Surabaya, the bustling capital of East Java, and the culturally rich Madura Island offer a unique blend of urban sophistication and traditional charm.
As a major economic hub, Surabaya is home to vibrant markets, green parks, diverse temples, and modern accommodations, making it a popular destination for business and leisure travelers alike.
Just a short trip away, Madura Island captivates visitors with its stunning karst landscapes, serene beaches, and a strong connection to local traditions and crafts.
Together, these destinations provide a glimpse into Indonesia's dynamic cultural and natural diversity, making them must-visit locations for any traveler exploring East Java.
Surabaya City
Surabaya, the capital of East Java province, is the largest metropolis in
the region and a major economic hub in Indonesia. Locals often note that many
of the country's wealthiest individuals reside here. Despite its industrial
zones and thriving businesses, Surabaya remains a surprisingly green and
welcoming city, thanks to the efforts of progressive city leaders. The city is
known for its pedestrian-friendly environment, boasting numerous parks,
boulevards, and squares.
Surabaya plays a pivotal role in Indonesia’s economy, with Tanjung Perak
Port being the second busiest in the country, facilitating vital international
trade and shipping operations.
The city is also culturally diverse, home to
various ethnic groups, including a significant Chinese diaspora. Many within
this community practice Buddhism, Confucianism, and different branches of
Christianity, contributing significantly to the local economy through their
industriousness and discipline.
How to Get There
From Bali, you can reach Surabaya in several ways:
- Flight: The quickest option is a one-hour flight from Denpasar to Surabaya (Juanda Airport). Flights start at around IDR 570,000 ($37) depending on the airline and time of booking.
- Bus: A bus journey from Denpasar to Surabaya costs between IDR 200,000 and 300,000, and the trip takes approximately 10 to 13 hours.
- Car or Motorbike: You can rent a vehicle and take the Gilimanuk-Ketapang ferry. While driving, it’s recommended to use Google Maps and select the "avoid narrow roads" option for easier navigation.
Accommodation in Surabaya
Surabaya offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly
guesthouses to luxurious hotels, catering to all types of travellers. Here are
some options:
Budget Guesthouses
Surabaya's budget accommodations, such as the OYO chain, offer affordable
stays with rooms ranging between IDR 50,000 and IDR 200,000 per night. With
over 15 locations across the city, you can easily find a comfortable option
that suits your budget.
Hotels with Pools and Other Amenities
Located in the city centre, this modern hotel is perfect for both business and
leisure travellers. It offers upscale amenities, including comfortable rooms,
free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. There’s also a
fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, and concierge services.
Price: Starting at around IDR 950,000 per night.
Part of the Ciputra World shopping and entertainment complex, this luxurious
hotel provides easy access to business centres, malls, and restaurants. It also
features a variety of dining options that serve both local and international
cuisine.
Price: Starting at IDR 1,200,000 per night.
A world-class luxury hotel located in the city centre, the Shangri-La offers
rooms and apartments with modern design and excellent city views. The hotel
includes a spa, fitness centre, outdoor pool, and tennis courts.
Price: Starting at IDR 1,800,000 per night.
For easy booking, consider using apps like Tokopedia, which allow you to
book your accommodation alongside your flight tickets.
Tourist Attractions in Surabaya
Surabaya is home to a variety of attractions, including historical
landmarks, museums, temples, and lush parks. Whether you're interested in
exploring the city's rich history or enjoying its green spaces, there’s
something for everyone.
Parks
Known for
its iconic shark and crocodile monument, this park offers a lush, green
environment perfect for a leisurely walk and relaxation.
A popular spot
among locals and tourists, this shaded park is great for unwinding beneath
banyan trees and other tropical plants. It also features jogging tracks
and sports facilities.
A newer park
with futuristic designs and mosaic sculptures, it’s an Instagram-worthy
destination, ideal for photos and relaxation.
Malls
A
premier shopping destination offering international fashion brands, local
products, dining options, cinemas, and entertainment venues.
A
family-friendly shopping complex with a wide range of offerings, including
clothing, electronics, cosmetics, and entertainment like cinemas, game
zones, and bowling.
Sites of Worship
A Hindu temple
that hosts religious and cultural ceremonies.
Another
significant Hindu temple that serves as a sacred place for worship and religious ceremonies.
A temple
dedicated to Confucian rituals and ceremonies.
Masjid Muhammad Cheng Ho is a mosque named in honor of Cheng Ho, the famed Chinese navigator and diplomat who sailed across the Indian Ocean in the 15th century. It stands as a key Muslim landmark in the region.
The mosque features a distinctive architectural design that blends Chinese and Indonesian styles. Its most striking feature is the roof, shaped like a traditional Chinese pagoda, harmoniously integrated with Islamic architectural elements.
Built to foster stronger connections between the Chinese and local Indonesian communities, Masjid Muhammad Cheng Ho symbolizes the region's cultural and religious diversity, as well as its respect for Cheng Ho’s historical legacy.
Pagoda Tian Ti is a Chinese Buddhist temple that serves as a significant place of worship for the Chinese community in Surabaya. It holds deep historical and cultural importance for the local population.
Designed in traditional Chinese architectural style, the pagoda features distinctive multi-tiered roofs and intricately carved statues of deities. Its rich ornamental details make it an architectural gem.
