9 Best Things to do in Malang, Java 9 Best Things to do in Malang, Java

9 Best Things to do in Malang, Java

Malang in Indonesia is a city in the higher part of East Java. With a fresh mountain breeze, the climate is much more comfortable than in Yogyakarta. Malang is mainly used as a perfect stopover before heading to the Bromo Volcano. However, the city has so much more to offer, home to one of Indonesia’s most jaw-dropping waterfalls, a rainbow and blue village, and an enormous tea plantation. We recommend spending 2/3 days enjoying all the top things to do in Malang.

1. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

One of the most spectacular waterfalls in Indonesia is Tumpak Sewu (located not far from Malang). The name means a thousand waterfalls, and that name is totally fair.

The 120-meter-high waterfall comes from all sides for a full 180 degrees. The waterfall can be visited easily from the top, and quite a challenging hike down to the foot.

things to do malang tumpak sewu best waterfall indonesia

2. The Rainbow Village: Jodipan

The most interesting place in Malang is Jodipan. The entire village was a slum area and was basically given up. Students came up with the idea to paint everything in bright rainbow colors to attract tourists.

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9 Best Things to do in Malang, Java

In June 2016, the air force troops painted the entire village and directly after, tourists started to notice this rainbow village since it is along the train track bridge.

things to do malang java jodipan color village

3. The Blue Village (Kampung Biru Arema)

An entirely new project (on the opposite side of the train track bridge) is the Blue Village. In April 2018, they started to paint Kampung Biru Arema blue to bring a little extra color and attention to the village.

We found this place by accident; they were still building a small viewpoint and working on the artwork. Other than Jodipan, there were zero tourists, and every single local wanted to take a photo with us. 

things to do malang java blue kampung biru arema people

4. Visit Mount Bromo from Malang

The Bromo Volcano is one of the highlights of everyone’s Java Route. Watch the sunrise on Bromo and visit the crater. From Malang, you could arrange a day tour to Bromo. A better option is to stay near Bromo and follow your way to the IJen crater.

Tip: On your way to Bromo, make sure to stop at the beautiful waterfall Coban Pelangi.

5. Bukit Kuneer Tea Plantations

A long time ago, during the Dutch colonization, they introduced products like coffee, tea, tobacco, and rubber in the region. This was possible because of its cooler climate. This was one of the biggest surprises of things to do in Malang.

The tea plantations at Bukit Kuneer are in Batu, near Malang. There is a short walking bridge through the fields, and it is just a beautiful area to enjoy the scenery. The entrance for the area is 12.000 IDR per person. From the parking area, you can either walk to the top for 30 minutes or jump on the back of a motorbike.

things to do malang java tea plantation Bukit Kuneer drone

6. Coban Putri

A small waterfall and two cool viewpoints. Coban Putri is a small natural water park where locals hang out at the weekend and relax. Go on the weekdays to avoid many tourists.

7. Coban Rondo Waterfall

Another beautiful waterfall in the area is Coban Rondo. The powerful waterfall is around 80 meters high and can be visited from the foot. The whole area around Coban Rondo is a beautiful park.

things to do malang java coban rondo waterfall

8. Coban Rondo Labrinth

In the same park is a small Labrinth. If you are in to have a little fun with the Indonesian people. Head over to this place and try to get to the center as quickly as possible.

things to do malang java labrinth

9. Museum Angkut

Something you wouldn’t expect in Indonesia is a transport museum. At Museum Angkut, they have a huge collection of airplanes, classic cars, traditional transportations and so much more. It was a fun place to walk around although we wouldn’t recommend it if you aren’t really into ‘theme park style’ places.

things to do malang java car angkut museum

Getting around Malang

You could plan a 2-day trip in and around Malang. On your first day, combine numbers 1, 2, and 3. On your second day, combine numbers 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 of this list of things to do in Malang. We recommend doing Bromo (number 4) on a separate day.

Tip: It is best to rent a driver for a day. This would cost you between 450K – 650K for 12 hours.

Get a driver 
Contact our great driver Azhar on Whatsapp (+6281336042045). Make sure to tell him you came via ‘Salt in our Hair’ so you’ll get the best price.

Restaurants in Malang

The best restaurants are spread all over the city. A great option is to head out to one of the local Warungs and get a simply delicious dish like Nasi Pecel. Other great options are:

  • SaigonSan ♥️♥️♥️♥️
  • Inggil Museum Resto ♥️♥️♥️
  • Java Dancer Restaurant ♥️♥️

How to get to Malang, Indonesia

Malang has a good train station and domestic airport. Direct flights are available from Bali or Jakarta.

Find flights to Malang ✈️

By Train

You can take the train to Malang from Yogyakarta. The Malioboro Express train from Yogyakarta to Malang is very comfortable. Driving from Yogyakarta takes up more time. There are two stations in Malang; get off at the last station so you will see Jodipan village.

Where to Stay

Malang offers hotels and guesthouses in any kind of price category. Base yourself in the center to be close to the main sites.

Staying anywhere near the main train station is a great idea, as you’ll be located just a few minutes walk from the colored village.

15/12/2023 https://www.saltinourhair.com/indonesia/things-to-do-malang/
Blog comments (16)

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  • Madeleine

    I have been looking through your blogs for Malang and Bali – great information, thank you – where did you stay in Malang – I thought I saw somewhere where you recommended a guest house – was this is Malang or where….so much information and so good!
    Thanks in advance

    • Salt in our Hair

      Thanks Madeleine! Yes we stayed at Griyo Sultan Agung Guesthouse ❤️

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