The world’s most expansive archipelago is not without its fair share of attractions. The natural landscapes found across the 18,000 islands of Indonesia provide a haven for ancient draws, national monuments, colonial splendors and a host of Mother Nature’s finest masterpieces. Explore the old volcanic craters in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park with enchanting beauty and power. For a more traditional manmade creation, stop by the Monas monument, which is the National Monument that commemorates the political history of the country.

Borobudur

Located in Central Java, close to the city of Yogyakarta, lie the ancient marvels of Borobudur. The site is home to the largest Buddhist structure on Earth, complete with a phenomenal array of stupas. No one knows why Borobudur was built or who built it, but its beauty has made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Decorated with statues and stone carvings across its face, Borobudur can be seen on a guided tour. The sunrise tour is the best way to see the landmark, as the rising sun makes for a spectacularly backdrop to the edifice. Getting to Borobudur is best achieved by bus from Yogyakarta. Address: Borobudur Temple, Borobudur, Central Java, Indonesia Phone: +62-274-496-402 Website: http://www.borobudurpark.com/

Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park

Resting in the eastern reaches of Java, the volcanically-active Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park is one of the most-visited attractions in the country. Be astounded by the beauty of Tengger caldera, which now boasts five massive volcanoes that can be toured. Mount Bromo is the largest active volcano inside, but there are four others that play an important part in this attraction’s draw. There are also several forested areas for hiking and some of the world’s most pristine natural landscapes. Address: Jalan Raden Intan 6, Malang Indonesia Phone: +62-341-491-828 Website: http://www.indonesia.travel/en/destination/319/bro...

Ujung Kulon National Park

Famous for preserving Krakatoa and other island volcanoes in the West Java region, Ujung Kulon National Park is among Indonesia’s most well-known landmarks. Permits must be obtained in order to enter, and tour guides are recommended considering the sheer size of the area. Inside, visitors can go jungle trekking and scuba diving, and boat tours to the renowned Krakatoa are highly recommended. Tours can be arranged from the town of Anyer, generally thought of as the gateway to the park. Address: Jalan Taman Nasional Ujung Kulon Sumur 2, Indonesia Phone: n/a Website: http://www.indonesia.travel/en/destination/394/uju...

Komodo National Park

Komodo Island is famous for more than just fauna, although this is an important part of the attraction. The island is part of the Lesser Sunda archipelago, home to the Komodo National Park, which houses the world’s largest population of Komodo dragons. First established in 1980, it was declared an important biosphere by UNESCO. The national park can hold about 60,000 visitors a year, but currently sees significantly less than that; around 45,000 a year. However, this number has been growing every decade, as the island becomes more well known. Address: Gg. Mesjid, Kampung Cempa, Labuan Bajo Manggarai Barat, NUSA TENGGARA TIMUR 86554 Phone: +62-385-41448 Website: http://www.komodonationalpark.org/

Sangiran

The Sangiran archaeological site is home to some of Southeast Asia’s oldest human remains. An area of intense archeological study since 1934, Sangiran is now a World Heritage attraction on the island of Java. Inside the park are the remains of ancient man, not to mention relics, structures and remains of the animals these early people once hunted. It is part of the beautiful Solo River valley, just minutes from Surakarta. Address: Id, Central Java, Indonesia Phone: n/a Website: n/a

Kerinci Seblat National Park

The largest national park in Sumatra is a must-see for eco-lovers with its remote, untouched rainforests and highlands. Mount Kerinci is the centerpiece, although there are plenty of other sites to explore inside surrounded by tigers, elephants and a huge range of bird species. The park’s higher altitudes get somewhat hazy during July and August, which usually doesn’t affect normal visitors, but photographers may have a hard time getting good shots. To enter, you need to apply for a permit beforehand by supplying a copy of your passport. Address: Kerinci Seblat National Park, Sumatra Phone: n/a Website: http://www.indonesia.travel/en/destination/175/ker...

Monas

Indonesia has experienced an interesting political history. It hasn’t always been settled, with many conflicts arising from the political instability of the country. Jakarta’s Monas monument, a naturally recognized symbol is over 150 feet tall, and stands in the middle of Freedom Square. Its basement is home to a stunning array of exhibitions and collections that showcase Indonesia’s political past. There is also a look-out point at the top, affording great views of the city. Address: Jl. Medan Merdeka Menteng Menteng Jakarta Pusat DKI Jakarta, Indonesia Phone: +62-21-384-0451 Website: n/a

National Museum

Opened since 1868, the Indonesian National Museum in Jakarta is one of the best attractions for visitors to see collections and exhibitions that date back to prehistoric times. Ancient relics, artifacts, sculptures and other items from Indonesia’s earliest civilizations through present day are on display and there is also information about Indonesia’s colonial history. There is a slight entrance fee, but it certainly won’t break the bank. Address: Jalan Medan Merdeka Barat No. 12, Jakarta Phone: +62-21-386-8172 Website: http://www.indotravelers.com/museum/index.html