Located in East Java, with its chilly highland temperatures and rich cultural history, the city of Malang is a destination that’s not-to-be-missed on your Indonesian holiday itinerary! Although lesser-known compared to the more popular tourist destinations of Bandung and Jakarta, Malang is an undiscovered gem full of thrilling theme parks, museums and natural beauty sites. Be sure to check-out these top sights in Malang!
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Mount Semeru
For visitors seeking an adrenaline fix, Java’s tallest peak offers a truly memorable experience. This 2-day, 1-night hike is ideal for those yearning for adventure, stunning scenery and an endorphin-high from the challenging trek. The reward for lacing-up your hiking boots includes a night camping alongside the picturesque Lake Kumbolo, trekking through the open grassland of Oro-Oro Ombo, and witnessing a jaw-dropping sunrise over Java from the summit of Mount Semeru. The cost is around IDR 6.5 million, which covers all transport to and from your accommodation in Malang, a hiking permit, a guide, food and camping equipment.
Coordinates: 7°56′30″S 112°57′00″E / 7.94167°S 112.95000°E
Coban Sewu Waterfall
Experience Mother Nature at her finest! Just 30km to the west of Malang lies the majestic and mighty Coban Sewu Waterfall in Pandesari Village. Travellers who venture to this tropical oasis will feel as if they’ve stepped onto the set of a Jurassic Park movie, as lush, dense foliage surrounds you and the smell of the earth fills your nostrils. To access the base of the waterfall, you’ll need to climb down bamboo ladders which lead into the magical ravine, but rest assured – your sweaty efforts will be well-rewarded! The natural beauty of this spot makes it ideal for travellers who love nature and landscape photography, as well as those who enjoy the thrill of diving into refreshing, cascading water.
Desa Sidorenggo kecamatan Ampelgading kabupaten Malang
Kampung Warna Warni
Once a poverty-stricken slum, Jodipan Village has reinvented itself as a top tourist destination, thanks to an initiative by university students who wanted to change the area’s gloomy appearance. The students decided to do this by painting bright, vibrantly colourful murals on the outside of the houses, transforming Jodipan into a popular photo-spot for travellers looking to capture images of this unique rainbow village. Popular sights in Kampung Warna Warni include Embong Brantas Bridge, historical wooden train-tracks, a flower archway staircase, colourful umbrellas and eye-catching 3D paintings.
Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No.RT.7, RT.09/RW.2, Jodipan, Kec. Blimbing, Kota Malang, Jawa Timur 65127
Batu Secret Zoo
One of Batu’s main attractions is Batu Secret Zoo, which offers a unique zoo experience. Unlike regular zoos, Batu Secret Zoo has been designed with a modern touch, allowing you to observe exotic animals in an engaging and innovative environment. Located in the highlands, the zoo not only encourages you to get up-close with many of the animals, you’ll also enjoy the added bonus of beautiful scenery and cool mountain air. The zoo also includes a museum where you can learn more about the zoo’s fascinating history – a fun and educational day-out that should definitely be added to your travel itinerary!
Jl. Raya Oro-Oro Ombo No.9, Temas, Kec. Batu, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65315, Indonesia
Museum Angkut
This museum is dedicated to various types of transportation, both old and new. Here, you can enjoy the fine collection of vintage cars and other classic vehicles, and find out how they have developed into the modern transport we have today. The museum’s themed backgrounds showing Batavia, Buckingham, Hollywood, Las Vegas and Broadway provide plenty of photo opportunities to snap a fun memento of the day.
Museum Angkut, Jl. Terusan Sultan Agung No. 2, Kota Batu, Jl. Sultan Agung, Kec. Batu, Jawa Timur
Feeling peckish? Here are the best places to eat in Malang.
Jatim Park 3
Don’t miss Jatim Park 3 – a new highlight amongst Batu’s attractions! Experience the thrill of Dino Park, where thrilling amusement park rides and fascinating historical exhibits bring these amazing creatures to life. Get lost in the optical illusions of Infinite World, snap photos with wax figures of your favourite stars at The Legend Star Park, explore musical wonders in the World’s Music Museum, and dive into a world of technology at Fun Tech Plaza. It’s an exciting addition to your Batu itinerary that promises unforgettable memories.
Jl. Kartika No. 2 Kota Wisata Batu – East Java Indonesia 65314
Mount Bromo
Mount Bromo is East Java’s most famous tourism hotspot, renowned for its spectacular sunrises. Witnessing the sun’s rays cast their spell over the mist-covered Mount Bromo is truly breathtaking, complete with captivating panoramas of the surrounding national park. This is definitely one for the memory books!
Coordinates: 7°56′30″S 112°57′00″E / 7.94167°S 112.95000°E
Singosari Temple
Candi Singosari, sometimes referred to as Singhosari, is a Hindu-Buddhist temple located in the village of Candirenggo. Spanning an impressive 200 by 400 metres, the complex also features several smaller temples. At the northwest corner of the site is a pair of intricately carved stone statues that are almost 4 metres in height, serving as guardians of the temple.
Jl. Kertanegara, Candirenggo, Kec. Singosari, Kabupaten Malang, Jawa Timur 65153
Omah Kayu
If the idea of waking-up to the sound of bird’s chirping and cool fresh air sounds like the perfect way to start your day, then a treetop house stay at Omah Kayu is just what you need! Since its opening in 2014, Omah Kayuhas been offering intimate escapes in nature with stunning hilltop panoramas. The treehouse balcony is the perfect spot to relax and soak-in the beauty of your peaceful surroundings. By night, the balcony transforms into an amazing spot for stargazing and offers captivating views of Batu town.
Jl. Gn. Banyak, Gunungsari, Kec. Bumiaji, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65312
Kaliwatu Rafting
For a fun adventure that’s fit for the whole family, look no further than Kaliwatu River Rafting! Allow experienced guides to steer the raft over a 7km route, whilst you enjoy the thrilling ride with its twists and turns over the rushing water. Hold tight and prepare for an action-packed ride, however don’t miss the chance to appreciate the lush landscapes along the way! Starting at 9am, the entire experience lasts for about an hour and a half, and includes a welcome drink, snack and lunch, making it a great day out!
Jl. Bung Tomo No.19, Bumiaji, Kec. Bumiaji, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65332
Wonosari Tea Plantations, Singosari
A half-hour’s drive north of Malang brings you to the Wonosari Tea Plantations on the slopes of Mount Arjuno where you can breathe-in the clean, fresh air of acres and acres of lush tea fields! This agro-tourism park offers an engaging tour that guides you through the tea production process – from harvesting the tea leaves to drying. The scenic mountain setting makes for a unique and enjoyable experience, and there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on the plantation including obstacle courses, flying foxes and paintball.
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Malang is truly a hidden treasure in East Java, offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. Armed with this list, you should be able to tackle a fun-filled and well-rounded adventure in Malang.
