Exploration of Hidden Heavens: Places in Indonesia that Are Not Widely Known

I still remember the first time I stumbled upon an "unknown paradise" in Indonesia. It wasn’t planned at all. I was supposed to visit a popular beach in Bali, but a wrong turn on my scooter brought me to a small, deserted cove surrounded by towering cliffs. No crowds, no fancy cafes—just the sound of waves and the occasional chirping of birds. It was the kind of place that makes you question why some spots get all the fame while others remain untouched. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to seek out these hidden gems.  

Let me tell you about a few places that blew my mind—and most people I’ve met have never even heard of them.  

First up, Pulau Kodingareng Keke in South Sulawesi. Imagine an island so small that you can walk around it in 15 minutes, yet it’s surrounded by crystal-clear waters that seem almost too perfect to be real. It’s about a 40-minute boat ride from Makassar, and there’s no infrastructure—just pure, untouched beauty. I remember the first time I stepped foot there; I felt like I’d accidentally found a private island. The snorkeling? Insane. You’ll see coral reefs teeming with life just a few meters from the shore. Pro tip: bring your own food and drinks, because there’s nothing but sand and sea here.  

Another place that left me speechless is Liwutongkidi Island in Southeast Sulawesi. The name might be a mouthful, but trust me, it’s worth learning how to pronounce. This island isn’t just remote—it’s practically off the grid. You’ll need to arrange a local boat from Bau-Bau to get there, but what awaits is a stretch of powdery white sand and lagoons so blue they look photoshopped. When I went, I camped right on the beach. At night, the stars lit up the sky in a way that made me feel so tiny yet so alive.  

But not all hidden heavens require epic journeys. One spot that’s relatively easy to reach but still feels like a secret is Curug Lawe and Curug Benowo in Central Java. These twin waterfalls near Semarang require a short trek through lush greenery, but the reward is magical. I once slipped on a mossy rock while hiking there (ouch), but seeing the sunlight hitting the cascading water made the bruises totally worth it. Plus, the cool mist from the falls is the perfect remedy for Indonesia’s heat.  

Here’s the thing about exploring lesser-known places: it’s not always smooth sailing. There’s the occasional language barrier, bumpy roads, or a lack of facilities, but honestly? That’s part of the charm. You’re stepping into places that haven’t been shaped by tourism yet. It’s raw, authentic, and often more rewarding than visiting spots everyone’s already Instagrammed to death.  

If you’re planning to explore Indonesia’s hidden gems, my advice is simple: be prepared. Pack essentials like snacks, water, and a portable charger. Research transportation options because getting to these places isn’t always straightforward. And most importantly, leave no trace. These places are pristine for a reason, and it’s up to us to keep them that way.  

Every time I discover a new "hidden heaven," I feel like I’m uncovering a piece of Indonesia’s soul. It’s not about escaping crowds (though that’s a bonus). It’s about connecting with the land, the people, and the magic that still exists in these untouched corners. So next time you’re planning a trip, skip the guidebook for a moment and take a chance on the road less traveled. Who knows? You might just find your own slice of paradise.