Things To Do
in Malang
Malang, situated in East Java, Indonesia, is renowned for its mild climate, making it a delightful retreat from the country's tropical heat. This city is steeped in history, showcasing a blend of Dutch colonial architecture and traditional Javanese culture, set against the backdrop of lush landscapes and mountains.
Malang is also a gateway to some of Indonesia's stunning natural wonders, including the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, making it a favorite destination for both cultural and adventure tourism.
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Apa kabar?" - How are you?
- "Sama-sama" - You're welcome
- "Selamat malam" - Good evening
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Tumpak Sewa Waterfall, where you can marvel at the beautiful cascading water. Take a short hike to enjoy the surrounding lush greenery.
Head to Jodipan Colorful Village, where you can stroll through vibrant streets and appreciate the artistic murals. Grab lunch at a local eatery and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Wind down your day at Alun-Alun Malang, where you can enjoy local street food. Take a leisurely walk around the park and immerse yourself in the evening ambiance.
Begin your day with a trip to Mount Bromo for a breathtaking sunrise view. Set out early to catch the stunning colors as the sun rises over the volcano.
Explore the surrounding Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, with a trek through the unique volcanic landscape. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the picturesque views.
Return to Malang and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Indonesian cuisine. Relax and reflect on the day's adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and waterfalls.
- Cool climate due to its elevation, making it a comfortable place to live.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and local cuisine.
- Friendly locals who are welcoming to tourists and expatriates.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring nature.
- Limited job opportunities for expatriates in specific fields.
- Transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Occasional issues with traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in major urban areas.
- Potential for natural disasters such as earthquakes and landslides due to geographical location.
Best Activities in Malang
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience a breathtaking sunrise and hike around one of the most iconic volcanoes in Indonesia.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the cascading waterfall and its surrounding lush greenery.
Have fun at an amusement park with various outdoor activities, including rides and animal exhibits.
Tours
Uncover the best of Malang with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Malang
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru, and the surrounding landscape.
A picturesque waterfall set amidst lush greenery, providing a serene and photogenic backdrop.
A vibrant and colorful village with eclectic street art, perfect for creative and colorful photo opportunities.
A scenic beach area offering beautiful coastal landscapes and sunset views.
Food in Malang
Malang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This flavorful meatball soup is a must-try, typically made with beef, served with noodles, and garnished with fried shallots and a side of sambal. You can find authentic bakso at Bakso President, a well-known establishment in Malang.
Must-Try!
Rawon is a traditional Indonesian beef black soup infused with the keluak nut, resulting in a distinct rich flavor and dark color. A recommended place to savor this dish is Rumah Makan Amarta, known for its excellent rawon preparation.
A popular dish containing lontong (compressed rice cake) and tiny clams in a spicy, savory sauce. Visitors can indulge in this dish at Pasar Semeru, a bustling local market in Malang.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Malang better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and liveliest traditional markets in Malang, offering an abundance of street food stalls serving a variety of local delicacies like nasi goreng (fried rice), sate (skewered meats), and fresh fruits.
Located in Alun-Alun Tugu, this street food stall is renowned for its comforting bowls of bakso (meatball soup) with an option to customize the dish with additional toppings and condiments.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Malang, it is customary to greet others with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Showing respect for elders is important in Malang's culture. It is customary to use appropriate titles when addressing older individuals.
It is considered courteous to remove one's shoes before entering someone's home or certain public spaces in Malang.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Malang with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Malang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not commonly practiced in Malang, Indonesia. While it is not expected, leaving small change or rounding up the bill as a token of appreciation in restaurants or for services is appreciated.
Payment in Malang, Indonesia is predominantly done in cash, especially for small transactions. However, larger establishments and tourist areas may accept credit or debit cards. It's advisable to carry enough cash for daily expenses as ATMs may not be as widely available in some areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Malang.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Malang, with sunny weather and lower humidity. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rainfall and higher humidity during this season. Can experience occasional flooding but also lush green landscapes.
Malang at Night
Hiking in Malang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest mountain in Java, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking views at its summit.
Famous for its stunning sunrise views and unique volcanic landscape, it provides several hiking trails.
Known for its sulfur mining and mesmerizing blue flames, there are hikes around the crater area.
A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush tropical forests, with hiking trails leading to and around it.
A popular hiking destination, it offers scenic views and a variety of trails through rich flora.
A historical site with a backdrop of lush hills, ideal for a short hike while enjoying nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Malang through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Malang by plane.
Located in Surabaya, approximately 90 kilometers from Malang, it serves both domestic and international flights.
The closest airport to Malang, primarily serving domestic flights but capable of handling international arrivals.
Located about 150 kilometers from Malang, this airport offers domestic flights with a limited number of international connections.
Located in Bali, approximately 320 kilometers from Malang, this is a major international airport serving numerous flights worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Malang, making up a significant portion of the population, with a rich cultural heritage.
A prominent ethnic minority in Malang, contributing to the city's economy and cultural diversity.
Another ethnic group found in Malang, known for their distinct language and cultural practices.
A smaller ethnic group in Malang, known for their unique cultural traditions distinct from the Javanese.
An ethnic group from North Sumatra, present in Malang, often involved in trade and business.
A community with historical roots in trade and Islamic culture, contributing to the diverse demographic of Malang.
The Soul of Malang
Discover the essence of Malang through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Malang, with many local clubs and passionate fans. The city is home to several football teams that compete in regional leagues.
Badminton is widely played and supported in Malang, with numerous tournaments held throughout the year. Many local schools and clubs promote this sport.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Malang, with many basketball courts available in public spaces and schools.
Volleyball is a common sport in Malang, enjoyed both recreationally and competitively, particularly among women.
Motorcycle racing has a significant following in Malang, with local races and events attracting many spectators and participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Indonesian cuisine tends to feature a lot of meat, there are numerous vegetarian and vegan-friendly options available. Restaurants such as Loving Hut Malang and Warung Vegetarian Pohon Inn are great choices for those seeking plant-based meals.
Though gluten-free options may be limited in traditional Indonesian cuisine, many restaurants and cafes in Malang are accommodating to dietary restrictions and can offer gluten-free alternatives upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Malang with these cultural adventures.
