Feeling the heat lately? If you’re living in Singapore or Malaysia, you know exactly what I’m talking about. Between the tropical humidity and the urban hustle, sometimes you just need to trade that air-con for some real, crisp mountain air.
If you’re wondering which cities to visit in Indonesia for a refreshing change of pace, you’ve come to the right place! While there are actually 98 cities and over 400 regencies in Indonesia, finding the ones that offer that perfect “sweater weather” vibe is a bit of an art.
Ready to pack your favorite hoodie? Let’s dive into the best cities in Indonesia to escape the heat!
Also Read: 11 Solo Hiking Tips So You Don’t Cry in the Woods
Top 10 Cities in Indonesia with Cool Climate
Lembang, Bandung
Photo: Daniel Nainggolan via Unsplash
Just a short drive from Bandung, Lembang is a favorite for a reason. It’s one of the most famous cities in Indonesia (well, technically a district, but it feels like a mountain city!) for weekenders.
The air is fresh, and the scenery is dominated by strawberry farms and pine forests. Temperatures here usually hover between 17°C to 24°C—perfect for walking around without breaking a sweat!
- What to do: Visit the Floating Market or Orchid Forest Cikole.
- Bob’s Tip: If you want to wake up right in the middle of a pine forest, stay at Bobocabin Cikole. You get the high-tech cabin vibes with a front-row seat to nature.
Ciwidey, Bandung
Photo: Ache Dipro via Unsplash
In southern Bandung lies Ciwidey, a place where the mist settles over rolling tea plantations. It’s definitely on the list of beautiful cities in Indonesia (regencies) that you can’t miss. The highlight here is Kawah Putih, a stunning white crater lake that looks otherworldly!
- What to do: Take photos at Kawah Putih or feed the deer at Ranca Upas.
- Bob’s Tip: You can actually sleep right next to the deer park! Bobocabin Ranca Upas offers an unbeatable “back to nature” experience with all the comforts you need.
Batu, Malang
Photo: Alarice via Unsplash
Located near Malang, Batu is consistently ranked among the top 10 cities in Indonesia for family vacations. Because it sits on a plateau, the air is chilly, and the views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular. It’s clean, organized, and filled with theme parks and natural wonders.
- What to do: Visit Museum Angkut or chase waterfalls like Coban Rondo.
- Bob’s Tip: For a legendary stay, check out Bobocabin Coban Rondo. You’ll be surrounded by the sound of the forest and a stunning view of the valley below!
Dieng, Wonosobo
Photo: Andri Hermawan via Unsplash
If you want to experience some of the coldest temperatures in Java, Dieng is the place!
During the dry season, you might even see “bun upas” (frost) on the ground! It’s one of the most unique names of cities in Indonesia for travelers seeking spiritual sites and dramatic landscapes.
- What to do: Watch the “Golden Sunrise” at Sikunir Hill or explore the ancient Arjuna Temple complex.
- Bob’s Tip: The winds can be biting, so cozy up at Bobocabin Dieng Pass after a morning of trekking!
Also Read: 9 Authentic Foods in Lombok You Need to Try
Berastagi, North Sumatra
For those flying from KL or Singapore to Medan, Berastagi is a must-visit. Nestled between two active volcanoes, Sibayak and Sinabung, this town is famous for its fruit markets and flower gardens.
It’s a breath of fresh air compared to the heat of the lowlands!
- What to do: Hike Mount Sibayak for a sunrise view or visit the Sipiso-piso waterfall.
- Bob’s Tip: While you’re in North Sumatra, don’t miss Lake Toba! You can stay at Bobocabin Kaldera or Bobocabin Patra Parapat for world-class lake views that will leave you speechless.
Takengon, Aceh
Located in the Gayo highlands of Aceh, Takengon sits on the shores of Lake Laut Tawar. It’s famous for producing some of the best coffee in the world. The combination of mountain air and the lakeside breeze makes it a hidden paradise.
- What to do: Sip Gayo coffee at a local plantation and take a boat ride on the lake.
- The Vibe: Relaxed, aromatic, and serene.
Kintamani, Bali
Photo: Robin Canfield via Unsplash
Think Bali is all about beaches? Think again!
Kintamani offers a rugged, cool landscape centered around Mount Batur and its vast crater lake. It’s quickly becoming one of the best cities in Indonesia (districts) for cafe-hopping with a view.
- What to do: Go for a sunrise trek or enjoy a coffee overlooking the volcano.
- Bob’s Tip: Experience the “Edge of the World” feeling at Bobocabin Kintamani, where your cabin window looks directly out at the majestic Mount Batur.
Padang Panjang, West Sumatra
In West Sumatra, Padang Panjang is known as the “Egypt of Van Andalas” because of its many Islamic schools, but travelers know it for its cool, rainy, and refreshing climate. It’s surrounded by three mountains: Marapi, Singgalang, and Tandikat.
- What to do: Visit the Minangkabau Culture Center or try the legendary Sate Mak Syukur.
- The Vibe: Authentic, cultural, and very, very cool.
Wae Rebo, East Nusa Tenggara
Photo: 918s _ via Pexels
While not one of the major cities in Indonesia, this traditional village in Flores is often referred to as a “city above the clouds.” To get here, you’ll need to hike, but the reward is staying in iconic conical houses (Mbaru Niang) surrounded by lush mountains!
- What to do: Immerse yourself in the local Manggarai culture and stargaze like never before.
- The Vibe: Pure, untouched, and incredibly peaceful!
Also Read: Kids Will Love ‘Em! 5 Delicious Finger Foods for Picnic Ideas
Mulia, Papua
If you’re a true adventurer looking for the “biggest” chill, Mulia is technically the coldest town in the country. Tucked away in a valley in the Puncak Jaya regency, temperatures here can drop to 9°C!
- The Vibe: Rugged and remote. It’s a destination for those who have already explored all the other major cities in Indonesia and want something truly off the beaten path.
Wake Up in the Clouds with Bobocabin!
Photo: Bobobox Internal Asset
Ready to swap the humidity for some mountain mist? Indonesia has it all! From the pine forests of Java, the volcanic vistas of Bali, or the lakeside peace of Sumatra, pick your favorite vibe!
At Bobocabin, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between being “at one with nature” and enjoying modern comfort. Our cabins are equipped with smart-glass windows, mood lighting, and cozy beds, all located in the most scenic spots across the Indonesian archipelago. It’s the perfect way to experience the beautiful cities in Indonesia while breathing in that fresh, crisp air!
Don’t just dream about it, experience it! Download the Bobobox App now to check availability, get the best rates, and book your dreamy highland escape in just a few taps. Your sweater is waiting!
Also Read: Here Are the Top 5 Destinations for Bleisure Travel in Indonesia
Writer: Ratna Asih
Featured Photo: Yogi Fadilah via Unsplash
