Batu, officially known as Kota Batu, is a city in East Java, Indonesia. Located about 20 km (12.4 mi) from the north-west of Malang, Batu has a population of about 190,000 people. Formerly a recreational place for the Dutch officers during the Dutch colonial era, Batu is now home to a variety of parks, attractions, and entertainment, attracting local and foreign tourists alike. The city is easily accessible via the railway or by road.
If you’re travelling by road, you have the option of renting a taxi or taking the regular shuttle buses on the Malang-Batu route (the Puspa Indah is one of the main bus options to consider). Driving by yourself is not encouraged if you’re not familiar with Indonesian traffic and the route to Batu, which poses potential risks (i.e., unusually sharp turns, open valley, and landslides). That said, accidents rarely happen and the view is quite scenic, making your journey to Batu worthwhile. If you’re taking your family to Batu, don’t forget to visit these top 8 family-friendly places:
1. Coban Rondo Maze & Waterfall
Coban Rondo is an area with a natural waterfall set in lush tropical scenery. It’s a local favourite spot to spend some quality family time. Besides picnicking on the benches and taking selfies by the waterfall, you can also rent bikes and explore the area, play paintball, or try ziplining in the recreational zone. For added fun, play hide and seek in the maze with your family and friends!
Coban Rondo Maze & Waterfall
Address: Jl. Coban Rondo, Pandesari, Pujon, Malang, Jawa Timur 65391, Indonesia
Website: Coban Rondo Maze & Waterfall
2. Museum Angkut
Automobile fans would definitely find this museum a haven. Even if you’re not really into vehicles, the museum is designed in a way that would make for great photo-ops, especially with the fun themes and backgrounds all over the museum. There are eight exhibition zones to see with amazing displays on transportation. You can also shop at Pasar Apung, a replica of a traditional floating market.
Museum Angkut
Address: Jalan Terusan Sultan Agung No. 2, Batu, Ngaglik, Kec. Batu, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65335, Indonesia
Website: Museum Angkut
3. The Bagong Adventure Human Body Museum
If you prefer to take your kids to somewhere educational, head on down to The Bagong Adventure Human Body Museum. The museum is not only an interesting place to learn more about the human body and its functions; the place even offers a free health advice and a medical checkup for you and your family.
The Bagong Adventure Human Body Museum
Address: Jawa Timur Park 1, Jalan Kartika No. 1, Sisir, Kec. Batu, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65314, Indonesia
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4. Jawa Timur Park 2
For those who want everything under one roof, Jawa Timur Park 2 consists of an animal park, an amusement park, and a water park all at the same place. Some of the best attractions here include the aquarium, haunted house, and the animal museum. If you want to save more, it’s better if you purchase an all-in-one family package.
Jawa Timur Park 2
Address: Jl. Raya Oro-Oro Ombo No.9, Temas, Kec. Batu, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65315, Indonesia
Website: Jawa Timur Park 2
5. Wisata Petik Apel KTMA
Pick your own apples and other fruits at this super popular fruit plantation! Here, you and your family get to pick organic fruits such as dragon fruits, oranges, apples, and guavas and learn more about the plants there. You can also grab a bite to eat and picnic under the sun while picking the fruits.
Wisata Petik Apel KTMA
Address: Jl. Pangeran Diponegoro No.24, Tulungrejo, Bumiaji, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65338, Indonesia
Website: Wisata Petik Apel KTMA
6. Batu Secret Zoo
Love animals? Batu Secret Zoo has hundreds of animal species on display. Batu Secret Zoo is a large zoo featuring a wide variety of animals from around the world, and play areas and rides your family would enjoy. The zoo also is a great place for a photo-op, especially with its large gorilla statue welcoming you at the entrance.
Batu Secret Zoo
Address: Jl. Oro-Oro Ombo No.9, Temas, Kec. Batu, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65315, Indonesia
Website: Batu Secret Zoo
7. Upside-down House
What’s it like to be inside a house that’s upside down? It’s super chaotic yet fun! While some people may find this place a ‘headache’ due to the upside down setup, it’s a fun place to snap some memorable photos and marvel at the upside down interior. From the kitchen to the living room, you can practically take photos in any area of the house!
Upside-down House
Address: Eco Green Park, Jalan Raya Oro-Oro Ombo, Temas, Kec. Batu, Kota Batu, Jawa Timur 65316, Indonesia
Website: Upside-down House
8. Kusuma Waterpark
Since it’s always sunny in Indonesia, it would be a shame not to spend some time out in the sun. Kusuma Waterpark is one of the best water parks in the province, with plenty of slides and pools of various depths and sizes.
Kusuma Waterpark
Address: Kawasan Wisata Kusuma Agro, Jl. Abdul Gani Atas, Ngaglik, Batu Sub-District, Batu City, East Java 65311, Indonesia
Website: Kusuma Waterpark
Have all the fun you need
It’s always a challenge to travel, especially when you have children in tow and want to make everyone happy. Start by going to the place where your kids would love most, followed by what you want later on. Try to include a variety of attractions on your itinerary so no one in your family gets bored or feels left out. Mix outdoor and indoor activities throughout the day for more fun. For outdoor activities, it’s best if they’re done in the morning or late afternoon, due to the scorching hot weather.