The pagoda is a regular site for Buddhist rituals, prayers, and ceremonies. Additionally, it hosts cultural and educational events related to Chinese traditions and Buddhism.
Attracting both worshippers and tourists, Pagoda Tian Ti offers a unique glimpse into the religious and cultural life of Surabaya's Chinese community, with its beautiful structure and deep-rooted history.
Family Attractions
Atlantis Land is a popular entertainment complex in Surabaya, offering a wide range of attractions, including an ice castle, dinosaur park, tubing, and a wax figure castle. It’s a favorite destination for families and young people looking for fun and relaxation. The park regularly hosts events such as concerts, performances, and special activities.
Ticket Prices:
- Weekdays: IDR 100,000 per person
- Weekends and Public Holidays: IDR 125,000 per person
- Children under 85 cm: Free entry
- Food package (meal + drink): IDR 25,000
Opening Hours:
Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Atlantis Land is located within Kenjeran Park, which also offers additional amenities such as an indoor futsal field (IDR 40,000 per hour) and various food stalls.
Hutan Bambu Keputih is a bamboo forest that evokes a serene, Japanese-like ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful walk or a relaxing break in nature. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and tranquility, far removed from the bustle of the city. It’s also perfect for picnics and family outings. Entrance is free.
Surabaya Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Southeast Asia, established in 1916. It spans 15 hectares and houses over 2,800 animals from more than 350 species, including rare and endangered wildlife. Visitors can explore various exhibits featuring mammals, birds, reptiles, and aquatic animals. Notable inhabitants include orangutans, elephants, tigers, lions, giraffes, and crocodiles.
The zoo also features educational exhibits and interactive activities, making it a popular family destination. Visitors can enjoy facilities such as cafes, souvenir shops, and children's playgrounds, creating a well-rounded experience for all ages.
Entrance Fee:
- IDR 15,000 per person
- Additional charges apply for special attractions such as the aquarium or animal rides.
- Parking costs around IDR 3,000.
Opening Hours:
- Daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Surabaya Zoo is ideal for a half-day visit, with most visitors spending around 2-3 hours exploring its extensive grounds.
Ecowisata Mangrove Forest plays a vital role in supporting coastal biodiversity and preserving marine ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy eco-tours and educational programs that explore the importance of mangroves. The site features walking trails and observation platforms, perfect for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.
Cuisine
Surabaya is renowned for its diverse cuisine, which blends Chinese and
Javanese influences. From flavourful street food to elegant dining experiences,
the city offers a wide range of culinary delights to suit all tastes.
Madura Island
Madura is an island comparable in size to Bali,
connected to Surabaya by the Suramadu Bridge, which spans the Madura Strait.
The island is characterized by its hilly terrain and hot, dry climate, with
some areas featuring beaches and fertile fields. Madurese culture, with its own
distinct traditions, customs, and language, is predominant on the island.
The economy of Madura primarily relies on
agriculture, fishing, and salt production. Many locals are also involved in
small businesses and traditional crafts, such as batik-making with intricate
patterns and ceramics. The island has a network of roads that link various
towns and villages, with Bangkalan being the largest settlement.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Madura from Surabaya is by personal or rented vehicle, crossing the Suramadu Bridge.
Tourist Attractions in Madura
Jaddih Hill is a reservoir nestled within a karst hill on Madura Island, known for its striking natural landscape. From the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding green pastures, villages, and the coastal horizon. The hill is also famous for its mesmerizing sunsets.
The area is ideal for nature lovers, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, traditional Madurese villages provide a glimpse into the region's rich culture and customs, where visitors can also savor authentic local cuisine.
Bukit Kapur Arosbaya is a striking karst formation known for its towering limestone structures that offer panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking. Well-maintained trails wind through the hill and nearby forests, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Surabaya and the coastline.
Thanks to its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Bukit Kapur Arosbaya is also a favored spot for picnics and photoshoots. Close by, traditional villages and settlements offer a chance to experience local culture. Visitors can explore markets and engage with the community, gaining insight into local life and customs.
In addition to being a natural wonder, Bukit Kapur Arosbaya is a place where visitors can enjoy the unique landscape, partake in outdoor activities, and connect with the local culture, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure.
Pantai Slopeng (beach)
The beach is surrounded by lush green meadows and coconut palms, creating a beautiful natural landscape. Sunsets over the Indian Ocean paint breathtaking views, making it a popular spot for photographers and romantics. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including local cafés and restaurants, water sports equipment rentals, and picnic areas, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Pantai Rongkang (beach)
Pantai Rongkang is famed for its golden sandy shores that stretch along the Indian Ocean coastline. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or leisurely walks along the beach. It's a perfect destination for family outings, picnics, and photoshoots. As evening falls, the beach offers stunning ocean sunsets, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.
Makam Syarifah Ambami - Air Mata is a royal burial complex on Madura Island, housing the tombs of the island’s royal family. The site is designed in traditional Indonesian style, featuring intricate patterns and decorations that showcase the rich local culture and artistry.
This mausoleum serves as a place of remembrance for past rulers and offers visitors a tranquil space to pay their respects and reflect. It attracts both locals and tourists interested in the island’s history and culture, making it a frequent stop on regional tours.
This article is a translation based on the original article by Elena Subakti.
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