The land of diversity and flavours of life that allure one to stay longer, Indonesia is a travel destination reflecting the true spirit of Southeast Asia. A colourful palette, this island country takes one on a tour of different aspects of life that have a deep connection with nature and culture. Sure, Indonesia has developed some of its part like Bali as a tourist destination, primarily a honeymoon getaway but this country is not restricted to just this. With more than 17000 islands in possessions, Indonesia inevitably can be a travel place with plenty on offer for people on a vacation here. The scenic white sand beaches; the dense forests that are also home to the orangutans; the island of Komodo dragons; the serendipity in Bali; and the dynamism in Jakarta, adorn Indonesia in a way that it has become irresistible.
Indonesia enjoys rich biodiversity, and it only adds more charm to this island country. The national parks and forests in Indonesia give wildlife lovers a chance to sight rare and exotic flora and fauna. On the other hand, in places like West Timor Village compels one to trudge and explore something new. The experience of the ferry ride to Kalimatan or a train journey to Java all has an experience that can neither be missed nor can be forgotten. Apart from this, Indonesia travel guide offers a manicured list of places to visit for people on a family vacation where each member has something incredible to explore and imbibe. The honeymooners can find their paradise in this island nation and so can the solo travellers who have a wide array of things to do and see here.
Weather in Indonesia can be split into two seasons - wet and dry - with warm tropical temperatures averaging 28°C during the day, throughout the year. In most regions, the dry season spans from May to September, with the rains falling between October and April.
There are some regional exceptions. On Sumatra it rains from October to January in the north, and November to February in the south. Sulawesi, with its unusual shape, also experiences slightly different weather patterns and rainfall can be expected in the northern regions of the island during June and July.
Generally speaking, the best time of year to visit Indonesia is between May and September when the days are dry and sunny. However, during wet season temperatures remain high and rainfall comes in the form of intense tropical downpours that tend to last for a couple of hours and needn’t spoil your trip.
In some regions the difference between the two seasons is not extreme: Bali and Kalimantan, for example, are relatively unaffected by the season change, but the contrast typically grows as you travel further east into the Nusa Tenggara region (to the islands of Lombok, Flores and beyond) where there is a greater chance of flooding during the wet season and droughts in the dry.
It really depends on your travel plans: muddy back roads can be a problem during wet season if you intend to explore more off the beaten track locations and rough seas can render some islands inaccessible to smaller boats. The best months for diving off the coast of Bali, Lombok or the Komodo National Park are April to September, with rough seas particularly in January & February. If you plan to climb one of Indonesia's many volcanoes, such as Mt Bromo or Mt Rinjani, then dry season is recommended. Expect the temperature to cool as you climb, and pack some warmer layers.
The culture of Indonesia has been shaped by long interaction between original indigenous customs and multiple foreign influences. Indonesia is centrally-located along ancient trading routes between the Far East, South Asia and the Middle East, resulting in many cultural practices being strongly influenced by a multitude of religions, including Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity, all strong in the major trading cities. The result is a complex cultural mixture very different from the original indigenous cultures.
Examples of the fusion of Islam with Hinduism include Javanese Abangan belief, the fusion of Hinduism, Buddhism and animism in Bodha, and the fusion of Hinduism and animism in Kaharingan; others could be cited. Balinese dances have stories about ancient Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms, while Islamic art forms and architecture are present in Sumatra, especially in the Minangkabau and Aceh regions. Traditional art, music and sport are combined in a martial art form called Pencak Silat.
The Western world has influenced Indonesia in science, technology and modern entertainment such as television shows, film and music, as well as political system and issues. India has notably influenced Indonesian songs and movies. A popular type of song is the Indian-rhythmical dangdut, which is often mixed with Arab and Malay folk music.
Despite the influences of foreign culture, some remote Indonesian regions still preserve uniquely indigenous culture. Indigenous ethnic groups Mentawai, Asmat, Dani, Dayak, Toraja and many others are still practising their ethnic rituals, customs and wearing traditional clothes.
