How to Travel Indonesia in 21 Days?

Indonesia is a mesmerizing archipelago that boasts a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and delicious food. For Muslim travelers, Indonesia is a fantastic destination as it’s the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, offering easy access to halal food, mosques, and Islamic cultural experiences. If you’re planning to explore Indonesia in 21 days, this comprehensive itinerary is designed with halal food options, travel tips, and a focus on the best of what Indonesia has to offer.

Related: Can Indonesia Become A World Leader in Halal Food & Tourism?

Why Indonesia?

From sprawling rice terraces and bustling cities to enchanting beaches and volcanoes, Indonesia has it all. Traveling through this beautiful country will give you a taste of diverse cuisines, experiences, and local hospitality. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a cultural explorer, Indonesia’s warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a top destination for every Muslim traveler.

Day-by-Day Indonesia Travel Itinerary with Halal Highlights

Days 1-3: Jakarta – The Urban Melting Pot of Indonesia

Your journey begins in Jakarta, Indonesia’s capital, known for its mix of modernity and tradition. It’s an ideal place to start as you’ll find an abundance of halal food options, vibrant markets, and diverse cultural landmarks.

What to Do in Jakarta

• National Monument (Monas): A towering symbol of Indonesia’s independence, this 132-meter-high monument offers panoramic views of Jakarta.
• Istiqlal Mosque: Southeast Asia’s largest mosque, accommodating over 120,000 worshippers. A must-visit for its impressive architecture and Islamic significance.
• Kota Tua (Old Town): Explore Jakarta’s historic district with its Dutch colonial buildings, Fatahillah Museum, and cozy cafés serving traditional Indonesian tea.

Where to Find Halal Food in Jakarta

Jakarta is packed with halal dining options. Here are some recommendations:

• Sate Khas Senayan: Known for its delicious satay and other traditional Indonesian dishes. Ensure you specify halal when ordering.
• Bebek Goreng Pak Ndut: Famous for fried duck served with rice, this local favorite ensures a fully halal menu.
• Street Food Markets: Visit Jalan Sabang for an array of halal street foods like nasi goreng (fried rice), martabak (Indonesian stuffed pancake), and mie ayam (chicken noodles).

Days 4-6: Yogyakarta – The Cultural Heart of Java

Travel by flight or a scenic train journey from Jakarta to Yogyakarta (Jogja), a city renowned for its cultural heritage, historic temples, and vibrant arts scene.

What to Do in Yogyakarta

• Borobudur Temple: One of the world’s largest Buddhist temples and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its awe-inspiring structure and panoramic views. Visit early for sunrise to avoid the crowds.
• Prambanan Temple: A magnificent Hindu temple complex with beautifully carved towers and a fascinating history.
• Malioboro Street: A bustling street filled with markets, street food vendors, and local artisans. It’s a great spot for souvenirs and halal food tasting.
• Kraton Palace & Taman Sari Water Castle: Explore the palace complex and learn about the traditional Javanese royal culture. The Taman Sari Water Castle, once a royal garden, is also worth exploring.

Where to Find Halal Food in Yogyakarta

• Gudeg Yu Djum: A legendary spot to try Gudeg, a sweet and savory dish made of young jackfruit, chicken, and boiled eggs, often served with rice.
• Bakpia Pathok: A popular local sweet treat made of sweetened mung bean paste wrapped in a pastry, often found in halal-certified bakeries.
• The House of Raminten: A quirky yet fully halal restaurant offering traditional Javanese dishes in a unique, artistic setting.

Days 7-9: Bali – The Island of Stunning Beaches

Fly from Yogyakarta to Bali, an island known for its stunning beaches, verdant rice terraces, and vibrant Hindu culture. While Bali is predominantly Hindu, finding halal food is easy with a bit of planning.

