Five wish-list sights across Indonesia and where to find them

The Komodo Islands have recently been featured in the BBC’s top 20 travel destinations for 2026, but they’re not the only wish-list spot to enjoy next year!

It’s no secret that some of the most impressive landscapes in the world can be found in Southeast Asia, and idyllic Indonesia tops the list for natural beauty and breath-taking landmarks. This island nation has inspired the wanderlust of travellers across the world for decades, and it’s gained so much international acclaim that it was recently listed under the BBC’s top 20 places to visit in 2026.

Despite its growing popularity, Indonesia’s fascinating rural towns and bustling city centres still offer authentic experiences and unspoilt vistas in abundance. From the wild Komodo National Park and Bromo’s vast Sea of Sands to some of Asia’s most significant shrines, wish-list experiences await in this charming part of the world. Our team can’t get enough of Indonesia, and they’ve been busy putting together a list of their favourite spots across the country. To help you decide which spots are worth a visit, here are their top five must-see sights in Indonesia.

Komodo Island, Komodo National Park

Where else to start but wild Komodo Island, home to the world’s largest lizards. Boasting dramatic volcanic landscapes, pristine white-sand beaches and a wide range of local wildlife by land and sea, this magnificent island is the perfect choice for wildlife-spotting in Indonesia.

While you won’t be able to stay on the island, nearby Flores is a great option for a resort stay with easy access to the national park, and its coastal vistas are equally impressive for animal sightings, particularly beneath the waves.

Mount Bromo, East Java

Though it’s perhaps lesser known than Krakatoa and Mount Tambora, Indonesia’s largest volcano, Mount Bromo is just as impressive when it comes to sightseeing. Based in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, this vast active caldera is a popular pilgrimage sight for Hindus across the world and boasts one of Java’s most iconic landscapes. For the best viewing experience, aim to arrive at sunset or sunrise as the dimmer light highlights the finer details of crags and crevices in a more dramatic way.

Also of interest nearby is the intriguing Lautan Pasir (Sea of Sand), a barren sheet of volcanic ash that has collected over the centuries.

Prambanan Temple, Central Java

Stepping away from the country’s natural wonders, Indonesia also boasts a variety of truly spectacular man-made sites. Prambanan Temple, nestled on the outskirts of Yogyakarta, ranks amongst the most impressive of these landmarks. This exquisite Hindu temple complex is world-famous for its intricate carved reliefs and has stood for over 1,000 years. Comprising 240 shrines, ranging from the spectacular to the serene, Prambanan is well worth a spot on any Javan itinerary.

Ubud, Bali

To Bali now, and where else to look but its spiritual centre, Ubud? This secluded village, set amongst rainforest and traditional rice paddies, has been a haven for Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims for centuries and features several fascinating temples and burial grounds nearby. While here, be sure to visit Tirta Empul for a memorable introduction to Bali’s Hindu traditions and the time-honoured ceremonies that keep its religious heritage alive to this day. If you’d like, you can even take part in a few of them!

Borobudur Temple, Yogyakarta

While Cambodia’s Angkor Wat and India’s Mahabodhi Temple are better known, it’s ancient Borobudur that holds the crown as the world’s largest Buddhist temple. This vast monument, set on the outskirts of Yogyakarta, comprises 72 intricate stupas (spires) and a magnificent central building, and offers the perfect introduction to traditional Buddhist architecture. Whether you’re a history buff or are intrigued by Buddhist spirituality, this magnificent landmark is a must-see for any trip to Yogyakarta.

Set off on your own Indonesian adventure with Newmarket Holidays

Feeling inspired? Our friendly holiday planners are on hand to answer all your questions and are excited to help find the perfect escape for you. Give them a call today and kick off your own wish-list getaway, or browse our full range of escorted tours on our dedicated destinations page.