Trowulan Travel Guide
Your ultimate guide to Trowulan - a historical wonder in East Java, Indonesia. Discover places to visit, food to taste, and culture to experience in Trowulan.
- Introduction to Trowulan
- List of Places to Visit in Trowulan
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Trowulan
- Mount Penanggungan Trail
- Trowulan Cycling Tour
- Best Things to Do in Trowulan: Activities and Tours
- Majapahit Kingdom Tour
- Rice Field Trekking
- Week-Long Itinerary for Trowulan
- Food and Drink Scene of Trowulan
- Where to Stay in Trowulan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hotel Tugu
- Omah Heritage Hotel
- What to Buy in Trowulan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Batik
- Keris
- Local Culture and Customs of Trowulan
- Best Time to Visit Trowulan
- Do’s and Don’ts of Trowulan
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Trowulan: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Trowulan
- Where to Go Next from Trowulan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Surabaya
- Malang
- Conclusion
Introduction to Trowulan
Trowulan is a small town located in Mojokerto Regency, East Java, Indonesia. It is renowned for its rich history and ancient ruins of the Majapahit Kingdom that once ruled the region. The town is also surrounded by lush green fields, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
List of Places to Visit in Trowulan
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Majapahit Museum
The Majapahit Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich history of the Majapahit Kingdom. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and relics from the era, including ancient coins, ceramics, stone sculptures, and weapons.
Candi Tikus
Candi Tikus is a subterranean temple complex that served as the royal bathing place during the Majapahit era. The structure, built in the shape of a rat, was discovered in the 20th century and has since undergone extensive restoration.
Bajang Ratu
Bajang Ratu is a charming historical site known for its intricate stone carvings and Hindu-style architecture. The site is believed to have served as the entrance gate to a palace built by the Majapahit rulers.
Natural Attractions of Trowulan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Wringin Lawang Beach
Wringin Lawang Beach is a serene and secluded spot surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the nearby caves and cliffs.
Mount Penanggungan
Mount Penanggungan is a dormant volcano located near Trowulan. The mountain is renowned for its scenic hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Trowulan
Mount Penanggungan Trail
The Mount Penanggungan Trail is a challenging trek that takes hikers through lush forests and past ancient temples. The trail offers spectacular views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Trowulan Cycling Tour
The Trowulan Cycling Tour is a great way to explore the town and its surrounding countryside. The tour takes riders through rice paddies, small villages, and past historical sites.
Best Things to Do in Trowulan: Activities and Tours
Majapahit Kingdom Tour
The Majapahit Kingdom Tour is a guided tour that takes visitors through the historical sites and relics of the Majapahit era. The tour includes visits to the Majapahit Museum, Candi Tikus, and Bajang Ratu.
Rice Field Trekking
Rice Field Trekking is a unique Trowulan experience that takes visitors through the lush green rice paddies of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can see firsthand the traditional farming methods used by the local farmers.
Week-Long Itinerary for Trowulan
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Trowulan and check into your hotel |
| 2 | Visit the Majapahit Museum and Candi Tikus |
| 3 | Take the Majapahit Kingdom Tour |
| 4 | Go on a Rice Field Trekking tour |
| 5 | Explore Bajang Ratu and Wringin Lawang Beach |
| 6 | Take the Mount Penanggungan Trail |
| 7 | Depart from Trowulan |
Food and Drink Scene of Trowulan
Must-Try Dishes
Soto Trowulan
Soto Trowulan is a local specialty made with chicken broth, shredded chicken, and noodles. The dish is served with a variety of traditional herbs and spices.
Tahu Campur
Tahu Campur is a delicious street food made with tofu, noodles, shrimp, and soy sauce. The dish is topped with crunchy crackers and served with a spicy peanut sauce.
Local Beverages
Wedang Uwuh
Wedang Uwuh is a hot herbal drink made with a variety of traditional Javanese herbs and spices. The drink is believed to have many health benefits, including boosting the immune system and aiding digestion.
Es Campur
Es Campur is a refreshing iced dessert made with a variety of fruit, jelly, and condensed milk. The dessert is perfect for a hot day in Trowulan.
Where to Stay in Trowulan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Hotel Tugu
Hotel Tugu is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Trowulan. The hotel offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Indonesian cuisine.
Omah Heritage Hotel
Omah Heritage Hotel is a boutique hotel located in a traditional Javanese house. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and a restaurant serving local and international dishes.
What to Buy in Trowulan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Batik
Batik is a traditional Indonesian fabric that is often used to make clothing and accessories. Visitors can shop for unique batik designs at local markets and shops in Trowulan.
Keris
A Keris is a traditional Indonesian dagger that is often used for ceremonial purposes. Visitors can purchase Keris knives from local craftsmen in Trowulan.
Local Culture and Customs of Trowulan
The people of Trowulan are known for their warm hospitality and traditional values. Visitors should respect local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or religious sites.
Best Time to Visit Trowulan
The best time to visit Trowulan is between April and October, during the dry season. The town can be busy during the peak tourist season in July and August, so visitors should plan ahead and book accommodations in advance.
Do’s and Don’ts of Trowulan
Do:
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
- Learn a few basic phrases in Bahasa Indonesia to communicate with the locals
- Try the local cuisine and delicacies
Don’t:
- Engage in public displays of affection
- Disrespect local customs and culture
- Photograph or touch people without their permission
Safety and Health
Safety in Trowulan
Trowulan is a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take precautions like securing their valuables and avoiding unlit areas at night.
Health in Trowulan
Visitors should drink bottled water and avoid tap water. Mosquito repellent is also recommended to prevent mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever.
Getting to Trowulan: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Trowulan
The nearest airport to Trowulan is Juanda International Airport, located in Surabaya. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Trowulan.
Bus Stations Near Trowulan
The closest bus station to Trowulan is in Mojokerto. From there, visitors can take a local bus or taxi to Trowulan.
Other Options
Visitors can also hire a private car or motorcycle to travel to Trowulan from nearby cities.
How to Get Around in Trowulan
Visitors can easily get around Trowulan on foot or by bicycle. Motorbike rentals are also available for those who want to explore the surrounding countryside.
Where to Go Next from Trowulan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Surabaya
Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, is just a few hours’ drive from Trowulan. The city is known for its colorful history, vibrant night markets, and delicious cuisine.
Malang
Malang is a charming city located in East Java, known for its scenic natural landscapes and colonial architecture. Visitors can hike to Mount Bromo, visit the local tea plantations, or explore the city’s unique art scene.
Conclusion
Trowulan is a hidden gem in East Java that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Indonesia’s rich history and culture. From exploring ancient temples to trekking through rice paddies, there is something for everyone in Trowulan.
