Venturing Java by Train

10 Days / 9 Nights

Jakarta - Yogyakarta - Surabaya - Bromo

Private & Customisable

Experience Highlights

Embark on a 10-day journey through the vibrant island of Java, beginning in the bustling capital city of Jakarta and ending at the awe-inspiring Bromo Tengger National Park. Traveling by train in Indonesia is an experience not to be missed, as it offers a unique glimpse into the country's diverse landscapes and cultures. Highlights of the trip include exploring Jakarta's rich history and vibrant street culture, visiting the ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, immersing in the local customs and traditions of Java, and witnessing one of the most breathtaking sunrises on the planet while at Bromo. This trip is the perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a truly enriching experience.

Itinerary

Jakarta - Arrival

Welcome to Jakarta! A capital city for Indonesia, it is the economic, cultural, and political centre of the country, it is the largest metropolis in Southeast Asia. Upon arrival at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, after the immigration service, you will be met with the airport representative for an International Arrival Assistance service, who will escort and assist you to your local guide outside of the gate.

You will be transferred to your selected hotel in Jakarta.

Meals: none

Jakarta : Old & New

Breakfast at the hotel.

Have a full glance at Jakarta by exploring both old and new towns. From Old Batavia to the modern financial district. Start with a walking tour of Old Batavia formerly the site of Jayakarta, a city that evolved around the northern spice trading harbor of Sunda Kelapa. Visit the last remaining Dutch drawbridge in Jakarta, known as ‘Chicken Market Bridge’ then walk along the historical Kali Besar Barat to pass Toko Merah, or Red Shop, the former home of Dutch Governor General van Imhoff and one of the most impressive red tiled facade buildings remaining around the Fatahillah Square.

Lunch will be served at Tugu Kunstkring. Tugu Kunstkring Paleis is a historic building, built in the early 20th century and served as a cultural center for the city's elite. The building is known for its distinctive architecture, combining European and Indonesian elements. It is a beautiful and historic building that offers a glimpse into the city's rich cultural history. Following lunch, it is time to explore modern Jakarta and to have the opportunity to step off the tourist trail and discover the ‘real’ Jakarta. Exploring Jakarta with MRT from Hotel Indonesia roundabout Station to Blok M station and exploring M Bloc space, a public space, creative hub, live house, and shop.In the afternoon, return back to the hotel.

Overnight in Jakarta

Meals: breakfast, lunch

Jakarta - Yogyakarta (by train)

The morning after breakfast, we will provide a transfer to Gambir’s railway station for your departure to Yogyakarta. Gambir - Yogyakarta: 6 hours 11 minutes by train

Upon arrival at Yogyakarta railway station, meet with your local guide and continue driving by car to your hotel in Yogyakarta.

Proceed to the hotel check-in and the remainder of the day is at leisure.

This evening, enjoy a Royal Javanese Rijsttafel for dinner. Located at the Kedaton Ambarrukmo Heritage Sites, which was built in 1857 and used to be a Royal Residence of King Hamengku Buwono VII. The Royal dinner ceremony offering an exceptional experience of serving special dishes begins with the ‘Jodhang’ ceremony, a procession of the Royal Butler, carrying a ‘Jodhang’ (wooden box to carry the meals & offerings) containing the delicacy of Sultan’s favorite dishes.

Overnight in Yogyakarta

Meals: breakfast, dinner

Yogyakarta - Prambanan

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel. Today, embark on a full-day exploration of Yogyakarta, a town considered to be the cradle of Javanese culture and an important center of art and education.

First, visit the Sultan's Palace, also known as Kraton. Built between 1756 and 1790, it is one of the best examples of traditional Javanese architecture. The palace serves as a museum showcasing Javanese relics and remains the residence of the Sultan to this day. Depending on the day of visit, there may be cultural performances such as Golek Menak puppet performances or Macapat, a form of classical Javanese poetry performance.

Next, continue on foot to Taman Sari Water Palace, an addition to the royal complex built over 200 years ago by the first Sultan to provide bathing pools for women.

After that, proceed to the Prambanan area and have lunch at Abhayagiri Restaurant.

Then, explore the ancient Hindu temples at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Prambanan, located 17 kilometres from Yogyakarta. Built-in the 9th century, this collection of temples features three main inner shrines dedicated to the Hindu trinity of gods: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The guide will explain the history and symbolism of the temples as you walk around.

Please note: that the Sultan Palace, Borobudur, and Prambanan temple, as well as the museums in Jogjakarta, are closed on Mondays.

Return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Meals: breakfast

Yogyakarta - Kotagede - Borobudur

After breakfast, the tour guide and driver will pick you up for the drive to one of the highlights of the trip: Borobudur.

Begin by driving to Kotagede, a charming suburb of Yogyakarta known for its traditional Javanese atmosphere and its silversmith workshops. Upon arrival in Kotagede, embark on a leisurely bicycle tour around the area and visit a master baker's house to taste Kembang Waru, a delicious type of cookie only produced in Kotagede.

