Indonesia’s Spice Islands, as the Maluku or Moluccas Islands used to be dubbed, are forgotten places today, even as their nutmeg continues to flavour our tables. For their role in catalysing European colonialism of South-east Asia and shaping cuisines worldwide, the Malukus are hardly getting the attention they deserve. But these islands have everything to offer every kind of traveller.

A WHOLE NEW PALETTE

If your acquaintance with Indonesian cuisine is defined by nasi padang, the Malukus will ensure a palette paradigm shift. Sago, rather than rice, is the staple here. Look out, too, for stalls serving steamed cassava with a piquant peanut, basil and chili sauce. Fresh seafood flavoured with calamansi and green chilli is another feature of Malukan cuisine.

The strong rarobang coffee offers a perfect ending after one overdoses on traditional sweets, such as candied nutmeg, sago cake with coconut and brown sugar, and sticky rice with sugar. Concocted using nutmeg, ginger, slivers of kenari nuts and a host of other spices, this local cuppa cleanses the taste buds, leaving you ready for another round of intense Malukan feasting.

THE PRISTINE OUTDOORS

The Malukus’ forgotten status has an upside to it — the jungles, national parks, volcanoes and seas are pristine and untouched by tourist masses.

Seram’s Manusela National Park is known for its high number of endemic bird and mammal species. The national park is the last stronghold for several critically endangered animals and plants. For the adventurous, treks ranging from a day to a week cater to every fitness level and timetable. The most punishing option brings trekkers on a cross-island hike and up the 3,027m Mount Binaiya.

Despite overfishing, the Malukus still possess rich coral gardens and diving sites. Every island has its share of fine snorkelling and diving sites. Central Maluku, in particular, is known for fine muck-diving, and regularly sees well-heeled divers flying in with gear.

Those who heed the call of the Banda Islands will be amply rewarded with long stretches of powdery, uncrowded beaches and breath-taking coral gardens. And a slower, different pace of life in a place the world has passed by.