Bali is one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia and the world due to its diverse landscapes, forests, beautiful beaches, and vibrant spiritual culture. Also known as the Land of the Gods, Bali appeals through its sheer natural beauty of looming volcanoes and lush terraced rice fields that exude peace and serenity

Kuta is one of Bali's most well-known beaches. Along this stretch, there are a variety of hotels, restaurants, shops, and cafes. The area comes alive in the evenings to the beat of disco music. For a more peaceful evening, visit Jimbaran Beach, a popular spot for fresh barbecued seafood. Seminyak is home to five-star international hotels and luxurious accommodations, as well as fine dining establishments. Sanur Beach is also home to a number of hotels and restaurants. You can also go to Nusa Dua, which has more private beaches in front of super-luxurious hotels.

Oriental cultures have a lovely essence that distinguishes them from the rest of the world. And that essence is best experienced in Bali. This soil's culture is the symbol of the tripartite concept known as Tri Hita Karana, which means a beautiful harmony between man, God, and the environment. This beautiful understanding of life is at the heart of the culture that they maintain even today, and Bali has progressed in lockstep with time to be on par with the rest of the world in every way.

• How to reach Bali: Take a flight from your country to Ngurah Rai International Airport or Denpasar Airport in Bali to reach the destination.
• Best time to visit Bali: June-August
• Places to stay in Bali: Nandini Jungle Resort & Spa, Halaman Depan Hotel, Hotel Restu, and Hanging Gardens Of Bali.
• Best restaurants in Bali: Restaurant Locavore, Mamasan Bali, and Spice Mantraa Indian Cuisine
• Location: Bali, Indonesia

For all travellers, the question of how many islands there are in Indonesia is self-evident. There are many, but Mount Batur is one of the most well-known. The trek to the top of Mount Batur, one of the most visited volcanic sites, is arduous but well worth it for the breathtaking views of the still-active volcano. The scenery is breathtaking and if you manage to climb up here early in the morning, you will be rewarded in every way. The sun rises in the early morning hours and offers an incredible colour show that you shouldn’t miss.

Mount Batur is the most active volcano on the island, while Lake Batur is the largest lake and plays an important role in the lives of the locals. Nature lovers can enjoy magnificent sunrise treks to the top of sacred Mt. Batur, bike tours through rice terraces and coffee plantations near Lake Batur, or take boat trips on the lake from Trunyan village when visiting this region. Another highlight is a visit to some old Balinese villages around the lake to learn about their traditional way of life and to take in the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.

• How to reach Mount Batur: Take a flight to Denpasar Airport and then take a bus from Ubud to Kintamani to reach Mount Batur.
• Best time to visit Mount Batur: May-July
• Places to stay in Mount Batur: Volcano Terrace Bali and Triangle House Mount Batur
• Best restaurants in Mount Batur: Grand Puncak Sari Restaurant and The Amore Bali
• Location: Mount Batur, Bali, Indonesia

The Raja Ampat Islands, which are more than 1500 islands off the coast of Sorong, are sparsely populated. Raja Ampat is without a doubt one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia, with its sublime scenery of steep, jungle-covered islands, fine white-sand beaches, hidden lagoons, eerie caves, strange mushroom-shaped islets, and pellucid turquoise waters.

Obviously, there are numerous diving and snorkelling spots to choose from in these vast waters. The Kabui Passage (the very narrow passage between Waigeo and Gam Island crossed around by the famous British explorer, Alfred Russell Wallace in 1860), Arborek Island's Dock, Sawandarek, Yenbuba, and Friwen Wall are the best diving spots.

However, unadulterated beauty isn't the only thing that draws people here. Raja Ampat also has a plethora of wildlife, including a couple of species of birds of paradise that dance in the trees and a diversity of marine life and coral reef systems that are a diver's dream come true. Although diving is the most popular activity, kayaking and trekking are also enjoyable. Kayak through jungle-green limstone karsts or schlep through virgin rainforests to gaze out over landscapes that few will ever see.

• How to reach Raja Ampat Islands: Take a flight to Sorong and then take a ferry to Waisai in Raja Ampat Islands.
• Best time to visit Raja Ampat Islands: October-April
• Places to stay in Raja Ampat Islands: Papua Paradise Eco Resort and Kri Eco Resort
• Best restaurants in Raja Ampat Islands: Warung Cahaya Bone Waisai Raja Ampat, Warung Prasmanan Raja Ampat, and Rumah Makan Pondok Lesehan
• Location: West Papua, Indonesia

Gili Islands, yet another paradise for scuba divers and honeymooners, has gained a lot of name and fame among travelers from all over the world. Gili Islands is an ideal destination for those looking for a place to spend time with their loved ones. White sandy beaches, tropical coral reefs, and warm inviting waters await you on Lombok's Gili islands. And, with no cars, motorcycles, or distractions other than beautiful tropical island scenery, the Gili islands off the northwest coast of Lombok are truly an ideal tropical getaway destination.

