Picture this: glistening waters, crisp fresh air and a jaw-dropping view from above the clouds. Not a single skyscraper is in sight; all one hears is the wind howling and the circling birds chirping. Retreating into the wonders of nature has proven to be therapeutic and is the primary reason why we constantly set time aside, whenever possible, to embark on hikes.

From Bali’s Mount Batur, East Java’s Ijen Volcano to North Sumatra’s Sipiso-Piso Waterfall, here are 8 Best Hiking Trails in Indonesia with Breathtaking Sceneries.

Source: Wanderlust East Java

#1 IJEN VOLCANO, EAST JAVA

Standing at 9,183 feet, the majestic Ijen Volcano is renowned for its gorgeous kilometre-wide, turquoise-colour crater lake. This magnificent stratovolcano is also where sulphur mining operations take place. The emitted blue flames—however beautiful—are extremely toxic and one should not go near it.

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Source: Outbound Corner

#2 PADAR ISLAND, KOMODO NATIONAL PARK

UNESCO World Heritage Site Komodo National Park comprises of three major islands—namely Rinca, Komodo, and Padar – and Padar Island is definitely the most underrated destination out of all. The peak offers out-of-the-world panoramic views so do remember to bring your GoPro along!

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#3 MOUNT BATUR, BALI

Mount Batur—an active Balinese volcano—last erupted in the year 2000 but has fallen back into a deep slumber for the past decade and a half. Rising 1,717 metres above sea level, a hike up the scenic Indonesian mountain can be completed within two hours one-way by fit climbers.

If you are planning on an adventure to Mount Batur, read our Mount Batur guide which includes 9 things one should expect and prepare for.

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Source: Remote Islands

#4 MOUNT BROMO, EAST JAVA

It takes approximately four hours to drive from Surabaya—the capital of East Java—to active Indonesian volcano Mount Bromo, but the long journey has not deterred many from hiking up the prominent volcanic mountain. Needless to say, the scenery is incredibly beautiful.

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Source: Indonesia’d

#5 MOUNT KELIMUTU, FLORES

A hike up Mount Kelimutu is especially rewarding as climbers are in a spectacular visual treat of The Crown Jewels of Flores – a natural site of three colourful lakes that changes its colour numerous times a year. The interesting thing is that the change is unpredictable.

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Source: Trekking Rinjani

#6 MOUNT RINJANI, LOMBOK

Mount Rinjani is not for the faint-hearted. A trek up the active volcano takes approximately three days and you would be traversing through a diverse range of ecosystems. Upon reaching the summit, hikers are treated to a mesmerising view of Lombok Island. It is best to hire an experienced tour guide as there are several routes to get up to the volcano.

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Source: Top Indonesia

#7 PULAU GUNUNG API, BANDA ISLANDS

A climb up isolated volcanic island Gunung Api Banda is certainly no easy feat. The route is characterised by broken rock fragments and the tedious journey will have you moving two steps forward and one step back.

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Source: Wonderful Indonesia

#8 SIPISO-PISO WATERFALL, NORTH SUMATRA

Located in the lush greenery of North Sumatra is Sipiso-piso Waterfall, a picturesque 120-metre near-vertical waterfall that plunges dramatically into a gorge. The waterfall is accessible within a 45-minute drive from Indonesian town Berastagi.

Read: 8 Best Beaches in Indonesia You Must Visit At Least Once In Your Life

When you think of Japan, what comes to mind? Tokyo, Osaka and Hokkaido, right? These major tourist towns attract the highest number of traffic every year. However, Japan has many gorgeous islands and panoramic scenery in other cities too that is for sure, worth travelling to.

Countries such as India have over-populated cities that some may find too claustrophobic. What most leave out are the smaller suburban areas and the mountains that can be found away from the city that holds the same rich culture. If you have always been the adventurous type, why not take the road less travelled (literally)?

Here are 5 Unique Travel Destinations in Asia You Never Knew About – Treat Yourself To Asia’s Most Well-Kept Secrets.

