KA Blambangan Express serves 162,000 customers on Indonesia’s longest train journey between Jakarta and Banyuwangi

Travelling 1,031 kilometres, passengers can enjoy the changing landscapes of Java through the train window on a long, comfortable, and memorable journey. JAKARTA (ANTARA) – Amid growing public interest in long-distance public transport, the KA Blambangan Express remains a top choice for passengers seeking a comfortable journey while taking in Java’s scenic views from the train window. Between January and April 2026, the service served 162,863 passengers. This Jakarta Pasar Senen to Ketapang return service covers approximately 1,031 kilometres, making it Indonesia’s longest intercity train route. Along the journey, passengers pass through diverse landscapes: from Jakarta’s urban density, the North Coast rice fields, Java’s northern coastal areas, East Java’s mountain ranges, to Banyuwangi’s tropical atmosphere, the gateway to Bali. Anne Purba, KAI’s Vice President of Corporate Communications, said the long journey of the KA Blambangan Express offers a unique experience as passengers can witness many faces of Indonesia in a single trip. “The KA Blambangan Express provides a distinctive travel experience. From the train window, passengers can see the transition from urban areas to rice fields, coastal zones, and mountain ranges at the eastern end of Java. The long journey feels more relaxed as travellers can enjoy the scenery without the fatigue of driving,” Purba said. The journey’s atmosphere changes with the time of day. Crossing the North Coast region in the afternoon, passengers enjoy sunlight reflecting off rice fields and shrimp ponds. As night falls, city lights along northern Java create a serene travel mood. In the morning, East Java greets travellers with mountain views, plantations, and the distinct air of eastern Java. This visual experience is a key reason why long-distance train travel remains popular. Passengers can rest, enjoy meals on board, chat with family, read books, or simply take in the scenery without being hindered by road traffic. Beyond offering a memorable journey, the KA Blambangan Express connects numerous strategic cities and top tourist destinations. The train stops at key stations including Cirebon, Tegal, Pekalongan, Semarang Tawang, Cepu, Bojonegoro, Surabaya Pasarturi, Sidoarjo, Pasuruan, Probolinggo, Jember, and Banyuwangi Kota. Each region along the route has its own tourist attractions. Semarang is known for its Old Town and culinary scene, Probolinggo serves as the gateway to Mount Bromo, while Banyuwangi boasts popular destinations such as Kawah Ijen, Pulau Merah Beach, Baluran National Park, and Alas Purwo National Park. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), foreign tourist arrivals in Indonesia reached over 13 million in 2025, with a positive trend continuing into early 2026. This growth has boosted demand for comfortable interregional public transport for tourism. Purba added that train travel is increasingly popular as it allows passengers to enjoy a relaxed pace while remaining productive during the journey. “Long-distance train travel offers a unique experience. Passengers can enjoy moments from the train window, from sunrise to rice fields and the silhouette of East Java’s mountains. The journey itself becomes part of the travel experience,” she concluded.