Indonesia Country Facts
Archipelago of 17,000 islands, fiery volcanoes, vibrant cultures, and ancient temples.
Quick Country Facts
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Country Name | Republic of Indonesia |
| Capital | Jakarta |
| Continent | Asia (Southeast Asia) |
| Population | ~277 million (Rank: ~4th globally) |
| Official Language | Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) |
| Currency | Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) |
| Time Zone | GMT+7 to GMT+9 (3 time zones) |
| Calling Code | +62 |
Short Fact: Indonesia – The Island Nation with Thousands of Cultures
Indonesia is the world’s largest island country, made up of over 17,000 islands, blending hundreds of cultures, languages, and natural wonders.
Long Fact: Indonesia – The Archipelago of Culture, Nature & Unity
Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a diverse and sprawling country located in Southeast Asia, straddling the equator and comprising over 17,000 islands, of which around 6,000 are inhabited.
With a population of approximately 277 million, Indonesia is the 4th most populous country in the world, and the largest Muslim-majority country. Its cultural richness, natural landscapes, and economic growth make it one of the most fascinating nations on the planet.
The capital city Jakarta, located on the island of Java, is a bustling metropolitan center and one of the world’s most densely populated urban areas. Indonesia is also moving its capital to a new planned city, Nusantara, on Borneo island, to reduce congestion and promote regional development.
The country spans three major time zones and stretches more than 5,000 kilometers from west to east. Key islands include Sumatra, Java, Borneo (shared), Sulawesi, and New Guinea (shared with Papua New Guinea).
Indonesia is home to over 300 ethnic groups and 700+ languages, creating a remarkable cultural mosaic. Despite this diversity, the national motto is “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” — “Unity in Diversity”.
The archipelago sits on the Ring of Fire, making it prone to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, but this also creates fertile soil, lush landscapes, and biodiversity hotspots. Notable volcanoes include Mount Merapi, Mount Bromo, and Krakatoa.
Indonesia boasts tropical beaches, ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan, rainforests, and coral reefs. Its islands are paradise for diving, surfing, and eco-tourism. The region of Bali is especially famous for its spiritual vibe and luxury resorts.
The country’s economy is the largest in Southeast Asia, driven by natural resources, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. Indonesia is also a member of the G20 and plays a crucial role in ASEAN.
Culinary highlights include nasi goreng (fried rice), satay, rendang, and sambal — fiery chili paste. Each region offers its own specialty dishes, making Indonesian cuisine highly diverse and flavorful.
Religiously, the majority practice Islam, followed by Christianity, Hinduism (especially in Bali), and Buddhism. Traditional beliefs and customs also thrive in many indigenous communities.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Indonesia
Q1. How many islands are in Indonesia?
Ans: Indonesia has over 17,000 islands, with around 6,000 being inhabited.
Q2. What is the capital of Indonesia?
Ans: The current capital is Jakarta; a new capital called Nusantara is being developed in Borneo.
Q3. What language is spoken in Indonesia?
Ans: The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, though over 700 local languages exist.
Q4. What is Indonesia known for?
Ans: Indonesia is famous for islands, volcanoes, biodiversity, Bali, and rich cultural diversity.
Q5. What is the currency of Indonesia?
Ans: The Indonesian Rupiah (IDR).
Q6. Is Indonesia safe for tourists?
Ans: Yes, Indonesia is generally safe, especially in popular destinations like Bali and Yogyakarta.
Q7. What religions are practiced in Indonesia?
Ans: Islam is the majority religion, with Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism also practiced.
Q8. What are popular tourist spots in Indonesia?
Ans: Bali, Borobudur Temple, Komodo Island, Mount Bromo, and Lombok.
Q9. What makes Indonesia unique?
Ans: Its sheer cultural and natural diversity, being an archipelago of many nations in one.
Q10. What is the national motto of Indonesia?
Ans: “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” – “Unity in Diversity”.