8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Surabaya
Have you ever heard of Surabaya? It's a bustling city located in East Java, Indonesia, and it's definitely worth a visit because you can get the best of both the city and the outdoors here. If you are from Singapore or Malaysia and looking for somewhere to go for a quick holiday filled with tons of things to do, then this is one country you should highly consider going to.
From its rich history and culture to its vibrant food scene and stunning natural beauty, Surabaya truly has something for everyone. So let’s pack your bags, hop on a plane, and get ready to experience the magic of Surabaya for yourself. Here are eight reasons why you should visit Surabaya; and trust me, you won't regret it!
1. Affordable Travel Costs
Surabaya presents an affordable travel option, even without special deals or promotions, when compared to other popular Indonesian destinations such as Bali, Lombok, or Yogyakarta. Thanks to its updated international airport, there are plenty of daily flight options in and out of Surabaya. According to my favourite flight checker, the average cost of return flights from Singapore to Surabaya is just SGD80 per person!
Getting around the city is also a breeze with various transportation options available, including trishaws, regular taxis, motor-taxis, and ride-hailing apps such as Grab or Gojek. Additionally, travelers can easily explore the outskirts of Surabaya by hopping on one of the many available trains or booking an all-inclusive tour on travel platforms like Klook.
2. Affordable Accommodation
Surabaya offers a wide range of accommodation options both in the city center and on the outskirts. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a more luxurious hotel, you're sure to find something that suits your needs. Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers, with prices as low as SGD8 per person per night. If you're willing to spend a little more, well-furnished hotel rooms are available for between SGD30 and SGD90 per night. For a more immersive experience, consider staying in a local guest house or home to experience the local culture. With a little extra research, you can easily find the perfect accommodation to fit your travel style and budget.
3. Authentic Indonesian Food
Indonesia stands out as a Muslim-friendly travel destination with abundant halal food options. From street food to local warungs and even fast-food franchises or restaurants, Muslims can enjoy a wide variety of cuisine without worry. This makes traveling in Indonesia a delightful experience for Muslim travelers looking to explore the country's rich culture and delicious food.
If you're a foodie looking for adventure in Surabaya, don't miss out on the city's signature dishes. Be sure to try the popular Soto Ayam Ambengan, a traditional chicken soup that is a must-try for any visitor. Another mouth-watering option is the Sate Ayam Ponorogo, grilled chicken skewers served with a delicious peanut sauce. I highly recommend indulging in these dishes during your stay in Surabaya, as my friends and I couldn't resist having a feast every night!
4. Historical Significance
Surabaya holds a significant place in Indonesian history as it was the site of the country's battle for independence in November 1945, a crucial moment in the Indonesian National Revolution. It's worth noting that many aspects of Indonesia's history can be traced back to this city, an observation that was brought to my attention by a local friend. The battle for independence in Surabaya was a pivotal moment in Indonesian history and became a symbol of resistance and independence for the nation.
History enthusiasts will be delighted with the array of museums and historical sites that Surabaya has to offer. From the 10 November Museum to the Surabaya Museum, visitors can explore different collections and exhibits that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. Additionally, Surabaya has several monument sites and war memorials that honour significant events and individuals throughout history. These sites offer a great opportunity for visitors to pay their respects and learn more about Surabaya's past.
5. Unique Places of Visit
A must-see attraction in Surabaya is the Monkasel, also known as the Submarine Monument or Monumen Kapal Selam. This unique monument is made from the KRI Pasopati 410 submarine, a vessel from the Indonesian Navy fleet that was constructed in the Soviet Union in 1952. The submarine was dismantled into sections, brought to shore, and reassembled into its original form as a tribute to the Indonesian heroes who fought in the Battle of the Arufura Sea. Make sure to add the Monkasel to your list of Surabaya sights for a one-of-a-kind experience.
In Surabaya, visitors can explore more than just historical landmarks. One of the city's unique attractions is the House of Sampoerna, which was once a cigarette factory but now serves as a museum dedicated to showcasing one of Indonesia's most famous kretek cigarette manufacturers. Even if you aren't particularly interested in the tobacco industry, the Sampoerna empire's history and legacy make for a fascinating visit.
6. Masjed Muhammad Cheng Ho
Surabaya is home to many Chinese Muslims and this mosque was named after Admiral Cheng Ho, who was believed to have been the one that brought the teachings of Islam to Indonesia’s Chinese Community. Having been brought up in Singapore and Malaysia, I have never seen a mosque as unique as this, not even while I was in China! The mosque is mainly in the colour red, green and yellow - predominantly resembling Chinese architecture. How unique!
7. Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall (which means "A Thousand Waterfall" in Javanese) is a must-see tourist attraction in Surabaya. It's famous for its unique formation, which resembles a curtain of water. The "thousand" part of its name comes from the number of falls within the area. The waterfall is located at the foot of Mount Kendeng, where it flows into the Madura Strait. As you walk through the jungle to get there, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery that will make you feel like you're right out of ancient times.
8. Mount Bromo
I'm sure most of you have heard of this beauty. Mount Bromo is a beautiful stratovolcano located in East Java, Indonesia. The cheapest way to get there would be for you to take a train or bus from Surabaya to Probolinggo and then continue on to Cemoro Lawang, a town at the base of Mount Bromo. The whole journey would take approximately 3 - 5 hours, depending on the time spent waiting and in traffic. However, if you are planning to pay Mount Bromo a visit, I would suggest to dedicate two days just for this. The first day for the visit to this stratovolcano itself and the day after to hibernate in bed from all the workout!
The most unique experience of Mount Bromo would be to go on the Bromo Midnight or Sunrise Tour. It is fairly inexpensive to get a certified guide to bring you up and you can either conquer the tracks on foot or (if you're as lazy as I am) ride a jeep all the way up to the crater. It is beautiful beyond words to be able to see the view at sunrise but then again, who am I kidding? With such an amazing creation of His, any time of the day would still be scenic to our eyes.
9. Breathtaking Views From Ijen Crater
Another unforgettable experience you'll gain from Surabaya is the natural phenomena you'll witness if you were to take an overnight hike to the Ijen Crater. Set out on your hike at 1am and marvel at the starry night sky and if you're lucky, you can see the blue flames that appear around the crater just before sunrise. All your exhaustion from the hike will be forgotten as the sun rises. As the clouds are lifting, you'll be rewarded with a clear view of the blue lake. It's truly amazing what natural wonders we get to witness in our lifetime 😍
“No place is ever as bad as they tell you it’s going to be.” – Chuck Thompson
So the next time you find yourself contemplating on where to travel for a short getaway or feel like you have ran out places to visit for a short getaway over the long weekend, try Surabaya!
This article was written for Have Halal Will Travel.
