East Java’s Hidden Gems: From Surabaya’s Charm to the Magic of Mt. Bromo

When people think of traveling in Indonesia, destinations like Bali or Yogyakarta usually top the list. But if you're looking for something off the beaten path, East Java offers some of the most magical landscapes and cultural gems in the country.

And the perfect place to begin your East Java journey? Surabaya.

Surabaya!! What is it? Where is it?

Surabaya is the second largest city in Indonesia and the capital of East Java. As a travel destination, it does not make many lists and for good reason: it is a large city with lots of traffic and few recognizable tourist spots. However, it does have a nice mall, reasonable and good hotels, an uncrowded international airport, and pretty good food. It is also the ideal spot to kick off your East Java excursion.

Mt. Bromo: East Java’s Volcanic Crown Jewel

Standing at approximately 2300 meters/7500 feet, Mt. Bromo is the East Java poster destination. It is not the tallest volcano in Indonesia, but it might be the best looking. It sits in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park and, at the risk of overusing a word, the landscape is spectacular. There is a gotcha. The whole idea is to see this world unfold as the sun rises.

Golden sunrise over Mt. Bromo – a moment to remember.

The Famous Bromo Sunrise

To experience Mt. Bromo properly, you will want to catch the sunrise view from Mount Penanjakan, where Bromo and its surrounding peaks are dramatically revealed as the sky brightens.

You have two main options:

• Midnight drive from Surabaya
• Stay overnight near Bromo

I chose the second option and found myself in the Plataran Bromo, nestled in the Bromo highlands. The grounds and the surroundings are the highlight, but the Plataran does not disappoint in any area. At approximately 2 am you can climb in a 1979 Toyota Land Cruiser and begin your Bromo adventure.

Staying in the highlands at Plataran Bromo resort.

Tips for Sunrise at Bromo:

• Wear warm layers, it’s chilly before dawn.
• Grab a hot drink at one of the roadside warungs.
• Be patient - the clouds sometimes hide the sunrise, but when it clears… it’s unforgettable. 

After the sunrise, you can descend to the Bromo crater or return to your hotel for breakfast and rest, depending on your desires. Two nights at the Plataran allows more time in this great hotel as well as the opportunity to explore the highlands, perhaps in the same Land Cruiser.

Malang: Culture, Colors, and Coffee

Next stop: Malang, a charming city about 2–3 hours from Bromo.

The colorful charm of Jodipan, Malang’s Rainbow Village.

First, explore Jodipan, the Rainbow Village

Malang and the Tugu hotel are the next stop. No need to hurry as the trip is two to three hours. Before heading to the city proper, spend an hour above and in Jodipan. Also known as the rainbow city, Jodipan is cluster of multi-colored houses that deserve admiration from above and also a exploration from one side of the river to the next.

Where to Stay in Malang

Upon your return to Malang, stay in the Tugu hotel. The rooms are ok but the hotel, with the owner’s collection of antiques, is amazing. Whatever else you might say about this hotel, you will say it is unique.

Exploring Penataran Temple, East Java’s largest ancient Hindu site.

Majestic waterfall hidden in East Java’s lush forest.

Beyond Malang: Waterfalls, Temples, and Trains

From Malang you can visit coffee plantations and waterfalls such as Tumpak Sewu, enjoy the pleasant climate and take a train ride. A couple hour ride will take you to the town of Blitar from where you can explore the Penataran Temple, a coffee plantation, and the town itself. Templeitis, too many temples, can be an issue but the Penataran is interesting. 

Bakso Malang – hearty meatball soup full of flavor.

A bowl of bakso enjoyed by the railway – uniquely Malang.

So Much More to Explore in East Java

This was a simple tour but there is much more to explore in East Java. I missed it but it might be good to coordinate a Surabaya/East Java visit with the Karapan sapi, traditional bull racing on the island of Madura. The people of East Java are warm and friendly and don’t forget coffee. East Java and Indonesia have a great and flavorful robusto and arabica selection. After all, coffee is called Java.

Warm smiles and friendly hearts of East Java’s people.

Quick Tips for East Java Travel:

• Best time to visit: May to October (dry season)  
• Local dishes to try: Rawon, Rujak Cingur, Bakso Malang, Soto
• Bring layers: Highland areas can get surprisingly cold

✈️ Ready to explore more of Indonesia? Check out our other Indonesia tours and dive into more travel stories on our blog.