Popular places to visit in Indonesia

An archipelago with over 17500 islands, Indonesia needs probably a lifetime to explore. A combination of culture, wildlife and nature, most of the islands in this country are very virgin. While Bali is in the tourist circuit, islands like Lombok and Komodo are slowly emerging as popular destinations. Java offers a mix of culture and adventure. The coral reefs along the coast beckon people for snorkelling and scuba diving. Indonesia is also home to the Komodo dragons, the largest species of lizard living today. The cultural landscape is not just filled with temples, some of them being ancient UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but also amazing performances, from Ramayana ballet to Kecak dance. The volcanoes are associated with folklore and legends while the beaches are a sight to behold. If you are planning a short trip, here is a ready reckoner of places to visit in Indonesia that must be a part of your itinerary.