Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta - a large body of water surrounded by trees
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Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta

4.5
·27k reviews·, Indonesia

A historic Surakarta square transformed into a lively evening hub with sacred buffaloes and a bustling night market.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings (after 6 PM)

Night market buzz and vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta - a large body of water surrounded by trees

Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta

Best Time

Evenings (after 6 PM)

Night market buzz and vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Surakarta square transformed into a lively evening hub with sacred buffaloes and a bustling night market.

4.5
(27k reviews)

"It's fun because there's a night market buzzing and lots of food."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Taste the Local Flavors

Don't miss trying local street food! From savory snacks to sweet treats, Alkid offers a culinary adventure.

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Explore

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the alun-alun. It's a great spot for a relaxed evening, especially after renovations.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sacred Albino Buffaloes

Sacred Albino Buffaloes

Center of Alun-Alun Kidul

Witness the revered albino buffaloes, a unique and sacred symbol of Surakarta's heritage.

Night Market Delights

Night Market Delights

Throughout Alun-Alun Kidul

Indulge in a lively night market with diverse street food, games, and local crafts. A true taste of Surakarta after dark.

Sekaten Carnival

Sekaten Carnival

Alun-Alun Kidul

Experience the annual Sekaten carnival with rides, stalls, and a festive atmosphere. Check dates as it's seasonal.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Evening Buzz

Alun-Alun Kidul (Alkid) truly comes alive after sunset. Expect a vibrant night market atmosphere with food stalls and entertainment. Arrive after 6 PM to catch the full experience, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and during special events like Sekaten. Instagram+1

Sacred Buffaloes & Cultural Significance

The albino buffaloes (Kyai Slamet) are a sacred highlight and a must-see. Remember to be respectful of this cultural icon. The alun-alun is also a significant historical site, part of the Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Evenings (after 6 PM)
Why
Night market buzz and vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During Sekaten
Why
Annual carnival with extra festivities
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#capcut #wedding #weddingtiktok #adatjawa #soloputri
@anggunbgt_
469.5K likes • 6.8M views

🎯 Taste the Local Flavors

Don't miss trying local street food! From savory snacks to sweet treats, Alkid offers a culinary adventure. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Explore

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the alun-alun. It's a great spot for a relaxed evening, especially after renovations. Instagram

aku kamu adat solo basahan 😍#muangawitimur #parasayuwedding #solobasahan #panggihmanten #muahits
@paras.ayuwedding
364.9K likes • 3.4M views
Warga Solo dan sekitarnya, siapa nih yg belum ke sini? Tinggal beberapa hari lagi lur, Sekaten nya cuma sampai tgl 16 Oktober… 📍Sekaten Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta Solo __________________________________ #solo #kotasolo #surakarta #alkid #sekaten #sekatensolo #sekatenjogja #pasarmalam #dronesolo #dronejogja #aerialvideo
dimasvlens
24.8K likes • 573.5K views

📅 Check Event Schedules

Special events like Sekaten or Houl Solo draw large crowds and add to the excitement. Instagram+2

💰 Bargain for Souvenirs

If you're looking for local crafts or souvenirs, don't hesitate to haggle politely. Instagram

💬 Pasar Malem Alun-Alun Kidul (alkid) Surakarta 🎉 🎉 📌 Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta, Kec Pasar Kliwon, Kota Surakarta ▫️ 🎥 @pras_djoyobisono
kabarsolo
948 likes • 31.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Taste the Local Flavors

Don't miss trying local street food! From savory snacks to sweet treats, Alkid offers a culinary adventure. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll and Explore

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the alun-alun. It's a great spot for a relaxed evening, especially after renovations. Instagram

📅 Check Event Schedules

Special events like Sekaten or Houl Solo draw large crowds and add to the excitement. Instagram+2

💰 Bargain for Souvenirs

If you're looking for local crafts or souvenirs, don't hesitate to haggle politely. Instagram

📸 Capture the Moments

Bring your camera to capture the lively night market and the unique albino buffaloes. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(27k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Alun-Alun Kidul for its lively night market atmosphere, diverse and affordable street food, and the unique presence of sacred albino buffaloes. It's considered a great spot for evening hangouts and experiencing local culture. Some find it can get very crowded during special events.

"These albino buffaloes are the highlights in this square park in Solo. I took these photos a few years back. Apparently, this square park is undergoing renovations at the moment. I hope they take care of the environment."

Jelly Tree

"Carnaval Sekaten & amusement park, held once a year! Street vendors, hawkers, food streets, night market are all together"

aL RD

"Try to experience similar place in Jogja😀 find the difference"

Siti Alfiah

What People Like

Vibrant night market
Delicious street food
Sacred albino buffaloes

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Alun-Alun Kidul (Alkid) is easily accessible by various modes of transport in Surakarta. You can take a local taxi, ride-sharing service (like Gojek or Grab), or a local bus. It's located south of the Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta. Instagram+1

Yes, there is parking available, though it can get busy during peak hours and special events. It's advisable to arrive a bit earlier if you're driving. Instagram

Depending on your starting point, it might be a pleasant walk, especially if you're exploring the Keraton area. However, it's a bit of a distance from the absolute city center, so consider transport options. Instagram

From Solo Balapan Station, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to Alun-Alun Kidul. The journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Instagram

