Java

Java (Indonesian: Jawa) is an island in Indonesia. This Travel Guide also covers the relatively smaller, yet still substantial, island of Madura, located off the coast of East Java and considered part of the same region.

Java Halal Travel Guide

Java, one of Indonesia's largest islands, covers only 7% of the country's territory (127,569 sq. kilometers) but accommodates a staggering 65% of Indonesia's total population (130 million people). As the "world's most populated island," it boasts a remarkable population density of 940 people per km²!

Java holds Indonesia's most significant cities, including Jakarta, the nation's capital, situated on the northwest coast of the island. Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, resides in East Java, while Bandung, the third most populous city, serves as the capital of Western Java province.

While not densely populated, Yogyakarta and Surakarta (Solo) play crucial roles as cultural centers in the southern central part of Java.

Java is characterized by distinct cultural zones. The western region is dominated by the (Sundanese) and Betawi in Jakarta. Most of the Central and Eastern Java provinces are inhabited by the (Javanese), with the Madurese residing on Madura Island. Smaller indigenous tribes like the Badui in the west and the Tengger in the east add to the island's cultural diversity.

The island's natural features are truly exceptional, boasting an impressive count of 30 "active" volcanoes. Additionally, numerous major national parks adorn Java, catering to outdoor enthusiasts and offering a plethora of attractions for visitors to enjoy.

An Introduction to the regions of Java

Western Java (Greater Jakarta, Banten, Bogor Raya, Parahyangan, East Parahyangan, North Coast (Western Java)) One of the Earth's most densely populated areas is home to the sprawling urban metropolis of Jakarta and the picturesque university city of Bandung nestled in the mountains. However, amidst this bustling human activity, there remain vast stretches of impassable rainforests, expansive natural areas, and numerous active volcanoes alongside secluded beaches.

Central Java (Central Java Province and Yogyakarta Special Region) (Borobudur, Cilacap, Dieng Plateau, Jepara, Karimunjawa, Kendal, Magelang, Mount Merapi, Prambanan, Purwokerto, Kebumen, Salatiga, Semarang, Solo, Tegal, Yogyakarta) Yogyakarta boasts captivating charm and hosts numerous historically significant ancient temples.

East Java (East Java Province including the island of Madura) (Baluran National Park, Banyuwangi, Batu, Blitar, Bojonegoro, Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park, Jember, Madiun, Madura, Malang, Pacitan, Probolinggo, Surabaya) Surabaya, Indonesia's second city, boasts breathtaking volcanic landscapes and mesmerizing scenery.

Other Muslim Friendly Cities in Java

• Jakarta — The bustling, crowded, yet oddly captivating capital of Indonesia.
• Bandung — Nestled in a picturesque valley among mountains, this city is a haven for food enthusiasts and budget travelers.
• Bogor — Once the summer capital, renowned for its exquisite botanical gardens.
• Cirebon — Affectionately called the 'city of shrimps' due to its location on the Java Sea coast, featuring four splendid sultan palaces.
• Malang — A refreshing and cultured destination situated in the eastern mountains of Java.
• Semarang — The ancient seaport and capital of Central Java, preserving its colonial heritage.
• Solo — A focal point of (Javanese) culture and history, having a long-standing rivalry with Yogyakarta.
• Surabaya — The capital of East Java, a hidden gem with a distinctive blend of (Javanese), Madurese, and Chinese traditions.
• Yogyakarta — A city steeped in historical and contemporary (Javanese) culture and traditions.

Other Destinations in Java

• Anyer - A picturesque beach serving as the gateway to the magnificent Krakatoa volcano.
• Baluran National Park - Experience the vast savannah grasslands that will transport you to the African plains.
• Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park - Behold the awe-inspiring volcanic landscape and immerse yourself in the culture of the Tenggerese people.
• Borobudur - The world-renowned ancient Buddhist temple, a strong contender for the eighth wonder of the world.
• Madura - A large, secluded island with arid landscapes, an off-the-beaten-path gem for adventurous travelers.
• Mount Halimun Salak National Park - Java's finest and most pristine rainforest area, located near Bogor.
• Prambanan - Explore the marvels of an ancient Hindu temple, steeped in history and architectural splendor.
• Sukamade - Witness a breathtaking natural phenomenon as turtles grace the shores to lay their eggs throughout the year.
• Ujung Kulon National Park - Obtain a permit to access this untouched wilderness, boasting jungles, white sand beaches, corals, and the last remaining (Javanese) rhinoceros specimens.

