Trowulan Archaeological Site
Step into the heart of the Majapahit Empire at Trowulan, Indonesia's most significant archaeological site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the heat and crowds
Trowulan Archaeological Site
Best Time
Avoid the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the heart of the Majapahit Empire at Trowulan, Indonesia's most significant archaeological site.
"A fascinating glimpse into Indonesia's past, offering tangible connections to the mighty Majapahit Empire."
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Consider a combo ticket for the museum and nearby temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus for better value.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets hot exploring the outdoor sites! Bring plenty of water, especially during the dry season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bajang Ratu Gate
Trowulan Archaeological Site
A majestic red brick gate, a stunning example of Majapahit architecture.
Candi Tikus
Trowulan Archaeological Site
An ancient bathing complex with intricate stone carvings, offering a glimpse into daily life.
Museum Majapahit
Trowulan Archaeological Site
Home to a vast collection of Majapahit relics, from pottery to stone sculptures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Majapahit Legacy
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Consider a combo ticket for the museum and nearby temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus for better value.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets hot exploring the outdoor sites! Bring plenty of water, especially during the dry season.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so wear sturdy and comfortable shoes.
📚 Brush up on History
Reading about the Majapahit Empire beforehand enhances the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Tickets Available
Consider a combo ticket for the museum and nearby temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus for better value.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It gets hot exploring the outdoor sites! Bring plenty of water, especially during the dry season.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so wear sturdy and comfortable shoes.
📚 Brush up on History
Reading about the Majapahit Empire beforehand enhances the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Trowulan Archaeological Site a fascinating journey into the Majapahit Empire, praising its historical significance and well-preserved collections. However, some note that certain exhibits could benefit from better maintenance and more English descriptions, and the outdoor areas can get quite hot.
"This is an interesting museum where you can enjoy the history of Majapahit. The collection of objects is well preserved, with additional brief historical information in English and Indonesian. However, some of the items appear to be poorly maintained. Hopefully, in the future, many of the collectibles will receive extra care, both in the outdoor and indoor areas. Regarding the description and explanation of each object in the collection, hopefully, more items will have them in the future, as many currently do not. This museum brings back good memories for me about Mojokerto and the Majapahit Kingdom, which I could only read about in books, when I was little. 🧚🏻"
Sajida Alfi
"It is really good to know about the history in details. Place is nice, but a bit hot the outside area, but there are aircon inside the building. It will be better if they can improve the toilet, wastafel was not working. Bought the museum + candi bajang ratu and candi tikus ticket, it cost 15.000/pax."
maharani parameswari
"I'd recommend several fixings, including:
1. There were tons of unnamed scripting, stone relief, even statues
2. That explanatory board above or beside the collections some of em deffo needs an English translation, p.s. and it could've been simple by design, as the current were too brightly colored and redundant by its content
3. Rejuvenations on its facilities, including its building could be beneficial, so the whole museum experience can be a lot more pleasant"
Muhammad Rifky Wibisana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Surabaya, you can take a train or bus to Mojokerto, which is the closest city to Trowulan. From Mojokerto, local transport like taxis or ride-sharing services can take you to the site. Some visitors opt for a private car for convenience.
While public transport can get you to Mojokerto, reaching the specific archaeological sites within Trowulan might require local taxis or motorcycle taxis. Planning your onward journey from Mojokerto is recommended.
Hiring a local guide or renting a scooter can be a great way to navigate between the various ruins and temples scattered across the area.
Yes, there are parking areas available at the main entrance of the Trowulan Archaeological Site and near the museum.
The journey from Malang to Trowulan typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are generally affordable, with combo tickets often available for the museum and nearby temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus. Expect prices around 15,000 IDR per person for a combined ticket.
The site and museum are typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the latest official hours before your visit, as they can sometimes vary.
Currently, online ticket purchasing options are limited. It's best to purchase tickets directly at the site upon arrival.
