Planning a trip to East Java, Indonesia? While most travelers head to Banyuwangi for its “Africa van Java” , or stay in Malang as a gateway to Bromo and Tumpak Sewu waterfall, Blitar remains one of the most underrated destinations in Java.
Located between Malang and Kediri, Blitar offers a unique mix of wild southern beaches, historical temples, colonial heritage, and Indonesia’s presidential history. If you’re looking for an authentic East Java experience away from mass tourism, this Blitar travel guide is for you.
Let’s explore the best things to do in Blitar
1. Explore Blitar’s Wild Southern Beaches
The southern coast of Java faces the mighty Indian Ocean, which means dramatic landscapes, powerful waves, and breathtaking scenery. While the beaches of Malang and Bali often steal the spotlight, Blitar’s beaches offer similar beauty with far fewer crowds.
Thanks to the development of the Jalur Lintas Selatan (JLS), accessing these once-remote beaches is now much easier and safer than before.
Why visit Blitar’s beaches?
- Untouched coastal landscapes
- Fewer tourists compared to Bali
- Stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean
- Ideal for photography and road trips
If you’re planning a southern Java road trip, Blitar’s coastline deserves a stop.
2. Visit De Karanganjar – A Timeless Coffee Plantation
Indonesia’s colonial history is deeply tied to agriculture, especially coffee. One of the best places to experience this heritage in Blitar is De Karanganjar, a well-preserved Dutch-era coffee plantation.
Established during colonial times, this plantation offers:
- A glimpse into traditional coffee processing
- Historic colonial architecture
- A small museum showcasing plantation history
- Fresh, locally processed coffee tasting
Walking through the plantation feels like stepping back in time. For history lovers and coffee enthusiasts, this is one of the most unique attractions in Blitar.
3. Discover Candi Penataran – The Largest Temple Complex in East Java
Many travelers visit Central Java for Borobudur or Prambanan, but few realize that East Java’s largest temple complex is located in Blitar.
Candi Penataran, also known as the Penataran Temple Complex, covers approximately 13,000 square meters. Built during the Majapahit era, this Hindu temple complex was once an important religious site.
What makes Candi Penataran special?
- The largest temple complex in East Java
- Majapahit-era architecture
- Intricate stone carvings
- Historical connection to King Brawijaya
If you’re interested in Indonesian history, archaeology, or ancient kingdoms, this site is a must-visit in your Blitar itinerary.
4. Pay Respect at Bung Karno’s Grave and Visit Istana Gebang
Blitar is famously known as the hometown of Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno.
His tomb, commonly referred to as Bung Karno’s Grave, attracts visitors and pilgrims from across Indonesia. During certain commemorative dates, the area can be quite crowded.
To better understand his early life, visit Istana Gebang (Gebang Palace), Sukarno’s childhood home. The house preserves personal belongings, photographs, and historical artifacts that offer deeper insight into Indonesia’s independence movement.
For those interested in political history and national identity, this is an essential stop in Blitar.
FAQ: Blitar Travel Guide
Where is Blitar located?
Blitar is a city in East Java, Indonesia, located between Malang and Kediri. It is easily accessible by train from major cities such as Surabaya and Malang.
What is Blitar famous for?
Blitar is best known as the hometown and burial site of Sukarno, Indonesia’s first president. The city is also famous for Candi Penataran, the largest Hindu temple complex in East Java, and its scenic southern beaches.
Is Blitar worth visiting?
Yes, Blitar is worth visiting if you enjoy history, cultural heritage, and less-crowded destinations. It offers a mix of ancient temples, colonial coffee plantations, wild beaches, and important Indonesian historical landmarks.
What are the best things to do in Blitar?
Some of the best things to do in Blitar include:
- Exploring the southern coast beaches
- Visiting De Karanganjar coffee plantation
- Discovering Candi Penataran
- Paying respects at Bung Karno’s Grave
- Visiting Istana Gebang
How do I get to Blitar?
Blitar can be reached by train from Surabaya, Malang, Yogyakarta, and other major cities in Java. The Blitar Train Station is centrally located, making it easy to explore the city upon arrival.
How many days should I spend in Blitar?
One to two days are enough to explore the main attractions, including the temple complex, Sukarno’s tomb, coffee plantation, and a visit to the southern beaches.
When is the best time to visit Blitar?
The best time to visit Blitar is during the dry season (May to October), when the weather is sunny and ideal for exploring beaches and historical sites.
No responses yet