Malang

Introduction

You can explore the history of Malang, a landlocked city in East Java, Indonesia, which was historically known as Tumapel. The region's heritage dates back to the age of the Singhasari Kingdom.

Before you go

Prepare for a journey into a region of deep historical significance where you can explore the remnants of ancient kingdoms and Hindu relics. You will find that the area's history dates back to the 8th century, eventually becoming part of the Javanese Mataram kingdom. The surrounding landscape is defined by its proximity to two mountain ranges, including Mount Semeru and the Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park.

You can expect a cool climate and attractive rural surroundings that have long drawn visitors to the area. While you explore the beautiful landscapes and nearby temples, you may find it helpful to consult local resources such as the East Java Tourist Office, the Indonesian Guides Association, or the Malang City Tourist Office for your visit.

Getting there

You can fly directly into Malang at Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport, which handles daily flights from Jakarta and Bandung, as well as regional flights from Denpasar. Alternatively, you can fly into Surabaya's Juanda International Airport and complete the journey to Malang via a private shuttle service, a taxi, or by taking a bus to the Bungurasih terminal before boarding an intercity bus.

If you prefer to travel by land, several options bring you to the city:

• Travel by car along the Surabaya-Gempol highway from Surabaya.
• Take a train from Jakarta or Bandung, which arrives at a central station in Malang.
• Ride a bus from the Bungurasih terminal in Surabaya or from Probolinggo.

Getting around

You can navigate the city on foot thanks to its wide colonial streets and relatively cool climate. Depending on the season, you should carry an umbrella during the wet months or wear light clothing during the dry months. For a more traditional experience, becaks (pedicabs) are easy to find along roadsides and provide a leisurely way to see the city.

For motorized transport, several options are available:

• Minivans known as "mikrolet" or "angkot" are blue vehicles that can be hailed at random; their routes are identified by two- or three-letter acronyms.
• Formal and informal taxis are available through firms like Argo Perdana and Citra Kendedes, which offer both instant ordering and advance booking.
• Online ride-hailing services, including Gojek and Grab, are abundant throughout the city.

Where to stay

You can find a wide range of accommodations in Malang, spanning from simple homestays to higher-end hotels. For budget-conscious travelers, several options provide basic amenities; some offer air-conditioned dormitories with breakfast and Wi-Fi, while others provide larger rooms or unique experiences like bamboo huts on a rooftop overlooking the city and mountains. If you prefer a central location, mid-range options include modern facilities and a boutique hotel housed in a converted colonial building featuring a large swimming pool.

For a more luxurious stay, you can choose a property in the heart of the old town. This four-star hotel is furnished with Javanese antiquities and features a garden of rescued trees overlooking a local monument. Other options vary from basic rooms near shopping centers to well-maintained hostels where you can rent bicycles or enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.

Food & drink

Savor the local flavors of Malang by exploring street stalls and simple warungs where you can find regional specialties like ayam goreng kampung, cwie mie, and orem-orem. The highlands surrounding the city are a center for apple growing; seek out the small green manalagi apples to enjoy them fresh from the tree. For meat lovers, try Bakso Malang, a unique local take on meatball soup, or sample bakso bakar, which is grilled for extra flavor. You can also find jagung bakar, which is best enjoyed hot from the coals at a roadside stall.

Explore various culinary experiences across the city:

• Visit the night market on Jalan Merdeka on Saturday evenings to experience a riot of flavors and scents.
• Try local favorites like tempe mendol or rujak, a salad served with a spicy sweet peanut sauce.
• Savor Javanese cuisine or Eastern Javanese noodle dishes at local restaurants.
• Indulge in martabak, sate kambing, and nasi goreng accompanied by kopi jahe infused with cloves for a decadent taste.
• For Western options, find pasta from an Italian owner or Korean-inspired dishes.

What to see and do

Explore the cultural heart of the region by visiting various Hindu and Buddhist temples, including the well-preserved 13th-century Singosari Temple and the smaller Candi Kidal, which features detailed reliefs. You can also visit Badut Temple, one of the oldest known structures in East Java. For a taste of local life, stroll along Ijen Boulevard to see old colonial buildings and bougainvillea, or explore the colorful houses of Jodipan Village, which is connected by the Ngalam Indonesia Glass Bridge. If you prefer modern urban culture, Soekarno Hatta Boulevard offers a lively atmosphere with various cafes and retail stores.

Adventure awaits in the surrounding mountainous landscape where you can view peaks such as Panderman, Bromo, and Semeru during the early morning or evening. You can choose to visit Mount Bromo via an organized tour or opt for a more independent journey by renting a motorbike to navigate the steep roads and the "Sea of Sand." For those seeking different experiences, you can watch traditional East Java dances at Sanggar Senaputra, enjoy family entertainment at a park featuring dinosaur replicas, or find relaxation in the bathing pools at Ken Dedes.

When to go

You can experience Malang's tropical monsoon climate, which is moderated by its highland elevation. During the dry season, you will enjoy more stable weather and lower humidity levels, making these months the most comfortable time for your visit.

During the wet season, you should prepare for humid conditions and frequent rainfall as the monsoon peaks. The heaviest rains occur during this period, particularly in January.

Three days in Malang

Day one, you arrive in Malang and settle into the atmosphere of East Java. You can explore the local area to learn about the history of the Singhasari Kingdom or prepare for your upcoming excursions through the region.

Day two, you travel toward the mountains. Depending on your preference, you can take a ride toward Bromo, Tengger, and Semeru National Park to see the peaks of Mount Semeru.

Day three, you explore the surrounding landscapes or arrange for transportation via minivans or online transport services like Gojek to reach nearby destinations before your departure from the region.