Located in East Java's tobacco valley near Mount Lawu, this former Dutch resort town grew from a small village into a university city with two major institutions.
Malang, East Java's second-largest city, lies at 450 meters above sea level, surrounded by Mount Arjuno, Mount Semeru, and Mount Bromo. The average temperature stays around 25°C year-round. You'll find 1920s Dutch mansions along Ijen Boulevard, while local neighborhoods like Kampung Warna-Warni display streets painted in rainbow colors. Beyond the city limits, hiking trails lead to Mount Bromo's crater and the 120-meter Tumpak Sewu waterfall.
Getting to Malang
Daily flights connect Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport with Jakarta and Denpasar. Trains run from Surabaya (2 hours), Yogyakarta (8 hours), and Jakarta (overnight service) to Malang's central station. Buses arrive at Arjosari station in the northern part of the city.
Climate and When to Visit
The mountain elevation keeps Malang's climate mild throughout the year. Plan your visit between April and October during the dry season for the best conditions to hike Mount Bromo and walk through tea plantations. January and February bring heavy rainfall, which increases water flow at waterfalls but makes hiking trails muddy and slippery.
Mount Bromo Experience
A plain of black volcanic sand surrounds Mount Bromo's active crater. To see sunrise over the volcano, start your journey at 3 AM. From the viewpoint, you'll see the smoking crater with Mount Semeru, Java's highest peak, in the background. Local tour companies run daily trips from Malang with transport and English-speaking guides.
Exploring Tumpak Sewu
Water cascades down 120 meters into a circular canyon from multiple points around the rim. A 10-minute walk from the parking area takes you to the upper viewpoint. To reach the base, climb down steep paths for 20 minutes using fixed ropes and bamboo ladders. Visit in the morning before clouds appear for the clearest views.
Rainbow Village and Blue Village
These two neighborhoods turned their buildings into public art displays. Houses in Rainbow Village (Kampung Warna-Warni) show different colors and patterns on every wall, while Blue Village (Kampung Biru) uses varying shades of blue throughout its streets. Both areas line the train tracks near central Malang and welcome visitors daily.
Dutch Colonial Architecture
Walk along Ijen Boulevard to see 1920s and 1930s Dutch buildings. The wide street has rows of trees and large mansions with high ceilings and deep verandas designed to catch mountain breezes. While many buildings now house government offices or museums, their original architectural elements remain.
Local Food
Malang's cool climate influences its cooking, with many restaurants focusing on hot soups and noodles. Try Bakso Malang, the city's signature meatball soup that comes with various types of meatballs, noodles, and fried wontons. Local dishes often include fresh vegetables from nearby farms in Java's agricultural region.
Getting Around
Take becaks (three-wheeled bicycle taxis) for short trips in central Malang. For longer journeys or day tours to Mount Bromo and waterfalls, book a car with driver through your accommodation or local travel agencies. Metered taxis wait at designated stands throughout the city.
