Indonesia Travel Guide: Complete Travel Information for Indonesia

Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago and one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse travel destinations. It offers Bali beaches and temples, Jakarta’s city life, Java’s volcanoes and heritage sites, Komodo dragons, Sumatra rainforests, Sulawesi culture, Raja Ampat diving and thousands of islands with distinct languages, cuisines and traditions.

The capital is Jakarta. The official currency is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). Indonesia has three time zones: Western Indonesia Time, UTC+7; Central Indonesia Time, UTC+8; and Eastern Indonesia Time, UTC+9.

1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Passport and visa requirements

Entry requirements for Indonesia depend on nationality, passport type, travel purpose, intended length of stay and arrival point. Many visitors can apply online for an electronic Visa on Arrival, known as eVOA, while others may need an electronic visitor visa or a visa issued through an Indonesian embassy or consulate.

Travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date.
Your passport should have at least one blank page for immigration processing.
Many eligible visitors can obtain a Visitor Visa or eVOA for tourism, business meetings, transit and other approved short visits.
Visitor visas are generally single-entry and commonly permit a stay of up to 30 days, with possible extension depending on visa type and current rules.
Visitors may need to show a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation and sufficient funds.
Tourist visas do not allow paid employment in Indonesia.

Use only the official Indonesian immigration service: Indonesia e-Visa – Official Immigration Website.

The official e-Visa platform states that the Visitor Visa is a single-entry visa for a 30-day stay for tourism, government visits, business meetings, goods purchasing or transit. Check the current eligibility list, fee, allowed entry points and extension rules before applying.

Indonesia arrival declaration

Indonesia may require an electronic customs declaration and can introduce or change online arrival forms. Check the latest airport and immigration requirements before departure, particularly for Bali, Jakarta, Surabaya and other international gateways.

Useful travel documents

Passport and visa, eVisa or eVOA approval where required.
Return or onward travel ticket.
Hotel booking or accommodation address.
Travel health-insurance certificate.
International driving permit if planning to drive or rent a vehicle.
Prescription documents for regular medication.
Digital and printed copies of passport, visa, insurance, flights and emergency contacts.

Customs and restricted items

Indonesia has strict laws on drugs, weapons, pornography, protected wildlife, cultural objects and certain medicines. Drug offences can result in severe penalties, including long imprisonment and the death penalty in serious cases.

Do not bring illegal drugs or cannabis products, even if legal in your home country.
Carry prescription medication in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
Check rules for drones, professional camera equipment and maritime or diving equipment.
Do not remove coral, shells, wildlife products, artefacts or protected cultural objects from Indonesia.
Declare restricted goods and follow customs procedures.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Health preparation

Healthcare quality varies substantially across Indonesia. Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya and other large cities have private hospitals and international clinics, while remote islands, national parks, volcano regions and rural areas may have limited facilities and difficult evacuation options.

Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
Discuss hepatitis A, hepatitis B, tetanus, rabies, typhoid, Japanese encephalitis and malaria risk with a travel clinic where relevant.
Carry regular medication in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
Pack oral rehydration salts, insect repellent, sunscreen, basic first-aid supplies and medication for stomach problems.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen for beach, island and diving trips.

Travel health insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Choose a policy that covers hospital treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation, motorbike accidents, diving, surfing, volcano trekking, hiking, boat travel and any other planned activities.

Check whether motorbike cover requires a valid motorcycle licence and helmet.
Confirm coverage for scuba diving depth limits, surf conditions and adventure activities.
Ensure evacuation from remote islands, diving sites and volcano areas is included.
Carry your insurer’s 24-hour emergency assistance number offline.

Mosquito-borne diseases

Dengue fever occurs in Indonesia, and malaria risk exists in some regions, especially in parts of eastern Indonesia. Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers at dawn and dusk, and seek medical advice if you develop fever, rash, severe headache or unusual fatigue.

