Things To Do In Java, Indonesia, 5 day travel itinerary, brief history, weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites

March 18, 2024

Indonesia, a Southeast Asian nation, is an archipelago of over 17,000 islands. Java, Indonesia’s most populous island, is home to a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip to Java:

Brief History

Java’s history stretches back thousands of years. The Hindu Majapahit kingdom, which flourished from the 13th to the 15th centuries, was a major center of power in Southeast Asia. Islam arrived in the 16th century, and the Dutch colonized Indonesia in the 17th century. Indonesia declared independence in 1945 after a long struggle. Today, Java is a fascinating blend of cultures and traditions.

Weather

Java has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. There are two distinct seasons: the rainy season (November to March) and the dry season (April to October). The rainy season can bring heavy downpours, but it’s also the time when the island is at its most lush and green.

Winter (December to February): While it isn’t actually winter, these are the wettest months in Java. Expect frequent afternoon showers. Average highs are in the low 80s°F (around 27°C) and lows in the mid-70s°F (around 24°C).
Spring (March to May): Spring is a shoulder season in Java, with less rain than the winter months and pleasant temperatures. Average highs are in the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) and lows in the upper 70s°F (around 26°C).
Summer (June to August): Summer is the dry season in Java, with the least amount of rain. It’s also the hottest time of year, with average highs in the upper 80s°F (around 31°C) and lows in the low 70s°F (around 21°C).
Fall (September to November): Fall is another shoulder season in Java, with more rain than the summer months but still comfortable temperatures. Average highs are in the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) and lows in the mid-70s°F (around 24°C).

5 Day Itinerary

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 5-day trip to Java:

Day 1: Start your day in Yogyakarta, a city steeped in Javanese culture. Visit the Prambanan Temple, a 9th-century Hindu temple complex, and the Borobudur Temple, a massive 9th-century Buddhist temple. In the afternoon, take a walk through Malioboro Street, a lively shopping street.
Day 2: Hike up Mount Bromo, an active volcano located in East Java. The views from the summit are truly spectacular. In the afternoon, visit the nearby village of Ngadisari, where you can learn about the traditional way of life of the Tenggerese people.

Day 3: Head to Malang, a charming city with a Dutch colonial past. Visit the Malang City Hall, a beautiful example of Dutch colonial architecture, and the Taman Candi Prambanan, a public park with a replica of the Prambanan Temple. In the afternoon, take a walk through the Coban Talun waterfall, a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
Day 4: Take a day trip to Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru (the highest mountain in Java), and the Tengger caldera. Hike to the top of Mount Bromo or explore the otherworldly landscapes of the caldera.
Day 5: Relax on the beaches of Bali, Indonesia’s most famous island. Bali is a short flight from Java and is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture.