All You Need To Know For Planning A Budget-Friendly Indonesia Trip

Indonesia offers many enchanting wonders, from the lush jungles of Bali to the vibrant streets of Jakarta. If getting good value for your money when travelling abroad is an important factor, Indonesia is one of the most attractive options. At the time of writing, INR 1 equals IDR 193, meaning Indians can enjoy more spending power in Indonesia.

According to Numbeo, a cost of living database that collects data from around the world, a three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant in Indonesia would cost around INR 1,298. In addition, a bottle of local beer at a bar would be around INR 150 to 200, and a regular cappuccino would cost you about INR 160. Here's a look at all you need to know before visiting Indonesia.

Top Attractions

Explore ancient temples in Prambanan and the world's biggest Buddhist sanctuary, Borobudur. Witness rare coral species in the Raja Ampat Islands and incredible marine life in the Nusa Islands. Hike through rainforests and rice paddy fields in Ubud and admire Dutch colonial architecture in Belitung. And it's all very pocket friendly. At the Bali Safari and Marine Park, encounter about 400 wildlife species and enjoy the adventure for around INR 4,000. Embark on a night trek to Mount Batur, an active volcano, for an unforgettable sunrise experience for around INR 2,000. Book a whitewater rafting trip on the Ayung River in Ubud for an exhilarating adventure for around INR 3,500.

Visa

The tourist visa is valid for a period of 90 days, and you can stay in the country for a maximum of 60 days. As an Indian citizen, you can obtain an e-visa or Visa on Arrival (VoA). Indian citizens are eligible for a 30-day visa on arrival, which can be extended for an additional 30 days. The fee for the visa is INR 2,601.

Currency

The designated currency in Indonesia is the rupiah. As per the current present exchange rates, INR 1 equals IDR 193. While debit and credit cards are common, carry cash to avoid foreign exchange markups.

Flights

Several low-cost carriers connect major Indian cities to Jakarta and Denpasar. A round-trip fare typically amounts to INR 40,000 or less, even during the peak season, especially if booked a month in advance.

Accommodation

Indonesia has a variety of accommodations to fit different budgets, including luxury resorts, budget-friendly hostels, homestays, and couchsurfing options. You can share a dorm in a hostel for as little as INR 473, or you can opt for a private room that will cost you approximately INR 2,000 per night. If travelling in bigger groups, Airbnb offers the most value for price, as several come with plunge pools and great views.

Local Travel

Travelling in Indonesia is both easy and convenient. Traditional modes of transport include becaks and bemos. Becaks are a combination of a bicycle and rickshaw that can carry up to two people, while bemos are small buses that can accommodate up to ten people. The rates for these modes of transport are usually fixed and affordable. If you're looking to explore Sumatra or Java islands, trains are a great way to do so since they are as quick as buses but cheaper and more comfortable. If you want to travel from one island to another, boats are the best option. You can board a ferry or a speedboat, depending on the route.

Dining

Indians can enjoy more spending power while dining out in Indonesia. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant would cost approximately INR 780 and can go up to INR 2,000. Eating at warungs or small kiosks/streetside stalls is a great way to save money on food, as a plate would typically cost INR 150.

Shopping

Pick up high-quality coffee, especially the native kopi luwak variant, costing INR 300 per packet. The country is also renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. The Batik fabrics start from around INR 800 per metre. Visit the village of Tegallalang, a short drive north of Ubud central, for intricately stylised Balinese wooden carvings of the Garuda, costing around INR 800. Also, buy local spices like Balinese vanilla and sea salts.

Best Time To Visit

For the western and central Indonesian islands (such as Bali, Java, the Gilis, Lombok, and Komodo), the best time to visit is during the dry season, which spans from May to September. The wet season is between October and April, with rainfall occurring in short, heavy bursts. On the other hand, the eastern islands, such as Sulawesi, West Papua, Raja Ampat, and the Moluccas Islands, have different peak seasons, mostly between March and May and again in October.