Next, continue to the traditional market and explore this bustling pasar, which was once the main market in the area. Then, visit the oldest mosque in Yogyakarta, dating back to 1575. There, you will have the opportunity to borrow a traditional Javanese costume before entering, as a sign of respect to the former kings. Then, explore the historical compound of the Mataram Kingdom and its Royal Cemetery.

End the visit to Kotagede with a walking tour amongst narrow laneways, and discover the unique Kalang-style architecture indigenous to Kotagede, a combination of Javanese and Colonial styles.

Afterward, continue to the Borobudur area and check in to the hotel.

Meals: breakfast, lunch

Borobudur - Selogriyo

Rise early this morning to journey to Borobudur and witness the enchanting sunrise. Embark on a half-day Borobudur tour, commencing with departure from your hotel between 04:30 - 05:00 am, followed by walking to Dagi Hills. Nestled 275 metres above the sea level, the hill offers an awe-inspiring view of the sunrise casting its golden glow upon the iconic Borobudur Temple. Following this captivating spectacle, indulge in a delightful picnic breakfast atop Dagi Hills.

Indulge in the breathtaking vistas, and thereafter, delve into the rich history and architectural grandeur of Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate stone carvings and towering stupas. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance as you explore this magnificent temple complex.

Travel to a nearby market to browse the fresh produce on sale then continue to Pawon and Mendut. Learn about the temple's history and unique architecture while walking around these small but impressive monuments.

Return to the hotel for breakfast and freshening up.

This afternoon, drive to a small village on the slopes of Mt. Sumbing for a two-hour hike through beautifully terraced rice fields and plantations to the Selogriyo Temple. The structure of the temple itself is rather modest, but the walk there is beautiful and resembles some of the finest landscapes in Java.

Meals: breakfast

Borobudur - Yogyakarta - Surabaya (by Train)

Breakfast at the hotel and check out.

At 08:30 am, check out of the hotel and embark on a transfer to the Yogyakarta Railway Station for your journey to Surabaya. You will be accompanied by a guide on this journey.

Traveling by train in Java is a great opportunity to meet local people and to see the volcanic landscapes of central and East Java.

Upon arrival at the Surabaya railway station, meet with your local driver and continue driving by car to your hotel in Surabaya.

Check in at the hotel and remember that the rest of the day is free for leisure activities.

Overnight in Surabaya.

Meals: breakfast

Surabaya - Bromo

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. This morning, before your transfer to the Bromo area, take some time to explore the historical sites of Majapahit hotels and the surrounding area.

Then, proceed to the Bromo area and check in at the Plataran Bromo Resort. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing.

In the evening, have dinner at the hotel and spend the rest of the night at leisure.

Overnight in Bromo

Meals: breakfast

Bromo : Sunrise Al Fresco

The wake-up call will be at 3 am today (pick up time 3:30 am). Please wear warm clothes for the sunrise excursion in Bromo as the temperature is low.

Enjoy the sunrise from a secluded spot in the highlands of Bromo with Plataran’s Sunrise Al Fresco encounter. Start your day with exquisite views of Bromo accompanied by a cup of coffee or tea, delightful light bites, and whole fruits.

Depart by jeep to catch the sunrise. The mist, combined with the grey ashen-covered ground creates an unusual atmosphere, often compared to the surface of the moon. Head to a secluded viewpoint, from where one of the most iconic and most featured photos promoting Java and Indonesia has been taken. In the early hours right after sunrise, the light is perfect to take pictures of Bromo-Tengger National park from a bird’s eye perspective. The view opens up deeply into East Java, with Mount Batok, Mount Bromo, and the majestic Mount Semeru in the background.

Return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

In the afternoon, enjoy a 60-minute massage.

Meals: breakfast

This is a private itinerary and can be tailored to your needs.

Accommodations

The St Regis Jakarta

The St. Regis Jakarta embodies Indonesia's spirit and celebrates its culture. Located in the Golden Triangle, this 5-star hotel offers urban comfort with The St. Regis Spa, an outdoor pool, and six dining options. Enjoy fitness classes, luxurious rooms with chandeliers, and our 24-hour butler service. Experience unparalleled luxury for meetings and weddings in our elegant event venues.

What's Included?

Meet & Greet Service for international arrival in Jakarta airport (No Immigration Fast track).
Best available option for the accommodations
Royal Javanese Rijsttafel for dinner in a National heritage site
Luxury welcome package
Hotel accommodation in a half-twin/double room with daily breakfast
Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
Tours and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicles
Service of English-speaking local guide
All entrance fees and tours as indicated in the itinerary
Empty return vehicle and guide from East Java to Yogyakarta

*Price from £3,259 pp based on 2 adults. This itinerary is private & customisable. Enquire here.

Venturing Java by Train

Experience Highlights

Itinerary

Jakarta - Arrival

Jakarta : Old & New

Jakarta - Yogyakarta (by train)

Yogyakarta - Prambanan

Yogyakarta - Kotagede - Borobudur

Borobudur - Selogriyo

Borobudur - Yogyakarta - Surabaya (by Train)

Surabaya - Bromo

Bromo : Sunrise Al Fresco

Bromo : Departure

This is a private itinerary and can be tailored to your needs.

Accommodations

What's Included?

Plesir

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