Water and food safety

Do not drink tap water unless it has been boiled, filtered or treated.
Use sealed bottled water or refill from reliable filtered-water stations.
Choose busy restaurants and street-food stalls where food is freshly cooked.
Be cautious with ice, raw salads and uncooked seafood if hygiene is uncertain.
Stay hydrated in tropical heat, especially during temple visits, hikes and boat trips.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

General safety

Indonesia is a popular and generally manageable destination for independent travellers, but risks vary greatly by island and activity. Common issues include petty theft, traffic accidents, drink spiking, scams, poorly regulated adventure activities, natural disasters and limited emergency care in remote locations.

Keep passports, cards, cash and phones secure in busy markets, beaches, nightclubs and transport hubs.
Use reputable taxis, ride-hailing apps and hotel-arranged transfers.
Do not leave bags, phones or valuables unattended on beaches, scooters or boats.
Be cautious about drinks from strangers and avoid leaving drinks unattended.
Use licensed guides and reputable operators for diving, trekking, boat trips and volcano visits.
Do not use or carry illegal drugs; penalties can be extremely severe.

Motorbike and road safety

Traffic accidents are one of the most significant risks for visitors. Roads can be busy, poorly lit, congested or affected by weather. Motorbike rental is common in Bali and other islands, but inexperienced riding is a major source of injuries and insurance claims.

Only ride a motorbike if you are licensed, experienced and properly insured.
Wear a suitable helmet at all times.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or when fatigued.
Avoid riding at night on unfamiliar rural roads.
Check vehicle condition, brakes, lights and insurance before renting.
Use seat belts in cars and avoid unlicensed drivers.

Natural disasters

Indonesia lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire and is exposed to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, floods, landslides and severe weather. Monitor local authorities, hotel staff, the Indonesian Meteorology Agency and official alerts before travelling to coastal areas, volcanoes or remote islands.

Know the tsunami evacuation route when staying near the coast.
Do not enter closed volcano zones or ignore exclusion areas.
Follow evacuation instructions immediately during earthquakes or tsunami alerts.
Check weather conditions before boat and ferry travel.
Avoid hiking during heavy rain, especially in landslide-prone areas.

Local laws and culture

Indonesia is culturally diverse, but many areas are socially conservative.
Dress modestly in mosques, temples, villages and non-tourist areas.
Respect local religious customs, especially in Bali, Aceh, Yogyakarta and religious sites.
Do not photograph people, ceremonies or religious offerings without permission.
Be aware that Aceh applies local Islamic law and has stricter social rules than many other regions.
Public criticism of religion, authorities or sensitive local issues can create legal and personal risks.

Official travel advice

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

Emergency numbers

General emergency number: 112
Police: 110
Police SMS service: 1717
Ambulance and rescue: 118
Medical emergency: 119
Fire service: 113
Search and Rescue, BASARNAS: 115
Natural disaster assistance: 129
Tourism information: 1500-001
Immigration call centre: 1500-337

Indonesia’s official tourism guidance lists 110 or 112 for police and general emergencies, 118 or 119 for medical emergencies, 113 for fire, 115 for search and rescue, and 129 for disaster assistance. Emergency coverage and English language support can vary by island and locality, so keep hotel, guide and insurer contacts available as backups.

Official safety and emergency information: Wonderful Indonesia: Staying Safe in Indonesia.

Bali emergency contacts

Bali Tourist Police, Kuta: +62 361 224111 or +62 361 754599.
Tourist Police Airport: +62 361 9351023.
Tourist Police Nusa Dua: +62 361 7442622.
Bluebird Taxi, Jakarta: +62 21 7971245.

Emergency planning checklist

Save 112, 110, 118, 119, 113, 115 and your insurer’s emergency assistance number.
Keep your accommodation name, address and location pin available offline.
Ask accommodation staff about tsunami routes, volcano alerts and local emergency procedures.
Share diving, hiking, island or boat-trip plans with a trusted contact.
Carry a power bank, flashlight, water and offline maps for remote travel.
Seek help from Tourist Police after theft, harassment, scams or a serious incident in tourist areas.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance

Jakarta hosts many embassies, while Bali, Surabaya and other major centres may host consulates or honorary consuls. Contact your embassy or consulate if you lose your passport, are arrested, become seriously ill, experience a major accident or need emergency travel documents.

