Things To Do
in Malang

Malang is a charming city located in East Java, Indonesia, known for its cool climate, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Surrounded by mountains, it serves as a gateway to natural attractions and offers a rich historical backdrop. The city is renowned for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and as a center for education and arts.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of traditional Indonesian culture and modern urban life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Malang's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Malang City Square, where you can explore the local market and enjoy a traditional breakfast of 'nasi pecel'.

afternoon
:

Head to the Jodipan Colorful Village, a vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful houses and artistic murals, perfect for photography.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Roti Bakar 88, famous for its toasted bread and local snacks, before taking a leisurely stroll through the city center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the breathtaking Tumpak Sewa Waterfall, where you can hike and take stunning photos of the cascading waters.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the Batu Secret Zoo, which offers a unique experience with a variety of wildlife and interactive exhibits.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at Taman Indie, a restaurant with a beautiful garden ambiance and a menu featuring local specialties.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$2 - $5
Coffee$1 - $2
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$1 - $3
🛍️Souvenir$1 - $10
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10 - $30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Indonesian speakers
  • Occasional traffic congestion in the city center
  • "Selamat Pagi" - Good Morning
  • "Terima Kasih" - Thank You
  • "Tolong" - Please
  • "Maaf" - Sorry
  • "Dimana toilet?" - Where is the toilet?

Places to Visit in Malang

Visit one of these nice places.

Jodipan Colorful Village

A vibrant neighborhood filled with colorful murals and houses, great for capturing lively street art.

Tumpak Sewa Waterfall

A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Malang City Square

An iconic spot featuring a beautiful fountain and historical buildings, ideal for capturing the essence of Malang.

Culinary Guide

Food in Malang

Malang offers a delightful culinary experience influenced by its diverse culture and local ingredients. From street food to fine dining, there’s something for everyone.

Malang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Nasi Pecel

A traditional Javanese rice dish served with vegetable salad and peanut sauce.

Must-Try!

Bakso

Meatballs served in a savory broth, often accompanied by noodles and vegetables.

Rawon

A rich beef soup flavored with black nuts and spices, served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Malang Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food, snacks, and local delicacies in a vibrant atmosphere.

Bubur Ayam

A popular street food stall serving chicken porridge, garnished with various toppings.

Climate Guide

Weather

Malang has a tropical highland climate, characterized by cool temperatures due to its elevation. The dry season lasts from April to October, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The rainy season from November to March brings more precipitation, with temperatures averaging between 18°C to 28°C, making it a great time for lush landscapes but also for potential flooding in some areas.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Local Customs

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and during local ceremonies.

Polite Greetings

Use a polite greeting and a smile when meeting locals; a simple 'Selamat Pagi' (Good Morning) goes a long way.

Remove Shoes

It's customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or certain places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Malang is generally a safe city for tourists, but as with any destination, it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid displaying expensive belongings and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent petty theft. Emergency services are accessible, and it's advisable to keep local emergency numbers handy.

Tipping in Malang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; leaving small change at restaurants is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments accept credit cards; always carry some cash for street vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (April - October)

Expect sunny days and less rain, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Rainy Season (November - March)

Frequent rain showers may occur, so plan indoor activities and carry an umbrella.

Festive Season (Eid al-Fitr, Christmas)

Vibrant celebrations take place, offering a unique cultural experience, but expect larger crowds.

Cool Season (June - August)

Temperatures are cooler, making it pleasant for outdoor exploration, especially in the mountainous areas.

Nightlife Guide

Malang at Night

Malang's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a mix of cafes, bars, and live music venues. Popular areas like Jalan Ijen feature trendy cafes that transform into lively spots in the evening. Visitors can enjoy local drinks, live performances, and a friendly atmosphere, though the scene is more laid-back compared to larger cities like Jakarta or Bali.

Hiking in Malang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Bromo

A popular hiking destination known for its stunning sunrise views and unique volcanic landscape.

Ranu Kumbolo

A serene lake located on the way to Mount Semeru, offering scenic trails and camping opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Malang by plane.

Abdul Rachman Saleh Airport

Located approximately 15 km from Malang city center, this airport offers domestic flights and is the main gateway for travelers heading to Malang.

Getting Around

Walkability

Malang is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, markets, and restaurants are located within walking distance. The streets are generally pedestrian-friendly, but be cautious of traffic in busier areas. Sidewalks can be uneven in some places, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Javanese

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

Chinese Indonesians

A significant minority, contributing to the local economy and culinary diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Badminton

A widely played sport in Indonesia, with many local clubs and competitions in Malang.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in the region, with local teams and a passionate fan base.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Malang can vary, with peak hours seeing congestion, particularly in the city center and around schools. Public transportation options include buses, angkots (shared minibuses), and ojek (motorcycle taxis), which are affordable and widely used by locals. Given the city’s size, walking and cycling are also viable options for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Malang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat broth in soups.

Halal Food

Most local foods are halal, but checking for certification or asking staff can provide peace of mind.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Malang are adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Major hospitals like RSU Dr. Saiful Anwar offer emergency services and specialized care. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to carry any necessary medications with you.

Discover Indonesia

Read more in our Indonesia 2025 Travel Guide.

Indonesia Travel Guide