1. Borobudur, Central Java

Top of the list is the world’s oldest Buddhist monument and Indonesia’s number-one attraction; Borobudur is a jewel in the crown of Javanese travel. This colossal stone pyramid was built in the ninth century during the Syailendra dynasty as a shrine to the Buddha and its six enormous terraces spiral upwards in a representation of the Buddhist path to enlightenment – a journey that’s depicted in 2,672 intricately carved reliefs. Crowning the top of the temple is a giant, bell-shaped dome, encircled by 72 perforated stupas, each containing a cross-legged stone Buddha statue in a blissful lotus position. The view from the top is a glimpse of Nirvana – emerald rice fields and verdant jungle spread out in every direction, towards smoking volcanoes on the horizon. Visiting Borobudur is an enlightening, and truly timeless experience.

To find out more about Borobudur, and many of the other amazing attractions on offer in Central Java, take a look through this edition of our online magazine.

2. Mandalika, West Nusa Tenggara

Located on the shores of southern Lombok, just next door to Bali, the Mandalika special tourism economic zone is a treasure trove for travellers. Here you’ll find a range of luxurious hotels and resorts, bars and nightclubs, alongside golf courses, spas and water parks; it’s all packed into this 1,250-hectare tropical paradise. There’s even a world-class race track – called the Mandalika International Street Circuit – which just hosted the inaugural Indonesian MotoGP in February of this year. Whether you’re looking for adventure, indulgence or just a place to chill, Mandalika is home to all you could ever need. Head over to nearby Gerupuk Beach for sun, sand and water sports; or hike up to the summit of Merese Hill for beautiful ocean views. With so much to see and do, Lombok’s Mandalika development makes Indonesian getaways truly unforgettable.

Want to explore the eastern coast of Lombok? Take a look at our 7 Places Off the Beaten Track, for an extra dash of adventure on your travels.

3. Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara

Labuan Bajo is the capital of Flores island. With Sumbawa and Komodo to the west, Sumba to the south and Timor just over the waves to the northeast, Labuan Bajo is the hub in a wheel of wonders that spirals out around East Nusa Tenggara; a land of ocean, volcanoes and dragons that just begs to be explored. This port town on the west of the island is the main entry point to Komodo National Park – a World Heritage Site that is home to wild populations of the Komodo dragon. From here, travellers can set off on magical liveaboard cruises, or go beneath the waves in one of the world’s finest diving locations. Back on dry land, Labuan Bajo itself is home to a growing range of restaurants, luxury hotels and boutiques, along with a glittering array of white sandy beaches, where sunsets are framed by islets and the silhouettes of traditional Phinisi sailing ships. Surely there’s no better place to sip a cocktail, relax and enjoy your escape at the very edge of the map.

Want to explore Komodo National Park? Panorama Destination provides a range of cruises into the land of dragons – your ticket to a wild and wonderful adventure. This 4-day package combines dragons, dives and the very best of Labuan Bajo.

4. Lake Toba, North Sumatra

Tucked away in the mountains of North Sumatra, Toba is the world’s largest freshwater lake – a natural marvel that covers 1,145 km2 and reaches depths of up to 450 metres. At the centre of the lake, Samosir is an island the size of Singapore; home to ancient settlements and mysterious stone grave sites, Samosir reveals ancient rituals and tribal roots that reach deep into the land and its people. The surrounding area is filled with beautiful scenery too, including the 120-metre Sipiso-piso waterfall – one of the tallest in Indonesia. Despite its remoteness and otherworldly feel, Toba is surprisingly easy to reach. The nearest town is Balige, which has its own airport connected by direct flights from both Medan and Jakarta.

Want a sneak peak of the lake in all its beauty? Check out our photo blog from North Sumatra, and Travel With Us to Toba!

5. Likupang, North Sulawesi

Located 48km from Manado along the coast of North Sulawesi, Likupang is a hidden marvel in one of Indonesia’s lesser-visited locations. The area is famous for its white sandy beaches and idyllic coastal enclaves. Pulisan beach and bay offer some incredible photo opportunities and ocean views, while the offshore Lihaga and Gangga islands are also great for snorkelling excursions and dive trips. The area is a hotspot for biodiversity too, with conservation efforts established on both land and sea. This makes Likupang an ideal location for travellers with a nature connection and a love of the great outdoors. A recent spate of sustainable development has also helped the area to become more accessible, evidenced by the G20 events that were hosted here earlier this year. With its natural wonders and growing reputation, Likupang is a name that’s sure to be on travellers’ lips in the months ahead.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Why not continue your adventure to Wakatobi, the northernmost island in Indonesia. To find out more, read the latest edition of our online magazine, here.

Together, these five extraordinary locations comprise the Super Priority Destinations (DSP) highlighted by Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. This means they will each benefit from additional transport links, promotions and improvements over the coming months, making them even more accessible and attractive to returning travellers. Each one offers something different and truly unique; together, they encapsulate the natural beauty, cultural diversity and magic of Indonesia.