Java To Bali Overland Itinerary: A 10-Day Journey Through The Heart Of Indonesia

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey across two of Indonesia’s most iconic islands. This Java to Bali overland itinerary takes you through stunning temples, dramatic waterfalls, active volcanoes, colorful villages, and relaxing beaches. 

Whether you’re a culture lover, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a meaningful travel experience, this 10-day adventure offers a perfect balance of sightseeing and leisure.

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Day 1: Arrival in Yogyakarta – Transfer to Magelang

Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Yogyakarta International Airport around 5:05 PM. From there, you’ll drive straight to the Magelang area. After checking into your hotel, take the evening to rest and relax before the adventure begins.

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Day 2: Borobudur Sunrise, Prambanan & Yogyakarta Exploration

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and head to Borobudur Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. (Note: Entry tickets are at your own expense.)

Borobudur Temple 

Borobudur Temple, located in Central Java, is the world’s largest Buddhist monument and a masterpiece of ancient architecture. Built in the 9th century, this magnificent stupa rises majestically with its nine stacked platforms, adorned with over 2,600 relief panels and 500 Buddha statues. 

At sunrise, the temple exudes a serene, almost mystical beauty, drawing visitors from around the globe. It is often a highlight on many cultural routes, making it a must-visit stop for travelers mapping out their Java to Bali overland itinerary.

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Next, after exploring Borobudur Temple, you will continue to Yogyakarta City for lunch and a visit to Prambanan Temple, an iconic Hindu temple complex, and Taman Sari Water Palace. 

Yogyakarta City 

Yogyakarta, or “Jogja” as locals lovingly call it, is a city full of heart and soul in central Java, Indonesia. It’s a place where tradition and modern life blend beautifully. 

You can wander through ancient temples like Borobudur and Prambanan, shop for batik on Malioboro Street, or enjoy street food that’s both cheap and delicious. The people are warm and welcoming, and there’s a strong sense of culture everywhere—from music and art to royal traditions at the Sultan’s Palace. 

Prambanan Temple 

Prambanan Temple is one of the most stunning historical sites you can visit during a Java to Bali overland itinerary. Located near Yogyakarta, this 9th-century Hindu temple complex is known for its towering spires and intricate stone carvings that tell ancient stories from the Ramayana. 

As you walk through the temple grounds, you’ll be amazed by the craftsmanship and spiritual atmosphere. Visiting Prambanan is a great way to connect with Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage before continuing your journey east toward Mount Bromo, Ijen, and the beautiful island of Bali. 

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Taman Sari Water Palace

Taman Sari Water Palace (Taman Sari) is a historic site in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, renowned as the former royal garden and bathing complex of the Sultanate of Yogyakarta. 

Built between 1758 and 1765 during the reign of Sultan Hamengkubuwana I, it originally served multiple functions for the royal family, including as a place for rest, meditation, recreation, defense, and even as a hiding spot during times of danger. 

After finishing exploring all, head to your hotel in Yogyakarta for check-in, rest, and leisure time.

Day 3: Sultan Palace Visit – Scenic Drive to Malang

Sultan’s Palace

Start your morning with a visit to the Sultan’s Palace, also known as the Kraton, the cultural heart of Yogyakarta and a perfect first stop on your Java to Bali overland itinerary day three. 

This royal complex offers an in-depth exploration of Javanese history, art, and culture. As you explore its elegant pavilions and museums, you’ll gain a better understanding of the city’s rich heritage and the role of the royal family.

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Afterward, check out of the hotel and begin your road trip eastward to Malang, a cool and scenic city in East Java. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening.

Day 4: Malang Highlights & Journey to Tumpak Sewu

After breakfast, it’s time to head out and explore the colorful streets of Jodipan Village, take in the views at Wonosari Tea Plantation, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Pronojiwo Village.

