Ngawi – Homo Erectus Site and Colonial Fort
Ngawi Regency lies in the westernmost part of East Java province, along the Solo River (Bengawan Solo), at the border with Central Java. Its capital is Ngawi city. The region is the Trinil palaeontological site – where Homo erectus (Java Man) was discovered.
Attractions and Activities
Trinil Museum (Museum Trinil) at the site of the Homo erectus discovery: Eugène Dubois found the “Java Man” fossils here in 1891. Benteng Van den Bosch (1845) is a well-preserved Dutch colonial fort. The Bengawan Solo river is a symbol of Javanese culture. Srambat teak forests are suitable for nature walks.
Culture and Cuisine
Javanese culture is defining. Cuisine is East Javanese: nasi pecel, tepo (lontong pecel), sate kambing.
Public Safety
Ngawi is a safe region. Medical care: hospital in Ngawi city; Madiun (approx. 30 minutes) or Surabaya have advanced facilities.
Practical Information
From Surabaya Juanda Airport, approximately 3 hours west by train or car. From Solo (Central Java), approximately 1.5 hours. The best time to visit is April to October. Accommodation: simple hotels in Ngawi city.