Kendal Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kendal with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from the best attractions to visit to the local cuisine and culture.


The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kendal, Indonesia

Welcome to Kendal, a charming town in the Semarang Metropolitan Area, Central Java, Indonesia. Known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, Kendal is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this part of Southeast Asia.

Introduction to Kendal

Kendal is a small town located in the Central Java province of Indonesia. It is known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The town has a population of approximately 190,000 people and is located about 33 km northeast of Semarang, the capital of Central Java.

List of Places to Visit in Kendal

Kendal is home to a variety of attractions, ranging from historical landmarks to natural wonders. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kendal:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sunyaragi Cave
  • Gedong Songo Temple
  • Cepit Waterfall
  • Mount Merbabu National Park

Natural Attractions of Kendal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gunung Kendalisodo
  • Puncak Ungaran
  • Umbul Jumprit
  • Telaga Kali Dano
  • Pantai Gua Cemara
  • Curug Gedhe

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kendal

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, Kendal has plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes in Kendal:

  • Mount Merbabu Summit Trail
  • Ungaran Mountain Bike Trail
  • Candi Gedong Songo Hiking Trail

Best Things to Do in Kendal: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the local markets
  • Try traditional Indonesian cuisine
  • Learn about local culture
  • Take a guided tour of the town

Week-Long Itinerary for Kendal

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Kendal, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1 Gedong Songo Temple and Cepit Waterfall
Day 2 Mount Merbabu National Park
Day 3 Pantai Gua Cemara
Day 4 Umbul Jumprit
Day 5 Gunung Kendalisodo and Puncak Ungaran
Day 6 Sunyaragi Cave
Day 7 Local Markets and Museums

Food and Drink Scene of Kendal

No visit to Kendal is complete without trying the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sate Klathak
  • Soto Ayam
  • Gudeg
  • Gethuk Goreng

Local Beverages

  • Jamu
  • Wedang Uwuh

Where to Stay in Kendal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kendal offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kendal:

  • Grand Cempaka Resort and Convention
  • Hotel Pelangi
  • Oase Resort and Convention
  • Omah Alchy Cepit Motel

What to Buy in Kendal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Kendal, here are some ideas:

  • Batik cloth and clothing
  • Handicrafts made from bamboo and other natural materials
  • Traditional Indonesian snacks and sweets

Local Culture and Customs of Kendal

Indonesia is a culturally diverse country with many different customs and traditions. Here are some local customs and practices you should be aware of when visiting Kendal:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious and cultural sites
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home
  • Respect local traditions and practices

Best Time to Visit Kendal

The best time to visit Kendal is between May and October, during the dry season. The weather is generally pleasant during this time and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kendal

When traveling to Kendal, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Indonesian
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious and cultural sites

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water
  • Touch someone’s head (considered impolite in Indonesian culture)
  • Display public affection (considered inappropriate in public)

Safety and Health

When traveling to Kendal, it’s important to take certain safety and health precautions. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Kendal

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone
  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuables
  • Drink bottled water and avoid street food

Health in Kendal

  • Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations
  • Protect yourself against mosquito-borne illnesses
  • Carry any necessary medications with you

Getting to Kendal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kendal is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Kendal

  • Adisutjipto International Airport (JOG)
  • Ahmad Yani International Airport (SRG)

Bus Stations Near Kendal

  • Semarang Bus Terminal
  • Bandungan Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Kendal

How to Get Around in Kendal

The best way to get around Kendal is by taxi or rental car. It’s also possible to explore the town on foot or by bike.

Where to Go Next from Kendal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time in Kendal, here are some nearby destinations and day trips to consider:

  • Yogyakarta
  • Semarang
  • Borobudur

Conclusion

Kendal is a charming town with plenty to offer travelers. From its rich history and culture to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Kendal is a must-visit destination in Indonesia. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your perfect trip to Kendal.

''Curug Sewu'' ''Curug Sewu'' Old building in Cepiring sugar factory Old building in Cepiring sugar factory The view of Mount Ungaran from Medini tea plantation The view of Mount Ungaran from Medini tea plantation ''Krupuk petis'', a specialty cracker from Kendal ''Krupuk petis'', a specialty cracker from Kendal