Things To Do
in Kediri
Kediri, located on the Brantas River in East Java, blends agricultural heritage with a growing urban scene. The city is known for its friendly markets, modern monuments, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to explore on foot. In Kediri you can sample traditional East Javanese dishes, visit historic sites, and use the city as a gateway to volcanic landscapes and rural villages.
The surrounding countryside reveals rice terraces, coffee plantations, and hillside viewpoints that photograph beautifully at sunrise and sunset.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kediri Square, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and watch locals practicing their morning exercises. Afterward, wander through the historical streets to admire the colonial architecture, capturing stunning photos of the buildings. Stop by a local café for a traditional Indonesian breakfast of nasi goreng and a refreshing glass of sweet iced tea.
In the afternoon, head to the Kediri Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the region through its fascinating exhibits. Take a leisurely stroll around the nearby Taman Sekartaji Park, where vibrant flowers and lush greenery offer a perfect backdrop for relaxation. For lunch, try the local specialty, tahu tempe, at a nearby eatery, savoring the flavors of Kediri.
As the sun sets, make your way to the bustling night market, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and sample an array of street food delicacies. Browse through local handicrafts and souvenirs, interacting with friendly vendors who are eager to share their stories. Conclude your evening with a refreshing drink at a rooftop café, taking in panoramic views of the city illuminated by twinkling lights.
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Jawi Temple, a magnificent structure that showcases the blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. Engage with local guides who can share the temple's history and significance, enhancing your appreciation of the cultural heritage. Spend time admiring the intricate stone carvings and enjoying the serene surroundings.
After your temple visit, head to the nearby Selomangleng Cave, a site rich in legend and history. Explore the cave's fascinating formations while learning about its role in local folklore, providing a deeper understanding of Kediri's spiritual roots. For lunch, enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like ayam penyet alongside fragrant rice.
In the evening, attend a local cultural performance, where traditional dances and music bring the rich heritage of Kediri to life. The vibrant costumes and rhythmic beats will captivate you, offering a genuine glimpse into the community's artistic expressions. After the show, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, allowing you to indulge in the flavors of Indonesia.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚗Taxi/ride share ride (short distance) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $1-2 |
| 🧀Market snack or street food | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable, authentic East Java experience
- Good base for exploring Kediri region and volcanic landscapes
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Infrastructure for tourists is developing, some services may be slower
- "Selamat pagi" - Good morning
- "Terima kasih" - Thank you
- "Berapa harganya?" - How much is this?
- "Di mana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Tolong bantu saya" - Please help me
- "Maaf, saya tidak mengerti" - Sorry, I don’t understand
- "Kamu bisa rekomendasikan tempat makan?" - Could you recommend a place to eat?
Places to Visit in Kediri
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic modern arch framing the city skyline, especially striking at dawn or dusk.
Central square with traditional architecture, lanterns, and locals at morning markets.
Riverside stretch with golden hour reflections and bridges.
Hilltop overlook offering expansive city and valley views.
Food in Kediri
Kediri Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice served with steamed vegetables, topped with peanut sauce and optional tempeh or tahu.
Must-Try!
A fragrant turmeric-spiced meat or chicken soup typical of the region.
A popular street snack: fried tofu with egg, soy sauce, and chilies.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, spices, snacks, and ready-to-eat bites.
Evening market with grilled skewers, fried foods, and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Selamat pagi/siang/sore” depending on time of day; a smile goes a long way.
Dress modestly when visiting temples or traditional areas; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Use the right hand or both hands when giving or receiving items; avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects.
Respect mosques and temples; remove shoes where required and follow local rules.
Safety
Tipping in Kediri
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave small tips for good service in cafes or guided tours.
Cash (Indonesian Rupiah) is widely accepted; some tourist spots accept cards or digital wallets; ATMs are common in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasantly dry days with sunny skies; ideal for outdoor sightseeing, though evenings can be cool in the hills.
Frequent brief downpours and high humidity; carry a light rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor activities.
Kediri at Night
Hiking in Kediri
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Active volcano near Kediri with crater views on clear days; plan with local guides and heed eruption alerts.
Gentle hiking with viewpoints over the valley and rural villages, suitable for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Kediri by plane.
Surabaya (SUB) international airport, about 1.5-2 hours by road to Kediri depending on traffic.
Malang (MLG) domestic and regional flights, a common alternative to reach Kediri.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Javanese, with small communities of Madurese and Chinese-Indonesians.
Predominantly Muslim, with minority Christians, Hindus, and Buddhists, especially among communities near markets and schools.
Indonesian is the national language; Javanese is widely spoken in everyday life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is very popular in Kediri; local matches draw enthusiastic crowds.
Common recreational sport in schools and clubs.
Popular in youth leagues and community centers.
Traditional Indonesian martial art practiced in communities and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kediri.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Kediri dishes are rice-based and vegetable-forward; ask for no meat and request sambal on the side.