Malang Travel Guide: The Paradise of Tourism in East Java

Nestled in the heart of East Java, Malang is a city where history, culture, and adventure come together to create an unforgettable destination. Known for its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and vibrant atmosphere, Malang offers something for everyone—from ancient temples and colonial architecture to breathtaking waterfalls and colorful villages. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, Malang promises a journey full of surprises. 

So, let’s dive in. In this article, I cover everything you need to know about exploring Malang, including its must-visit attractions, top activities, where to stay, local cuisine to try, and tips for getting around. And trust me, as a local I can help you to make your Malang adventure truly unforgettable!

Why Should You Visit Malang?

Malang is a place that offers so much to see and do, making it a favorite destination for travelers in East Java. Its location in the highlands gives it cool, comfortable weather, perfect for exploring nature. You’ll find stunning waterfalls, green mountains, and beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean, all within easy reach.

Malang also has a fascinating history. It was once part of the ancient Singosari Kingdom, and you can still visit Hindu-Buddhist temples from that time. Later, during the Dutch colonial period, Malang became an important town, and many of the old colonial buildings still stand in the city today.

For those seeking adventure, Malang is the closest starting point to Mount Bromo and Mount Semeru, two of Indonesia’s most famous volcanoes. It’s an ideal base for exploring these incredible natural wonders. The city is also full of life and creativity. The Jodipan Rainbow Village, for example, is a colorful neighborhood by the Brantas River that has become a must-see spot, thanks to its vibrant designs and unique atmosphere.

Malang’s people are proud of their city and their football team, Arema Malang, whose fans bring an energetic spirit to every match. Combined with the friendly locals, great food, and a variety of attractions, Malang is a destination that’s easy to enjoy and hard to forget.

What to Do in Malang and Nearby

While Mount Bromo is often the main reason travelers come to Malang, the region has so much more to offer. Here I chose the best places worth visiting.

Mount Bromo, one of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanoes, is a must-visit destination for travelers to Malang. Famous for its otherworldly landscapes, it spans across four regions in East Java: Malang, Probolinggo, Pasuruan, and Lumajang. At 2,329 meters above sea level, the volcano is surrounded by a vast sea of sand, creating a dramatic setting that feels like stepping onto another planet.

Most visitors come to witness the spectacular sunrise from vantage points like Lemah Pasar or Kedaluh hills, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Bromo, the towering Mount Semeru, and the surrounding peaks. Popular activities include exploring the ethereal Pasir Berbisik (Whispering Sands) and the rugged Lembah Watangan (Watangan Valley) in a Jeep, as well as hiking up the volcano via a staircase that leads to its crater.

Accessing Mount Bromo is straightforward, with four main entry points to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park:

• Penanjakan Gate (Pasuruan)
• Cemoro Lawang Gate (Probolinggo)
• Senduro Gate (Lumajang)
• Coban Trisula Gate (Malang)

If you’re coming from Malang, the Coban Trisula route is one of the closest and most scenic ways to reach Mount Bromo. Along the way, you can visit the beautiful Coban Trisula Waterfall, adding an extra touch of adventure to your journey.

For more detailed information, don’t miss our Bromo: An Ultimate Guide for Travelers (Without a Tour)

Prefer to explore with the help of a guide? Check out these highly-rated options for Bromo tours: 

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Mount Semeru

For hiking enthusiasts, tackling Mount Semeru, the highest mountain in Java at 3,676 meters above sea level, is an unforgettable adventure. This active volcano challenges even seasoned hikers with its steep trails and dramatic landscapes, offering a truly rewarding experience for those up to the task.

The trail to Mount Semeru features several stunning and memorable stops:

• Ranu Pani, a freshwater lake and the starting point for the hike.
• Ranu Kumbolo, another freshwater lake, ideal for camping with stunning views.
• Bukit Cinta (Love Hill), a spot with breathtaking panoramas.
• Oro-oro Ombo, a meadow filled with beautiful wildflowers.
• Kalimati, also known as the “Dead Forest,” a hauntingly beautiful area.
• Mahameru Summit, the highest peak of Mount Semeru and the ultimate goal for hikers.

