Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta
A historic Surakarta square transformed into a lively evening hub with sacred buffaloes and a bustling night market.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Night market buzz and vibrant atmosphere
Alun-Alun Kidul Surakarta
Best Time
Night market buzz and vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Surakarta square transformed into a lively evening hub with sacred buffaloes and a bustling night market.
"It's fun because there's a night market buzzing and lots of food."
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
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
Alun-Alun Kidul
Experience the annual Sekaten carnival with rides, stalls, and a festive atmosphere. Check dates as it's seasonal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Evening Buzz
Sacred Buffaloes & Cultural Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Special events like Sekaten or Houl Solo draw large crowds and add to the excitement.
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
If you're looking for local crafts or souvenirs, don't hesitate to haggle politely.
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.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a leisurely walk around the alun-alun. It's a great spot for a relaxed evening, especially after renovations.
📅 Check Event Schedules
Special events like Sekaten or Houl Solo draw large crowds and add to the excitement.
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
If you're looking for local crafts or souvenirs, don't hesitate to haggle politely.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera to capture the lively night market and the unique albino buffaloes.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
Alun-Alun Kidul is situated south of the Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta, making the palace a key landmark for navigation.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday evening. Weekends and public holidays, especially during events like Sekaten, will be significantly busier.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, you can take photos of the buffaloes, but always be respectful. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that might disturb them.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, it's always best to inquire about specific permissions.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
👫 Couples
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.
🚶 Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Albino Buffaloes of Alkid
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.
Alun-Alun Kidul as a Night Market Hub
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.
Historical and Cultural Significance
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.
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