Throughout 2026, Blambangan Express Serves 162,000 Passengers
Amid rising trends in public transport usage for long-distance travel, PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) reports that the Blambangan Express remains one of the most popular services for passengers seeking a comfortable journey with scenic views across Java’s landscapes.
Between January and April 2026, the service accommodated 162,863 passengers. Operating the Pasarsenen–Ketapang round-trip route spanning approximately 1,031 kilometres, the Blambangan Express holds the title of Indonesia’s longest intercity train service.
Anne Purba, KAI’s Vice President of Corporate Communication, stated that the Blambangan Express offers a unique travel experience, allowing passengers to witness diverse Indonesian landscapes in a single journey.
“The Blambangan Express provides a distinctive travel experience. Passengers can observe the transition from urban areas to rice fields, coastal regions, and mountain ranges in eastern Java through the train windows,” Anne said in a statement on Monday, 25 May 2026.
As night falls, the glittering city lights along northern Java create a serene atmosphere, while mornings in East Java offer mountain vistas, plantations, and the distinct air of the eastern region.
Anne noted that the visual experiences along the route are a key factor in maintaining public interest in long-distance train travel.
In addition to comfortable rest, passengers can dine, chat with family, read books, and enjoy scenic views without the hassle of traffic congestion.
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 boasts unique tourist attractions.
Semarang is renowned for its Old Town and culinary offerings, Probolinggo serves as the gateway to Mount Bromo, while Banyuwangi offers popular destinations such as Kawah Ijen, Pulau Merah Beach, Baluran National Park, and Alas Purwo National Park.
This growth has spurred increased public interest in comfortable, integrated public transport for interregional tourism travel.
Anne added that train travel is increasingly popular as it allows passengers to enjoy a relaxed journey without compromising productivity en route.
“Long-distance train travel offers a unique experience. Passengers can enjoy moments from the window, from sunrise, rice fields, to the silhouette of eastern Java’s mountains. The journey itself becomes part of the travel experience,” Anne emphasised.