Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Travelers heading to Bali are facing disruptions due to the temporary closure of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport following the eruption of Mount Lewotobi. The volcanic activity has thrown uncertainty over when the flight back to normal, as the volcano continues to erupt. With the year-end holiday season fast approaching, here are alternative travel spots across Indonesia that rival Bali’s allure.
The eruption of Mount Lewotobi has already affected flights to various tourism destination in East Nusa Tenggara and nearby region. As of Wednesday, multiple domestic and international flights to Bali were canceled. Authorities reported that 90 flights were canceled from and to I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport Bali on November 13, including 26 domestic and 64 international routes.
Budi Rahardjo, Head of Public Communications at Indonesia’s Ministry of Transportation, stated that flight cancellations were a precautionary measure due to volcanic ash limiting airspace visibility. “The safety of our passengers is our priority. The ash cloud from Mount Lewotobi’s eruption has made flying conditions unsafe,” Rahardjo told reporters.
Currently, there is no confirmed timeline for the resumption of normal air travel, as authorities continue to monitor the volcanic activity.
While Bali and Lombok are the most popular destinations for foreign toursit, Indonesia’s vast landscape offers many other stunning travel options. Here are three alternative destinations that are part of the Ministry of Tourism’s “super-priority” list:
Lake Toba, North Sumatra
Lake Toba is a breathtaking natural wonder located in North Sumatra. It was formed by a massive volcanic eruption from Mount Toba approximately 74,000 years ago. Spanning over 1,145 square kilometers with a depth of 450 meters, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world, often resembling an ocean rather than a lake.
The lake is surrounded by scenic hills, including Holbung Hill and Huta Ginjang, offering panoramic views that are perfect for sightseeing. Visitors can engage in various outdoor activities like cycling, jogging, canoeing, kayaking, trekking, and hiking.
Near the lake lies Tuktuk Siadong Village, where tourists can indulge in traditional Batak cuisine, such as mi gomak, saksang, roast pork, arsik fish, and ayam padar. Lastly, tourist can bought a traditional Batak ulos cloth as a souvenir.
Borobudur Temple, Central Java
Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest Buddhist temple in the world, located in Magelang, Central Java. Built between 770 and 842 AD, the temple is famous for its 2,672 intricate relief panels that stretch over four kilometers, earning it the title of the longest relief in the world.
The temple complex includes 502 Buddha statues and 72 stupas that adorn the 123 x 123 square-meter structure. The topmost section of Borobudur features three circular terraces crowned by a large stupa, symbolizing the Mahayana Buddhist cosmology.
The surrounding area of Borobudur Temple also offers popular attractions such as Punthuk Setumbu Hill, Mendut Temple, Pawon Temple, and the scenic Svargabumi.
Likupang, North Sulawesi
Likupang, a hidden gem approximately 48 km from Manado, boasts diverse attractions, from rolling hills to pristine beaches. Visitors can explore the scenic Pulisan and Larata Hills, where lush grasslands meet clear blue waters, creating a picturesque landscape. The trek to these hills may be challenging, but the breathtaking views make the effort worthwhile.
7 Best-Rated Resort in Likupang, North Sulawesi
For beach lovers, Likupang is a paradise with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing. Likupang Beach and Paal Beach, known for their turquoise waters and stunning scenery, are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Paal Beach, in particular, offers vibrant shades of blue and tosca, making it a popular spot for photography and water activities. The region is also famous for its conservation efforts as in 2007, the World Wildlife Fund discovered green turtles on Likupang Beach.
Whether you’re interested in exploring volcanic lakes, ancient temples, or secluded beaches, Indonesia offers a wide range of alternatives to Bali for your next getaway.
(Raidi/Agung)
