Things To Do
in Purwokerto
Purwokerto is a charming town located in the central part of Java, Indonesia. It is surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush green landscapes. The town is known for its pleasant climate and friendly locals.
Purwokerto also offers a mix of cultural attractions, delicious local cuisine, and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
- "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 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing visit to the Gumuk Cinta Hill for stunning sunrise views. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café nearby.
Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and taste traditional snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historical sites in the city.
Relax at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the sunset while tasting Indonesian dishes. Take a leisurely walk along the lake to wrap up your day.
Head to Mount Slamet for a morning hike that offers breathtaking views and fresh air. Prepare a packed breakfast to enjoy at one of the scenic spots.
Visit the Curug Cipendok waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim and have a picnic. Capture the beauty with photos and create lasting memories.
Return to Purwokerto and indulge in a hearty dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Relax and share stories about your day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with various traditional events and festivals.
- Breathtaking natural scenery, including mountains, hot springs, and waterfalls.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to major cities in Indonesia.
- Growing food scene featuring local delicacies and fresh produce.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure compared to larger cities.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours due to increasing population.
- Infrequent public transportation options for longer distances.
- Hot and humid climate which may be uncomfortable for some.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, leading to potential brain drain.
Best Activities in Purwokerto
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A challenging yet rewarding hike that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Visit this beautiful natural tourist area with its refreshing springs, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
Enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and sightseeing against the picturesque backdrop of the reservoir.
Tours
Uncover the best of Purwokerto with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Purwokerto
Visit one of these nice places.
Breathtaking viewpoint overlooking Purwokerto city, perfect for sunset photos.
Scenic lake with surrounding greenery, ideal for nature photography.
Picturesque waterfall with trails for stunning natural photography.
Food in Purwokerto
Purwokerto Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender skewered goat meat served with rich peanut sauce and rice cakes. Try it at Sate Kambing Pak Manto in Pasar Wagepur, a popular spot known for its flavorful sate dishes.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with shredded chicken, vermicelli noodles, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. Visit Warung Soto Mbok Giyem for an authentic taste of this local favorite.
A traditional Javanese sweet snack made from cassava and served with coconut milk. Sample this delightful treat at Pasar Manis Purwokerto, where you'll find vendors offering various versions of gethuk lindri.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Purwokerto better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of street food stalls and vendors selling fresh produce, local snacks, and traditional dishes like nasi goreng and bakso.
Explore this market for an exciting array of street food options, from grilled satay to savory martabak. It's a great place to savor authentic flavors and mingle with the locals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake and a smile, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It is also common to use the right hand when giving or receiving items or when shaking hands.
In Purwokerto, it is important to show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures. This includes addressing them with appropriate titles and showing deference in conversations.
When visiting sacred places or attending formal events, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively. This may include wearing attire that covers shoulders, arms, and legs out of respect for the local culture and customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Purwokerto with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Purwokerto
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Purwokerto, Indonesia. However, it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for exceptional service. A service charge may be included in the bill at some establishments.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Purwokerto, especially for small transactions. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and street markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Purwokerto.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Purwokerto is during the dry season when the weather is generally sunny and dry. This is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city and surrounding areas.
During the rainy season, expect frequent rainfall, occasional thunderstorms, and higher humidity. Outdoor activities may be limited, but the surrounding nature becomes lush and green.
Purwokerto at Night
Hiking in Purwokerto
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The tallest volcano in Central Java, Gunung Slamet offers challenging hikes with stunning views and rich biodiversity.
A popular tourist area featuring natural hot springs, Baturaden has several hiking trails that lead through lush forests and beautiful landscapes.
This scenic spot features a volcanic crater and provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.
A nature park with well-maintained trails, perfect for family hiking adventures amidst lush greenery.
This national park is home to diverse flora and fauna and offers various hiking trails for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Purwokerto through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Purwokerto by plane.
Located in Cengkareng, Banten province, it is the largest and busiest airport in Indonesia, serving as the primary international airport for Jakarta.
Located in Surabaya, East Java, it serves as the second-largest international airport in Indonesia, catering to both domestic and international flights.
Located in Denpasar, Bali, this airport is a major gateway for tourists visiting the island, with numerous international and domestic flights.
Located in Yogyakarta, this airport serves as a regional hub for visitors travelling to Yogyakarta and central Java.
Located in Bandung, West Java, it is a key airport serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Purwokerto, primarily inhabiting the central and eastern parts of Java. They have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their traditions, language, and art.
A significant demographic group in Purwokerto, originating from the western part of Java. They have their own unique customs, language, and culinary traditions.
A notable minority in Purwokerto, contributing to the cultural and economic fabric of the city. They often maintain distinctive cultural practices and cuisine.
A smaller yet prominent group in Purwokerto, originally from northern Sumatra, known for their strong family ties and cultural expressions through music and dance.
An ethnic group from West Sumatra, present in Purwokerto, recognized for their matrilineal society and unique culinary dishes.
The Soul of Purwokerto
Discover the essence of Purwokerto through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a widely popular sport in Purwokerto, enjoyed by many locals, both as a recreational activity and through organized competitions.
Badminton is a favorite sport in Purwokerto, with many players and clubs dedicated to both casual play and competitive tournaments.
Basketball has gained popularity in Purwokerto, especially among the youth, with various courts available for practice and games.
Volleyball is commonly played in Purwokerto, with both indoor and beach variants attracting a lot of participants.
Various forms of martial arts, including Pencak Silat, are practiced widely in Purwokerto, emphasizing self-defense and traditional values.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Purwokerto.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes are prevalent, some eateries like Tofu Lombok and Warung Sayur Maya offer delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes such as gado-gado and tempeh-based meals. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly to ensure a satisfying dining experience.
Local markets and vendors often offer fresh fruit, rice-based dishes, and grilled seafood, which can be suitable for those avoiding gluten. Communicating your dietary needs and inquiring about ingredients is recommended to make informed choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Purwokerto with these cultural adventures.