Jakarta — Indonesia is more than just Bali. Here are the 10 best destinations according to Lonely Planet, offering breathtaking nature, culture, and unforgettable adventures.

Aerial view of Gili Trawangan in the Gili Islands, North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The Gili Islands are one of Lombok's premier tourist destinations, consisting of three islands: Gili Trawangan, Meno, and Air.
Aerial view of Gili Trawangan in the Gili Islands, North Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. The Gili Islands are one of Lombok’s premier tourist destinations, consisting of three islands: Gili Trawangan, Meno, and Air.

Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history dating back to the 4th century as a Hindu port city. It later became a major trading hub under the Dutch colonial empire, known as Batavia, before gaining its current name after Indonesia’s independence in 1945. Today, Jakarta blends modern skyscrapers with historic landmarks like the Old Town (Kota Tua) and the National Monument (Monas), reflecting its diverse cultural and colonial heritage.

Gili Trawangan

Gili Trawangan is the largest and most developed of the three Gili Islands off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and coral reefs, it was once a quiet fishing village before becoming a popular tourist destination in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, it attracts visitors for diving, snorkeling, and its car-free, relaxed island atmosphere.

Gili Islands

The **Gili Islands** are a group of three small tropical islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—off the northwest coast of Lombok, Indonesia. Known for their white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and car-free environment, they were once fishing villages before becoming a popular backpacker and diving destination in the 1980s and 1990s. Today, they attract visitors seeking relaxation, snorkeling, and vibrant nightlife, particularly on Gili Trawangan.

Gili Meno

Gili Meno is the smallest and most tranquil of the three Gili Islands in Indonesia, located off the northwest coast of Lombok. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it is a popular destination for snorkeling and relaxation. Historically, the island was primarily used for fishing and coconut farming, but it has gradually developed into a low-key eco-tourism spot with a focus on sustainability.

Gili Air

Gili Air is the smallest and most developed of the three Gili Islands in Indonesia, known for its pristine beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Historically, it was a fishing village before becoming a popular tourist destination, offering a mix of relaxation and activities like snorkeling and diving. Unlike its neighbors, Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno, Gili Air retains a more laid-back atmosphere while still providing modern amenities.