JAVA ISLAND, INDONESIA

Discovering Java: An Epic Journey

Welcome to Java, the captivating island that beckons travelers from around the globe. With its renowned tourist destinations like Borobudur, Prambanan, and Mount Bromo, embarking on an adventure to Java is an experience in itself. Let's explore the various ways to reach this enchanting island and unlock its treasures!

By Plane

Fly to Java from Singapore, Malaysia, and Australia :

From Singapore:

  • By Plane: Several airlines, including Singapore Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, and AirAsia, offer direct flights from Singapore to Java. Economy class flights start at around SGD200 (US$130), with a flight time of about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

  • Airport to City: Upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (CGK), take the Soekarno-Hatta Airport Rail Link (KA Bandara) to BNI City Station in Central Jakarta. The journey takes about 50 minutes and costs Rp70,000 (US$4.50).

From Malaysia:

  • By Plane: Various airlines, including Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and Firefly, provide direct flights from Malaysia to Java. Economy class flights start at around MYR150 (US$33), with a flight duration of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

  • Airport to City: Upon arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), take the KLIA Express train to KL Sentral Station in Kuala Lumpur City Centre. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs MYR55 (US$12).

From Australia:

  • By Plane: Airlines such as Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia offer direct flights from Australia to Java. Economy class flights start at around AUD300 (US$200), with a flight time of about 10 hours.

  • Airport to City: Upon arrival at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), take the Trans Sarbagita bus to the city center. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs Rp40,000 (US$2.60).

By Bus

How to get from Bali to Surabaya by bus, from Surabaya to Jakarta by bus, and from Jakarta to other cities in Java by bus :

From Bali to Surabaya:

  • Several bus companies operate direct buses from Bali to Surabaya. The journey takes about 12 hours, and the cost is around Rp500,000 (US$33). Buses depart from the Ubung Bus Terminal in Denpasar and arrive at the Joyoboyo Bus Terminal in Surabaya.

From Surabaya to Jakarta:

  • Several bus companies operate direct buses from Surabaya to Jakarta. The journey takes about 16 hours, and the cost is around Rp600,000 (US$40). Buses depart from the Joyoboyo Bus Terminal in Surabaya and arrive at the Pulo Gebang Bus Terminal in Jakarta.

From Jakarta to other cities in Java:

  • Several bus companies operate buses from Jakarta to other cities in Java. The journey time and cost vary depending on the city. For example, the journey from Jakarta to Yogyakarta takes about 8 hours and costs around Rp400,000 (US$26). Buses depart from the Pulo Gebang Bus Terminal in Jakarta and arrive at the Giwangan Bus Terminal in Yogyakarta.

By Train

How to get from Bali to Surabaya by train, from Surabaya to Jakarta by train, and from Jakarta to other cities in Java by train :

From Bali to Surabaya:

  • There is no direct train from Bali to Surabaya. You can take a bus to Banyuwangi, and then transfer to a bus to Surabaya. The total journey time is about 16 hours, and the cost is around Rp500,000 (US$33).

  • Train options from Banyuwangi to Surabaya include Probowangi (Economy Class: Rp88,000 / US$6.50, Executive Class: Rp176,000 / US$11), Sri Tanjung (Economy Class: Rp250,000 / US$16, Executive Class: Rp350,000 / US$22), Mutiara Timur (Executive Class: Rp275,000 / US$18, Executive Class: Rp375,000 / US$24), and Jayabaya (Executive Class: Rp300,000 / US$19, Executive Class: Rp400,000 / US$26).

  • Tickets for the train from Banyuwangi to Surabaya can be purchased online or at the train station.

From Surabaya to Jakarta:

  • There is no direct train from Surabaya to Jakarta. You can take a train to Semarang, and then transfer to a train to Jakarta. The total journey time is about 14 hours, and the cost is around Rp600,000 (US$40).

  • The train from Surabaya to Semarang takes about 6 hours, and the cost is around Rp300,000 (US$20).

  • The train from Semarang to Jakarta takes about 8 hours, and the cost is around Rp300,000 (US$20).

From Jakarta to other cities in Java:

  • Several train companies operate trains from Jakarta to other cities in Java. The journey time and cost vary depending on the city. For example, the journey from Jakarta to Yogyakarta takes about 7 hours and costs around Rp400,000 (US$26). Trains depart from the Gambir Station in Jakarta and arrive at the Tugu Station in Yogyakarta.

Train Travel Tips:

  • Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

  • Arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before departure.

  • Bring snacks and drinks, as trains may not have a toilet or food service.

  • Keep a close eye on your belongings.

Conclusion: Unleash the Explorer Within

The ideal way to reach Java depends on your budget and time constraints. If time is of the essence, flying is the best option, whisking you to your destination swiftly. However, for budget-conscious travelers seeking adventure, the scenic bus or train ride offers affordable delights. Regardless of your choice, Java promises an enchanting visit.

Before embarking on your journey to Java, here are some additional tips to make the most of your experience:

  • Book your flights or bus tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your travel plans.

  • If you opt for the bus, choose a reputable company with favorable safety ratings for a worry-free journey.

  • For train travel, book your ticket in advance to guarantee a seat, as trains can be crowded at times.

  • Allow plenty of time for travel, considering the possibility of delays, and embrace the journey itself.

As you plan your trip to Java, anticipate the diverse landscapes and cultural experiences that await you. Immerse yourself in the ancient temples of Borobudur, witness the majestic sunrise over Mount Bromo, or explore the vibrant cities of Jakarta and Surabaya. Embrace the rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality that Java has to offer, creating memories that will last a lifetime.