Useful embassy and consular links

United States Embassy contact

U.S. Embassy Jakarta: +62 21 5083 1000.
Address: Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan No. 3-5, Jakarta 10110.

Verify current addresses, office hours, emergency contacts and appointment procedures directly through the relevant embassy website before travel.

6. Background on Indonesia & Society

Country overview

Indonesia is a vast archipelagic country stretching between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It includes more than 17,000 islands, with major islands such as Java, Sumatra, Borneo/Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Bali, Lombok, Flores, Papua and the Maluku Islands.

Indonesia is one of the world’s most culturally and linguistically diverse countries. It has major cities, rice terraces, volcanoes, rainforests, coral reefs, traditional villages, archaeological sites, Islamic heritage, Hindu culture in Bali, Christian communities, indigenous traditions and a rapidly growing economy.

Society, language and religion

Official language: Bahasa Indonesia.
Local languages: Hundreds of regional languages are spoken, including Javanese, Sundanese, Balinese, Minangkabau and many others.
Religion: Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim population, alongside Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, Confucian and indigenous communities.
Culture: Indonesian culture reflects Austronesian, Malay, Javanese, Hindu-Buddhist, Islamic, Chinese, European and regional influences.
Hospitality: Politeness, respect for elders and community harmony are highly valued.

Etiquette and respectful behaviour

Dress modestly in villages, mosques, temples and conservative areas.
Use the right hand when giving or receiving food, money or gifts.
Remove shoes when entering homes, temples and some guesthouses if requested.
Do not touch people on the head, including children.
Do not point with your feet or step over religious offerings in Bali.
Ask before photographing people, ceremonies, religious sites or private homes.
Respect local customs during Ramadan, Nyepi and other religious festivals.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Indonesia has a tropical climate, but weather varies by island, altitude and season. Most destinations have a wet season and a dry season, although the exact timing differs across the archipelago.

Typical seasons

Dry season in Bali and much of Java: Usually around April to October.
Wet season in Bali and much of Java: Usually around November to March.
Sumatra and Kalimantan: Rainfall occurs throughout the year, with regional variation.
Komodo, Flores and eastern islands: Often have a longer dry season but can become very dry.
Highland areas: Cooler temperatures, especially around volcanoes and mountain towns.

Best time to visit

April to October: Often best for Bali, Java, Lombok, Komodo, beaches, diving and hiking.
November to March: Greener landscapes, fewer crowds in some places, but higher rain and flooding risk.
June to September: Popular for Komodo, Flores and many island trips.
December to February: Suitable for some parts of Indonesia but may bring rough seas and rain in others.

Clothing recommendations

Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical heat and humidity.
Carry a rain jacket or compact umbrella in the wet season.
Bring a hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.
Pack a light jacket for highland areas, early volcano hikes and air-conditioned transport.
Wear modest clothing for temples, mosques, villages and religious sites.
Use sturdy shoes for volcano treks, waterfalls, rice terraces and jungle paths.

8. Language & Communication

Language

Official language: Bahasa Indonesia.
English: Common in Bali, Jakarta, major hotels, airports and tourism businesses, but less widely spoken in rural areas and smaller islands.

Useful Bahasa Indonesia phrases

Hello: Halo / Selamat pagi
Good morning: Selamat pagi
Thank you: Terima kasih
Please: Tolong
Yes: Ya
No: Tidak
Excuse me: Permisi
How much is this? Berapa harganya?
Where is the toilet? Di mana toilet?
Do you speak English? Apakah Anda bisa bahasa Inggris?

Internet, SIM cards and mobile data

Mobile coverage and Wi-Fi are generally good in Jakarta, Bali, Yogyakarta, Surabaya and major tourist centres. Coverage can be weaker on remote islands, in national parks, mountains and offshore diving areas.

Major mobile providers include Telkomsel, XL Axiata, Indosat and Smartfren.
Buy a SIM card or eSIM from official providers and carry your passport for registration.
Download offline maps before visiting remote islands or hiking areas.
Carry a power bank for long boat trips, island transfers and volcano hikes.
Use a VPN only in compliance with local laws and do not post sensitive content online.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in Indonesia

Voltage: 230 V.
Frequency: 50 Hz.
Plug types: Type C and Type F, using two round pins.