The journey to the summit typically takes 3 days and 2 nights. Due to the challenging terrain, it is recommended for experienced hikers and is not suitable for beginners.

In addition to Mount Bromo and Mount Semeru, the Malang area is surrounded by several other mountains, including Mount Kelud, Mount Arjuno, Mount Kawi, known for meditation spots, Mount Panderman, a beginner-friendly mountain for less intense hikes.

Looking for a unique adventure? Try Lava Tour Guide: Reliving the Memories of Mount Merapi’s Eruption

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (Coban Sewu)

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, often called Indonesia’s Little Niagara, is one of the most stunning natural attractions near Malang. Located on the border of Malang and Lumajang, this breathtaking waterfall lies at the base of Mount Semeru and offers a jaw-dropping sight that’s truly unforgettable.

While its grandeur is often compared to Niagara Falls, the experience at Tumpak Sewu is more adventurous. Instead of boat rides, visitors navigate steep and rocky trails to reach the base of the falls. The descent involves vertical stairs along cliffs, making the trek challenging and not recommended for young children, elderly visitors, or those with limited mobility. For those unable to make the hike, the Panorama Viewpoint near the entrance via Lumajang offers equally mesmerizing views of the cascading waterfalls from above.

Beyond Tumpak Sewu, Malang is home to a variety of other spectacular waterfalls waiting to be explored. Popular spots include Coban Rondo, Grojogan Sewu, Pelangi Waterfall, and Coban Jahe, each with its unique charm and natural beauty.

Ready to plan your visit? Dive into our comprehensive guide: Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: Discover the Little Niagara

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Places to Visit in Batu

Batu, a city located next to Malang, is a charming highland destination known for its cool, refreshing climate and abundant attractions. While Malang is famous for its historical and natural beauty, Batu City has established itself as a family-friendly hotspot, attracting visitors from nearby cities like Surabaya and Malang.

If you’re exploring the Malang region, a trip to Batu is highly recommended. The city offers a perfect mix of fun activities, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all ages.

Jatim Park

Jatim Park is a must-visit destination in Batu, offering endless fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages. This popular attraction is divided into three unique parks, each with its own theme and exciting experiences:

Jatim Park 1 is an amusement park designed with a playground concept, featuring rides and attractions suitable for both children and adults.

Jatim Park 2 is an educational tourist area with an interactive zoo concept. It includes Batu Secret Zoo, Museum Satwa, and Eco Green Park.

Jatim Park 3 offers attractions like Dino Land, The Legend Star (a wax museum of famous figures), Museum Musik Dunia, and Millennial Glow Garden, which features unique photo spots.

Explore the wildlife of Java Island at Ujung Kulon National Park, Indonesia Safari Park, and dive into the underwater beauty of Karimunjawa.

Santerra de Laponte

Santerra de Laponte is a tourist destination designed as a flower garden, complete with various attractions, educational activities, and eye-catching photo spots. This place is perfect for a family outing, offering numerous rides for children, such as the Flying Bee, Carousel, Kids’ Playground, Water Park, Go-Kart, and Rabbit Town.

For adults, there are also adrenaline-pumping attractions, including the Rainbow Slide, Wave Swinger, Rodeo, Viking Ship Swing, and many more.

This destination is highly popular. Besides enjoying the playground, visitors can also admire the beauty of the flower garden and the surrounding mountains in the Batu area.

Batu City Square (Alun-Alun Batu)

Batu City Square, or Alun-alun Batu, is a must-visit spot for tourists in Batu City. Here, you can enjoy a variety of street food from vendors around the square—don’t miss the chance to try Sempol, a signature Malang street snack.

The area surrounding the square is also a hub for souvenir shops, offering specialties from Batu City such as apple juice, apple chips, and other local fruits.

