Things to Know Before Visiting Indonesia

Indonesia at a Glance!

Indonesia has become increasingly popular among Indian travellers, with more people seeking unique destinations. Tourists from Northern India especially favour islands like Bali and Lombok. Until July 2024, India ranked 5th among international visitors to Indonesia. In 2023, 606,440 Indian tourists visited Indonesia, while 417,703 Indians travelled there only in the first half of 2024, indicating a significant boost in interest.

Here is a quick guide to some crucial things to know before travelling to Indonesia, including the country's major airports, visa requirements, budget estimates, and the best time to visit:

*Please note that the costs are subject to change as per the current rate of conversions

Indonesian Visa Requirements for Indian Nationals

Indian travellers require a valid Indonesian visa before entering the country. Indonesia offers visas for business, work, and tourism. There are mainly 2 types of Indonesian tourist visas:

• VISA Type B 1 - Single entry visa for 30 days stay in the country. This visa can be used for business, transit, or tourism in Indonesia.
• VISA Type D 1 - Multiple entry visa for 60 days stay in the country. The purpose of this visa is tourism only.

You can get a pre-approved e-visa or an on-arrival visa at the airport. For an e-visa application, you need valid documents as mentioned on the country's e-visa portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/.

Visa fees vary based on the visa's type:

• For single-entry Type B visas, the visa fee is IDR 500,000 (INR 2598.55).
• The visa fee can vary for multiple-entry Type D visas depending on the visa's validity. A 1-year Type D visa's fee is IDR 3,000,000 (INR 15,591.30).

*Please note that the costs are subject to change as per the current rate of conversions

8 Things to Know About Indonesia

Indonesia is an affordable and fun country to travel to, and it encourages foreigners to visit it. However, as a foreign traveller, you should keep up with some essential things about Indonesia. Here are some critical things to know before visiting Indonesia:

1. Do Not Drink Tap Water in Indonesia

   Tap water is not drinkable in Indonesia. Even the locals purchase bottled, filtered water to drink. You should get a reusable bottle to stay hydrated when travelling for extended periods. If you stay at one location for multiple days, consider getting a big bottle of water (usually, a 19-litre bottle is available in Indonesia) and using it to refill your bottle.

2. Volcanoes and Earthquakes

   When travelling to Indonesia, you should be prepared to experience regular volcanic explosions and earthquakes in the Ring of Fire. Indonesia has almost 200 large and small volcanoes. Volcano Discovery could be a life-saving website and app. It provides users with real-time volcanic activity updates. For your safety, you should avoid going to regions with high alerts and follow advisories given by local authorities.

3. No Uber in Indonesia

   For those used to Uber back home, especially Indians, it will be a surprise that Uber does not operate in Indonesia. But equally reasonable and affordable options such as Grab and Gojek. Both services are affordable and safe to use for cab travel.

4. Getting Around in Indonesia

   Indonesia offers a variety of options for adventurous travellers. Domestic flights are the quickest way to reach far-flung islands, with budget carriers making air travel accessible. For an island experience, ferry services connect popular destinations like Gili Island, Java, and Bali. Trains provide a scenic overland journey across Java, showcasing lush landscapes and volcanic peaks. Renting a vehicle, such as a car or moped, grants the freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path locales. Public buses are affordable and widely available, making them convenient for intercity travel. Embrace traditional transport like the three-wheeler Becak to add a traditional touch to your journey.

5. Local Etiquettes and Customs

   Indonesia is a traditional country, so you should respect its customs and laws. Dress modestly when visiting a religious site or even some remote location. Like most Asian countries, you are expected to drop your shoes outside the house. Respecting local customs is crucial for a smooth and hassle-free journey.

6. Vaccination Requirements

   You are advised to vaccinate yourself against Chikungunya, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Malaria, Measles, Polio, and Typhoid because foreign travellers are usually prone to these diseases when travelling to Indonesia or most other tropical regions.

7. Fire Dance - Kecak

   The Kecak Fire Dance, also known as the Bali Fire Dance, is a mesmerising cultural performance that captures the essence of Balinese storytelling. Rooted in the ancient Sanskrit epic, the Ramayana, this unique show features dancers chanting rhythmically, building to an exhilarating trance-like state. The performance lacks musical instruments and relies solely on the human voice to create a captivating rhythm. Set against the stunning backdrop of Uluwatu Temple at sunset, the Kecak Fire Dance is a must-see addition to your Indonesia Itinerary.

8. Snorkelling In Indonesian Waters

   Snorkelling in Indonesian waters immerses you in one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems. The vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life create unforgettable experiences for all skill levels. For those seeking peace, consider visiting less crowded spots during off-peak times. Timing is crucial - April to September offers calm waters and excellent visibility, while November to January is ideal for exploring Raja Ampat's Heart of the Coral Triangle.

*Disclaimer: All costs are approximate and are subject to change at the time of travel.