Panoramic Train Popularity Soars, Passenger Numbers Rise 62.32 Percent from January–May 2026
Train travel is increasingly becoming part of the tourism experience itself. It is no longer merely about moving from one city to another, but an opportunity to enjoy the unfolding natural landscapes along the journey. This trend is evident in the rising public interest in the Panoramic Train service, which offers a broader view of the scenery from the rails.
Throughout January to May 2026, the Panoramic Train served 79,933 passengers, a 62.32 percent increase compared to the same period in 2025, which saw 49,244 passengers. This growth demonstrates mounting consumer interest in journeys that provide a visual experience and comfort whilst aboard the train.
The increase aligns with national tourism trends. The Ministry of Tourism recorded that from January to November 2025, domestic tourist trips reached 1.09 billion, growing 18.95 percent compared to the same period the previous year. This figure marks the highest record for domestic tourism movement in Indonesia in recent years.
Globally, a similar tendency is observed within the tourism industry. The Mastercard Economics Institute, through its Travel Trends 2025: Purpose-Driven Journeys report released on 12 May 2025, noted that travellers increasingly prioritise experiences, personal interests, and journey quality as primary factors in determining destinations and modes of travel. This trend indicates that a journey’s value is increasingly defined by the experience felt along the way.
KAI Vice President Corporate Communication Anne Purba stated that the growth in Panoramic Train passengers reflects a change in public preferences for enjoying rail travel. “The journey has now become part of the tourism experience. Passengers wish to enjoy every moment during the trip, including the panorama traversed by the train. The Panoramic Train exists to provide that experience,” Anne said.
The Panoramic Train is currently available on the Argo Wilis train for the Bandung–Surabaya Gubeng route, the Turangga train for the Bandung–Surabaya Gubeng route, the Pangandaran train for the Gambir–Banjar route, the Papandayan train for the Gambir–Garut route, and the Parahyangan train for the Gambir–Bandung route.
Most of these journeys traverse the southern line of Java Island, which is known for its diverse geographical character. Passengers can enjoy expanses of rice fields, valleys, hills, mountainous areas, river streams, and rural panoramas stretching across various regions of West Java, Central Java, and East Java. These landscapes become a unique attraction, making the journey feel more memorable.
The Panoramic Train, now managed by KAI Wisata, is Indonesia’s first panoramic train. This rolling stock is a modification of an executive-class carriage equipped with larger panoramic windows and an automatic sunroof, allowing passengers to enjoy views from the sides and the top of the train.
With a capacity of 38 seats, passengers can enjoy a more spacious and comfortable journey atmosphere. Various supporting facilities are also available, including a dedicated train attendant, meals, assorted beverages, film entertainment services, and WiFi access throughout the trip.
Anne added that Indonesia’s rich geographical character provides a distinct advantage for rail-based transportation modes in delivering a uniquely different travel experience. “Railway lines in Indonesia pass through many areas with attractive panoramas. Through the Panoramic Train, passengers can enjoy these natural landscapes from a wider and more comfortable viewpoint throughout the journey,” Anne concluded.
Panoramic Train tickets can be obtained through the Access by KAI application, enabling passengers to plan their journeys and select services according to their needs with greater ease.