A trip to the Island of the Gods, or
Bali as it is more commonly known, is not complete without experiencing its spiritual and cultural attractions. While loud and lairy backpackers are best sticking to Kuta, there are plenty of historical UNESCO sites in other parts of this Indonesian archipelago that lure travellers looking for a more authentic Balinese experience.
Visit the art galleries
Jakarta’s diversity extends well to the bustling art scene. Different inspirations and stories are depicted through various artworks, media, and style. From classic to contemporary, public museums to private galleries, the best artworks in
Jakarta serve as blueprints of the nation’s culture and history. If you are interested in Indonesia’s history of art, visit the National Gallery and be awed by 1,700 impressive artworks from different eras. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara (MACAN) is the newest and popular addition to the scene, showcasing contemporary arts from Indonesia and around the world.
Explore the Trimurti at Prambanan Temple
Built in the 9th Century, Prambanan is a series of temple shrines dedicated to the expression of God as the creator, sustainer and destroyer. A staggering 47 meters high, this unique Indonesian temple was once covered by the jungle and lost to ruin until an adventurous Dutchman re-discovered the temple in 1733.
Visit Prambanan for a crash course in Indonesia’s grand and complex architectural wonders! Named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991, Prambanan Temple is a historical site frequently compared to Angkor Wat.
Explore the Jakarta Old Town
Once one of the most prominent neighbourhoods during colonial era, Jakarta’s Kota Tua (Old Town) is a slice of history in the bustling metropolitan. The area is packed with old government buildings and trade centers kept alive as museums and heritage sites. From riding a colourful bicycle through Fatahillah Square to taking pictures inside the quirky Rumah Akar, you can conveniently explore the Old Town’s highlights just by strolling around the area.
Discover the Cannibalistic Past of Indonesia’s Batak Tribe in Lake Toba
The Batak people are another of Indonesia’s many tribes, concentrated around Lake Toba in Sumatra. Lake Toba was the site of the earth’s last super-volcanic eruption and makes for a fascinating visit. Throughout Indonesian history, the Batak people were among the fiercest warriors. Today, they continue to practice a patriarchal clan culture emphasizing lineage and marriage. Visit Samosir village to discover their unique homes, which are shaped like boats and decorated with fertility symbols.
You will also learn about their past, during which some tribes would eat the flesh of their enemies to ingest their soul and increase their own strength in the process. Make sure to sit in the stone chairs of the tribal council and experience the unique culture of Sumatra for yourself.
Visit Ubud
Ubud is without a doubt the main cultural hub of Bali. The list of historical and cultural attractions here is endless, ranging from the Sacred Monkey Wild life sanctuary to the stunning Botanical Gardens. There is also the plethora of museums, restaurants and markets displaying traditional arts and crafts for travellers to take in. And of course, Ubud Palace.
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Must-visit attractions in Ubud, Bali
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