7 Majestic East Java Waterfalls You Must Visit
Prepare to be immersed in a world of natural wonders as we unveil the most majestic East Java waterfalls to visit.
East Java is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting an array of breathtaking sites such as beaches, mountains, tropical forests, rivers, and lakes. Additionally, it offers a blend of modern and traditional shopping facilities, cultural landmarks, and historical sites that will leave you awe-inspired.
Many must know that East Java boasts several stunning waterfalls waiting to be discovered. Here is our guide to the best of East Java waterfalls.
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall – Best of East Java Waterfalls
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is also known as Coban Sewu for those coming from Malang. Tumpak Sewu in Javanese roughly means “1000 stacked”. It is arguably Indonesia’s best waterfall and the best of East Java waterfalls. It isn’t the largest, but it is the most majestic.
Often dubbed as “Tebing Nirwana” (Nirvana Cliff), this mesmerizing waterfall is a hidden gem that lies in Sidomulyo Village, Pronojiwo District, Lumajang Regency, near the fascinating Goa Tetes cave.
The waterfall is about 120 meters high, creating a stunning contrast with the green surroundings. If you are adventurous, the bottom of the Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is an option. But be prepared for a challenging and steep descent.
How to get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall
It takes about 2 hours to drive 55 kilometers from Lumajang City. Then comes a worthwhile long hike to witness the majestic waterfall. As you get closer, you will see several streams of water cascading like curtains from the cliff.
Tumpak Sewu Waterfall entrance fee and opening hours
To enjoy those natural sceneries, you must pay an entrance ticket of IDR 10,000 or IDR 20,000 per person. The parking fee is IDR 5,000 for motorcycles and IDR 10,000 for cars.
You can visit this stunning waterfall every day from 07:00 AM to 05:00 PM. However, if there is an extreme change in weather, it might be closed anytime to prevent unwanted occurrences.
Coban Rondo Waterfall – Stunning one of East Java Waterfalls
Nestled in Krajan, Pandesari Village, Pujon sub-district of Malang Regency, Coban Rondo Waterfall is one of the stunning East Java waterfalls. It is about 12 km from Batu City or 20 km from the center of Malang City. Visitors flock to this waterfall to enjoy its scenic beauty and have fun with various activities.
At an elevation of 1,135 meters above sea level, the Coban Rondo area boasts a refreshing climate and a spectacular view of the waterfall. The waterfall plunges 84 meters down with a powerful force reaching 90 L per second.
The source of the Coban Rondo waterfall is a spring at the base of Mount Kawi called Cemoro Dudo. The crystal-clear and refreshing water of this waterfall is one of the reasons why people love this place.
How to get to Coban Rondo Waterfall
If you are coming from Batu City, you can reach the entrance of Coban Rondo in just half an hour by car. Many visitors choose to rent a car rather than take public transportation.
This is because public transportation is less convenient and more costly, as you have to switch vehicles several times. The landmark for Coban Rondo is the intersection with the cow statue in Pujon. If you follow this intersection, you will arrive at the entrance counter.
From there, you have to walk a bit before seeing the waterfall. Along the way, you will enjoy the scenic forest views and some attractions you can try.
Coban Rondo Waterfall entrance fee and opening hours
If you want to go here, you can come on any day as well, starting from 07:30 AM and should come back before 05:00 PM. The opening hours may change due to natural occurrences like heavy rain and other bad weather.
This breathtaking Coban Rondo waterfall is also a budget-friendly destination. The entrance fee is very affordable, especially if you bring a group. The ticket price starts from IDR 15,000 to IDR 35,000 for local and foreign tourists.
Kapas Biru Waterfall – The Blue One of East Java Waterfalls
Still located in Lumajang Regency, the next one of the East Java waterfalls is Kapas Biru Waterfall, known for its beautiful blue color.
Kapas Biru Waterfall (Air Terjun Kapas Biru) or Coban Kapas Biru is a spectacular sight of water plunging from two levels, reaching a total height of about 100 meters. It is nestled between two towering cliffs adorned with lush trees, creating a natural wonder that will take your breath away.
The waterfall draws its water from the Lengkong and Besukbang Rivers, which originate at the foot of Mount Semeru. The water is crystal clear and pure, and it reflects a bluish hue when seen from afar. It is named Kapas Biru, which means Blue Cotton in Indonesian.
This hidden gem was only opened to the public in 2015.
How to get to Kapas Biru Waterfall
You must drive about 50 km from Lumajang City to get there. National Lumajang – Malang. After passing Pronojiwo Field, you will see a banner for Coban Kapas Biru. Follow the sign, and it will lead you to the parking area.
Kapas Biru Waterfall entrance fee and opening hours
The opening hours of this beautiful destination are from 05:00 AM to 04:00 PM every day. The entrance ticket is only IDR 5,000 to IDR 10,000 (less than USD 1) per person. The parking fee is IDR 5,000 for motorbikes and IDR 10,000 for cars.
Goa Tetes Waterfall – Unique One of East Java Waterfalls
Tetes Cave is one of the unique East Java waterfalls combined with a cave. It is located in Sidomulyo Village, Pronojiwo District, near the border of Lumajang and Malang. You can easily reach it by taking the southern Malang-Lumajang route.
