About Kediri

Kediri – The Kediri Kingdom Heritage and Mount Kelud in East Java

Kediri Regency lies in the central-western part of East Java province, along the Brantas River. The regional capital is Kediri city. Kediri was the historic centre of the 10th–13th century Kediri (Kadiri) Hindu-Buddhist kingdom. Today it is known as the tofu (tahu) industry capital and neighbour of Mount Kelud volcano.

Attractions and Activities

Mount Kelud (1,731 m) is one of East Java's most active volcanoes – the 2014 eruption replaced the crater lake with a new lava dome. The crater area is visitable (depending on safety status). Simpang Lima Gumul is a modern triumphal arch on the edge of Kediri city – the city's iconic structure. Surowono and Tegowangi temples are known for their Kediri and Majapahit-era Hindu-Buddhist carvings. Kediri tofu workshops (sentra tahu) can be visited – Kediri tofu is sought across Indonesia.

Culture and Cuisine

The Kediri Kingdom's heritage lives in the foundations of Javanese literature and art – Kakawin literature flourished here. Javanese culture is strong: jaranan (horse dance – trance dance tradition) is Kediri's most famous cultural tradition. Cuisine is East Javanese: tahu Kediri (local tofu), nasi pecel (rice with peanut sauce), getuk (sweet cassava cake), and gethuk pisang (banana sweet) are local favourites.

Public Safety

Kediri is a safe region. Mount Kelud is active – respect the safety zone. Roads are in good condition. Medical care: several hospitals are available in Kediri city.

Practical Information

From Surabaya Juanda Airport, approximately 2.5–3 hours south-west by car. Kediri has a small airport with limited flights. The best time to visit is April to October. Accommodation: hotels in Kediri city.

About East Java

East Java is the province of volcanoes, where the legendary Bromo crater, the blue-glowing Ijen, and Java's highest peak Semeru together form one of Indonesia's most stunning natural landscapes. The province also possesses rich cultural heritage and vibrant urban life.

Where is East Java?

The province occupies the eastern half of Java island. Surabaya, Indonesia's second-largest city, is the capital with an international airport.

What to See?

1. Mount Bromo

The iconic attraction of Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park. Sunrise over the smoking crater rising from the Sea of Sand is one of Indonesia's most famous views. The Hindu traditions of the Tengger people add a special cultural layer.

2. Ijen Crater – Blue Fire

Kawah Ijen volcanic crater is famous for its sulfuric blue flames visible at night. The turquoise crater lake and the sight of sulfur miners at work are unique.

3. Mount Semeru

Java's highest peak (3,676 m) presents a 2–3 day challenge for serious hikers. The volcano erupts regularly, so checking permits and current conditions is mandatory.

4. Surabaya

Indonesia's second-largest city offers the Arab Quarter, Chinatown, and colonial Tunjungan street for urban exploration. The city also serves as a gateway to Bali.

5. Malang and Batu

Highland Malang is a colonial-atmosphere city with theme parks and tea plantations. Batu is a cool highland known for its apple and flower gardens.

When to Visit?

April–October is the dry season. Clear, dry weather is ideal for Bromo sunrise and Ijen night trek.

How Long to Stay?

4–6 days:

1–2 days: Mount Bromo and Tengger desert
1 day: Ijen crater (night trek)
1 day: Surabaya city
1–2 days: Malang and Batu

Summary

East Java is a dream for volcano enthusiasts and nature lovers. Bromo's sunrise and Ijen's blue flames are experiences worth traveling to Indonesia for.

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