Gili islands, once a backpacker's paradise with basic beach huts and simple bars serving concoctions that offer 'free lunar transport,' has undergone dramatic changes in the last five years and now caters to a decidedly more upmarket crowd, often with family, all seeking that tropical island experience with the luxuries of home. Aside from the laid-back beach culture, scuba diving is the main draw of the island, with a number of professional dive centres offering courses and fun dives.

• How to reach Gili Islands: The best way to reach Gili Islands is to take a flight to Lombok’s airport and then take a taxi to the destination.
• Best time to visit Gili Islands: September-November
• Places to stay in Gili Islands: Vila Ombak Hotel, Les Villas Ottalia Gili Meno, and Aston Sunset Beach Resort.
• Best restaurants in Gili Islands: Kayu Cafe and Karma Kaya.
• Location: Lombok, Indonesia

Bunaken Island, home to the most exotic Bunaken National Marine Park and 70 percent of the entire fish species reserve in the Indo-Western Pacific Ocean, is invariably at the top of the list for scuba divers and snorkelers. People travel from all over the world to dive here. Divers will be wowed by the massive walls covered in magnificent coral in crystal clear water. The seafloor around Bunaken Island is also extremely deep, reaching up to 1600 metres. It adds to the uniqueness of this destination! Divers will be able to swim beneath the sea and frolic joyfully while admiring the sea creatures, with approximately 20 dive sites to choose from. Because of the numerous dive sites near Bunaken and Manado Tua, the majority of diving takes place in these areas.

The transparent waters of the Bunaken seas allow visitors to see a variety of sea biota up close. There are 13 coral reef species in this island, with the most appealing view being the steep vertical sloppy coral reef that plunges down as deep as 25-50 metres. This location is also well-known for its local liquor, Cap Tikus. All travellers who enjoy relaxing with their friends while sampling local delicacies should visit this island.

• How to reach Bunaken: Arrive at Manado and take a 50-minutes boat ride to Bunaken Island.
• Best time to visit Bunaken: June-October
  
• Places to stay in Bunaken: Mamaling Resort Bunaken, Bastianos Bunaken Dive Resort, and Froggies Divers Bunaken
• Best restaurants in Bunaken: Mougie Restaurant and Restoran Nelson Bunaken
• Location: Sulawesi, Indonesia

Flores is one of the most fascinating and beautiful islands in Indonesia. Long hidden in the shadows of its more famous neighbour Bali, Flores is finally emerging as a distinct destination in its own right. Flores is well-known for its adventure activities such as diving, eco-tours, and mountain climbing, which are interspersed with visits to prehistoric heritage sites, traditional villages, and cultural events.

Here, you can swim in pristine lakes and waterfalls, dive at one of the 50 spectacular dive sites, go kayaking among craggy coasts and mangrove shores, explore mysterious caves and be warmly welcomed by the island’s people in their rituals, dances and daily life. The changing colours of the water in Mount Kelimutu's crater lakes are another attraction on Flores Island. This is the reason why Flores Island has been able to bag the title of one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia.

• How to reach Flores Island: Reach Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali and from Denpasar you can take a direct flight to Labuan Bajo.
• Best time to visit Flores Island: Mid-April - Mid-October
• Places to stay in Flores Island: Cinnamon Guesthouse, Bintang Flores Hotel, and Eco Tree O’tel
• Best restaurants in Flores Island: La Cucina and Happy Banana Komodo
• Location: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia

Banda Islands, one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia, is well-known for its spices, particularly nutmeg. Also known as the Spice Islands, much like any other island, it is famous for various hiking and other water sports such as surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Furthermore, with Dutch colonial houses, crumbling forts, stunning tropical scenery, and some of the world's most pristine and diverse coral reefs, Bandas provide a true sense of historical excitement.

Banda Neira is the largest town in the Bandas and has a bustling local market where all of the aromas, souvenirs are concentrated. Colonial Dutch architecture is visible, and while many are in ruins, others have been restored and exude faded grandeur. This remote cluster of eleven picturesque islands is one of the best in Indonesia, combining raw natural beauty and a warm local heart. The 11 Bandas are an exceptional destination in Indonesia, with a quiet colonial-era ambiance and a sapphire sea brimming with exquisite corals and abundant life.

• How to reach Banda Island: To reach Banda Island, you will first have to reach Ambon from where you can take a fast ferry and reach the destination in 5-6 hours.
• Best time to visit Banda Island: November-March
• Places to stay in Banda Island: Cilu Bintang Estate, Allan Bungalow, and The Maulana
• Best restaurants in Banda Island: Mukusu Restaurant and Green View Restaurant
• Location: Maluku Regency, Indonesia

The most beautiful beaches can be found on the Bangka-Belitung Islands. It's difficult not to linger on the beauty of its impeccable pristine beaches, blue waters, and natural granite rock structures. After the success of the Indonesian box office film Laskar Pelangi or Rainbow Troops, this island is now determined to become one of the world's best Geoparks.

