By Widhibek
Published November 2, 2015 | Adapted for NightSkyIndonesia.com
Since 2010, I’ve been obsessed with photographing the earth’s beauty at night, filled with stars. Not forgetting to capture the magnificent Milky Way across Indonesia. Please enjoy a collection from Landscape Indonesia showcasing the Milky Way (Galaksi Bima Sakti) backdrop in some of Indonesia’s most stunning landscapes.
Milky Way over Sembalun with Mount Rinjani in the Background
One starry night in Sembalun, Lombok, at the base of Mount Rinjani. The area is impressive both day and night. When the night sky is clear, tens of thousands of stars illuminate the heavens. I highly recommend spending multiple nights here to experience the spectacular view of the Milky Way arcing above Mount Rinjani’s silhouette.
Milky Way above Segara Anak Lake, Rinjani
Spend a few nights trekking one of Indonesia’s most beautiful trails—ascending Mount Rinjani. After a rewarding journey, resting peacefully by Segara Anak lake under the dark night is a bonus. At night, stars twinkle over the caldera silhouette, and the Milky Way stretches across the reflection on the lake.
Milky Way over Bukit Tekenang, Danau Sentarum National Park, West Kalimantan
Camp at one of the most beautiful locations in West Kalimantan — Bukit Tekenang in Danau Sentarum National Park. Here, under clear skies and minimal light pollution, you can enjoy star-filled skies and the Milky Way arching over the hill.
Milky Way Partly Hidden by Clouds over Kiluan, Lampung
Kiluan is a favorite spot in Lampung for watching dolphins in their natural habitat. But don’t be mistaken—at night, the beach also offers a satisfying starry sky and a view of the sprawling Milky Way.
Camping in Sikunir, Dieng Plateau
Dieng, a highland in central Java, is also a beloved spot for star gazing despite frequent fog. Don’t forget to bring a thick jacket—the nights are famously cold!
Milky Way Selfies—“Guardian of the Galaxy”
Remember to take starry night selfies. The key is to hold still for 20 seconds for sharp images!
Posing on Bukit Salib, Flores
Flores offers consistently starry nights. As you head east in Indonesia, the skies get clearer with less light pollution. Even within Maumere city, you can enjoy the Milky Way while sipping warm coffee in your yard. Venture outside town, and you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable all-night star gazing.
Milky Way over Bromo
One of the most popular places for Milky Way hunting. Its accessibility and excellent facilities make Bromo a favorite destination. The spot just in front of the lodge is especially popular among photographers.
There are many more stunning night skies and Milky Way vistas across Indonesia captured by Landscape Indonesia. These will be updated in future articles. For those wanting to learn how to photograph the Milky Way like these, check out our Milky Way photography tips article.
This collection demonstrates Indonesia’s diverse and breathtaking nighttime natural beauty, ideal for astrophotographers looking to capture the majestic Galaksi Bima Sakti with unique landscapes as a foreground. Each location offers a distinct experience from the tropical forests and mountains to pristine beaches and cultural highlands.
Experience the magic of Indonesia’s nighttime skies through the lens—join us at NightSkyIndonesia.com for updates, guides, and community events.
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