What to Do in Bali

• Ubud: Explore Bali’s cultural hub, filled with rice terraces like Tegallalang, traditional art markets, and spiritual places like the Ubud Palace and Monkey Forest Sanctuary.
• Seminyak & Canggu: For beach lovers, these coastal towns offer laid-back vibes, beach clubs, and plenty of surfing opportunities.
• Uluwatu Temple: One of the most iconic temples in Bali, set on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. Don’t miss the Kecak Fire Dance at sunset for a cultural experience.
• Waterfalls & Adventure: If you love adventure, visit Tegenungan Waterfall or go white-water rafting in Ayung River.

Where to Find Halal Food in Bali

• Warung Makan Muslim: A network of halal restaurants serving local Balinese and Indonesian dishes. Just look for the sign indicating “Muslim Warung” or “Halal.”
• Nasi Pedes Ibu Andika: A popular halal restaurant in Kuta serving delicious Indonesian dishes like Nasi Campur (mixed rice).
• Bale Udang Mang Engking Ubud: Dine in beautiful bamboo huts over fish ponds, serving a variety of halal-friendly seafood and grilled dishes.

Days 10-12: Gili Islands – Paradise Escape

From Bali, hop on a fast boat to the Gili Islands – a trio of stunning islands off the coast of Lombok. The three islands, Gili Trawangan (Gili T), Gili Meno, and Gili Air, each have their unique charm.

What to Do in the Gili Islands

• Gili Trawangan: Perfect for lively vibes, beach parties, and diving schools.
• Gili Meno: The quietest of the three islands, ideal for honeymooners and those seeking relaxation.
• Gili Air: A mix of serenity and local life, with opportunities for snorkeling and mingling with friendly locals.

Halal Food in the Gili Islands

Being small islands, halal options are often found at local eateries:

• Local Warungs (Small Restaurants): Most offer halal options such as nasi goreng, mie goreng, and fresh seafood. Just confirm before ordering.
• Scallywags Beach Club (Gili Trawangan): Offers halal meat options and seafood BBQs.

Days 13-15: Lombok – The Island of Thousand Mosques

Take a boat to Lombok, Bali’s quieter and less developed neighboring island, known for its stunning beaches, waterfalls, and volcanic mountains.

What to Do in Lombok

• Mount Rinjani: Trek to the crater of Mount Rinjani, an active volcano offering scenic views of lakes and landscapes. The multi-day trek is ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
• Kuta Lombok Beaches: Visit Mawun Beach and Tanjung Aan Beach for pristine waters and surfing opportunities.
• Sasak Village Tour: Experience the traditional way of life by visiting a Sasak village, where you can see how locals live, make pottery, and weave traditional fabrics.

Halal Food in Lombok

• RM Rinjani Halal Restaurant: Located near popular trekking spots, this restaurant offers various halal dishes, including grilled fish and rice platters.
• Rumah Makan Padang Sederhana: A chain that serves halal Padang cuisine, with a variety of dishes like beef rendang, chicken curry, and vegetable dishes.

Days 16-18: Komodo National Park – Dragons & Diving Paradise

Fly from Lombok to Labuan Bajo on the island of Flores and get ready to explore the Komodo National Park – home to the famous Komodo dragons and some of the best diving spots in the world.

What to Do in Komodo National Park

• Rinca & Komodo Islands: Trek through the islands with a guide to see the Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.
• Pink Beach: A unique pink-colored beach where you can snorkel, swim, and enjoy the vibrant coral life.
• Snorkeling & Diving: The underwater world around Komodo is a treasure trove, with chances to spot manta rays, turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.

Where to Find Halal Food in Komodo (Labuan Bajo)

• Warung Mama: A simple and halal-friendly eatery serving fresh seafood, rice, and vegetable dishes.
• Rumah Makan Padang Simpang Tiga: Serving a wide variety of Padang cuisine, this restaurant ensures all dishes are halal.

