I haven’t been to Indonesia yet – but it’s on the list. Here are a few places I’ll be checking out.
Overshadowed by better-known places like Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines, Indonesia lays claim to Bali, Ubud, and some offbeat, bizarre destinations. Without further ado…
The Sidoarjo Mud Volcano
How awkward is it when you break your aunt’s priceless vase, or perhaps your uncle’s Elvis decanter? Yeah. Imagine how awkward it is when you’re drilling for gas and you set off a FRIKKIN’ MUD VOLCANO which has laid devastation to dozens of square kilometers. It’s steaming, too, which doesn’t help anything. Best seen from afar but not approached, let’s just say. Pictures and more at Atlas Obscura’s page on the volcano, but suffice it to say I’m not getting anywhere near this thing.
The Equator Monument
We’ve been to a few places in Ecuador that claimed to be on the equator. Thanks to any number of simple apps showing your exact GPS coordinates, it’s easy to tell which ones are on the level (sorry, had to do it). Some, like the one in Pontianak on Borneo aren’t anymore – in case you slept through your middle-school science class, the earth wobbles a bit, which means the equator today isn’t in the same place as it used to be. Still, head here for one of the solstices (spring or autumn) and check out what happens when your shadow almost completely disappears.
Sacred Monkey Forest (Mandala Wisata Wenara Wana)
Ubud isn’t exactly off the beaten path, but this forest of 500 monkeys is. Look for the Pura Dalem, the Temple of the Dead, Go to feed them some bananas (but be aware they’re wild and can bite), or enjoy the peacefulness of the 27 acres worth of forest. Not a fan of monkeys? Look for the headstones, the cremation temple (Pura Prajapati) and so on.
Symon’s Art Zoo
From erotic sculptures to plenty of grotesquery, this art zoo is essentially one man’s home and all the art that’s able to fit on the property. From floor to ceiling, the walls are brightly painted and covered with untold numbers of framed pictures. Once outside, look for the large red phallus statue and the blue religious figure posed like a laying Buddha. The owner himself gives tours, but you’ll be made well aware of the fact that these paintings are for sale. Consider bringing the cash to purchase the one you like the most. This one’s also in Ubud.
A tiny lake temple
Capping things off here is the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, dedicated to a water goddess. The temple here seems to float on the waters, and the buildings are dedicated to Dewi Danu, which looks after the rivers, lakes, and so on. While several centuries old, it goes without saying there’s been a fair bit of work done since then. Enjoy the temple on land before jumping on a canoe to head towards the pagodas and the bliss you’ll soon find.
Where to stay?
If you’re traveling to Kelapa Gading while in Indonesia, visit this site to learn more about the Grand Whiz Kelapa Gading hotel.
Ready to learn more about Bali? Go check out this ultimate guide to Bali.
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