Source: Foreigner CN

#1 HOH XIL, TIBET

Hoh Xil in Tibet is China’s largest and the world’s third largest uninhabited area and it home to massive wildlife.

This beautiful area is made up of the most beautiful mountainous landscapes and is one of the main sources of the Yangtze River. Get in touch with the very primal part of life, where you free yourself of worries and take in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Photo Credit: ecns

Average price of accommodation: Below S$40 a night for an Airnb apartment Cheapest flight price: S$950 return (excluding visa, compulsory to obtain) Average cost of food a day: S$20 (all meals) Total for 5 days (all expenses): Approx. S$1200

Source: Japan Guide

#2 SHODOSHIMA, JAPAN

As the second largest island in the Sento Inland Sea, this “Mediterranean-style” Japanese island is home to beaches, resorts and lovely coastal sceneries.

Check out soy sauce factories, olive farms and Monkey Park when you visit this island.

Photo Credit: therealjapan

Average price of accommodation: S$30 a night for AirBnb apartment, S$250 (hotel) Cheapest flight price: S$650 return, including two-way transfer from Tokyo Average cost of food a day: S$50 for all meals Total for 5 days (all expenses): S$1050 (Airbnb apartment), S$1900 (hotel)

Source: Garden of Dreams

#3 GARDEN OF DREAMS, NEPAL

This neo-classical historic garden, is a nice respite from the bustling city of Kathmandu and provides a very lovely and tranquil atmosphere.

Although Garden of Dreams is not a full city, it is a must-visit when you venture to Kathmandu to appreciate the historical monuments and the flora & fauna.

Photo Credit: tripadvisor

Average price of accommodation: S$50 a night (3-star hotel), $25 a night (AirBnb apartment) Cheapest flight price: S$600 return Average cost of food a day: S$25 for all meals Total for 5 days (all expenses): Approx S$885

Source: Danum Valley

#4 DANUM VALLEY, SABAH

This is for all the nature lovers out there. Danum Valley is situated in a rainforest where you can have a full-on experience learning about nature and going for nature walks.

You can choose to stay in the rainforest lodges where you will be treated to a very quintessential experience.

Photo Credit: borneo holidays

Average price of accommodation: S$40 per night for an AirBnb apartment (Rainforest lodge recommended but is much pricier) Cheapest flight price: S$130 Average cost of food a day: S$20 for all meals Total for 3 days (all expenses): S$270

Source: Kerala Tourism

#5 MUNNAR, INDIA

If you are a tea fan, look no further than Munnar, a fairly unknown part of the mountainous regions in India.

Despite this, Munnar houses beautiful tea plantations that span over large areas and has luxurious hotels and lodges where you can stay in, with mountain views.

Photo Credit: kerala tourism

Average price of accommodation: S$50 per night (Airbnb apartment), S$200 a night (luxurious mountain view hotel) Cheapest flight price: S$182 return Average cost of food a day: S$20 all meals Total for 5 days (all expenses): S$1000 (hotel), S$462 (AirBnb apartment)

Some people travel for food, some people travel for shopping; of course, there are travellers who actually embark on holidays just to trek.

If you have never been on a hiking vacation or are planning for one, it is important to consider various factors to ensure your safety. Investing in quality hiking shoes and protecting yourselves from insects are some to get you started.

Here are 8 Tips on What To Expect and How To Plan For A Trekking Holiday.

#1 ALTITUDE SICKNESS

There are various forms of altitude sickness and most people do not even know that they actually suffer from it!

Altitude sickness is basically caused from a high ascent and symptoms include exhaustion, hyperventilation and nausea due to oxygen deprivation. It can affect victims from 2,500m and onwards. People do die from worst case scenarios – so please do not take this as a joking matter!

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#2 UV PROTECTION

Before heading outdoors, slather on generous amounts of sunblock lotion on both your face and body to shield yourselves from harmful ultraviolet sun rays.

