Where is Indonesia Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated May 30, 2025

Where is Indonesia located on the map? Indonesia is an independent nation located in Southeastern Asia. Check out the following images to see location of Indonesia on maps.

Indonesia Location in World Map

Indonesia is made up of numerous islands, and many of them are so small that you can’t even see them on a map.

Location Information of Indonesia

Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a vast archipelago located in Southeast Asia and Oceania. It consists of over 17,000 islands, making it the largest island country in the world. Indonesia lies between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean and is situated near the equator, providing it with a tropical climate and a diverse range of ecosystems. Indonesia’s strategic location places it as a key player in regional and global geopolitics and trade.

Latitude and Longitude

Indonesia is positioned roughly between 6° N to 11° S latitude and 95° E to 141° E longitude. The capital city, Jakarta, lies at approximately 6.2088° S latitude and 106.8456° E longitude.

Capital City and Major Cities

Jakarta (Capital City)

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is the largest city in the country and one of the most populous urban areas in the world, with a population of over 10 million people. It serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Indonesia. Located on the northwest coast of the island of Java, Jakarta is a vibrant metropolis that blends modern skyscrapers with traditional markets, colonial architecture, and diverse cultural influences. Some of Jakarta’s key attractions include:

National Monument (Monas), a symbol of Indonesia’s independence, offering panoramic views of the city from the top.
Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia.
Kota Tua, Jakarta’s old town, which contains colonial-era buildings and museums.

Surabaya

Surabaya, located in the east of Java, is Indonesia’s second-largest city. With a population of around 3 million, Surabaya is a major trade and industrial hub. It is known for its historic role as a port city and its proximity to other important regions in Indonesia. Key attractions in Surabaya include:

Surabaya Submarine Monument, a preserved Soviet submarine turned museum.
House of Sampoerna, a museum dedicated to Indonesia’s famous kretek (clove cigarettes) industry.
Taman Bungkul, a large public park offering recreational facilities for locals and tourists alike.

Bali (Denpasar)

Bali is one of Indonesia’s most famous islands, located in the westernmost part of the Lesser Sunda Islands. The capital of Bali is Denpasar, and the island is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and unique culture. Bali attracts millions of tourists each year for its world-class resorts, temples, and natural beauty. Some of Bali’s highlights include:

Uluwatu Temple, a stunning cliffside temple overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud, a picturesque forest filled with mischievous macaques.
Mount Batur, an active volcano popular for sunrise hikes.

Bandung

Located in West Java, Bandung is known for its cool climate and rich colonial history. The city is a popular weekend destination for Jakarta residents, as it is a center of shopping, education, and fashion. Bandung is also known for its historic art deco architecture. Key attractions include:

Tangkuban Perahu, an active volcano located near the city.
Kawah Putih, a sulfuric lake located in a volcanic crater.
Saung Angklung Udjo, where visitors can experience traditional Indonesian music.

Medan

Medan, the largest city in North Sumatra, is an important economic center in the western part of Indonesia. The city’s strategic location near the Malacca Strait makes it a vital port for the island. Medan is known for its cultural diversity and historic buildings. Key attractions in Medan include:

Maimun Palace, a historic royal palace from the Sultanate of Deli.
Great Mosque of Medan, an impressive mosque with a blend of Islamic, Roman, and Moorish architectural styles.
Lake Toba, one of the world’s largest volcanic lakes, located near Medan.

Time Zone

Indonesia spans across three time zones due to its large geographic spread. These time zones are:

Western Indonesia Time (WIB): UTC +7 (Jakarta, Surabaya, and Sumatra).
Central Indonesia Time (WITA): UTC +8 (Bali, Lombok, and parts of Sulawesi).
Eastern Indonesia Time (WIT): UTC +9 (Papua, Maluku Islands).

The entire country observes Indonesian Standard Time throughout the year, with no daylight saving time.

Climate

Indonesia has a tropical climate, with high humidity, warm temperatures, and significant rainfall year-round. Due to its location along the equator, Indonesia experiences two distinct seasons: the wet season and the dry season.

Wet Season (November to March)

During the wet season, the country experiences heavy rains, especially in the coastal regions and the islands of Sumatra and Borneo. The wet season is typically from November to March, when temperatures range from 23°C to 31°C (73°F to 88°F) in most regions. The rainfall is most intense in the western part of the country, with occasional flooding in areas such as Jakarta.