Adapter and converter advice

Travellers from Germany, Austria and many European countries can normally use Type C or Type F plugs directly. Travellers from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and countries using other plug types will generally need a travel adapter.

Most modern phone, laptop and camera chargers support 100–240 V. Check each device label before travel. Power cuts can occur on smaller islands or during storms, so bring a power bank and spare charging cable.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

Indonesia’s official currency is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). Prices can appear high numerically, because the rupiah uses large denominations. Check the number of zeros carefully before paying cash or confirming a price.

Check current exchange rates: XE Currency Converter for IDR.

Payments and cash

Cash is important, especially on smaller islands, in markets, rural areas and local restaurants.
Cards are widely accepted in major hotels, malls, restaurants and established tourism businesses.
Visa and Mastercard are widely used; American Express acceptance is more limited.
ATMs are common in cities and tourist centres, but may be unreliable or unavailable on remote islands.
Use ATMs attached to banks or inside secure locations to reduce card-skimming risk.
Carry small notes for taxis, tips, local food stalls and market purchases.

Price level

Indonesia can be very affordable compared with Western Europe, North America, Australia and Singapore, particularly for local food, guesthouses, taxis and domestic services. Premium resorts, private drivers, diving, island transfers and international restaurants can be much more expensive.

Tipping culture

Tipping is appreciated but generally not compulsory.
In restaurants, around 5–10% may be appropriate if a service charge is not included.
Small tips are appreciated by drivers, guides, hotel staff, spa therapists and boat crews.
Agree on prices before using informal transport or booking services without fixed rates.

11. Transport & Arrival

Main international airports

Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta (CGK): Main international gateway for the capital and Java.
I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali (DPS): Main gateway for Bali and nearby islands.
Juanda International Airport, Surabaya (SUB): Gateway to East Java and Mount Bromo.
Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA): Gateway for Yogyakarta, Borobudur and Prambanan.
Komodo International Airport, Labuan Bajo (LBJ): Gateway to Komodo National Park.
Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, Makassar (UPG): Major gateway to Sulawesi.

Domestic flights and ferries

Domestic flights are often the fastest way to travel between Indonesia’s islands. Ferries and speedboats are essential for many island routes but can be affected by weather, safety standards, overcrowding and changing schedules.

Use reputable airlines and book through official websites or established agents.
Check flight status and baggage policies before travel.
Use licensed ferry operators and avoid overloaded or poorly maintained boats.
Wear life jackets on boats and do not travel in unsafe weather.
Allow extra time for island transfers, weather delays and port procedures.

Rail, buses and city transport

Java rail network: Efficient intercity trains connect Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta, Solo, Surabaya and other cities.
Jakarta MRT and LRT: Modern rail services in the capital region.
TransJakarta: Bus rapid transit network in Jakarta.
Intercity buses: Useful across Java, Bali, Sumatra and other populated islands.
Tourist shuttles: Common in Bali, Lombok and major holiday areas.

Taxis and ride-hailing apps

Ride-hailing apps are often safer and more transparent than negotiating with street taxis. In Bali, some local areas restrict app-based pickups, so check local rules or use hotel-arranged transport.

12. Accommodation & Practical On-Site Information

Accommodation types

Luxury resorts: Widely available in Bali, Nusa Dua, Ubud, Lombok, Komodo, Raja Ampat and major cities.
Boutique hotels: Common in Bali, Yogyakarta, Jakarta, Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak and heritage towns.
Guesthouses and homestays: Affordable and widespread in tourist destinations.
Hostels: Available in Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Lombok, Gili Islands and backpacker routes.
Eco-lodges: Found near national parks, rainforests, diving regions and rural communities.
Liveaboard boats: Used for diving and island exploration in Komodo, Raja Ampat and remote marine areas.

