Hidden Gems Beyond Bali

"When people think of Indonesia, they often picture Bali’s sunny beaches and Instagram-worthy rice terraces. But beyond the Island of Gods lies a vast archipelago brimming with untouched nature, rich culture, and soul-stirring adventures".

I still remember the first time I stepped off a boat onto the white sandy shore of Belitung Island—it felt like I had walked into a postcard. No crowds, no traffic, just the sound of waves gently kissing granite boulders that looked like ancient sculptures. That was the moment I realized: Indonesia is far more than Bali.

Let me take you on a journey to discover some of Indonesia’s most underrated yet unforgettable travel destinations.

🌊1. Belitung – The Maldives of Indonesia

Located off the east coast of Sumatra, Belitung is a serene island known for its surreal granite rock formations and crystal-clear waters. The beaches here are stunning, but what makes it special is how empty they often are—like you’re on your own private island.

Must-visit:

1. Tanjung Tinggi Beach

2. Lengkuas Island (with a 19th-century lighthouse)

3. Kaolin Lake (a surreal turquoise former mining lake)

🌋 2. Toraja, South Sulawesi – Where Death is a Celebration

Forget what you know about funerals. In Tana Toraja, funerals are grand, joyful, and deeply spiritual ceremonies that can last for days. The architecture alone—with its buffalo horn-adorned houses and boat-shaped roofs—feels like something from a fantasy world.

Don’t miss:

1. Londa Burial Caves

2. Kete Kesu’ traditional village

3. A traditional Torajan funeral (if you’re lucky to witness one)

🌳 3. Banyuwangi – Java’s Best-Kept Secret

Just a short ferry ride from Bali, Banyuwangi is still flying under the radar, but that won’t last long. It's home to Kawah Ijen, where blue flames light up a volcanic crater, and sulfur miners hike at night beneath stars.

Top attractions:

1. Kawah Ijen (blue fire & turquoise acid lake)

2. De Djawatan Forest (resembling scenes from Lord of the Rings)

3. Red Island Beach – surfing paradise without the crowd

🛶 4. Derawan Islands – Untouched Paradise in Borneo

If you're craving marine life encounters without the usual tourist rush, head to East Kalimantan. Derawan is a string of islands with everything: manta rays, sea turtles, even jellyfish lakes where the stings don’t hurt.

Experiences to remember:

1. Swimming with turtles in Sangalaki

2. Snorkeling in Kakaban’s stingless jellyfish lake

3. Diving in Maratua’s coral walls

🍃 5. Wae Rebo Village – A Hidden Mountain Haven

Located high in the mountains of Flores, Wae Rebo is a traditional village where life slows down. Electricity is limited, WiFi is non-existent, and yet—this might be the most connected you’ll feel in a long time.

Why go?

1. Experience indigenous Manggarai culture

2. Sleep in a traditional cone-shaped house (Mbaru Niang)

3. Stargaze like never before

💡 Why These Hidden Gems Matter

Tourism in Indonesia is growing, but it's largely concentrated in Bali. By exploring lesser-known places, you're not just avoiding the crowd—you’re supporting local economies and helping preserve traditions that are at risk of fading.

You’ll also return home with stories that few others can tell. Stories of sulfur miners at dawn, quiet beaches with no footprints, and meals cooked over fire in homes that don't have walls.

🧭 Final Thought: The Real Magic Lies Beyond the Guidebook

Bali will always be beautiful, but Indonesia’s true soul is scattered across thousands of islands waiting to be explored. So next time you plan a trip to Southeast Asia, dare to look beyond the beaten path. You might just find your own paradise, like I did.

Ready to explore Indonesia like never before?

Tell me which destination caught your eye—or better yet, book that ticket. Adventure awaits.