So guys I am back from visiting Indonesia and it has been one of my most memorable trips. I have experienced quite a few beautiful places which I am going to list below. You can also participate in a quiz which will allow you an all expenses paid trip to Indonesia. Click on the link at the end of the article.
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Lake Toba and Samosir Island
Lake Toba 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. The Cedar forest covering the steep slopes of the volcano makes it a must visit. 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.
Solo
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. Being a street explorer one thing which fascinated me above all was the ways of commute used by the locals. Walking down, one cannot miss the old railway line running simultaneously along the roads of Solo. It usually called as a steam train by the locals. It’s a traditional steam train from the colonial era and runs between two very small points. One can still ride on the train to experience the old colonial vibe of the city. If exploring street markets, buying antiques, artefacts and leathers interests you, then taking a rickshaw ride and making a stop at Pasar Gede for shopping will be a good choice.
Semarang
Semarang is the largest capital and the port city on the north coast of Central Java, Indonesia. Founded by the Dutch colonial power since the 1900’s, the architectural nuances of Semarang are heavily inspired by the Dutch. One such influence of the colonial power with 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. Lawang Sewu in Javanese means thousand of doors. Although it doesn’t have thousands of doors since this massive building had doors and large windows, which made the locals back then mistake it as doors. The Dutch architectural beauty is so evidently portrayed in Lewang Sewu. 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. Right from roads to buildings and the ambience around takes you to the European era. Semarang gives you a colonial nostalgia and is unique of Indonesia.
Tana Toraja
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. Toraja’s is a spectacular site to visit when visiting Indonesia. The first thing you see the moment you step in Toraja village is the boat shaped rooftops. These house like structures are called Tnan. The exterior of Tnan is pilled with buffalo horns, signifying the wealth inherited by the family. The bigger and more in number, the richer you are and holds a high status in the tribe. E Tna is not used to live in but rather used for the crematory ceremonial purpose. The Torajans have the most complex funeral system in the world. Each of the ceremonial ceremonies cost up to whopping tens of thousands of dollars. You can experience the complexities of the funeral by taking the tour of the village and Londa caves. A local guide will take you on a 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.
Warning: The creepy skulls might freak you out.
Uluwatu Temple, Bali
Uluwatu in Bali is a Hindu temple. The fascinating part is the location of this temple. Also known as the Balinese Sea temple, it’s perched on a cliff over looking the massive Indian Ocean. It is dedicated to Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in his manifestation as Rudra. Its unique architecture and defined wood carvings are a beauty to admire. The sunset scene in Uluwatu is one of the most visited sites by the tourist. With the sun setting over the Indian Ocean, orange skies combines with deep blue colour of the ocean and the sound of thunder waves makes a perfect setting.
Besides the beautiful sunset, one can enjoy ‘The Kecak Fire Dance’, Bali’s most iconic art performances over the sunset in the premises of Uluwatu Temple. Beware of the notorious monkeys, so heads up and all alert, while going up there.
While visiting Indonesia, you will be able to check out some of the exotic yet offbeat destinations. Do tell us your favourites in the comments below.
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