Recommended areas to stay

Jakarta – Central Jakarta: Business hotels, museums, malls and transport access.
Jakarta – South Jakarta: Cafés, nightlife, shopping and expatriate districts.
Bali – Ubud: Rice terraces, culture, yoga, wellness and central island access.
Bali – Seminyak: Restaurants, boutique hotels, shopping and beach clubs.
Bali – Canggu: Surfing, cafés, digital-nomad scene and nightlife.
Bali – Sanur: Quieter beaches and convenient harbour access to Nusa islands.
Yogyakarta: Cultural base for Borobudur, Prambanan and Javanese heritage.
Labuan Bajo: Base for Komodo National Park boat trips.

Opening hours and shopping

Shopping malls, supermarkets and restaurants in major cities often open daily until late.
Markets are usually busiest in the morning or evening.
Government offices and banks may close on public holidays and religious observances.
Some Bali businesses close or operate differently during Nyepi, the Balinese Day of Silence.
Stock up on cash, water, medicine and supplies before travelling to small islands or remote areas.

Shopping areas

Ubud Market: Crafts, textiles, souvenirs and local products.
Seminyak: Boutiques, fashion, homewares and restaurants.
Jalan Malioboro, Yogyakarta: Batik, street food, souvenirs and local shopping.
Grand Indonesia, Jakarta: Major mall with shopping and dining.
Tanah Abang, Jakarta: Large textile and clothing market.
Sukawati Market, Bali: Traditional arts, crafts and souvenirs.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Indonesian food culture

Indonesian cuisine is exceptionally diverse and varies by island, ethnicity and religion. Rice is a staple, while coconut, chilli, turmeric, lemongrass, galangal, peanuts, soy, seafood and tropical fruit appear throughout the country.

Typical dishes

Nasi goreng: Indonesian fried rice, often served with egg, chicken, prawns or vegetables.
Mie goreng: Stir-fried noodles with vegetables, meat or seafood.
Satay: Grilled skewers served with peanut sauce or regional sauces.
Rendang: Slow-cooked spiced beef from West Sumatra.
Gado-gado: Vegetable salad with peanut sauce, tofu and egg.
Nasi campur: Rice served with a mix of small dishes.
Soto: Spiced soup with chicken, beef, noodles or rice.
Bakso: Meatball soup, often sold from street carts.
Babi guling: Balinese roasted suckling pig.
Pempek: Fish cakes from Palembang served with sweet-sour sauce.

Drinks and sweets

Es teh: Iced sweet tea.
Jamu: Traditional herbal drink made with turmeric, ginger and other ingredients.
Kopi tubruk: Indonesian-style ground coffee.
Es cendol: Sweet iced dessert drink with coconut milk and palm sugar.
Fresh coconut water: Widely available in tropical regions.
Alcohol: Available in Bali and some tourist areas, but restricted or unavailable in more conservative regions.

Food hygiene and dietary needs

Indonesia has excellent street food and local restaurants, but food hygiene can vary. Choose busy stalls where food is freshly cooked, drink safe water and be clear about dietary needs. Indonesia is predominantly Muslim, so halal food is common, while Bali has more pork dishes and a different religious food culture.

Drink sealed bottled water or reliably filtered water.
Avoid tap water and be cautious with ice where water quality is uncertain.
Ask about peanuts, seafood, shrimp paste, pork and chilli if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Bali, Ubud, Canggu and major cities.
Start with mild dishes if you are not used to spicy food.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zones

Western Indonesia Time, WIB: UTC+7, including Jakarta, Java and Sumatra.
Central Indonesia Time, WITA: UTC+8, including Bali, Lombok, Sulawesi, Komodo and parts of Kalimantan.
Eastern Indonesia Time, WIT: UTC+9, including Maluku and Papua.
Daylight saving time: Indonesia does not observe daylight saving time.

Time difference

Jakarta is usually six hours ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in winter, and five hours ahead during Central European Summer Time.
Bali is usually seven hours ahead of Central Europe in winter, and six hours ahead during Central European Summer Time.
Eastern Indonesia is usually eight hours ahead of Central Europe in winter, and seven hours ahead during Central European Summer Time.

