Landlocked in the heart of East Java, Batu is a former Dutch hill retreat on the southern slopes of Mount Arjuno-Welirang. It has been a summer getaway for royalty since the 10th century due to its cool climate and natural scenery, and is home to one of the most famous amusement parks in Indonesia, Jawa Timur Park.
Things to do in Batu
At Jatim Park 1, you can learn about volcanoes before enjoying a ride on the spinning coaster. On the edge of the park is the Bagong Adventure Museum, which is the only museum in Indonesia dedicated to the human body. Animals from across the globe are on show at the Batu Secret Zoo, which lies alongside the wildlife museum of Jatim Park 2. Life-like dinosaurs are the highlight of Jatim Park 3 with its geological period displays.
Nestled on the slope of Mount Panderman is the Museum Angkut, which is dedicated to the history of transportation in East Java and beyond. In addition to its impressive collection of vintage cars, it features a flight simulator vehicle and an electric car owned by former minister Dahlan Iskan. Military vehicles are also on display, alongside a “Batmobile” that kids will love.
A short drive west of Batu is the Coban Rondo Waterfall, which tumbles around 60 metres down the edge of Mount Panderman. A short walking trail leads between lush, tropical scenery to its base. After your visit, you can negotiate your way through the on-site hedge maze or explore the surroundings on an ATV tour.
Getting around Batu
Batu is around 30 minutes’ drive from Malang and 40 minutes from Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport, which has regular flights to Jakarta and Denpasar. Buses connect to Batu and travel throughout the city. Taxis are readily available for getting around.