Joanna James
While the eastern Java destination known as Malang may not be as popular as Bali, Surabaya or Jakarta, it is no less exciting as a tourist hub. Here are seven things to see and do during a holiday in this scenic and low-key vacation hotspot in Indonesia.
Those who are fortunate enough to be travelling around in the Malang Regency should head to the City of Batu where one finds some of the country's largest and most impressive amusement parks. Jatim Park 1 is a mammoth compound with its own water park and cultural exhibits while Jatim Park 2 is ideal for families with its walk-in zoo and popular zoological museum. Jatim Park 3, on the other hand, delves into dinosaurs and prehistoric themes with rides and exhibitions.
No trip to Malang would be complete without enjoying the breathtaking beaches occupying the area. Those based at HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Malang or any other conveniently located midscale hotel in Malang should spend a day splashing around Balekambang Beach, where one also finds a picturesque sea temple. Other beaches that are worthy of visiting include Goa China Beach or the famous three-coloured beach named Pantai Tiga Warna.
As an island that's a short boat ride away from Malang, Sempu is perhaps the perfect location for a camping trip in the wilderness. Head over to the Segara Anakan Lagoon and enjoy swimming and diving activities before hiking around the tropical jungles of the island before camping out on the beach for the night.
Having performed an integral role during the Singosari era, Malang was considered one of the most important municipalities when it comes to asserting the sovereignty of Singosari rule. This means that the city is lined with a number of historic landmarks that were built when the Singosari Kingdom was enjoying its glory days. The Jago Temple and the Singasari Temple compound are two ancient temples every visitor must tour during a stay in Malang for this very reason.
Hiking up The Great Mountain, as it is locally known, is one of the most rewarding things to do during a trip to Malang. Towering above the surrounding landscapes at a height of 3673 metres, the climb to the summit can take up to three days although there are less challenging and intensive hiking trails also accessible to tourists who wish to catch a glimpse of the Edelweiss field and Ranu Kumbolo Lake.
Head to Malang's newly constructed rainbow village where there once stood a slum bordering the river. The gloomy and impoverished past of this area has been replaced with new homes in all the colours of the rainbow as budget travellers and digital nomads alike can see for themselves during a tour of this fascinating precinct in Malang.
Malang is also a waterfall enthusiast's dream come true as stunning cascades the likes of Tumpak Sewu, Coban Putri and the Madakaripura Waterfall, are all found here.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