Do bring along sunglasses and a bottle of sunscreen for reapplication. You will be thankful when the scorching sun rays get unbearably blinding and painful.

#3 MAP AND PLAN

Map out your hiking route and inform your loved ones about your whereabouts.

There are many guided tours led by experienced tour guides, which is highly recommended for those who are visiting a foreign destination for the first time. Venturing off unchartered terrain could be highly dangerous due to unforeseen obstacles such as wild animals encounters and other hazardous situations.

#4 MULTIPURPOSE SCARF

A multipurpose scarf can protect you from the blazing sun, sudden sandstorm or sudden cold. Of course, bring a long an ultra lightweight thin one so that you could easily stuff it in your bag.

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#5 WATERBOTTLE

Chances are, there would not be any water coolers for potable water, or shops where you get to buy clean bottled mineral water – so take along a filled water bottle with you to hydrate yourselves from time to time.

#6 QUALITY SPORTS SHOES

Investing in high quality, durable sports shoes is a must. The last thing you want to happen during a strenuous hike is to experience a faulty sole or fall from a slippery path due to poor grip.

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#7 MINI TORCHLIGHT

The sun rises and sets at different timings across different countries and different seasons, so take along a mini torchlight just in case you have to find your way in near or complete darkness.

#8 LIGHT BACKPACK

To navigate around, you would need a light and handy backpack to store all your belongings, i.e. water bottle, mini torchlight and scarf.

Refrain from tiny handbags that can hardly put more than a wallet, or overly heavy duffel bags as they can be very cumbersome.

Read: 8 Best Hikes In Asia For Every Adventurous Traveller.

More often than not, when you ask your friends what they think of when you mention “work out”, the answer would most probably be three letters: GYM. So much so that hitting the gym has become more of a lifestyle than just a form of exercise.

Working out in space limited Singapore doesn’t always necessarily mean pumping the iron or stomping the treadmill. How does breaking out the sweat while being surrounded by nature and Instagram-worthy views sound like to you?

If you think the Southern Ridges and Sungei Buloh are all there is to nature in Singapore, think again! Here are 10 more uncharted nature trails in Singapore to feed either your need for green or, for the less interested, your Instagram fix in urban Singapore.

#1 CONEY ISLAND

Bask in softly filtered natural lighting and enjoy the breeze in an open air, natural environment. No, this is not a new cafe offering an al fresco dining experience. Welcome to Coney Island, Singapore’s newest nature park! Although it was only recently opened to public, Coney Island is already the must visit destination for Insta-hippies with its wild grassy look coupled with a soft textured backdrop provided by the Casuarina trees.

The island projects a sense of nostalgia, transporting you back to a time where roads were just dirt paths from clearing vegetation and where amenities were primitive. Look out for hanging nests that were intrinsically weaved by the Baya weaver birds along the main path or try spotting the lone Brahm cow that has called the island home.

Also, hidden among the mangroves is a villa built by the Haw Par brothers! However, to avoid being caught by the tides, we highly recommend that you sign up for the free guided tour provided by NParks, should you wish to visit and snap an Insta-worthy picture!

Start your journey from Punggol Point (Do stock up on water from the 7-11 convenience store and relieve yourself at Punggol Settlement before you begin your trek) and follow the signs, or the crowd, towards Coney Island. There are 2 entrances to Coney Island, but everyone enters from the western entrance, which is the entrance nearest to Punggol Point.

Oh, and do watch out for sandflies, especially at the beaches! Remember to go prepared and properly covered!

Read: Guide to Coney Island – Here’s what to expect before you go.

#2 SENTOSA NATURE TRAILS

Psst! Have you heard about dragons living in Sentosa? Or that an ancient civilization once existed on the island? Unleash your inner Indiana Jones and set out in search for the elusive dragon and that glittery Mayan gold “buried” in the heart of Sentosa!

Mention Sentosa to anyone and the first replies are usually to do with getting a tan on one of her beaches or the adrenaline rush that comes with Universal Studios. It is, after all, The State of Fun and there are countless activities one can partake in for a memorable day in Sentosa.

