Things To Do
in Batu

Batu is a charming city located in East Java, Indonesia, known for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and vibrant tourist attractions. The city is famously recognized as a fruit-growing region, particularly for its apples, and offers a variety of outdoor activities amidst its mountainous terrain. Batu is also home to numerous theme parks, natural attractions, and cultural sites that cater to both families and adventure seekers.

With its rich blend of nature and culture, Batu is a delightful escape for travelers looking for a refreshing experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Batu's Attractions
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Jatim Park 2, a theme park that combines fun rides with an animal museum. Enjoy breakfast at a local café before exploring the park's various attractions.

afternoon
:

Head to the Batu Secret Zoo, a beautifully designed zoo that houses a variety of exotic animals. Grab lunch at the park's restaurant or nearby food stalls.

evening
:

Visit Batu Night Spectacular for a magical evening experience filled with lights, games, and delicious street food. Enjoy dinner at one of the night market stalls.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a refreshing hike at Mount Panderman, where you can enjoy stunning views at the summit. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the Batu Traditional Market to shop for local fruits and handicrafts. Try some local snacks and experience the vibrant market atmosphere.

evening
:

End your day at the top of Bukit Bintang, a popular viewpoint that offers breathtaking sunset views over the city. Have dinner at a local restaurant nearby.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$2-5
🍎Fresh fruit (1 kg)$1-2
🚕Taxi fare (within city)$1-3
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-30
Coffee at a café$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and cool climate.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local markets.
  • Variety of outdoor activities for adventure seekers.
  • Can be crowded during holiday seasons.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Indonesian speakers.
  • "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
  • "Terima kasih" - Thank you
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Berapa harganya?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Maaf" - Excuse me/Sorry

Places to Visit in Batu

Visit one of these nice places.

Bukit Bintang

A popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of Batu, especially stunning at sunrise and sunset.

Jatim Park 2

The park's vibrant attractions and beautifully landscaped gardens provide excellent backdrops for photos.

Candi Songgoriti

An ancient temple surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing the historical essence of the region.

Culinary Guide

Food in Batu

Batu offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients, particularly fruits.

Batu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bubur Ayam

A traditional Indonesian chicken porridge often served with various toppings such as fried shallots, boiled eggs, and soy sauce.

Must-Try!

Keripik Apel

Crispy apple chips made from the region's famous apples, often enjoyed as a snack.

Nasi Goreng

Indonesian fried rice, typically served with vegetables, chicken, and a fried egg on top.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Batu Traditional Market

A bustling market where visitors can find fresh fruits, local snacks, and various traditional foods.

Street Food Stalls at Batu Night Market

A vibrant night market offering a wide variety of street food options, from grilled meats to sweet desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Batu has a tropical highland climate, characterized by cooler temperatures than most Indonesian cities. The dry season (April to October) features daytime temperatures averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), while the rainy season (November to March) can bring cooler temperatures down to 15°C (59°F) with increased humidity. Overall, Batu enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, making it an attractive destination for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or traditional areas, wear modest clothing and remove shoes when required.

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders respectfully and avoid speaking loudly in their presence.

Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance when interacting and be mindful of local customs regarding personal space.

Safety Guide

Safety

Batu is generally a safe city for travelers, with a low crime rate. However, as in any tourist destination, it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Keep valuables secure, and be cautious when using ATMs. In case of emergencies, have local emergency numbers and the contact information for your country's embassy.

Tipping in Batu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April to October)

Expect pleasant weather with sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Rainy Season (November to March)

Prepare for occasional heavy rainfall; however, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant.

Holidays (Eid, Christmas)

The city can be crowded with local tourists, so book accommodations in advance.

Harvest Season (August to September)

Enjoy fresh fruit festivals and local markets buzzing with activity showcasing the best produce.

Nightlife Guide

Batu at Night

Batu's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with options ranging from local night markets to cozy cafes and open-air bars. The Batu Night Spectacular features entertainment options such as rides, games, and food stalls that stay open late. Additionally, some cafes offer live music and a comfortable ambiance for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Batu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Arjuno

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with stunning views and a chance to explore diverse flora and fauna.

Gunung Semeru

The highest mountain in Java, offering a more demanding trek for experienced hikers with breathtaking landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Batu by plane.

Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport (MLG)

Located approximately 30 km from Batu, this airport serves domestic flights and is the closest airport for international connections through Surabaya.

Getting Around

Walkability

Batu is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. However, some attractions are spread out, and hilly terrain may require transportation for longer distances. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and plan your route if you intend to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Javanese

The majority ethnic group in Batu, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Chinese-Indonesians

A significant minority in the area, contributing to the diverse culinary scene and cultural activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular pastime in Batu, with local teams and community matches frequently taking place.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played in Indonesia, and many local courts are available for both recreational and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Batu experiences moderate traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Public transportation options include buses and minibuses, but they may not always be reliable. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available for convenient travel around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Batu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Batu offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Halal Food

Most street food and local restaurants cater to halal dietary requirements, but confirm when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Batu has several healthcare facilities, including clinics and hospitals that offer basic medical services. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals are located in nearby Malang, which is easily accessible. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry any necessary medications.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide