandaran and Batu Karas. Over thousands of years, rainwater from the forested highlands has carved deep chasms in the rock, creating the stunning Green Canyon.

This natural wonder features winding paths with bubbling streams, white-water rapids and tranquil pools, all surrounded by impressive rock formations, vines and dense forests. Visitors can fully experience the beauty of Green Canyon by enjoying activities such as rafting, trekking and surfing.

Experience it:

Travel Activity

Batu Karas

See Price

Islands in Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat

Talking about Indonesia's natural beauty would not be complete without talking about , which is a sanctuary for marine life and a treasure trove of coral reefs, with crystal clear waters and pristine coral reefs that serve as breeding grounds for marine animals that inhabit the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

The area is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including manta rays, turtles, seahorses, sharks, tuna and squid, as well as 540 species of coral, more than 1,000 species of reef fish, 13 species of mammals and 700 species of molluscs. It is one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world.

Experience it:

Raja Ampat Regency

Raja Ampat Tour (Piaynemo) - 1 Day

10.0/10

Raja Ampat Regency

AU$202

AU$179

Istiqlal Mosque

Istiqlal Mosque

Where is it? In Jakarta Stay: Find hotels in Jakarta Fly: Search for flights to Jakarta

The , designed by Indonesian architect Frederich Silaban, blends modern and traditional Islamic architecture, with its most prominent feature being its large and impressive dome.

As the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, it attracts many visitors, especially during major Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, when public figures, including presidents, come to worship. Visitors can feel the peaceful atmosphere as they explore this historic mosque, which was built in honour of Indonesia's independence.

Experience it: Istiqlal Mosque is open to visitors of all faiths, outside of prayer times.

Traditional Toraja Houses, Tongkonan

Where is it? Various locations, with replicas in Jakarta Stay: Find hotels in Jakarta Fly: Search for flights to Jakarta

Tongkonan houses are the main cultural symbol of the Toraja people in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. These traditional houses built on tall columns with distinctive boat-shaped roofs are the centre of Torajan life and rituals.

Made of wood, brightly coloured and influenced by Dong Son motifs, the houses are divided into three sections: the upper section for ancestors and treasures, the middle section for living quarters, and the lower section for livestock. The structures represent the Torajan worldview, symbolising the heavenly, earthly and underworld realms. These unique houses reflect the deep connection between the Torajan people and their heritage and beliefs.

While you can travel to remove South Sulawesi, replicas of the traditional Toraja houses are also at Taman Mini Indonesia in Jakarta.

Experience it:

Taman Mini

Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (TMII) Tickets

9.3/10

Taman Mini

AU$2

Lawang Sewu

Where is it? In Semarang Stay: Find hotels in Semarang Fly: Search for flights to Semarang

Semarang has several famous attractions, such as Sam Poo Kong Temple and Immanuel Church, but is the city's iconic landmark. Its architecture is reminiscent of Dutch buildings, a reflection of Indonesia's colonial past when the Dutch left a significant cultural legacy, with Lawang Sewu being one of the most prominent examples.

Experience it:

Central Semarang

Historic Building Lawang Sewu Tickets

9.0/10

Central Semarang

AU$2

Pagaruyung Palace

Where is it? About 100km from Padang Stay: Find hotels nearby Fly: Search for flights to Padang

In West Sumatra, the Kingdom of Pagaruyung no longer exists, but its legacy lives on through Pagaruyung Palace. This royal residence features typical West Sumatra architecture, with its unique roof design seen in many buildings across the province. Visitors can also experience local traditions by renting traditional costumes during their visit to the palace.

To see more Indonesian Landmarks, Book your Indonesia Experience with Traveloka Activities.

Travel tips for Aussie visitors

The best time to visit Indonesia's landmarks

Typically, April to September is considered the best time to visit many parts of Indonesia, including Bali, Java, and Lombok. During this time, you will encounter less rainfall and more favourable weather conditions for exploring these iconic landmarks, outdoor activities and general sightseeing.

Navigating the Indonesian archipelago

Indonesia has a limited but expanding train network, with Java being the primary hub for train travel. The most famous train journey is the Jakarta to Yogyakarta route, passing through scenic landscapes.

Domestic flights are the most efficient option for long-distance travel between major islands. Indonesia has numerous airports, and many cities are well-connected.

Popular airports include Jakarta (Soekarno-Hatta International Airport), Bali (Ngurah Rai International Airport), and Yogyakarta (Adisutjipto International Airport).

Cultural etiquette and norms to be aware Of

Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are not common and may be considered inappropriate in some areas.

Use your right hand for giving and receiving objects, as the left hand is considered impolite. This includes gestures like handing over money or accepting gifts.

Explore Indonesia's beautiful landmarks beyond the tourist trail

Indonesia offers a wide variety of incredible landmarks that go far beyond the famous beauty of Bali. From ancient temples and historical sites to stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural experiences, there is so much more to explore in this rich archipelago.

Don't miss the chance to discover these hidden gems for yourself. Start planning your adventure today and book flights, hotels, car rentals, and entrance tickets to various exciting attractions in Indonesia through Traveloka, your trusted partner for all your travel needs!

Hotels
Flights
Things to Do
NewsletterForm.titleMessage
NewsletterForm.subtitleMessage
NewsletterForm.subscribeButton