But for the avid naturalist who scorns the highly urbanised nature of attractions on the island, gear yourself up for a day of sweat and insect bites and explore the trails in Sentosa.

Make your way up the escalators to Imbiah Lookout and head to Sentosa Nature Discovery (previously known as the Butterfly Park Sentosa Monorail station). Pick up some nature watching skills here before heading off into the trails.

The many hidden structures sprawled across the trails – relics of some of Sentosa’s former attractions – bring back memories for many who have visited Sentosa in the past and gives it a sense of nostalgia. Enjoy the rewarding breeze and view on the Siloso Skywalk at the end of the trail. It’ll be worth it!

#3 MACRITCHIE RESERVOIR TO BUKIT TIMAH HILL

Challenge yourself to a journey through Singapore’s rainforests in this one heck of a trail. The first in Singapore, Macritchie Reservoir is steeped in history and houses many “easter eggs” to be discovered!

Did you know that World War II hero Lim Bo Seng’s tomb is situated on a hill in the Reservoir Park? Or that there used to be a Japanese Shrine during the Japanese Occupation?

Start from the trails at the eastern end of the reservoir, and make your way around the reservoir as you watch the macaques frolicking about in the trees or marvel at tree-climbing monitor lizards! Take a short detour to the TreeTop Walk and soak in the sights and sounds above the canopy, before making your way onto Rifle Range Road, and turn right onto the Kampong Trail near the end of Rifle Range Road. This will bring you to the entrance of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

If you are still feeling energetic at this point, challenge yourself and get to the summit of Bukit Timah Hill!

PS: Do note that Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is currently undergoing restoration works and access to the summit is only possible via the Summit Trail. The trail is also opened only on weekends from 7am-6pm.

#4 DAIRY FARM NATURE PARK

Before Hay Dairies in Lim Chu Kang, there was a dairy farm owned by the Cold Storage group right in the middle of the island. The farm has since ceased operations, but its legacy lives on with a road and, subsequently, a park, so very aptly named Dairy Farm.

Located on the periphery of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Dairy Farm Nature Park is one of a number of nature parks which were recently created to act as green buffers for Bukit Timah and the Central Catchment nature reserves. Start off at the Wallace Education Centre, which was converted from an old cow shed and learn more about the history of the park.

Trek into Wallace Trail and look out for traces of an old kampong that once populate Dairy Farm Nature Park, or the durian trees that line the trail. After leaving the jungle, take a slow walk to the Singapore Quarry to enjoy the breeze as you cool down and while taking in the majestic views of the quarry.

Getting to Dairy Farm Nature Park has also just gotten a lot easier! With the opening of Phase 2 of the Downtown line, the new Hillview MRT station brings you right smack in the middle of Dairy Farm Nature Park’s hiking trail at Carpark A. Simply hop off the train and begin your adventure!

#5 BIDADARI PARK

Protected by the dead. That would most probably be the best and most appropriate description for Bidadari Park. Formerly a muslim cemetery, the sacredness of the place gave the lush greenery the protection it needed.

Bidadari, with its diversity of migratory birds and numerous species of resident birds such as Woodpeckers and Kingfishers, is a paradise for birdwatchers. It is wild, unkempt, and its tracks are carved out by nature enthusiasts who frequent the park. Walk around the forested area and listen out for the various bird calls. Alternatively, try talking to some of the birdwatchers and they may point you to a rarely seen bird perched high up on the trees.

Located right beside Woodleigh MRT, getting to Bidadari Park is easy. However, those looking to visit Bidadari would have to do it soon. The area is slated for redevelopment and one wonders how much longer this green patch can remain untouched.

#6 TAMPINES ECO GREEN

Hidden in a corner of Tampines right beside the Tampines Expressway is her residents’ little secret. With no HDBs, carparks, and definitely no minimarts, this nondescript piece of greenery may just seem like any other green patch in Singapore. However, a step into the park and you feel as though u have been transported into the outskirts of the city, surrounded by lush greenery and the songs of many chirping birds.

