Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT) is one of the provinces located in eastern Indonesia. The eastern region is well known for its abundance of tourist destinations, each offering stunning beauty and unique charm. In this article, we’ll explore 15 tourist attractions in NTT that you can visit.
1. Pink Beach
The first tourist attraction in NTT is Pink Beach, located within the Komodo National Park area. As the name suggests, you can already guess what makes this beach so special. A stretch of pink sand combined with crystal clear blue sea will spoil your eyes. Besides enjoying the beach view, you can also do various activities here such as swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and of course, taking photos.
2. Kelimutu Lake
The next tourist attraction in NTT is Kelimutu Lake, located in Ende Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. This lake is also known as the “Three-Colored Lake” because, when you look at it, the lake has different colors, red, blue, and white. Interestingly, the colors of the lake often change over time.
To enjoy the beauty of this lake, you’ll need to hike Mount Kelimutu, which stands at 1,631 meters above sea level.
3. Padar Island
The next tourist attraction in NTT is Padar Island, which is part of the Komodo National Park. Padar Island is famous for its stunning landscape with rolling hills and a panoramic view of three bays, each with different colored sand, white, black, and pink. To reach the top and enjoy the breathtaking view, you need to do a short hike. Once you reach the summit, the view is truly worth it and often becomes a favorite spot for travelers to take iconic photos.
4. Komodo National Park
The most popular tourist attraction in NTT is Komodo National Park, located in West Manggarai Regency. This place is a source of pride for the people of NTT, as it has been officially recognized by UNESCO as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. That’s why your visit to NTT wouldn’t be complete without going to Komodo National Park. The main attraction here is, of course, the Komodo dragon, an endemic reptile of Indonesia that has drawn the attention of both local and international tourists. Before entering the Komodo National Park area, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee of IDR 300,000 for Indonesian citizens or IDR 600,000 for foreign visitors.
5. Lasiana Beach
There are many beach destinations in NTT, and one of them is Lasiana Beach. Lasiana Beach is located in the capital city of NTT, Kupang. This beach is relatively easy to access as it’s only 12 kilometers from the center of Kupang. When you arrive at the beach, you’ll immediately see rows of tall coconut trees that create a refreshing and beautiful coastal view.
6. Oesapa Beach
Another must-visit tourist attraction in NTT is Oesapa Beach. This beach is famously known as the “colorful beach” because of its vibrant facilities, everything from umbrellas and chairs to beanbags is painted in various bright colors. The best time to visit this beach is during sunset. The sunset view here is truly stunning, and it’s highly recommended for you to witness it when visiting Oesapa Beach.
7. Oetune Beach
Oetune Beach is located in Tuafanu Village, Kualin District, South Central Timor Regency, NTT. What makes this place unique is the stretch of sand shaped like waves, resembling a desert landscape. Not only that, this beach is also one of the best spots to catch the sunrise, so it’s best to arrive before dawn. There are also a few lontar and casuarina trees here, making you feel like you’re in Africa.
8. Wairinding Hill
If you love visiting hilly landscapes, Wairinding Hill is the perfect choice. This destination features a wide open savanna, making it a great backdrop for your photos. The best time to visit is during the dry season, when the savanna turns golden brown. But if you prefer lush green scenery, it’s better to come during the rainy season. This hill is located in East Sumba Regency, NTT.
9. Wae Rebo Village
Another must-visit tourist attraction in NTT is Wae Rebo. This village has been recognized as a world cultural heritage site by UNESCO since 2012. Often referred to as the “village above the clouds,” Wae Rebo sits at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level.
10. Love Hill (Bukit Cinta)
This tourist spot is located on the border between Kupang City and Kupang Regency, NTT. The name “Love Hill” comes from the history of the place, which was often used by couples as a romantic getaway. With its green hills and old Dutch caves in the background, this location is truly worth visiting. Plus, its proximity to the airport makes it very easy to access.
11. Pasir Panjang Beach
Pasir Panjang Beach in Kupang is located in the Pasir Panjang area, Kota Lama District, Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara. If you’re a sunset lover, this beach is a must-visit. In the late afternoon, the beach comes alive with various activities, from people playing football to relaxing on the sand while waiting for the stunning sunset view.
12. Manikin Beach
Another beach you should visit in NTT is Manikin Beach, located in Tarus, Central Kupang District, Kupang City, East Nusa Tenggara. What makes this beach unique is the view during low tide in the afternoon, revealing a beautiful stretch of coral rocks. There’s also a small river that flows directly into the sea, offering a unique natural blend that’s perfect for nature lovers.
13. Batu Nona Beach
If you’re looking for a beach with a stunning sunset, Batu Nona Beach is the place to be. The beach is clean and lined with lontar trees, offering a serene atmosphere. The name “Batu Nona” (Maiden Rock) comes from a local legend about a girl who jumped off a cliff into the sea. After she disappeared, a coral rock in the shape of a girl appeared at the site, giving the beach its name.
14. Tablolong Beach
NTT is widely known for its beach destinations, and one of the most beautiful is Tablolong Beach. This beach is peaceful and exotic, perfect for a healing getaway. The combination of white sand, crystal-clear blue water, and sunny skies makes it an incredibly attractive place. Tablolong Beach is also a route for migrating fish, so you’ll see many fish swimming close to shore. During migration season, fishing while enjoying the ocean view is one of the most enjoyable activities here.
15. Crystal Cave (Goa Kristal Bolok)
Crystal Cave is a hidden gem in NTT that many travelers haven’t discovered yet, but its beauty is truly breathtaking. The cave gets its name from the crystal-clear spring water inside, which looks like liquid crystal. You can swim and explore the spring or simply soak in the cool, natural waters. With its untouched environment and sparkling water, Crystal Cave is a must-visit destination.