Local Language in Java

While Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia) is the lingua franca understood by almost everyone and the majority of Java's population also speak (Javanese), a related but mutually incomprehensible language. As the largest single language in Indonesia, (Javanese) influence on Bahasa Indonesia has been quite significant, in Central and East Java local pronunciation changes — changes include a turning into o, so eg. Surabaya becomes Suroboyo.

Other significant local languages include (Sundanese), spoken in Western Java, Betawi in Jakarta and Madurese, spoken on and around the island of Madura.

At the border of the Western Java and Central Java provinces and the people use a combination of (Sundanese) and (Javanese) which confuses people who speak only (Sundanese) or (Javanese).

Travel to Java

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Java

The largest airport of Java (and the entire country) by far is Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (IATA Flight Code: CGK), serving the Greater Jakarta area. his airport serves as a destination for numerous international airlines. Over time, more international carriers have expanded their routes to include Surabaya in East Java, as well as Bandung, Semarang, Solo, and Yogyakarta to a lesser degree. Choosing to fly into these secondary airports can result in significantly lower costs compared to connecting through Jakarta, primarily due to the presence of low-cost airlines from Malaysia and Singapore. Thus, considering a layover in either of these two countries before heading to Java might be a budget-friendly option. It's worth noting that all of these mentioned airports enjoy excellent connectivity through domestic flights. Jakarta's secondary Halim Airport (IATA Flight Code: HLP), in East Jakarta, also has frequent Flights from all major Indonesian cities.

By ferry

ASDP operates the Ketapang ferry, which serves the crucial crossing between Java and Bali.

ASDP manages two highly frequented ferry routes connecting Java to other islands. One route runs between Bakauheni in Lampung province on the island of Sumatra to the port of Merak on Java. This route operates 24 hours a day and offers multiple departures per hour. The second route connects the island of Bali to Java, with ferries operating from Gilimanuk to the port of Banyuwangi|Ketapang in East Java. Like the first route, this service runs 24 hours a day, but with two departures per hour.

Moreover, Java is integrated into the national PELNI passenger ferry network, facilitating travel to and from all major Indonesian islands. PELNI ships regularly call at the ports of Surabaya, Semarang, and Tanjung Priok port in North Jakarta.

How to get around in Java

Java's infrastructure boasts a remarkable comprehensiveness, allowing for the possibility of crossing the entire island by land in a single (though lengthy) day. However, the island's high population density poses a challenge, as roads, buses, and trains can become overcrowded when commuting during peak hours.

Travel on a Bus in Java

Vast fleets of buses dominate long-distance transportation in Java, creating an extensive network that connects cities and mountain hamlets. Opting for a bus ride is a wise decision, given the well-developed toll road system that links most cities. These buses primarily operate during the afternoon and/or night, offering convenient stops along the way, and are generally more budget-friendly compared to low-cost airlines. There are two types of buses available: those equipped with air conditioning and those without it. Non-air-conditioned buses charge only about a third of the fare for the air-conditioned ones. However, it's recommended to choose air-conditioned buses, as they are considered safer due to the drivers' better reputation.

For longer journeys, many people prefer low-cost carriers since their fares are often comparable to buses. However, during peak seasons, even low-cost carriers might raise their prices up to three times the cost of air-conditioned buses.

If you're looking for a touch of luxury, there are various upscale bus brands offering different classes with varying legroom options. Additionally, there are luxury double-decker bus services available, connecting Jakarta to several cities in Central Java. These buses have sleepers (bed seats) on the lower deck and reclining seats on the upper deck. Passengers using the sleepers are required to remove their shoes. Given the limited number of seats and high demand for sleeper seats, it's essential to book in advance to secure your spot.

Muslim Friendly Rail Holidays in Java

Indonesia boasts the most extensive railway network, particularly in Java, where trains connect the capital city of Jakarta with numerous towns and cities on the island. For inter-provincial travel, passengers can opt for the executive class, and certain routes offer a priority class featuring 28 seats per car, attached to the executive train. Additionally, the Jakarta-Surabaya route provides a luxurious option with 18 reclining seat sleepers per car, also linked to the executive train.

To secure a ticket, travelers have the option to make reservations up to 90 days in advance until 24 hours prior to departure. The convenience of online ticketing is available through PT Kereta Api's ticketing site, various other online ticket agent websites, as well as thousands of Alfamart and Indomaret mini markets. At Indomaret, clients can select their seats, while this option is not offered at Alfamart. Alternatively, tickets can be purchased from ticket agent shops or local post offices in most Indonesian cities.