Although relatively new, the park’s development was not intrusive and retains a ‘wild’ look. Dead trees that are not along the paths have been retained and have become a sanctuary for native and migratory birds, especially the majestic raptors such as White Bellied Sea Eagle and Brahminy Kite.

Trekking around Tampines Eco Green is a great learning journey for everyone. Start with the Diversity Trail where it brings you along the wetlands and grasslands where you can watch the white breasted waterhen jostle for territory or be entertained by the dance of the dragonflies along the wetlands.

Also keep a lookout for the majestic raptors that love perching on the many dead trees in the park before making loop through the Forest Trail for a nice shaded walk back to the entrance!

#7 RAIL CORRIDOR

For the longest time, this 24 km stretch of land was the gateway to Singapore, welcoming visitors to the garden city with a mixture of lush greenery and modern architecture in the distance. Although most of the railway tracks have been removed and patched over, revisit some of the historical landmarks and sights that once greeted many of our visitors who travelled by rail.

Developments to the rail corridor were recently announced and while the masterplan is impressive and will cater to a wide audience, one should not pass up the opportunity to see and photograph it in all of its natural glory, before it loses its identity and its atmosphere.

To thoroughly soak in the atmosphere of the rail corridor and fully appreciate the historical significance of the rail corridor, enter via the entrance south of the Rail Mall start from one of the iconic cast iron Truss bridges along the corridor. Take a slow walk down memory lane and keep a look out for the former Bukit Timah Railway Station and a second Truss bridge along King Albert Park, before ending the 5km journey at Holland Road.

#8 BISHAN – ANG MO KIO PARK – LOWER PEIRCE RESERVOIR PARK

Have you heard of the celebrity family that resides in Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park? No? Well, it’s none other than the family of 5 otters which have decided to make Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park their home!

Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park (formerly Bishan Park) is a true marvel of the combination of landscape architecture and civil engineering brilliance. What was once a communal garden with a mishmash of themes and fishing ponds has since been transformed into a meandering river system that is not only biodiverse, it also serves as a stormwater management and water filtration facility.

After an easy stroll “hunting” for otters and herons, cross over and go deep into the forest for an adventure at Lower Pierce Reservoir Park and hop onto the various trails in the park. The shade from the forest canopy and the well-maintained boardwalk makes trekking the Lower Pierce Reservoir Trail a breeze.

Keep your eyes up on the tree trunks just under the canopy and you may spot a flying lemur chilling out or a flying dragon gliding from tree to tree. If you are lucky, you may even hear the rustling of the leaf litter that discloses the presence of the elusive Lesser Mousedeer!

Finish the trek at the Casuarina entrance of the trail, which brings you right onto Casuarina road. There is no better reward than a good tzechar meal and/or a prata feast!

#9 SPRINGLEAF NATURE PARK

Neighbourhood parks with exercise machines and beautifully landscaped gardens are all too common here in the Garden City, but how about a neighbourhood nature park?

While it is much smaller in comparison to the larger nature parks and reserves, Springleaf Nature Park is no ordinary man made park. Steeped in history, the area was once a village named Chan Chu Kang where pepper and gambier (used for tanning leather) were cultivated. This was also where many iconic plants such as the Singapore Kopsia were first collected and described from!

Get into the park early in the morning and be treated to a spectacular sight as the morning sun rises above the canopy, illuminating the park with a golden glow for photos that make fantastic screensavers!

This is also when the birds are most active. Be serenaded by the melodious calls of the numerous black naped orioles that reside around the park, or watch on as a kingfisher dives into the river for a catch!

#10 LABRADOR PARK

Remember those history lessons about how Singapore was once deemed an impregnable fortress? It was believed that attacks, if any, would come in from the south of the island, thus the placement of many artillery weapons along the southern coast of our tiny island.

