Blitar Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Blitar? Look no further! This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know including places to visit, best time to go, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Blitar

Blitar is a small town located in Southern Mountainous region of East Java in Indonesia that boasts an abundance of natural beauty and rich historical heritage. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and history buffs alike. With its quiet atmosphere and friendly locals, Blitar offers a laidback atmosphere that is perfect for those seeking relaxation.

List of Places to Visit in Blitar

Here is a list of must-see attractions in Blitar:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Soekarno’s House of Birth. It is a unique attraction and a must-visit for anyone interested in history.
  2. Bung Karno Museum. It is a fantastic insight into the life of Indonesia’s first president, Soekarno.
  3. Penataran Temple. This 13th-century shrine has retained its glory through centuries and is an example of ancient Hindu-Javanese architecture.

Natural Attractions of Blitar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Kelud. The hike is challenging, but the views from the top of the volcano are stunning.
  2. Coban Rais Waterfall. It is a perfect place for a dip or a picnic.
  3. Mbah Semar Cave. It is a hidden gem in Blitar that offers a unique and mystical setting to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Blitar

  1. Mount Kelud Trek. This trek features a challenging hike that rewards you with beautiful views of sunrise.
  2. Gunung Kawi Hill Walk. This trek is of moderate difficulty and takes you through fields, forests, and beautiful scenery.

Best Things to Do in Blitar: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Soekarno Museum. Take a guided tour to learn about the life, and legacy of Soekarno, Indonesia’s first president.
  2. Explore Coban Rais Waterfall. Take a guided tour, and choose from various outdoor activities like picnicking, swimming, and trekking.
  3. Try the Mount Kelud sunrise hike. Join a group to hike up the challenging trail to the top of Mount Kelud and witness the breathtaking views of sunrise.

Week-Long Itinerary for Blitar

Day 1: Visit Soekarno’s House of Birth, Bung Karno Museum, and the Penataran Temple.

Day 2: Trek up Mount Kelud and witness the sunrise.

Day 3: Explore Coban Rais Waterfall, play in the water, and enjoy a picnic on the banks.

Day 4: Experience Gunung Kawi Hill Walk.

Day 5: Visit Mbah Semar Cave.

Day 6: Take a leisurely day at the beach.

Day 7: Visit The Soekarno Museum and shop for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Blitar

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Lumpur Rice Cake. It is a rice cake with a filling made of coconut.
  2. Rempeyek. It is a crispy savory snack made from mixed flour, peanuts, and shrimp paste.

Local Beverages

  1. Sekoteng. It is a traditional Javanese hot drink made with ginger, mung beans, peanuts, and palm sugar.
  2. Wedang Jahe. It is a classic ginger tea that will warm you up on a chilly night.

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

  1. Ijen Suites Resort & Convention. It is a luxurious hotel that is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
  2. Aryaduta Hotel Blitar. It is an excellent option for families and couples looking for a comfortable stay at reasonable prices.
  3. Catur Wulan Hotel. It is a charming guesthouse with a homely touch.

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

  1. Batik. It is a traditional Javanese fabric with intricate patterns.
  2. Kerupuk. It is a popular snack that is made from dried minuscule shrimp or krill.

Local Culture and Customs of Blitar

The people of Blitar believe in respecting their traditions and customs. Visitors are advised to dress appropriately, as Blitar is still a conservative town.

Best Time to Visit Blitar

The best time to visit Blitar is from April to October. This period offers the most pleasant weather conditions where you can enjoy outdoor activities to the fullest.

Do’s and Don’ts of Blitar

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.
  3. Carry cash, since most places in Blitar do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  1. Litter. Blitar takes garbage disposal very seriously.
  2. Take photographs of people without asking their permission first.
  3. Use foul language in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Blitar

Blitar is a safe place for tourists. However, visitors are advised to practice general travel safety precautions.

Health in Blitar

It is recommended to consult your doctor and get the necessary vaccinations before traveling to Blitar.

Getting to Blitar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Blitar

The nearest airport is Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport, which is located in Malang, East Java. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle bus to Blitar.

Bus Stations Near Blitar

Blitar has a bus station that connects it to other cities in Java.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Blitar.

How to Get Around in Blitar

The best way to get around Blitar is by renting a scooter or taking a taxi. However, some places like Mount Kelud or Coban Rais require trekking or hiking.

Where to Go Next from Blitar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Malang. This city is known for its art deco architecture and its proximity to the active volcano Mount Bromo.
  2. Banyuwangi. This coastal town is the gateway to the stunning Ijen Crater, which is a must-see attraction for nature lovers.
  3. Bali. No trip to Indonesia is complete without visiting Bali, one of the country’s most popular destinations.

Conclusion

Blitar offers a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and history that makes it worth visiting. With this comprehensive travel guide, you will be sure to make the most of your trip and have an unforgettable experience.

The house of Indonesia's first president Sukarno in Blitar (''Istana Gebang'') is now a museum and library The house of Indonesia's first president Sukarno in Blitar (''Istana Gebang'') is now a museum and library Candi Penataran Candi Penataran