Important public holidays

New Year’s Day: 1 January.
Chinese New Year: Date changes annually.
Nyepi: Balinese Day of Silence, date changes annually according to the Balinese calendar.
Good Friday: Date changes annually.
Vesak Day: Buddhist holiday, date changes annually.
Idul Fitri / Eid al-Fitr: Major Islamic holiday, dates change annually.
Idul Adha / Eid al-Adha: Dates change annually.
Independence Day: 17 August.
Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday: Date changes annually.
Christmas Day: 25 December.

Nyepi in Bali

Nyepi is especially important in Bali. On the Day of Silence, the island typically closes its airport, roads, shops, beaches and many services for a full day. Visitors must remain within their accommodation and should plan arrivals, departures and supplies carefully.

Lebaran travel period

The Idul Fitri holiday period, known locally as Lebaran, is one of Indonesia’s busiest domestic travel seasons. Flights, trains, buses, ferries and roads can be heavily congested. Book transport and accommodation well in advance.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Bali and nearby islands

Ubud: Rice terraces, temples, art, yoga, wellness and Balinese culture.
Uluwatu Temple: Cliffside temple, sunset views and Kecak dance performances.
Tanah Lot: Famous sea temple and sunset location.
Mount Batur: Popular sunrise trekking volcano; use a reputable guide.
Nusa Penida: Dramatic cliffs, beaches and snorkelling.
Gili Islands: Beaches, diving, snorkelling and car-free island atmosphere.
Lombok: Beaches, Sasak culture and Mount Rinjani trekking.

Java highlights

Borobudur: Major Buddhist temple complex and UNESCO World Heritage site near Yogyakarta.
Prambanan: Hindu temple complex near Yogyakarta.
Yogyakarta: Javanese culture, batik, royal palace and food.
Mount Bromo: Volcanic landscape and sunrise viewpoints in East Java.
Ijen Crater: Volcanic crater lake and blue-flame phenomenon; check access conditions.
Jakarta: Museums, markets, modern malls, food and gateway to Java.
Bandung: Highlands, cafés, fashion, tea plantations and volcanic scenery.

Komodo, Flores and eastern Indonesia

Komodo National Park: Komodo dragons, diving, islands and boat trips.
Labuan Bajo: Main base for Komodo excursions.
Flores: Volcanic landscapes, villages, beaches and Kelimutu crater lakes.
Raja Ampat: World-class diving, reefs, islands and marine biodiversity.
Banda Islands: History, diving and spice-trade heritage.
Wakatobi: Marine park and diving destination in Sulawesi.

Sumatra, Kalimantan and Sulawesi

Lake Toba: Vast volcanic lake and Batak culture in North Sumatra.
Gunung Leuser National Park: Rainforest and orangutan conservation.
West Sumatra: Minangkabau culture, highlands and Padang cuisine.
Kalimantan: River travel, rainforests and orangutan conservation areas.
Tana Toraja: Distinctive architecture, mountain scenery and cultural heritage in Sulawesi.
Bunaken: Diving and marine park near Manado.

Official tourism information: Wonderful Indonesia – Official Tourism Website.

16. Nightlife & Events

Nightlife

Indonesia’s nightlife varies greatly by region. Bali, Jakarta, Gili Trawangan and some resort areas have active bars, clubs, beach venues and live music. In many other areas, nightlife is more limited or shaped by local religious and cultural norms.

Bali – Seminyak: Beach clubs, restaurants, cocktail bars and nightlife.
Bali – Canggu: Surf bars, cafés, music and digital-nomad scene.
Bali – Ubud: Restaurants, cultural performances and more relaxed evening venues.
Jakarta: Rooftop bars, clubs, restaurants, live music and international nightlife.
Gili Trawangan: Beach bars, backpacker nightlife and island parties.
Yogyakarta: Cafés, live music, cultural shows and student atmosphere.

Festivals and cultural events

Nyepi: Balinese Day of Silence, preceded by lively Ogoh-Ogoh parades.
Galungan and Kuningan: Major Balinese Hindu festivals.
Vesak at Borobudur: Buddhist ceremonies and lantern events.
Java Jazz Festival: Major music festival in Jakarta.
Bali Arts Festival: Dance, music, crafts and cultural performances.
Independence Day: Celebrations, games and public events on 17 August.
Ramadan and Idul Fitri: Food markets, religious observances and major domestic travel.

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