At Labrador Park, discover the hidden past of Labrador where artefacts and structures of what used to be a British military installations are scattered along the Nature Path under the canopy cover of the coastal forest. Even If you are not a history buff, a stroll along the Nature Path would introduce to you some of the more commonly seen coastal forest trees in Singapore such as the Sea Almond, of which its leaves are popularly known in the aquarium trade as ketapang, and are used as a water conditioner.

After donating blood to the mosquitoes of Labrador, climb down the steep steps of the Coastal Path and onto the shoreline for a nice breezy stroll along the coast to dry yourself up before heading off.

About the writer:
A nature lover, biologist and an avid photographer, Jeremy enjoys exploring the various trails and natural areas around Singapore, photographing interesting critters and documenting unique behaviours along his treks. Never one to shy away from an adventure, Jeremy is always keen to explore new natural areas in Singapore and to discover what hidden gems our nature areas have to offer.

Are you looking for an easy hike with spectacular views? Look no further. Located in the outskirts of metropolis Hong Kong, Dragon’s Back boasts breathtaking panoramic views of tall skyscrapers, coastal shores and its surrounding mountainous region.

One can actually hike up and down Dragon’s Back within 90 minutes. Read on more to find out the nitty gritty details on where you should start, how to get to the starting point and our personal tips. The beginner-friendly hike makes an excellent alternative for those who wish to admire Hong Kong’s scenery without the crowds.

The starting point of Dragon’s Back is not too far away from the CBD and provides a great sanctuary for those who wish to disconnect temporarily.

Most visitors have a misconception that the hike on Dragon’s Back would take at least half a day. But that is not true at all! You do not have to complete the entire Hong Kong trail (which would take you a whopping six hours).

GETTING TO THE STARTING POINT

For the quickest way of getting to Dragon’s Back starting point, one can simply grab a cab from Chai Wan MTR Station Exit C’s taxi stand.

Tell the cab driver to drive you up to To Tei Wan – a wooden signboard and a framed map will indicate that you are at the starting point of Dragon’s Back hiking trail. The taxi fare should cost around HKD 50 and takes about 10 minutes.

If you are taking public transport, board bus number 9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR Station’s Exit A3. Sit on the upper deck of the bus and enjoy a scenic but bumpy 25-minute bus ride.

You can pay the bus fare with your Octopus card – it costs only about HKD 3.90 for a one-way trip. Remember to press the bell and alight at To Tei Wan bus stop. Depending on the day and time, the frequency of buses vary from every 7 to 30 minutes.

THE HIKE AND ITS DURATION

The one-way hike up Dragon’s Back would take you about an hour. However, it took us around two hours as we stopped from time to time to take pictures. There are many gorgeous vantage points throughout the trail so do factor it into your schedule if you know that you will be needing water breaks and/or taking heaps of pictures.

The climb is relatively easy but one would have to be cladded in sports shoes as there are unpaved and uneven pathways. Climbing downhill is way easier, hence taking you only about 30 minutes.

WHAT YOU SHOULD PREPARE

The sweltering heat and humidity might get unbearable, especially during summertime. We suggest you bring along a small bottle of water to quench your thirst whilst hiking. A face towel would also be handy as you are bound to be perspiring a lot. Do also slather on sunblock lotion to protect yourself from the harmful UV rays!

As mentioned earlier on, it is essential to wear sports shoes for a safe hike. Avoid wearing heels, flip-flops and other inappropriate footwear at all costs. Also, do monitor the weather forecasts before making your way up!

If you are sick of the glitzy skyscrapers in Hong Kong, head to Sai Kung for a refreshing change of environment. Here is our guide on what to do at Sai Kung in a day. Instructions on how to get to Sai Kung Waterfront, Sai Wan Beach and Sheung Luk Streams are included in this guide too.

About the writer:
Hui Jun Ng is a staff writer for ladyironchef. She previously worked in the food and marketing industry. She loves traveling and enjoys exploring underrated destinations. In her free time, you will find her indulging in coffee and her all time favourite local dish – bak chor mee.