From Alun-alun Batu, you can also experience riding a free dokar (horse carriage) provided by the local government. These dokars operate daily from 8 AM to 11 AM, offering a unique and traditional way to explore the city. 

Traditional public transportation can still be found in Java, especially in Yogyakarta. Read more about: Public Transportation in Yogyakarta

Museum Angkut

For fans of vintage cars, a visit to Museum Angkut is a must. This museum features an extensive collection of classic vehicles from around the world.

In addition to showcasing a variety of vintage automobiles, the museum also offers numerous Instagram-worthy photo spots, making it a perfect destination for car enthusiasts and photography lovers alike. Tickets are also available online.

Batu Night Spectacular (BNS)

Batu Night Spectacular (BNS) is an amusement park and shopping center that operates from the evening until night, offering a variety of attractions and activities.

You can enjoy rides like Sky Bike, Mini Train, Bumper Cars, Drag Racing, and even test your courage in the Haunted House. BNS is also famous for its dancing fountain show and the enchanting Lantern Garden, making it a magical nighttime destination.

In addition to the attractions, BNS features a wide selection of culinary delights, perfect for those looking for a place to enjoy dinner. Tickets are also available online.

Coban Putri Waterfall

Coban Putri is a waterfall with crystal-clear, refreshing water. It is located not far from Batu City Square, approximately 8 km to the south, in Tlekung Village, Junrejo District.

The waterfall’s main attraction is its main cascade, which is about 20 meters high. The water is exceptionally clear, and there’s also a lagoon where you can swim. To reach Coban Putri, you can use a car or motorcycle, but the road is quite narrow, and the parking area is limited. Alternatively, you can use an online ojek (motorcycle taxi) service, as the distance is relatively short.

Upon arriving at the entrance gate, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee of around IDR 10,000 and walk along a footpath that is quite long and moderately steep. At Coban Putri, there are also several photo spots available, though you’ll need to pay an additional fee to use them.

What to See Inside Malang City

The city of Malang is a captivating blend of history and vibrant attractions waiting to be discovered. Marked by numerous historical relics from the era of the colonial period with the timeless elegance of Dutch colonial buildings, immerse yourself in the dazzling hues of Jodipan Colorful Village, and be inspired by the bold blues of Arema Blue Village. A visit here promises unforgettable experiences and picture-perfect moments!

Dutch Colonial Buildings

Remnants of the Dutch East Indies colonial era are still visible around Malang City Square (Alun-Alun Kota Malang). Notable landmarks from this period include Malang City Hall (Balai Kota Malang), the Bank Indonesia building, Kayu Tangan Church, Tugu High School (SMA Tugu), and the Sarinah Shopping Center.

Jodipan Colorful Village

Jodipan Colorful Village is a unique neighborhood where all the houses are painted in vibrant colors. Located along the banks of the Brantas River—the second-longest river on the island of Java—this village has undergone a remarkable transformation. Previously, Jodipan was a slum area filled with garbage. However, in 2016, the residents took the initiative to change the image of their community by painting all the houses in a variety of colors, even extending the colorful design to the rooftops.

This effort successfully erased the slum-like image of the area. Residents began managing their waste more consciously, establishing a waste bank, reducing plastic usage, adorning narrow alleys with ornamental plants, and decorating walls with murals.

Today, Jodipan Colorful Village has become a major tourist attraction in Malang. To enjoy the charm of Jodipan, you can explore the village by paying a small entrance fee of approximately IDR 5,000 (USD 0,32). Alternatively, you can take in a panoramic view of the entire village from a nearby bridge.

Arema Blue Village

Following the success of the Jodipan Colorful Village project, Malang created another thematic village called Arema Blue Village. Most residents of Malang are devoted supporters of the Arema Malang football club, which is famously associated with the color blue. Inspired by this, they painted their houses in the iconic Arema blue.