Dry Season (April to October)

The dry season lasts from April to October and is marked by lower humidity and less rainfall. Temperatures during the dry season range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), and this is considered the best time for travel, especially for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach vacations. Regions like Bali and Java experience pleasant weather during this period, while the central and eastern parts of the country remain quite warm.

Climate Variability

Indonesia’s climate varies significantly by region, with higher elevations in the mountainous areas experiencing cooler temperatures. For instance, Bandung and Ubud are cooler compared to the coastal cities. The tropical rainforests in Borneo and Sumatra also contribute to the country’s diverse climate, while the eastern islands such as Papua are influenced by a more equatorial climate.

Economic Status

Indonesia has the largest economy in Southeast Asia and is classified as an emerging market and developing economy. The economy is diverse, with significant contributions from natural resources, manufacturing, services, and agriculture.

Key Economic Sectors

Oil and Gas: Indonesia is a major exporter of crude oil and natural gas, although production has slowed in recent years. The country also holds significant reserves of coal, minerals, and geothermal energy.
Agriculture: Agriculture plays a crucial role in the Indonesian economy. The country is a leading exporter of commodities like palm oil, rubber, coffee, cocoa, and tea. Rice and corn are also significant staples for domestic consumption.
Manufacturing: Indonesia has a well-developed manufacturing sector, with industries in electronics, automobiles, textiles, footwear, and furniture. It is a major exporter of clothing and textile products.
Tourism: Indonesia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia, with attractions like Bali, Komodo Island, and Jakarta. The tourism industry contributes significantly to the economy, with millions of international visitors annually.
Services: Indonesia’s services sector includes banking, telecommunications, insurance, and retail. The digital economy in Indonesia is growing rapidly, especially in e-commerce and mobile technology.

Economic Challenges

Despite its growing economy, Indonesia faces significant challenges such as income inequality, poverty, and corruption. Environmental issues, including deforestation and pollution, also pose challenges for sustainable growth. The country is highly dependent on global commodity prices, which can create vulnerabilities in its economic outlook.

Tourist Attractions

Indonesia offers a wide range of tourist attractions, from natural beauty and cultural heritage to modern cities and beach resorts. The country’s immense diversity provides tourists with a variety of experiences.

Bali

Bali is Indonesia’s most famous island and is known for its beaches, temples, and vibrant arts scene. Tourists flock to Bali for its luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches like Kuta and Nusa Dua, and cultural attractions such as the Ubud Monkey Forest and Tanah Lot Temple.

Borobudur Temple

Located in Central Java, Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in the 9th century, the temple is known for its intricate carvings and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.

Komodo National Park

Known for its Komodo dragons, Komodo National Park is one of the most unique wildlife destinations in the world. The park includes Komodo Island, Rinca Island, and Padar Island, and offers opportunities for trekking, snorkeling, and diving.

Mount Bromo

Located in East Java, Mount Bromo is an active volcano that attracts tourists who come to experience its dramatic landscapes and sunrise views. The area surrounding the volcano, called the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, is a popular trekking destination.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Indonesia must obtain a visa unless they are entering for tourist visits of fewer than 30 days under the Visa Exemption rule. For stays longer than 30 days, U.S. citizens must apply for a tourist visa.

The visa application process typically requires:

A valid U.S. passport with at least 6 months of validity.
A completed visa application.
A passport-sized photo.
Proof of financial means to support the stay.
A return ticket or proof of onward travel.

Travelers may also apply for a visa on arrival (for a stay of up to 30 days) in certain airports, such as those in Bali or Jakarta.

Distance to New York City and Los Angeles

From New York City to Jakarta: The distance from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is approximately 10,000 miles (16,000 kilometers). A direct flight usually takes about 20 hours.
From Los Angeles to Jakarta: The distance from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK) is around 8,700 miles (14,000 kilometers), with a direct flight typically taking 18–19 hours.

Indonesia Facts

Size	2.02 million km²
Residents	270.6 million
Language	Indonesian
Capital	Jakarta
Longest river	Kapuas (1,150 km)
Highest mountain	Puncak Jaya (5,030 m)
Currency	Rupiah