Northwest Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Northwest, East Java with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-see attractions, food, accommodations, and transportation options.


Introduction to Northwest

Located in the East Java, Northwest is a region known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic views, and outdoor adventures. This guide is designed to help you plan your trip to Northwest, East Java, with detailed information on must-see attractions, food, accommodations, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Northwest

Northwest is a diverse region with a variety of attractions to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit in Northwest:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Northwest, be sure to visit these museums and historical places:

  • Museum Mpu Tantular: This museum is dedicated to the cultural heritage of East Java and has a collection of ancient artifacts, traditional weapons, and traditional clothing.
  • Tomb of Sunan Ampel: A holy site in East Java, the tomb of Sunan Ampel is a place of pilgrimage for Indonesian Muslims.
  • Surabaya Zoo: Established in 1916, this is one of the oldest and largest zoos in Indonesia.

Natural Attractions of Northwest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Northwest is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. Here are some of the top outdoor adventures and scenic views to experience:

  • Mount Bromo: Known for its stunning sunrise views, this active volcano is a must-visit for anyone visiting East Java.
  • Madakaripura Waterfall: One of the tallest waterfalls in East Java, Madakaripura is a beautiful natural wonder surrounded by lush forests.
  • Ijen Crater: A popular destination for hikers, Ijen Crater is a volcano that offers stunning views of a turquoise acidic lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northwest

Northwest is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with an abundance of trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the region:

  • Sempu Island: This beautiful island offers a hiking trail through a lush forest that leads to a pristine beach.
  • Baluran National Park: This park offers a range of hiking trails through a variety of landscapes, including savannahs, forests, and mangroves.
  • Tumpak Sewu Waterfall: This stunning waterfall offers a hiking trail that leads through a rocky gorge and offers breathtaking views of the falls.

Best Things to Do in Northwest: Activities and Tours

Northwest offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Surfing: The beaches of G-Land and Pacitan are popular surfing destinations in East Java.
  • City Tour of Surabaya: Take a tour of the city of Surabaya to explore its rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife.
  • Bromo Sunrise Tour: This tour takes you to the top of Mount Penanjakan to witness the stunning sunrise views over Mount Bromo.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northwest

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Northwest, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the region:

Day Activity
1 Explore Surabaya and visit Museum Mpu Tantular
2 Visit Tomb of Sunan Ampel and Surabaya Zoo
3 Hike to the summit of Mount Bromo for sunrise views
4 Trek to Ijen Crater and visit Madakaripura Waterfall
5 Go on a city tour of Surabaya and enjoy the nightlife
6 Surf at G-Land or Pacitan Beach
7 Visit Baluran National Park and hike to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall

Food and Drink Scene of Northwest

Northwest is famous for its rich and spicy cuisine, influenced by a mix of Javanese, Chinese, and Arabic flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to taste:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rawon: A traditional black beef soup made with a blend of local spices.
  • Sate Ayam: Grilled chicken skewers served with peanut sauce and rice cakes.
  • Rujak Cingur: A salad made with boiled vegetables, cow snout, and a spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Es Campur: A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, fruits, and syrup.
  • Wedang Jahe: A ginger tea served hot and sweetened with local sugar.

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

Northwest offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and travel styles. Here are some of the best places to stay in the region:

  • Sheraton Surabaya Hotel and Towers: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city of Surabaya.
  • Krowi Inn: A budget-friendly hostel located in the city of Malang.
  • Jiwa Jawa Resort Bromo: An eco-friendly resort located near Mount Bromo.

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

Northwest offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products to bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some must-buy items:

  • Batik: A traditional Indonesian fabric made by hand-painting or printing on cloth.
  • Wayang Klitik: A form of Javanese puppetry using flat wooden figures.
  • Kopi Luwak: A rare and expensive coffee made from beans that have been digested and excreted by civet cats.

Local Culture and Customs of Northwest

Northwest is predominantly Muslim, and it’s important to respect local customs and cultural practices. Here are some cultural customs to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a mosque.
  • Avoid public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Northwest

The best time to visit Northwest is from April to October when the weather is dry and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the rainy season from November to March when the weather can be unpredictable, and hiking trails may be closed due to safety concerns.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northwest

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Northwest, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Carry small change and cash, as many local shops and markets may not accept credit cards.
  • Bargain at local markets, but be respectful and fair.
  • Learn a few Indonesian phrases, such as “terima kasih” (thank you) and “tolong” (please), to show respect to the locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water. Stick to bottled water or boiled water.
  • Don’t leave your valuables unattended.
  • Don’t take photographs of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northwest

Northwest is a relatively safe region, but it’s always important to take precautions to avoid any unexpected incidents:

  • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Keep your belongings close and avoid wearing expensive jewelry or accessories.
  • Use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Northwest

It’s always important to take necessary precautions to stay healthy during your trip to Northwest:

  • Check with your travel doctor about required vaccinations and health risks.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent.
  • Only drink bottled water or boiled water, and avoid street food that may not be properly cooked or prepared.

Getting to Northwest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northwest is easily accessible via several transportation options:

Airports Near Northwest

  • Juanda International Airport (SUB): Located in Surabaya, this is the closest international airport to Northwest.

Bus Stations Near Northwest

  • Bungurasih Terminal: Located in Surabaya, this is the largest bus station in East Java and serves destinations across the region.

Other Options

  • Private Car: Many travel agencies offer private car services for transportation between cities in East Java.
  • Train: The train is a popular and affordable option for travel within East Java.

How to Get Around in Northwest

To get around in Northwest, there are several transportation options:

  • Taxi/Grabcar: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grabcar are available in most cities in East Java.
  • Ojek: Motorcycle taxis called “ojek” are a popular and affordable option for short distances.
  • Bus: For intercity travel, buses are an affordable and convenient option.

Where to Go Next from Northwest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Java, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Yogyakarta: Known for its rich cultural heritage and ancient temples, Yogyakarta is a popular destination in Central Java.
  • Bali: A famous Indonesian island known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage.
  • Malang: A city located south of Surabaya, Malang offers a range of attractions, including temples, museums, and natural scenery.

Conclusion

Northwest, East Java, has much to offer visitors with its rich cultural heritage, stunning views, and outdoor adventures. Use this guide to plan your trip to the region and make the most of your time in Northwest, East Java.

Pecel on a teak leaf plate in Tuban Pecel on a teak leaf plate in Tuban


    Bojonegoro
    Ngawi (regency)