Approximately 500 houses in the village have been painted blue, including the walls, roofs, and even the streets. The walls are also adorned with various murals, including, of course, murals of the Arema Malang logo. The village has also implemented waste management practices, encouraging residents to actively participate in waste bank programs, separate their household waste, and reduce plastic consumption.

Interestingly, Arema Blue Village is located just across the street from the Jodipan Colorful Village. When viewed from the viewing bridge, you can see the distinct transition between the vibrant colors of Jodipan and the signature blue of Arema Blue Village.

Today, the Brantas River area looks greener, cleaner, and far from its former slum-like image. To explore the Arema Blue Village, you only need to pay an entrance fee of IDR 2,500 and are free to enjoy every corner of this charming village in the heart of Malang City.

Temples around Malang

During the era of the Singosari Kingdom, several temples were built in and around the Malang region, including Candi Singosari, Candi Jago, Candi Kidal, Candi Badut, and many others.

Each of these temples holds significant historical and cultural connections to one another, with some serving as places of worship during their time. Visiting these temples provides insight into the rich heritage and spiritual traditions of the Singosari Kingdom. 

Best Beaches around Malang

Malang Region isn’t just about mountain attractions—it also boasts a variety of exotic beaches located in the southern part of Malang Regency. The beaches along the southern coast are visually stunning, characterized by rock formations and white sandy shores.

Here are some must-visit beaches in Malang: Pantai Balekambang, Pantai Goa Cina, Pantai Batu Bengkung, Pantai Sendang Biru, Pantai Teluk Asmara, featuring small islands that resemble the iconic Raja Ampat.

What (and Where) to Eat in Malang

Malang is also a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of culinary delights that are not to be missed. Some eateries in Malang are even considered legendary, known for their distinctive and unforgettable flavors.

Here are some culinary recommendations in Malang to satisfy your appetite:

Pecel Kawi

Pecel Kawi is a must-try traditional dish for tourists visiting Malang. Like other versions of pecel, it consists of various vegetables drizzled with a rich peanut sauce, but Pecel Kawi stands out for its savory and slightly salty flavor.

To complete your Pecel Kawi experience, pair it with a selection of “iwak” (side dishes in Malang’s local dialect), such as omelets, fried chicken, and more.

A highly recommended spot to enjoy this dish is Pecel Kawi Asli 1975, a legendary eatery in Malang City. This dish is also an excellent option for vegetarians!

Indonesia also offers a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Read 12 Traditional Vegetarian Food in Indonesia + How to Order

Sate Gebug

Sate Gebug is a unique and legendary satay made from beef that is tenderized by being pounded (gebug) until soft. This traditional dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

One of the most iconic places to enjoy this delicacy is Sate Gebug 1920, located on Basuki Rahmat Street in Malang City. Its rich history and distinctive preparation make it a must-try for food enthusiasts visiting Malang. 

Toko Oen

If you’re looking for desserts, make your way to Toko Oen, located near Alun-alun Kota Malang. This legendary eatery has been a part of Malang’s culinary scene since the Dutch colonial era, making it a must-visit destination for a taste of history.

Toko Oen is renowned for its homemade ice creams, sweet pastries, and biscuits. In addition to desserts, the restaurant also offers a diverse menu, including Chinese dishes, Western favorites like steaks and burgers, as well as traditional Indonesian cuisine. A visit to Toko Oen promises a delightful culinary experience and a nostalgic ambiance. 

Bakwan Malang

Bakwan Malang is a classic and widely popular dish that can be found in many places across Indonesia. This comforting meal consists of meatballs (bakso) made from minced meat, served with crispy wontons and tofu, all drenched in a flavorful, piping hot broth.

This dish is especially perfect to enjoy in Malang’s cool weather, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Sempol Ayam

For street food lovers, don’t miss out on trying Sempol Ayam, a signature snack from Malang. This dish is made from minced chicken mixed with tapioca flour and spices. The mixture is molded around bamboo sticks, boiled, and then fried with a coating of egg before serving.

