With the fourth largest population in the world, Indonesians number 195 million and are basically of Malay and Polynesian stock comprising of 300 ethnic groups and subgroups having their own traditions. Early immigrants from the Indian subcontinent China, the Arab peninsula and Persia have left their mark on culture and religion followed by influences of Portuguese, Spanish, English and Dutch traders and invaders. These diverse cultures have given Indonesia a rich heritage of traditions and arts resulting in festivities throughout the year in different parts of the country, which are also closely related to religion, particularly on the island of Bali. Indonesian, using romanised script, is the national language and English is spoken in the main cities and tourist areas. Indonesia has two seasons, the dry season from June to October and the rainy season from November to March.
Humidity is high at all times.
As some events are based on cosmology or traditional beliefs, dates may vary, although efforts provide correct information. Events in the open-air are also influenced by weather conditions. Therefore, reconfirmation before visit is recommended. For further information, please write to the Directorate General of Tourism in Jakarta or the Provincial Tourist Offices concerned and Indonesian Tourist Promotion Offices in Los Angeles, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Singapore, Sidney, London and Taipei as listed on the last pages of this event guide.