6 Million Tourists Predicted to Flock to Central Java Destinations During 2026 Eid Holiday
The Central Java provincial government predicts a major surge in tourists during the 2026 Eid holiday. Around 6 million people are expected to crowd various tourist and entertainment destinations in the Central Java region.
This influx is inseparable from the high return traffic this year. An estimated 17.3 million people are returning to their hometowns in Central Java, and most are taking advantage of the Eid holiday to travel with their families.
The Head of the Central Java Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy Office, Hanung Triyono, stated that this figure poses both a challenge and a significant opportunity for the regional tourism sector.
“Around 6 million people will be travelling. This is a large number, so comfort and safety must be thoroughly ensured,” said Hanung on Wednesday (18/3).
The Central Java provincial government has undertaken various preparations to anticipate this surge. Coordination has been carried out with district/city governments, destination managers, and related agencies.
The main focus is on the readiness of facilities, security systems, and services for tourists. Several destinations are predicted to be the main attractions during the Eid holiday.
In the Solo Raya area, tourists are expected to flock to the Tawangmangu area, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, and Gajah Mungkur Reservoir.
Additionally, the Dieng area is also predicted to be busy, especially with the hot air balloon attractions that are a unique draw during Eid.
Religious tourism destinations in Demak and Kudus are also expected to be crowded with pilgrims. Meanwhile, southern Central Java coastal tourism areas such as Kebumen, Purworejo, and Wonogiri are receiving special attention. Potentially rainy and strong windy weather is a factor being anticipated for visitor safety.
“We have coordinated with the Eid posts and related agencies, especially for security in coastal areas,” explained Hanung.
Not only flagship destinations, but tourism villages are also predicted to be a favourite choice for family holidays. Managers are urged to ensure cleanliness, security, and readiness of supporting facilities.
Hanung also urged tourists to help maintain order and cleanliness during their visits.
“These tourist sites are communal property. Let us preserve them so that all tourists have a good experience,” he added.
On the other hand, the managers of Guci Forest destination have stated their readiness to face the influx of visitors. Guci Forest Marketing Manager, Umi Baini, revealed that various facility improvements have been made. A range of rides have been prepared, from hotels, villas, glamping, camping areas, hot spring baths, to off-road jeep tours. Improvements have also been made to parking areas, bathing pools, and the installation of warning signs in hazard-prone areas.
“We have also prepared emergency information and contact numbers to ensure visitor safety,” said Umi.
During the Eid holiday, Guci Forest is estimated to be visited by around 4,000 tourists per day for nearly a week. With these various preparations, the Central Java provincial government is optimistic that the tourist surge during the 2026 Eid can be well managed, while also driving regional economic growth from the tourism sector.