In addition to the dishes mentioned above, Malang offers other unique culinary delights such as: Tahu Lontong Lonceng, Bakso President, Bakmi Hok Lay, Various Ketan Dishes, Orem-Orem Arema

These tasty options are not only affordable but also guaranteed to satisfy your cravings while exploring Malang.

Where to Stay in Malang

Malang offers a wide variety of attractions that are well worth exploring. To make the most of your trip, consider staying overnight in Malang before continuing to other destinations. Here are some recommended areas and accommodations for your stay:

Near Alun-alun Malang

If you’re looking for convenience and comfort, the area around Malang City Square (Alun-alun) offers numerous hotels and homestays at affordable prices.

For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel Tugu Malang, a CHSE-certified five-star hotel. This elegant hotel is adorned with classic, opulent decor and features a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines. They even offer free traditional performances like kuda lumping for guests.

For a more affordable option, The 101 OJ Malang provides excellent value without compromising on comfort.

Solo travelers can opt for MADOR (Malang Dorm Hostel), located in the city center and known for its budget-friendly rates and cozy atmosphere.

Check out other accommodation options on the map below for more ideas:

Near Mount Bromo

As a favorite destination for travelers, staying near Mount Bromo is a great option while exploring Malang. Here are some recommendations:

Around Penanjakan Gate (Tosari, Pasuruan) Bromo Backpacker Tosari, located about 20 km from Lemah Pasar, offers simple and budget-friendly lodging. While accommodations in this area are limited, it’s less crowded, as most visitors leave early for sunrise tours.

Around Cemoro Lawang Gate (Probolinggo), Homestay Anggun Bromo is a highly recommended budget option. It’s conveniently located close to Mount Bromo and is known for its warm and helpful hosts.

For a luxury experience, try Artotel Cabin Bromo, a unique cabin-style hotel offering stunning views of Mount Bromo and an unforgettable ambiance.

How to Get to Malang

You can reach Malang by various modes of transportation, including train, bus, or plane. Here are some of the most common and convenient routes to get to this vibrant city:

From Jakarta to Malang

If you’re planning to explore East Java, you can travel directly from Jakarta to Malang by bus, train, or airplane. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each option:

By Train

You can catch a train from Pasar Senen Station or Gambir Station in Jakarta, heading to Malang City Station.

• From Pasar Senen, you can take an economy-class train, such as the Jayabaya train, known for being one of the fastest options on this route. However, be prepared for a journey of approximately 12 hours.
• For more comfort, opt for an Executive or Luxury class train departing from Gambir Station. The Executive train takes about 11 to 12 hours, and you can choose a sleeper luxury train like the Gajayana train for a more relaxing experience.
• Most trains from Jakarta to Malang depart in the afternoon or evening, allowing you to sleep through the journey.

Planning to explore Java by train? Check out our article on How to Travel by Train in Indonesia, and learn about the differences between Jakarta’s two main stations in Jakarta’s Train Stations: Gambir vs Pasar Senen.

By Bus

Buses to Malang depart from Lebak Bulus Bus Terminal in Jakarta. However, traveling by bus can be a long and tiring journey, taking around 14 hours. To ensure a more comfortable trip, opt for a sleeper bus or a VIP bus.

By Plane

For the fastest option, you can take a flight from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta) to Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (Malang). The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it the most convenient choice for those who don’t want to spend too much time on the road

From Bali to Malang

Another popular route to Malang is from Bali. This journey is often taken by travelers exploring multiple destinations, including Bali, Banyuwangi, and Malang. Here’s how you can plan your trip:

Road Trip from Bali to Malang

For a more authentic road trip experience, you can start your journey by bus from Bali. Begin by visiting Banyuwangi, where you can hike to the stunning Ijen Crater. The next day, continue to Probolinggo to explore Mount Bromo, and finally, wrap up your adventure with a visit to Malang’s attractions.

