Malang East Java, Indonesia Travel Guide
Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG), Malang: Malang’s main airport, approximately 17 kilometers (11 miles) east of the city center. It mainly serves domestic flights. While convenient for those already in The nation of indonesia, it doesn't handle international arrivals. Juanda International Airport (SUB), Surabaya: Approximately 2-3 hours drive north of Malang, Juanda is the nearest major international airport. Most international visitors fly into SUB and then travel by land to Malang. It serves as a major hub for East Java, presenting a wider range of flight options.
Transfer options from both airports to Malang city are readily available, offering flexibility based on your budget and preference. Planning your onward journey after arrival is advised for smooth transitions.
Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG) is served by Indonesian airlines like Citilink, Batik Air, Super Air Jet, and Garuda Indonesia. Routes connect Malang mainly to Jakarta (CGK) and Denpasar (DPS) in Bali.
Juanda International Airport (SUB) is served by global airlines (e.g., Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines) and all major Indonesian domestic airlines, connecting to Southeast Asia and further.
No direct international flights operate to MLG. Direct international flights to SUB originate from regional hubs like Singapore, Kl, Hong Kong, and Bangkok. Connections via Jakarta or these hubs are typical for extended trips.
Taxis are outside the terminal. Online ride-sharing (Gojek/Grab) is an option, sometimes requiring a short walk from authorized pick-up. Pre-booked private transfers offer direct rides.
Taxis (Blue Bird is reputable) take 2-3 hours (IDR 500,000-700,000). DAMRI public bus to Malang (Arjosari Terminal) is affordable but slower. Private shuttle services (e.g., Travel Juanda) are popular.
Take a taxi/Grab from SUB to Surabaya Gubeng or Pasar Turi train stations, then a train to Malang Kota Baru. Online ride-sharing for direct car hires from Surabaya to Malang (confirm long-distance fare).
Malang Kota Baru Station (ML) is the main train station, centrally located. Direct train connections link Malang to Surabaya (Gubeng and Pasar Turi stations), Blitar, Jakarta (Pasar Senen and Gambir stations), and other cities in Java. PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) operates various classes: Ekonomi (basic), Bisnis (reclining seats, AC), and Eksekutif (most comfortable, a full range of facilities). Booking tickets online via the official PT KAI website/app (KAI Access), through travel agents, or at the station is possible. Booking in advance, especially for popular routes and during peak seasons, is advisable.
Arjosari Bus Terminal is Malang's main long-distance bus terminal. Buses connect to major cities across Java (Surabaya, Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta) and even Denpasar (Bali) via ferry. Various operators offer different classes of service. Bus journeys can be lengthy and traffic-dependent. If driving yourself, an International Driving Permit (IDP) with your driver's license from your home country is necessary. Driving culture can be aggressive and unpredictable; defensive driving is a must. Renting a car with a driver is highly advised for first-time visitors due to challenging traffic and unfamiliar rules. DiscoverCars.com is an option for rentals.
Road conditions vary. Major roads between metropolises are generally well-maintained. However, rural or mountainous areas can have challenging roads that are narrow, winding, or poorly surfaced. Indonesian driving culture can be aggressive and unpredictable. Motorbikes often weave through traffic, and adherence to traffic laws can be lax. Defensive driving is a must. Google Maps is generally reliable for navigation, but prepare for unexpected detours or heavy traffic.
Malang's inland location implies sea and options for travel on the river are not directly applicable for arriving in the city itself. However, understanding the nearest ports can be useful for regional travel. The nearest major port is Tanjung Perak Port in Surabaya. This port serves ferries to other Indonesian islands (e.g., Kalimantan, Sulawesi) and is a destination for some cruise ships. These sea routes do not directly connect to Malang; you would require onward land transportation from Surabaya. No significant public or tourist options for travel on the river exist in Malang or its immediate vicinity; rivers are not used for passenger transport.
Currently, international departure taxes for air travel from Indonesia are typically included in the airline ticket price; no separate fee payment at the airport. Domestic flights also generally include all relevant taxes in the ticket price. Always confirm with your airline or booking agent if any additional fees apply. Plan your arrival at the airport/station carefully.
Airport and station facilities vary, providing different levels of comfort and services for departing travelers. These facilities try to give a comfortable environment before your onward journey.
Many airlines offer online check-in, saving time, especially without checked baggage.
After check-in and security, proceed through immigration with passport and boarding pass.
Follow all security guidelines; allow adequate time for the process.
Verify all flight or train details beforehand. Account for potential traffic to airports, especially from Malang to Surabaya. Online check-in often streamlines your process.