The cave offers a unique combination of a cave and a waterfall. You will be amazed by the colorful stalactites and stalagmites that make the cave look exotic. The rock cliffs are coated with sulfur, creating a golden yellow hue contrasting with the green moss.
Inside the cave, you will find dozens of waterfalls that gush from hidden springs behind the rocks. The waterfalls are abundant and powerful. The rocks are smooth and made of limestone deposits, so you can climb them easily even though they are mossy.
Bring enough food and drinks before you start your adventure here. And, of course, always pay attention to the surrounding, and wear comfortable attire, anti-slippery sandals or shoes.
How to get to Goa Tetes Waterfall
To get to Goa Tetes from Malang, you can take a bus to Malang from Arjosari Terminal. After about two hours, you can get off in front of the entrance gate on the side of the highway. Then you have to walk about 500 meters to the entrance ticket post.
The trek is challenging and exciting. You will start with a gentle path, then switch to a steep staircase. You will have to climb a wet cliff with water near the cave. The track is slippery, so be careful and enjoy the adventure.
Goa Tetes Waterfall entrance fee and opening hours
To enjoy the adventure of Goa Tetes and its enticing waterfalls, you can pay IDR 10,000 for the entrance ticket. It opens from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM every day.
Kabut Pelangi Waterfall – Hidden Gem of East Java Waterfalls
Kabut Pelangi Waterfall (Rainbow Mist Waterfall) is a hidden gem of East Java waterfalls. It is located in Lumajang Regency (again) at the foot of Mount Semeru. Perum Perhutani KPG Malang manages it and is part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. You can find it in Pronojiwo Village, Pronojiwo District. It is only about 1 kilometer from the Pronojiwo Police Station on Jl. Raya Jalan Lumajang – Malang.
The name Kabut Pelangi means rainbow mist, and it is well deserved. Sometimes, you can see rainbows around the waterfall when the sun shines on the water droplets. But even if you don’t see a rainbow, you will still enjoy the breathtaking view of the waterfall.
How to get to Kabut Pelangi Waterfall
From Lumajang city, you can find the enchanting Air Terjun Kabut Pelangi waterfall by following the signs to Malang. After you pass the Pronojiwo Police Office, look for a small road with an Air Terjun Kabut Pelangi tourist banner above it.
Turn into the road until you see the Air Terjun Kabut Pelangi sign. From Malang, you can also take the route to Lumajang via Turen-Dampit-Tirtoyudo-Ampelgading-Pronojiwo. The magical waterfall is only 2 kilometers away from the parking lot.
To get to the waterfall, you must endure a challenging trek involving ascending and descending steep hills and crossing small rivers. However, once you arrive at the destination, you will be captivated by the waterfall and forget about all the exhaustion from the journey.
Kabut Pelangi Waterfall entrance fee and opening hours
The entrance fee to Kabut Pelangi Waterfall is also very affordable. You only have to pay IDR 5,000 (less than USD 1) per person for the ticket and IDR 5,000 for motorbike parking. There are no other charges. Some stalls sell snacks and drinks on the way to the waterfall, so you don’t have to worry about getting hungry or thirsty. But it’s always good to bring some supplies in case the stalls are closed or on holiday.
Coban Sriti Waterfall – Highest of East Java Waterfalls
Lumajang Regency is home to many spectacular East Java waterfalls, such as Tumpak Sewu, Kapas Biru, and Kabut Pelangi (all mentioned above). But there is another waterfall that also deserves your attention: Coban Sriti. This waterfall will dazzle you with its beauty and charm.
Coban Sriti Waterfall is in Jagokereng Hamlet, Tamanayu Village, Pronojiwo District, Lumajang Regency. It is one of Indonesia’s highest East Java waterfalls, with a height of about 120 meters. You will be mesmerized by the water splitting into two streams and cascading down with great force. To reach the bottom of the waterfall, you have to brave a steep valley and be very careful. But it will be worth it, as you will experience an unforgettable adventure. Beauty comes with a price, after all.
The water source of Coban Sriti Waterfall is a branch of the Besukbang / Lengkong River, known for its swift flow. When you arrive at the waterfall, you can enjoy the magnificent view and feel the water spray on your skin. But it is not advisable to go under the waterfall, as it can be dangerous. If you love nature, you should not miss Coban Sriti Waterfall. The fun begins from the moment you start your journey to the waterfall. You will feel the thrill of going up and down the hills.
How to get to Coban Sriti Waterfall
Start from the center of Lumajang. You can follow the scenic Lumajang – Malang National Road until you reach the Pronowijo sub-district.
Once you enter the gate of Coban Sriti, you are only 15 minutes away from the majestic waterfall that awaits you. But don’t let your excitement get the better of you. The path to the waterfall is steep and narrow, with a deep ravine on your left (although there is a security fence along the trek). Stay alert and safe as you make your way to the natural wonder.
Coban Sriti Waterfall entrance fee and opening hours
You don’t have to worry about spending much money visiting Coban Sriti Waterfall. This waterfall offers a lot of beauty for a very affordable price. You only need a passion for traveling, good stamina, and enough preparation to get to the waterfall. The entrance fee is only IDR 5,000, which includes the parking fee. This price may change at any time without prior notice.
I hope you enjoyed reading about the best waterfalls in East Java. There are many more waterfalls to explore, but these are popular. Have you been to any of them? I would love to hear your feedback!