If you prefer a direct route, the journey from Mengwi Bus Terminal in Bali to Malang City Terminal takes approximately 12 hours by bus.

By Train via Banyuwangi

For a more scenic and comfortable journey, cross from Gilimanuk Port (Bali) to Ketapang Port (Banyuwangi) by ferry. From Banyuwangi, take the Tawang Alun train, which departs at 5:00 AM. The train ride to Malang takes around 7 hours and is an affordable option, offering beautiful views of East Java’s countryside.

East Java is home to many beautiful destinations worth exploring. Don’t miss out on Banyuwangi Travel Guide: Uncover the Hidden Magic of East Java. 

From Surabaya to Malang

This route is arguably the most popular as it doesn’t require a long travel time. Here’s how you can travel from Surabaya to Malang:

By Bus

You can catch a bus at any time from Bungurasih Terminal in Surabaya to Malang Terminal. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, provided there’s no traffic.

By Train

Another convenient option is to take a commuter train from Pasar Turi Station or Gubeng Station in Surabaya to Malang City Station. The train journey also takes around 2 hours and costs between IDR 10,000 – 12,000, making it an affordable choice.

For a cost-effective and straightforward trip, you can plan a transit in Surabaya before heading to Malang. Many organized tours to Malang and Mount Bromo often start from Surabaya, making it a convenient gateway for travelers.

Make the most of your transit time in Surabaya! If you’d like to explore this vibrant city, check out our Surabaya Travel Guide: Your Gateway to East Java’s Wonders

How to Get Around Malang

How do you get around in Malang? This question will inevitably arise, as Malang Raya covers a vast area, including mountainous regions and beaches. It can be challenging to find transportation to reach these areas, so if you’re planning to explore outside Malang City, it’s best to rent a motorbike or car.

Public transportation is easier to find in urban areas like the cities of Malang and Batu. In Malang, you can hop on the Macito Bus (Malang City Tour), a free service that operates daily and includes a tour guide. The bus takes you around the city for about 40 minutes, with six trips available each day.

• From Monday to Thursday, the bus operates from 8 AM to 3 PM, starting from Gajayana Stadium.
• On Saturday and Sunday, the service runs from 9 AM to 5 PM, starting at the Malang City Recreation Park.

In addition to the Macito Bus, Malang also offers public transportation, including angkots (minivans), which can be found at Arjosari Terminal and Landungsari Terminal. If you’re heading to Batu, you can take an angkot from Landungsari Terminal, marked with the BJL code, to Batu.

In Batu, you can enjoy a unique experience by riding a Dokar (horse carriage), which is provided for free by the local government. These free dokars are available around the Batu City Square, operating from 8 AM to 11 AM.

No need to worry—both cities also have plenty of online ride-hailing options like Grab and GoJek, ready to take you to unforgettable destinations in Malang. 

Before you embark on your journey, make your trip to Indonesia smoother by downloading a few essential apps. 6 Apps to Install Before Travel to Indonesia

How Long Should You Stay in Malang

How long you should stay in Malang depends on your goals and interests. Here’s a general guide:

• 2-3 days: Perfect for a short visit, including exploring popular spots like Museum Angkut, Jodipan Colorful Village, and Malang City Square. You can also try local specialties like Bakwan Malang and Pecel Kawi.
• 4-5 days: Great if you want to explore attractions around Malang, such as Coban Rondo, Coban Rais, or Selecta Recreational Park in Batu. You can also visit beaches in South Malang, like Balekambang Beach or Tiga Warna Beach.
• A week or more: Enough time for a deeper experience, including trekking to Mount Bromo or Semeru, visiting tourist villages like Pujon Kidul, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the city.

Summary

Malang showcases a diverse array of natural beauty that East Java has to offer. Choosing Malang as your travel destination will provide you with unforgettable experiences.

In addition to its stunning attractions, Malang’s pleasant climate and comfortable atmosphere make it a place where you’ll want to stay longer and truly immerse yourself in its charm.

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