Jodipan Village 

Jodipan Village, located in Malang, East Java, is a colorful and vibrant destination that has transformed from a riverside slum into a popular tourist spot. The village is renowned for its vibrant murals, rainbow-hued houses, and innovative street art, which attract travelers and photographers alike. 

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As you walk through its narrow alleys, you’ll discover a lively atmosphere full of charm and local culture. Jodipan is a perfect stop on your Java to Bali overland itinerary, offering a unique glimpse into community-driven art and transformation. 

Wonosari Tea Plantation 

Wonosari Tea Plantation, nestled on the slopes of Mount Penanggungan in East Java, offers a serene escape for travelers seeking lush landscapes and fresh mountain air. 

Vast emerald-green tea fields stretch as far as the eye can see, with neatly pruned rows creating a calming, rhythmic pattern. Visitors can take leisurely walks along winding paths, breathing in the aromatic scent of tea leaves and taking in panoramic views of distant hills. 

Including this stop on a Java to Bali overland itinerary adds a refreshing, scenic break between cultural and coastal destinations.

Pronojiwo Village 

Pronojiwo Village, located on the eastern slopes of Mount Semeru in East Java, is a tranquil haven surrounded by verdant forests and misty highlands. 

Traditional wooden homes and friendly villagers welcome travelers seeking authentic rural life away from bustling cities. Winding footpaths lead through rice terraces and coffee gardens, where local farmers still harvest by hand. Cool mountain air and panoramic views of volcanic landscapes provide a rejuvenating backdrop for prayer at the village’s serene ancient mosque. 

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Day 5: Tumpak Sewu Adventure – Off to Mount Bromo

On the fifth day of Java to Bali overland itinerary, you will go to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southeast Asia.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall 

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, often hailed as the “Waterfall of a Thousand Falls,” is a breathtaking spectacle nestled in East Java’s Lumajang Regency. Cascading in a semicircular amphitheater, its multiple streams crash into a lush gorge below, creating misty rainbows and echoing thunderous roars. 

Adventurous travelers can trek down steep paths and bamboo ladders to reach the base, where refreshing pools invite a revitalizing dip. Surrounded by towering cliffs and verdant foliage, it’s a natural wonder that feels almost otherworldly. 

Including Tumpak Sewu on a Java to Bali overland itinerary ensures an unforgettable, adventurous highlight amid cultural and coastal exploration.

Nirvana Waterfall 

Coban Nirwana, also known as Coban Mbok Karimah or Curug Gedangan, is a hidden gem in Malang’s lush southern hills. This graceful, tiered waterfall spills down sandstone cliffs into a clear, cool pool about three meters deep, perfect for a refreshing swim. 

The surrounding cliffs and orderly rock formations create a tranquil, almost otherworldly ambiance that encourages quiet reflection away from urban hustle. 

Adding Coban Nirwana to your Java to Bali overland itinerary brings a peaceful, photogenic interlude amid nature’s untouched beauty. 

Telaga Biru

Wandering through the verdant hills of Malang, East Java, Telaga Biru captivates visitors with its crystal-clear, turquoise‑green waters that shimmer like a gemstone.

Formed from a former sand mining pit, the spring now hosts serene reflections of surrounding trees and sky. The site offers boat rentals, shaded picnic spots, clean restrooms, parking, and food stalls—perfect for a relaxing break. 

Including Telaga Biru on your Java to Bali overland itinerary ensures a refreshing, photogenic pause—ideal for travelers seeking peaceful natural wonders amidst cultural adventure.

Tetes Cave 

Goa Tetes (Tetes Cave), situated beside the majestic Tumpak Sewu Waterfall in Lumajang, East Java, is an enchanting cavern where water continually drips through limestone formations, creating a natural curtain of droplets that shimmer over stalactites and stalagmites. 

Nestled at the foot of Mount Semeru in Pronojiwo, a 20–30 minute descent along a slippery, rugged trail brings you into this mystical grotto where misty airs cool your skin. 

Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring waterproof protection from splashing streams. With its surreal beauty and adventurous access, Goa Tetes is a memorable stop on your Java to Bali overland itinerary.

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After that, you will return to the homestay, check out, and drive to Cemoro Lawang, the gateway to Mount Bromo.

Day 6: Sunrise at Bromo – Transfer to Ijen

Your day begins before dawn. At 3:00 AM, hop into a 4WD jeep and head to Mount Penanjakan to watch the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Bromo.

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Sunrise at Penanjakan 

Watching the sunrise from Mount Penanjakan, perched at 2,770 m above sea level, is nothing short of magical. As the golden light unfurls across the volcanic caldera, Mount Bromo’s smoking crater, Batok’s rugged silhouette, and distant Mount. Semeru glows against the dawn sky. 

Early risers—some starting as early as 2 AM—arrive by jeep or via a moonlit hike to secure the ideal vantage point. 

Wrapped in layers, they wait as mist clears, revealing the “Sea of Sand” below. Including this iconic moment in your Java to Bali overland itinerary ensures a breathtaking, unforgettable start to your journey.

Bromo Crater 

Bromo Crater, one of Indonesia’s most iconic volcanic sites, offers a surreal and unforgettable experience. Located within the vast Tengger Caldera in East Java, the crater emits wisps of smoke and a strong sulfuric scent, reminding visitors of its active status. Reaching the rim involves a scenic ride across the Sea of Sand followed by a short but steep climb of 250 steps. 

After enjoying sunrise and trek to the crater, you will take breakfast and check out, drive toward Banyuwangi, the closest city to Mount Ijen. 

Day 7: Ijen Crater Hike & Ferry Ride to Bali

Around midnight, set off on your journey to Mount Ijen. After a brief drive and a safety briefing, start your hike towards the crater under the cover of darkness.

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Ijen Crater 

Ijen Crater, sitting 2,769 meters high on the border of Banyuwangi and Bondowoso in East Java, is known for its bright turquoise acid lake and the rare blue fire that glows in the dark before sunrise. 

The adventure usually kicks off around midnight from Paltuding, where you hike about 3 kilometers before heading down into the crater to see the glowing flames and the lake as the sun comes up. 

You will also meet local sulfur miners carrying heavy loads through tough and dangerous conditions. Adding this incredible experience to your Java to Bali overland itinerary is a sure way to make your trip unforgettable—it’s raw, real, and unique.

Catch the magical blue fire and enjoy the sunrise from the edge of the sulfur lake — it’s a rare sight you won’t forget.  After the hike, head back to the hotel for some breakfast and check out around 11:00 AM.

Then hop on a ferry from Ketapang Port to Gilimanuk Port in Bali.  End the day by checking into your hotel in Lovina, a quiet and relaxing beach town in North Bali.

Day 8: Free Time in Lovina

Today is yours to relax. Sleep in, enjoy your hotel facilities, stroll around Lovina Beach, or book a spa session. It’s the perfect pause in your overland journey.

Day 9: Lovina Beach and Gitgit Waterfall

Start your morning early (around 4:00 AM) for a dolphin-watching boat tour off the coast of Lovina, and then after that, you will visit the beautiful waterfall and al. 

Lovina Shores 

Lovina Beach, located on Bali’s tranquil northern coast near Singaraja, is renowned for its calm seas, black volcanic-sand shoreline, and early-morning dolphin sightings. 

Each dawn, frolicking dolphins draw visitors on gentle boat tours across the glassy water, creating a magical start to the day. The beach is lined with humble guesthouses, cozy cafés, and local seafood warungs serving freshly grilled fish under swaying palm trees. 

As the sun sets, the horizon blushes pink and purple, offering a serene backdrop for evening strolls. Including Lovina Beach in your Java to Bali overland itinerary adds peaceful coastal charm and wildlife wonder to your journey.

Gitgit Waterfall

Gitgit Waterfall, located in Bali’s northern highlands near Singaraja, is one of the island’s most popular natural attractions. Surrounded by lush tropical forest, the waterfall cascades from a height of about 35 meters into a refreshing natural pool below. 

