Religious Tourism in Indonesia, Where Should You Go?

Indonesia’s natural beauty always manages to attract both international and local tourists. This country offers breathtaking tourist spots, from beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and more. It is no wonder that Indonesia’s tourist destinations are always crowded with visitors. 
But, it is not just the nature, Indonesia is also well-known for its religious tourism that you can try during the holiday season. Curious about these destinations? Check out the list below!

Istiqlal Mosque
As one of the icons of the capital city of Jakarta, Istiqlal Mosque stands majestically on an area of about 98,247 m². Meanwhile, the building itself covers an area of 25,000 m². It is reason enough for the mosque, located opposite Immanuel Church and Jakarta Cathedral, to be named the largest mosque in Southeast Asia. 
Historically, the idea for the construction of Istiqlal Mosque had emerged in 1944 during a meeting involving Islamic scholars, Islamic leaders, and organizational heads in Pegangsaan Timur, Jakarta. It was finally realized in 1951 under Ir. Soekarno’s presidency, even though the construction was delayed and it was officially opened in 1978. 

Borobudur Temple
Designated as a World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, Borobudur Temple is one of the favorite tourist destinations for both local and international visitors. The temple is located about 17 km from the center of Magelang City, or in Borobudur Village, Borobudur Subdistrict, Magelang District, Central Java. 
The history of Borobudur Temple dates back to the Shailendra Dynasty, the ruling power at the time. The temple was built around 780-840 CE as a place for pilgrimage and worship of the Buddha. The British forces rediscovered it in 1814 and the temple area was cleared in 1835. 
Borobudur Temple has several zones: Kamadhatu (representing human desire and human nature), Rupadhatu (representing the transitional realm—where humans are freed from worldly matters), and Arupadhatu (representing the highest realm, Nirvana). 

Sam Poo Kong Temple
Located in Bongsari Village, Semarang Barat Subdistrict, Semarang, Sam Poo Kong is a place of worship for Confucians. The area was once a resting place for Admiral Cheng Ho and his crew. It began in the 15th century, when Admiral Cheng Ho was assigned to a peace and diplomatic mission.
His voyage’s main destinations included Java Island, Sumatra Island, and Malacca. Upon arriving in Semarang, Cheng Ho took some time to rest in a stone cave and treated Wang Jing Hong, his navigator. Wang Jing Hong later decided to stay and live with the local people. Before it became a temple, the cave where Cheng Ho rested was a place of worship for Confucians. 

Maria Cave at Sendangsono
As the name suggests, Maria Cave at Sendangsono is a pilgrimage site for Catholics in Indonesia. The cave is situated in a hilly area and has a unique architecture. It features statues of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary. 
This place offers attractions such as Relics from Lourdes, a historical baptism site on Java Island, pristine scenery, and more. Visitors can engage in activities at this cave, including pilgrimage, especially during the month of Mary, and outdoor prayer surrounded by fresh air and a peaceful atmosphere. 
That was the list of religious tourism spots you can visit. So, are you interested in taking a religious tour? Be sure to purchase your Travel Insurance from MSIG Indonesia before you go. Having insurance is a way to make your trip safe, comfortable, and worry-free. Enjoy your religious tourism experience!