The virgin beaches have yet to be tainted by the influx of heavy tourism-driven traffic that would detract from their pristine beauty. Bangka-Belitung has a well-developed road network that connects the main islands' coastal and inland areas. The island has a number of large seaports, the majority of which are on the Bangka coast. Domestic air service is available at Pangkalpinang and Tanjungpandan. Tourism is expected to act as a catalyst in spreading knowledge and awareness of this one-of-a-kind natural wonder.

• How to reach Bangka-Belitung Islands: You will first have to reach Jarkarta, Singapore or Malaysia from where you can take a direct flight to Tanjung Pandan in Belitung.
• Best time to visit Bangka-Belitung Islands: February-March, October-November
• Places to stay in Bangka-Belitung Islands: Menumbing Heritage Hotel, Hotel Santika Premiere Beach Resort, and Novotel Bangka
• Best restaurants in Bangka-Belitung Islands: Restaurant Dynasty and Rumah Makan Fega
• Location: Bangka-Belitung, Indonesia

The Wakatobi island is a remote treasure chest of unspoiled natural beauty. Located in the Sulawesi Tenggara Province, this island is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a tranquil island getaway far from the sun-worshipping crowds. It is an excellent location for an idyllic and relaxing island getaway, away from traffic noise and significant city pollution. Wakatobi is an acronym for the islands of Wangi Wangi, Kaledupa, Tomia, and Biongko, which are located in the province of Sulawesi Tenggara. It is one of the most beautiful islands in Indonesia and a popular diving destination.

For underwater enthusiasts, Wakatobi is located at the world’s epicenter of coral reef biodiversity and is a designated UNESCO Marine Biosphere Reserve. For adrenaline junkies, take a trip to Laksa Cave located in the village of Sulla in the city of Bau-Bau. The natural wonder, which is surrounded by dry and rocky barren land, offers an impressive view of the ancient stalactites and stalagmites.

• How to reach Wakatobi Islands: Fly to Jakarta or Bali first and then take a flight to Wangi-Wangi Island. From this island, you can take a ferry ride or a private boat to the destination.
• Best time to visit Wakatobi Islands: March-December
• Places to stay in Wakatobi Islands: Tomia Villa, Wakatobi Patuna Resort, Labore Stay, and Wakatobi Dive Resort.
• Best restaurants in Wakatobi Islands: Wasabinua Hotel & Dive Resort, Ampupu Beach Resort, and Warung Makan D’Bantea
• Location: Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia

If you've had your fill of beach activities and want to learn more about Indonesia's culture, you should head to Yogyakarta. Here, you can see and taste the vibrant crafts as well as the delicious oriental cuisine. Yogyakarta is undeniably one of the most beautiful cities in Indonesia, with Mount Merapi at its back and the vast Indian Ocean ahead of it.

The main draw, however, is its vibrant culture, remnants of ancient temples, and myths and legends brought to life through dance shows and artwork. Yogyakarta is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual receptivity. The ancient Hindu temples of Prambanan resemble hand-sanded castles, while the Sultan's palace resembles a gilded music box filled with jewels. Famous for its arts and crafts, Yogyakarta is a cultural center, a hub for traditional and modern puppetry.

• How to reach Yogyakarta: You can reach Yogyakarta by taking a flight till Bali and then reach Sumatra Island to get to Yogyakarta.
• Best time to visit Yogyakarta: May-October and December
• Places to stay in Yogyakarta: Snooze Yogyakarta, Duta Guest House, and Yogyakarta BnB
• Best restaurants in Yogyakarta: Mediterranea Restaurant and Milas Vegetarian Resto
• Location: Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Ternate is a small volcanic island in Northeast Indonesia off the coast of Halmahera. It was favoured for clove trees, which were sought after as a condiment and medicine throughout Asia and Europe; Europeans even believed clove oil could ward off the plague.

Ternate's volcanic landscape has provided the island with fertile soil and beaches with black glittering sands. Today, colourful boats of various sizes can be found all over the island, lying in the shallow turquoise water and protected by swaying coconut trees. Apart from the breathtaking landscapes of Sulamadaha Beach and the awe-inspiring Volcano Gamalama, it is a popular destination for history buffs who can delve deep into the colonial reminiscences of the Portuguese, Dutch, and Spanish reigns on this land. Important landmarks include Fort Ornaje and Fort Tolukko.

• How to reach Ternate Island: You will first have to take a flight till Jakarta and from there take another flight to Ternate Island.
• Best time to visit Ternate Island: October-May
• Places to stay in Ternate Island: Grand Dafam Bela Ternate, Aini Homestay, and Villa Ma’Rasai
• Best restaurants in Ternate Island: Restoran Floridas and Royal’s Resto
• Location: Maluku, Indonesia