Alun-Alun Kidul is situated south of the Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta, making the palace a key landmark for navigation. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Alun-Alun Kidul itself is generally free to enter and explore. However, individual rides or attractions within the night market may have separate charges. Instagram

Alun-Alun Kidul is open 24/7 as a public space, but the main attractions, especially the night market and food stalls, are most active from the evening onwards, typically starting around 6 PM. Instagram+1

To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday evening. Weekends and public holidays, especially during events like Sekaten, will be significantly busier. Instagram+1

Yes, Alun-Alun Kidul hosts several significant events, most notably the annual Sekaten carnival and sometimes religious gatherings like Houl Solo. It's worth checking local event calendars. Instagram+2

No advance booking is required for general entry to Alun-Alun Kidul as it's a public space. Tickets are only needed for specific rides or paid attractions within the night market. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main draws are the sacred albino buffaloes, the vibrant night market with diverse food and games, and the general lively atmosphere. It's a popular hangout spot for locals. InstagramReddit+1

You'll find a wide array of Indonesian street food, from traditional snacks like 'terang bulan' and 'martabak' to savory dishes, grilled items, and refreshing drinks. InstagramReddit

Yes, the night market often features carnival rides and games that are fun for children. The open space also allows for them to run around. Instagram

Absolutely! The lively yet relaxed evening atmosphere, coupled with street food options, makes it a great spot for couples to enjoy a casual date night. Instagram

Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended, especially if you plan to walk around or try street food. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal for the evening climate. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique albino buffaloes, the bustling night market scenes with colorful lights, and the general ambiance of the alun-alun. Sunset and evening shots are particularly atmospheric. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos of the buffaloes, but always be respectful. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that might disturb them. Instagram

Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, it's always best to inquire about specific permissions. Instagram

The golden hour just before sunset offers beautiful lighting, while the night market comes alive with vibrant lights, creating a dynamic photographic environment after dark. Instagram

Drone usage might be restricted due to proximity to the Keraton and potential disturbance. It's advisable to check local regulations or seek official permission beforehand. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Alun-Alun Kidul is a great family-friendly destination, especially in the evenings. The night market offers a variety of kid-friendly food options and carnival rides that children will love. The open space also provides room for them to play. Consider visiting during less crowded times like weekday evenings to make the experience more comfortable for younger children. Instagram

While the sacred buffaloes are a unique sight, ensure children understand the importance of respecting them. The general atmosphere is lively and engaging, making it a fun outing for the whole family to enjoy local culture and entertainment. Instagram

👫 Couples

For a casual and romantic evening, Alun-Alun Kidul is an excellent choice. Stroll hand-in-hand through the vibrant night market, sampling delicious street food together. The lively ambiance, illuminated by colorful lights, creates a charming backdrop for a date night. Instagram

Enjoy the unique experience of seeing the sacred albino buffaloes, which can be a conversation starter. It's a relaxed and affordable way to spend an evening, soaking in the local culture and enjoying each other's company amidst a buzzing atmosphere. Instagram

🚶 Budget Travelers

Alun-Alun Kidul is a paradise for budget travelers. Entry to the alun-alun itself is free, and the street food offers incredibly affordable and delicious meal options. You can feast on local delicacies without breaking the bank. Instagram

While some carnival rides have a fee, many of the attractions are free to enjoy by simply walking around and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local culture and vibrant nightlife of Surakarta on a shoestring budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sacred Albino Buffaloes of Alkid

The most iconic feature of Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta is its herd of sacred albino buffaloes, known as Kyai Slamet. These animals are deeply revered by the local Javanese community and are considered symbols of good fortune and prosperity. They are an integral part of the cultural heritage associated with the Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta. Visitors are often fascinated by their unique appearance and the spiritual significance they hold. Instagram+1

It's important for visitors to approach the buffaloes with respect. While you can observe and photograph them, avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could startle them. The buffaloes are typically kept in a designated area within the alun-alun, allowing for safe viewing. Their presence adds a unique spiritual dimension to the otherwise lively public space. Instagram

Alun-Alun Kidul as a Night Market Hub

As the sun sets, Alun-Alun Kidul transforms into a bustling night market, a favorite hangout for locals and a must-visit for tourists. The area comes alive with countless food stalls offering a diverse range of Indonesian street food. From savory grilled meats and seafood to sweet pancakes ('terang bulan') and traditional snacks, there's something to satisfy every palate. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond the culinary delights, the night market often features carnival rides, games, and stalls selling local crafts and souvenirs. This creates a vibrant and festive atmosphere, perfect for an evening stroll. It's a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy affordable eats, and experience the energetic pulse of Surakarta after dark. Instagram+2

Historical and Cultural Significance

Alun-Alun Kidul is not just a recreational space; it's a historically significant area that forms part of the Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta complex. Founded by Susuhunan Pakubuwono II in 1744, it has witnessed centuries of Javanese history and tradition. The alun-alun has been a venue for important ceremonies, royal processions, and community gatherings, reflecting its enduring role in the cultural landscape of Surakarta. Instagram

Throughout the year, Alun-Alun Kidul hosts various cultural events and festivals. The most prominent is the annual Sekaten, a week-long celebration marking the Prophet Muhammad's birthday, which transforms the alun-alun into a grand carnival. Other events, like religious gatherings such as Houl Solo, also draw significant crowds, showcasing the site's continued importance in religious and social life. Instagram+2

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