Indonesia is a culturally enriching destination. A collection of islands full of colorful rituals, mystical dances, and gorgeous landscapes. And I got to experience all of this when my blog was selected as the Best Travel Blogs In India and was invited on a press trip by the Ministry of Tourism of The Republic of Indonesia to participate in the “Trip of Wonders 2017”. This trip was specially designed for me to experience the fascinating cultural beauty and diversity of Wonderful Indonesia. Taking the pride of being one of the Most Popular Travel Blogs In India and getting the opportunity to have visited the culturally enriched destination I take you in and around the islands of Indonesia.
First Hop (Island Of Northern Sumatra) Lake Toba & Samosir
Lake Toba and its blue-green captivating scenic beauty is a sight to behold. It’s the world largest volcanic lake. The gorgeous blue skies in contrast with the early green grains of the rice fields is indeed mesmerizing. Lake Toba is essentially the birthplace of Batak, one of the Indonesia’s indigenous tribes. The cultural nuances circling around the tribe is indeed a great cultural insight into the Indonesian society. Take a ferry ride around the Lake Toba and reach the Samosir island in the south shores of the lake. Visit the ancient cultural tribe in Batak village Huta Siallagan called the Bataks. The traditional houses, the cultural ceremonies and the traditional funeral dance with the puppets is one in a lifetime experience while visiting Indonesia.
(Island of Central Java) Solo & Semarang
Indonesia is a collection of the Islands and the most common way of transport between them is mostly though flights. The only way to reach Central Java is a flight from Jakarta. Solo And Semarang are both located in Central Java and is considered to be the cultural capitals of Java. Solo also known as Surakarta is the royal and cultural capital of the central Java. Its royal lineage and traditions shape the Javanese culture of today. Solo was the residence of the royal family of Susuhunan Pakubuwono in the 18th century. The two main tourist attraction to look out for are Keraton Sukarata Palace and Mangkunegaran Palace. These places showcase the residence of the royals and display their heirlooms. Solo is also famous for its dyed fabric called Batik. If in Solo one cannot miss visiting the Danar Hadi Batik Museum, which displays this beautiful handmade fabric from all across the world. While the city of Semarang is heavily inspired by the Dutch. One such influence of the colonial power which lead to urban growth was the Dutch East Indian Railway Company Headquarters in the 1800’s. Now at present, called Lewang Sewu is one of the most visited tourist places in Semarang.The Dutch architectural beauty is so evidently portrayed in Lewang Sewu, that all the high rise ceilings huge wooden doors and windows takes you into the architectural history of Netherlands. Not just Lewang Sewu, walking down the streets of Semarang is no less than a time travel experience.
(Island of South Sulawesi) Tana Toraja
Experienced the ancient cave cemetery of the indigenous group of Torajans was a surreal experience indeed. Toraja means “people of the highlands”. Toraja is home to an indigenous group called Torajans or as locals call Tanah Toraja. It is located in the highlands of South Sulawesi. The first thing you see the moment you step in Toraja village is the boat-shaped rooftops.You can experience the complexities of the funeral by taking the tour of the village and Londa caves.This was the most creepy yet very interesting bit of the tour, inside the burial caves. A local guide will help you with the tour through the dark grave caves by oil lamp. Many graves are so old that the coffin has rotted away, leaving a pile of bones covered with cigarettes that family leaves when they come to visit.
By far this press trip to Indonesia is one of the most sought-after FAM trips, I’ve taken as a travel blogger.P.S we are also amongst the Top Ten Food Bloggers in India. Do read our Blog Salt and Sandals to pamper the foodie in you.