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful trek through spice plantations and rice fields before reaching the falls, where the sound of rushing water and cool mist offers a soothing escape. 

Adding Gitgit Waterfall to your Java to Bali overland itinerary brings a refreshing stop amid nature, perfect for relaxing before continuing your island exploration.

Lake Buyan 

Lake Buyan, nestled in Bali’s northern highlands within Sukasada, is a serene volcanic lake covering nearly 4 km² at an elevation of around 1,200 m. Surrounded by mist‑wreathed forests and framed by verdant hills, its calm, clear waters reflect the lush landscape, offering a perfect backdrop for kayaking, fishing, or lakeside picnics. 

Including Lake Buyan in your Java to Bali overland itinerary introduces a peaceful, off‑the‑beaten‑path gem, making it a rejuvenating stop before your island exploration continues.

Bedugul

Bedugul Highland, located in central Bali, offers a refreshing escape from the island’s coastal heat with its cool mountain air and lush green scenery. 

This highland retreat is home to stunning attractions like Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, set against the calm waters of Lake Beratan, and the Bali Botanical Garden, perfect for nature walks and picnics. 

Surrounded by misty hills and terraced farms, Bedugul is also known for its fresh produce, especially strawberries and vegetables. Adding Bedugul Highland to your Java to Bali overland itinerary provides a serene, scenic stop that blends cultural richness with natural beauty in the heart of Bali.

 Day 10: Ulun Danu Temple & Drop-Off in South Bali

On your final day of the Java to Bali overland itinerary, start with a visit to the stunning Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, peacefully floating on the shores of Lake Beratan.

After lunch, head to the breathtaking Jatiluwih Rice Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lush green landscapes.

Finish off your journey with a stop at the serene Taman Ayun Temple in Mengwi before being dropped off at your hotel or the airport in South Bali (Kuta, Seminyak, or Legian area).

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple

Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is a stunning Hindu water temple located on the shores of Lake Beratan in Bedugul, Bali. Dedicated to Dewi Danu, the goddess of lakes and rivers, it appears to float serenely on the water, especially during high tide. 

Built in the 17th century, the temple complex features traditional Balinese architecture with multi-tiered shrines framed by misty mountains and lush gardens. Its reflective lake setting creates a peaceful ambiance, attracting both worshippers and travelers. 

Ulun Danu Beratan is not just a spiritual center but also a cultural icon that beautifully represents the harmony between nature and devotion.

Jatiluwih Rice Terraces 

Nestled in the lush highlands of Tabanan, Bali, the Jatiluwih rice terraces are a breathtaking showcase of traditional Balinese agricultural ingenuity. Recognized as a UNESCO Cultural Landscape, these expansive terraces stretch across rolling hills, framed by the majestic Mount Batukaru. 

The region employs the ancient Subak irrigation system, reflecting a deep harmony between people and nature. Visitors exploring a Java to Bali overland itinerary often find Jatiluwih a peaceful stop, offering panoramic views, quiet trails, and insights into local farming life. 

Taman Ayun Temple 

Taman Ayun Temple, located in Mengwi, Bali, is a stunning royal water temple surrounded by a wide moat and lush gardens. Built in the 17th century by the Mengwi Kingdom, it features multi-tiered shrines called meru, symbolizing the sacred mountains of Bali. 

The temple’s elegant Balinese architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect place for quiet reflection. Strolling through its beautifully landscaped grounds offers visitors a glimpse into Bali’s spiritual heritage. 

Including Taman Ayun Temple in your Java to Bali overland itinerary adds a culturally enriching experience, balancing the journey with historical depth and architectural beauty before reaching southern Bali.

Closing 

This Java to Bali overland itinerary isn’t just a journey; it’s an unforgettable experience packed with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and real connections with local life. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — who want to truly explore Indonesia in a meaningful way.

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