10 Epic Places In Indonesia Even Locals Don't Know About

With more than 17,000 islands, countless mountains, expansive coastlines and an endless list of natural wonders, Indonesia will never run out of travel destinations. From a mysterious lake to remote islands, discover epic places in Indonesia that even the locals don’t know about.

Pulau Biawak

Komodo Island, the land of the mighty komodo dragon, is well-known, but not many people know about a similar island off Indramayu, West Java. Giant monitor lizards roam free, along with other exotic bird and fish species. The island is also home to a majestic lighthouse built during Indonesia’s colonial era. Pulau Biawak, or Biawak Island, is characterized by dense mangrove in the middle and stunning beaches with rich corals around the edge.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPby7qmhZU1/

1. Parangkusumo Sand Dunes

It might be surprising to learn about such sand dunes on a beautiful tropical archipelago like Indonesia. Even many locals don’t suspect that Yogyakarta hides massive sandbanks. Located near a more popular destination, the Parangkusumo Beach, this sandbank attracts travelers and adventurers to try sand-boarding in a natural landscape so rare in Indonesia.

Parangkusumo, Parangtritis, Bantul, Yogyakarta

https://www.instagram.com/p/7dBiWjihvt/

2. Pulau Pombo

Pulau Pombo, or Pombo Island, is a hidden tropical paradise in Ambon, Maluku, in the less-traveled east region of Indonesia. This small island is inhabited by pombo birds, two-colored pigeons unique to the region. As a remote pristine island, Pulau Pombo has clean white sand, lush greenery, and sparkling blue water. But the area is as beautiful underwater as it is on land, with flourishing coral adding vibrant colors to the brilliant blue ocean.

Pulau Pombo, Waai, Central Maluku Regency, Maluku

https://www.instagram.com/p/BKNfq7TjiGR/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BMAkrAIlKzV/

3. Danau Kakaban

This lake in Kakaban Island, East Kalimantan (Borneo) is also known as the jellyfish lake for an obvious reason. Danau Kakaban (Kakaban Lake) is home to at least four different species of jellyfish with one thing in common: they do not sting. So, the hundreds of jellyfish floating underwater is more of an attraction for tourists than an annoyance. They live in the rather peculiar habitat of a semi-salt-water lake trapped inside a small island. Therefore, the species living in the lake show atypical behaviors that have captivated scientists and adventurers alike.

Danau Kakaban Ubur Ubur Emas, Payung-Payung, Berau Regency, East Kalimantan

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPq8FvtAKWC/

4. Tebing Lamreh

A natural pavilion from which to enjoy a picturesque view of the coastline, cliffs, ocean, and jungles, Tebing Lamreh is a hidden paradise in the Special Region of Aceh. From this cliff, tourists can see Weh Island, the westernmost point of Indonesia, and other small islands scattered in the ocean. The cool fresh breeze and sunset views are further reasons to visit this place.

Bukit Lamreh, Lamreh, Aceh Besar Regency, Aceh

https://www.instagram.com/p/BDtbyKZEBKC/

https://www.instagram.com/p/BR8V47_jy6c/

5. Air Terjun Laguna

Air Terjun Laguna (Laguna Waterfall) is a remote attraction nestled in the middle of dense pine woods. Not many eyes have seen this place, but those who have could have sworn that this is the most beautiful waterfall in Indonesia. Surrounded by lush vegetation, exquisite birds and butterflies, and epic cliffs, this waterfall is certainly worth the long journey through the woods.

Laguna Waterfall, Sorawolio, Kota Bau-Bau, Southeast Sulawesi

https://www.instagram.com/p/BLJDY8lAmSO/

6. Beji Guwang Canyon

Market

Also known as “the hidden canyon of Beji Guwang”, this beautiful spot has managed to escape Bali’s bustling tourism scene. Some people who have been lucky enough to witness its beauty have said that you can observe various human expressions in the canyon’s curves. Located near the popular Sukawati Market and the temple of Pura Dalem Guwang, this place is considered sacred by locals.

Beji Guwang Canyon, Guwang, Gianyar, Bali

https://www.instagram.com/p/BFxeavLuCQh/

7. Edelweiss Garden of Pananjakan

Most locals (and many international tourists) have heard or witnessed the captivating beauty of Mount Bromo, an active volcano in East Java. But few have traveled the extra mile to reach the carpets of edelweiss flowers, framed by the beautiful mountain. The beauty of this savanna matches the world-famous sunrises, and tourists can actually enjoy both in one visit.

Gunung Pananjakan, Wonokitri, Pasuruan, East Java

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTOu8UYhdJj/

8. Tebing Citatah

This magnificent cliff complex remains unknown to many locals. On weekdays, some of the cliffs are occupied by the training military, proving that this is not an adventure for just anyone. In fact, you have to be a certified rock climber to even attempt to ascend to some of the cliffs. But once you do, you’ll have an unrestricted view of the city. Located in Padalarang, Bandung, this spot is near the better-known Pawon Cave and Stone Garden.

Tebing Citatah 125, Cipatat, West Bandung Regency, West Java

https://www.instagram.com/p/BJR4j2DD988/

9. Danau Idenberg

Located in the middle of the Jayawijaya ridge, the beauty of Danau Idenberg (Idenberg Lake) is reserved for those who are fit and adventurous enough to reach it. This lake is considered mysterious because sometimes the water overflows, while at other times it appears to be dry. Some mountain climbers have also reported sightings of black swans, considered odd due to the height and atmosphere. The surrounding white-flecked mountaintops are a rare sight in a tropical paradise like Indonesia.

Idenberg Lake, Carstensz Pyramid, Tembagapura, Mimika Regency, Papua

https://www.instagram.com/p/BNjSC9JjKvL/

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.