For Muslim travelers, upon booking, a printable voucher is issued with an additional Rp 8,500 administration fee. However, Indomaret and Alfamart often provide discounts covering the administration fee and may even offer complimentary Snacks or drinks.

Tickets can be exchanged at ticket counters or, at some modern stations, simply presented on one's phone without the need for physical exchange. It's crucial to ensure that the name on the ticket matches the name on the passenger's identity card to avoid additional charges.

In terms of accessibility, it is worth noting that transportation options in Indonesia are not particularly accommodating to disabled individuals. However, PT Kereta Api took a significant step forward in October 2014 by introducing disability wagons. These wagons feature wide doors, ample wheelchair space, and disabled-friendly toilets, all without any extra charge. This accessibility initiative initially applied to the new Jakarta-Surabaya-Malang route via the north of Java's double tracks and is expected to gradually extend to all executive long routes.

By road

Java'stoll roads are built nearly to GCC standards, with dual grade-separated lanes in both directions and elevated interchanges. Tolls are quite affordable, usually Rp3,500-5,000 every 10 kilometers or so. However, signage is often lacking and driving habits are atrocious, so it's very wise to pay a little extra and get a vehicle with driver instead of attempting to drive yourself.

Fly to Java

Flying is an excellent option for travelling larger distances in Java. The route from Jakarta in the west to Surabaya in the east is one of the busiest flight routes in the world. In addition and there are frequent Flights from Jakarta (and Bandung) to other airports in Central and East Java, and e.g. between Yogyakarta and Surabaya. Apart from these trunk routes and there are smaller routes to more remote airports such as Pangandaran and Cilacap on the south coast, and the outlying islands of Karimunjawa, Madura, and Bawean.

What to see in Java

Java offers everything a somewhat adventurous traveler is looking for: two of world's great ancient monuments, volcanoes (all 121 of them), major national parks, rainforests, tea and Rice plantations, large cities, big waves and even savanna. The scenery in most parts of Java is spectacular and, while the island is overpopulated and there are still plenty of unspoiled places. Even though the beaches are not very appealing in Java and tides can be fatal especially in south part of Java, except for surfing in Banyuwangi, East Java. In nearby archipelagos like Pulau Seribu or Karimunjawa the traveler can find white sand beaches and corals islands.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Java

• Trek in Ujung Kulon National Park and Mount Halimun Salak National Park, see good examples of rainforest and wild animal habitats.
• Dive in the pristine waters of the Karimunjawa islands.
• Rent a fisherman's boat and sail around the Kepulauan Seribu National Park archipelago.
• See the crater of a volcano real close at Tangkuban Perahu (in Lembang).
• Watch the sunrise at the breathtaking Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park.
• Surf one of the world's great waves at G-Land near Banyuwangi.
• Travel from Jakarta to Yogyakarta by day train. Beautiful landscapes and a affordable and more relaxing way to travel around Java.
• Travel from Jakarta to Bandung by high speed train. Beautiful landscapes and a affordable and more relaxing way to travel around Java.
• Visit Kebun Raya (botanical gardens) in Bogor.

• Wake up early to see the sunrise at the Borobudur temple near Yogyakarta.
• Watch a spell-binding evening performance of The Ramayana against the lit backdrop of magnificent Prambanan.
• Climb the Gunung Gede volcano.
• Play golf at the Merapi Golf Course in Yogyakarta. The active volcano Mount Merapi looms over the course just a few miles away.
• Eat mie goreng from a street vendor ("kaki lima"). Try martabak. Eat ice-cream at Toko Oen in Malang.
• Visit the huge shopping malls at Jakarta.
• Enjoy a fine Sunday brunch in any Jakarta international hotel at an amazing value.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Java

Use common sense, as you would do in your own country. The most common crime for Muslim travellers to be aware of is theft. Violent crime is common in Indonesia. However, it's wise to be extra cautious in Jakarta and other big cities, especially in crowds.

Traffic can be chaotic. Watch out for trucks, cars and other moving objects. One rule applies: "might is right". Don't expect traffic to respect pedestrian ("Zebra") crossings (even when a police(wo)man is in sight). When crossing a busy street - be confident, make sure your intentions are clear to the oncoming drivers. Cars never stop, but if they know what they can expect from you and they will avoid you. Using hand signal like put one hand in the air or signaling stop might help, too.

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Java

• Ferries connect Java to Sumatra and Bali.

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