How to Reach Labuan Bajo from India – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Introduction

Labuan Bajo, once a quiet fishing village on the island of Flores, Indonesia, has transformed into a dream destination for travelers. Known as the gateway to Komodo National Park, this coastal town offers turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and access to some of the world’s most luxurious phinisi cruises.

For Indian travelers, the idea of reaching Labuan Bajo may sound complicated at first — but in reality, it’s just a two-step journey. Here’s your complete guide on how to travel from India to Labuan Bajo, along with practical tips to make your trip smoother.

Step 1: Fly from India to Bali, Jakarta, or Kuala Lumpur

Since there are no direct flights from India to Labuan Bajo, your first stop will be one of the regional hubs: Bali (Denpasar – DPS), Jakarta (CGK), or Kuala Lumpur (KUL).

Direct to Bali (fastest option)

Delhi (DEL) → Bali (DPS): Air India (~7.5 hours, daily service)
Bangalore (BLR) → Bali (DPS): IndiGo (~7 hours, daily service)

One-stop to Bali

From Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and other cities → transit through Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Jakarta → Bali (~9–13 hours depending on layovers).

Alternative Gateway via Kuala Lumpur

Almost every Indian city has affordable flights to Kuala Lumpur.
From there, you can directly connect to Labuan Bajo on AirAsia.

Traveler Tip: If you want a beach holiday before your Komodo cruise, Bali is the best stopover. If you prefer a quick and budget-friendly connection, Kuala Lumpur works best.

Step 2: Connect to Labuan Bajo (LBJ)

Once you’ve landed in Bali, Jakarta, or Kuala Lumpur, it’s just a short hop to Labuan Bajo.

From Bali (DPS): Wings Air, Batik Air, Citilink, TransNusa, Indonesia AirAsia (~1 hour, daily)
From Jakarta (CGK): Garuda Indonesia, Batik Air, Lion Air (~2.5 hours, daily)
From Kuala Lumpur (KUL): AirAsia (Malaysia) → Direct (~3.5 hours, several times weekly)

Traveler Tip: If possible, choose a morning flight into Labuan Bajo. The aerial view of Flores’ islands and turquoise waters is breathtaking.

Pro Tips for Indian Travelers

Visa on Arrival:
- Available at Bali or Jakarta for Indian passport holders.
- If flying via Kuala Lumpur, your visa is stamped upon arrival in Labuan Bajo.
Best Route (Fastest): Delhi/Bangalore → Bali → Labuan Bajo.
Alternative Route: Any Indian city → Kuala Lumpur → Labuan Bajo (direct AirAsia).
Pack Smart: Budget airlines in Indonesia often have strict baggage allowances. Travel light and keep essentials in a cabin bag.
Layover Options:
- In Bali → spend a night exploring beaches, temples, and nightlife.
- In Kuala Lumpur → Rainy Season (November – March): Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, but some rain showers.visit the iconic Petronas Towers before your onward journey.

Why Labuan Bajo Should Be on Your Bucket List

Labuan Bajo isn’t just a transit town. Spend a day here before or after your yacht journey and you’ll discover:

Komodo National Park: The only place in the world to see Komodo dragons in the wild.
Snorkeling & Diving: Swim with manta rays and explore vibrant coral reefs.
Island Hopping: Pink Beach, Padar Island, and Kanawa Island are postcard-perfect stops.
Luxury Phinisi Cruises: A unique sailing experience blending Indonesian tradition with modern luxury.

Best Time to Travel

Dry Season (April – October): Best for sailing, diving, and island exploration.
Rainy Season (November – March): Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, but some rain showers.