Nestled in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is famous for its beaches, temples and volcanoes. An archipelago of islands, this culture-rich haven is ideal for all kinds of travellers - be it the honeymooner, adventure enthusiast, foodie or art lover. Popular attractions include Bali, Lake Toba, Komodo National Park, Borobudur Temple, Mount Bromo and Yogyakarta. Take a look at some of the interesting facts of this splendid country.
1. The Komodo Dragon
Remember having seen this Komodo dragon in the James Bond movie ‘Skyfall’? You can spot this dragon in the national park of the Komodo Island. This is the largest species of lizard in the world and can eat a human. It can grow up to 3 meters in length and are considered to be an above-average intelligent creature.
2 Borobudur Temple
Located in Central Java, the Borobudur Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is decorated with 504 Buddha statues and 2,672 relief panels. The central dome is incredible with 72 Buddha statues, each seated inside a perforated stupa.
3. Grasberg Mine
The Grasberg Mine is situated near Puncak Jaya, the highest mountain in Papua, Indonesia. It is the largest gold mine and third largest copper mine in the world.
4. Kelimutu Volcano
The Kelimutu Volcano is located near Flores Island in Indonesia. It has three crater lakes which change colours from red to turquoise, black and green. This phenomenon is caused due to the reaction of minerals present in the water with the volcanic gases.
5. Lake Toba
It is the largest volcanic lake in the world. About 70,000 years ago, super-volcanic eruption occurred here. It was the largest known explosive eruption on earth which killed most people living at that time.
6. Rafflesia Flower
This large flower grows only on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. Called Rafflesia arnoldii, it weighs up to 15 pounds, the petals grow to 1.6 feet long and 1 inch thick. Warning - This flower may give you the feel of size distortion (macropsia).
7. Reticulated Python
It is the longest snake that is found in Sulawesi, Indonesia. Known as Reticulated Python, it has a length of 10 meters. They are non-venomous snakes but rarely harm human beings.
How to reach here
By flight: Nearest Airport, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport
Author : Vijaylaxmi Thakur