Indonesia is a breathtaking place. Many travelers visit the country all year round and it’s growing in popularity. According to Reuters, the Southeast Asian country welcomed 4.12 million visitors in the first five months of 2023.
Beyond the typical tourist attractions, Indonesia is rich in culture, history, and tradition. The next time you’re heading to Indonesia, check out some of these dynamic cultural experiences before flying out of the country.
Take A Flower Bath In Bali
Flower baths are a part of ancient Indonesian history and tradition. The spiritual baths symbolize rejuvenation of the body and it is a must-try when visiting Bali. Large tubs and pools are filled with water and beautiful blossoms, rose petals, and essential oils for guests to bathe in. Many of these experiences overlook the incredible Indonesian landscape from rice fields to mountain ranges. Travel agents can assist in booking a flower bath excursion for travelers. However, a few notable companies to check out include Kaveri Spa, Dewi Gangga Spa, and Skaijoglo.
Check Out The World-Famous Death Rituals In Tana Toraja
In the landlocked regency of Tana Toraja, death is the most important moment in a person’s life. The indigenous people here, the Torajanese, have some of the most elaborate funeral rituals in the world. They welcome visitors to come and experience their authentic Indonesian culture.
Don’t be surprised by the hanging coffins, burial caves, and death rituals. In Tana Toraja, this is a major piece of their rich history. Here, the Torajanese celebrate death more than births and centuries-old Indonesian culture lives on.
Take A Batik Workshop In Java
Batik is Indonesian fabric worn around the world. Travelers can take a batik workshop in Java where they can learn how to create the export. Batik comes in different colors, styles, and sizes. It’s made using wax to trace designs and sealed with dye. These beautiful fashions are used to create some of the country’s traditional garments. Java is one of the best places in the country to buy batik as well.
Discover Indonesian Hand-Weaving In The Sukarara Village
Once travelers finish making batik in Java, the village of Sukarara should be the next stop before leaving Indonesia. Visitors can experience the Indonesian process of tenun. This colorful hand-weaving process happens each day in Sukarara and travelers are welcome to watch the locals weave colorful threads together to make a masterpiece. Guests can witness the natural dyeing process and the traditional tools locals use to create each fabric.
Witness Ancient Dance Marvels At the Setu Babakan Betawi Cultural Village
An hour away from the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, the Setu Babakan Betawi Cultural Village is a sight to see. Indonesian culture really comes alive here. Locals honor the indigenous Betawi tribe including traditional masks, music, and the ancient Blantek topeng dance. While enjoying the dance, travelers can try a bir pletok drink. Made from sappanwood, pepper, and ginger, this non-alcoholic beverage leaves a warm, tingly sensation all over.
Learn To Play Traditional Games & Music In Borobudur
Borobudur is a hotspot for Indonesian culture. There’s plenty to see and do here. Travelers can explore a majestic Buddhist temple, wander through the Karangrejo Village, and learn to play a few traditional games. If travelers can’t make it to Java, they can experience batik fabric making in Borobudur. In Pendopo Bu Condro, visitors can hear traditional Indonesian percussion orchestras create gamelan music.
Spend A Night In The Wae Rebo Village
Travel website Wonderful Indonesia described the Wae Rebo Village as a “fairy-tale-like” destination. The unique architecture in the village is straight out of a Disney film. Made of lontar thatch, these special, traditional structures house the village’s small population. Locals are welcoming to travelers and even invite them to join in on some of their celebrations and rituals.