LokaLaku News – For the traveler seeking to go beyond the usual landmarks, a journey into the heart of Indonesia awaits. The country's burgeoning Desa Wisata (tourist village) movement offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the authentic cultures, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality that form the nation's true identity. Based on national awards, iconic status, and unforgettable experiences, this is the ultimate bucket list of 20 tourist villages to visit in 2025.
This curated list is a journey across the archipelago, from the ancient traditions of the highlands to the vibrant life of underwater paradises, showcasing the incredible diversity of community-based tourism in Indonesia.
Living Cultures & Ancient Traditions
These villages are living museums, offering a rare glimpse into traditions that have been preserved for centuries.
Panglipuran Village (Bali): Step into one of the world's cleanest villages, renowned for its perfectly uniform traditional architecture and bamboo forest.
Wae Rebo Village (Flores, NTT): Make the trek to the iconic, cone-shaped Mbaru Niang houses nestled high above the clouds in a remote mountain landscape.
Kete Kesu' Village (Tana Toraja, Sulawesi): Witness the unique culture of the Torajan people, with its magnificent Tongkonan houses and elaborate ancient funeral rites.
Osing Traditional Village - Kemiren (Banyuwangi, Java): Discover the living descendants of the Majapahit Kingdom and experience their unique coffee rituals and the mystical Gandrung dance.
Sade Traditional Village (Lombok, NTB): Immerse yourself in the life of the Sasak people, with their unique thatch-roofed houses and famous weaving traditions.
Ciptagelar Village (West Java): Visit a Sundanese kasepuhan community that still adheres to ancient agricultural rites and ancestral wisdom.
Tenganan Pegringsingan (Bali): Explore one of Bali's oldest villages, home to the Bali Aga people and the rare, double-ikat Gringsing fabric.
Pampang Village (East Kalimantan): Experience the vibrant culture of the Dayak Kenyah people through their traditional ceremonies, dance, and iconic longhouse.
Nagari Sijunjung (West Sumatra): Explore a vast and stunningly preserved traditional Minangkabau settlement with rows of iconic Rumah Gadang.
Bira Village (South Sulawesi): See where the legendary Phinisi ships are born, witnessing the incredible craftsmanship of the Bugis sailors.
Spectacular Nature & Eco-Adventures
For those who seek adventure, these villages offer dramatic landscapes and thrilling activities.
Nglanggeran Village (Yogyakarta, Java): Hike an ancient volcano at a UNESCO Global Geopark, run entirely by its successful youth community.
Jatiluwih Village (Bali): Wander through the spectacular UNESCO-listed terraced rice paddies, a testament to the ancient Subak irrigation system.
Sembalun Village (Lombok, NTB): Stay at the foot of the mighty Mount Rinjani, a haven for trekkers with jaw-dropping views of rolling hills and patchwork fields.
Arborek Village (Raja Ampat, Papua): Dive or snorkel straight from the village jetty into one of the world's richest marine ecosystems.
Loksado Village (South Kalimantan): Embark on a thrilling adventure by riding a traditional bamboo raft down the rushing Amandit River.
Dieng Kulon Village (Central Java): Explore the "Abode of the Gods," a mystical highland plateau of ancient temples, bubbling craters, and colored lakes.
Gampong Nusa (Aceh, Sumatra): Enjoy a serene river-based ecotourism experience in a culturally rich Acehnese community.
Modern Charm & Agri-Tourism
These villages blend traditional life with innovative, modern concepts that are perfect for a relaxing escape.
Pujon Kidul Village (Malang, Java): Relax at the famous "cafe sawah" (rice field cafe) and enjoy a modern, Instagrammable take on agri-tourism.
Pentingsari Village (Yogyakarta, Java): Experience a Javanese "live-in" package where you can learn to farm, play gamelan, and truly connect with the local way of life.
Huta Tinggi Village (North Sumatra): Enjoy the cool air and spectacular views near Lake Toba while experiencing the warm hospitality of the Batak people.
For bookings and inquiries, travelers can reach Lokalaku Trip via:
WhatsApp: +6281-331-421-031
Email: lokalakutrip@gmail.com