Indonesia to Launch Luxury 'Sultan' Train with 36-Passenger Capacity This Month
PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero), known as KAI, will begin the commercial operation of the Nusantara Explorer luxury tourist train on 28 September 2026. This train is designed to offer a ‘sultan-style’ travel experience, combining high-end comfort with panoramic views of Indonesia’s nature, culture, and diverse riches.
KAI President Director Bobby Rasyidin stated that the commercial launch of the Nusantara Explorer is part of an effort to support the development of national tourism. “We will begin commercial operations on 28 September; we will launch the Nusantara Explorer commercially,” said Bobby during a Hearing Meeting (RDP) with Commission VI of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) in the Parliament Complex, Jakarta.
According to Bobby, the concept of the train was developed under the direction of President Prabowo Subiability. The Nusantara Explorer does not merely offer a train journey, but an experience of enjoying the various unique characteristics of Indonesia throughout the trip.
“Following the President’s direction to support Indonesian tourism, we are launching the Nusantara Explorer, which presents a new face for rail travel to enjoy the natural beauty and diversity of the Archipelago,” Bobby added.
The Nusantara Explorer has a capacity of 36 passengers for a single main trainset. KAI can also attach two Panoramic carriages to increase passenger capacity. “If we attach two Panoramic carriages, the capacity will increase to 76, making a total of 112 passengers. By coupling it with two Panoramic carriages, we certainly bring Indonesia’s hospitality, heritage, and beautiful nature, as well as the heritage buildings at our stations, presenting a very Indonesian atmosphere inside the train,” he explained.
This concept distinguishes the Nusantara Explorer from regular passenger services. KAI has integrated elements of service, local culture, natural scenery, and historical buildings found at various stations into the travel experience.
In terms of interior, the Nusantara Explorer is a modification of the Luxury Sleeper carriages, completed at the Surabaya Gubeng Balai Yasa workshop. The train features several functional areas, ranging from Signature Class, Advance Class, and Compact Class to a Lounge, Grand Restaurant, and Kitchen & Crew areas.
Overall, one Nusantara Explorer trainset can accommodate up to 91 customers based on the internal space division. 36 customers are accommodated in the sleeping compartments, while another 55 customers can utilise the Lounge and Grand Restaurant areas.
KAI previously mentioned that the Nusantara Explorer concept was inspired by the luxury Orient Express service in Europe. The service is prepared to target a niche tourism market that prioritises the travel experience, with fares expected to be in the premium segment.
The planned routes include several tourist destinations on Java Island. The Nusantara Explorer is expected to connect Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Semarang, and Banyuwangi.