Days 19-21: Nusa Penida – Untamed Island Beauty

Wrap up your Indonesian adventure by taking a boat from Bali to Nusa Penida, an island renowned for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and untouched natural beauty.

What to Do in Nusa Penida

• Kelingking Beach: A must-see with its T-Rex-shaped cliff and turquoise waters. It’s a great spot for photos but be prepared for a steep hike down to the beach.
• Broken Beach & Angel’s Billabong: Two natural attractions offering breathtaking coastal views and natural pools.
• Snorkeling & Manta Ray Spotting: The clear waters of Crystal Bay and Manta Bay provide the perfect spots for snorkeling and possibly swimming with manta rays.
  

  Where to Find Halal Food in Nusa Penida

  While halal-certified eateries are fewer in Nusa Penida, it is still possible to find halal food:

  • Local Warungs (Small Restaurants): Many local eateries serve vegetarian and seafood dishes. Always ask about the preparation and ingredients to ensure they are halal.
  • Semabu Hills Resto & Bar: This resort restaurant offers halal options with stunning views of the island, particularly at sunset.

  Pro Tips for Traveling in Indonesia

  1. Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible for a free 30-day visa-on-arrival in Indonesia. Always check the latest requirements before traveling.
  2. Best Time to Visit: Indonesia’s dry season from April to October is the best time for travel, with warm weather perfect for exploring beaches, temples, and outdoor activities.
  3. Mosque Accessibility: Finding mosques (Masjid) for daily prayers is quite easy in Indonesia, especially in Muslim-majority areas like Java, Lombok, and Sumatra. Bali and other tourist islands also have masjids, but they may be fewer in number. Ask locals for directions.
  4. Dress Code: In most tourist spots, dressing modestly is appreciated but not mandatory. However, when visiting mosques, temples, or local villages, wear conservative attire (covering shoulders and knees) as a sign of respect.

  What to Pack for Your Trip

  • Breathable Clothing: The weather can be hot and humid, so pack lightweight, breathable fabrics.
  • Swimwear: Essential for beaches, snorkeling, and waterfall visits.
  • Modest Attire: Pack some modest clothing for visiting religious sites or local villages.
  • Comfortable Footwear: Flip-flops for the beaches, hiking shoes for treks, and comfortable sandals for walking.
  • Sunscreen & Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from sunburns and mosquito bites.

  Travel Tips for Muslim Travelers

  • Research Halal Options in Advance: Use apps like Zabihah or HalalTrip to locate halal food options across different Indonesian cities.
  • Bring Snacks for Remote Areas: In remote areas like Komodo and Nusa Penida, halal food options may be limited. Carry packed snacks or instant halal meals just in case.
  • Respect Local Customs: Although Indonesia is a Muslim-majority country, some regions have local customs that vary. Always be respectful of local traditions, particularly in Hindu-majority Bali and culturally diverse areas like Papua.

  Where to Stay in Indonesia

  • Budget Travelers: Hostels and guesthouses are available throughout Indonesia, often offering shared kitchens and communal spaces. Look for ones labeled as “Muslim-friendly” for added comfort.
  • Mid-Range to Luxury: Boutique hotels, villas, and resorts abound, particularly in popular destinations like Bali, Lombok, and Yogyakarta. Some accommodations even provide prayer mats, halal food, and Qibla direction.

  This itinerary offers a balanced mix of culture, adventure, relaxation, and, importantly, easy access to halal food options. Whether you’re exploring the historic temples of Yogyakarta, diving with manta rays in Komodo, or simply relaxing on the Gili Islands’ beaches, your 21-day journey through Indonesia will be filled with unforgettable experiences and diverse Islamic heritage.

  For a Muslim traveler, Indonesia is an incredible destination where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes, indulge in delicious halal cuisines, and connect with a culture that is deeply influenced by Islam. So, start planning your 3-week trip to Indonesia, and embark on an adventure that you will cherish for a lifetime!

  Selamat Jalan (Safe Travels)!