Information on specific discounts for students or seniors is not widely advertised, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
Ticket prices usually grant access to the museum and the main archaeological areas. Combo tickets may include entry to specific temples like Candi Bajang Ratu and Candi Tikus.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Bajang Ratu Gate, Candi Tikus, and the Museum Majapahit. Exploring the various brick structures and remnants of the ancient city is also highly recommended.
Yes, it can be educational for children, especially if they have an interest in history. However, the outdoor areas can be hot, and some exhibits might require adult supervision.
Some exhibits have English translations, but many do not. Bringing a guidebook or using a translation app can be helpful.
Basic facilities like restrooms are available, though some reviews suggest they could be improved. There are also some food stalls and souvenir shops.
To fully appreciate the museum and key archaeological sites, allocate at least 3-4 hours. If you plan to explore more extensively, a full day is recommended.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are some local food stalls and small eateries near the entrance and within the site offering Indonesian snacks and meals.
You'll find typical Indonesian street food and local dishes. It's a good place to try some authentic regional flavors.
Yes, the nearby town of Trowulan and the city of Mojokerto offer a wider range of restaurants and cafes.
Bringing your own water is highly recommended due to the heat. Picnics are generally allowed in designated areas.
Most local food stalls are popular with visitors and locals alike. It's always good practice to choose stalls that appear busy and clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The Bajang Ratu Gate and Candi Tikus offer iconic photo opportunities. The museum's artifacts and the general landscape of the ruins are also great for capturing the historical ambiance.
Generally, photography is allowed in most areas, including the outdoor ruins and the museum. However, always be respectful and avoid flash photography on delicate artifacts.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting, with softer shadows and a warmer glow, ideal for capturing the ancient brick structures.
Drone usage might be restricted for safety and preservation reasons. It's best to check with site management before flying a drone.
Try to capture the scale of the brick structures and the intricate details of the carvings to convey the grandeur of the Majapahit era.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more comfortable, bring plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting during cooler parts of the day. The open spaces allow children to move around, but always supervise them closely, especially near archaeological structures.
🤓 History Buffs & Enthusiasts
Consider hiring a local guide who can provide in-depth historical context and point out significant details you might otherwise miss. Reading up on the Negarakretagama and other historical accounts beforehand will greatly enrich your understanding.
📸 Photographers
+1Experiment with different angles to convey the scale and historical significance of the site. The museum also provides opportunities for detailed shots of artifacts, but be mindful of any flash restrictions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majapahit Empire: A Glimpse into Indonesia's Golden Age
Visiting Trowulan offers a tangible connection to this glorious past. You can explore the remnants of its capital city, wander through ancient temples, and marvel at artifacts that showcase the ingenuity and artistry of the Majapahit people. The Negarakretagama, an epic poem from the 14th century, provides valuable historical context, describing Trowulan as a sacred place and the heart of the kingdom.
Understanding the significance of Majapahit is key to appreciating Trowulan. It was a period of great unification and cultural development, laying foundations for the Indonesian nation. The archaeological site serves as a vital reminder of this heritage, allowing visitors to connect with a pivotal era in Indonesian history.
Exploring the Archaeological Wonders of Trowulan
+1The Museum Majapahit is central to the experience, housing a vast collection of excavated items. Here, you'll find pottery, tools, statues, and architectural fragments that offer insights into the daily lives, religious practices, and artistic achievements of the Majapahit people. While the collection is impressive, some visitors note that certain items could benefit from better preservation and more detailed English descriptions.
Beyond these main attractions, numerous smaller brick structures, foundations, and remnants of ancient roads dot the landscape. Exploring these lesser-known spots can feel like a treasure hunt, uncovering the layers of history that lie beneath the surface.
Preservation and Visitor Experience
Despite these challenges, the site remains a significant destination for history enthusiasts. The sheer scale of the ancient city and the tangible connection to the Majapahit Empire are undeniable draws. Many visitors express a deep sense of awe and a desire to return to further explore its historical depths.
Efforts are ongoing to preserve and enhance the visitor experience. The local government and archaeological bodies are working to protect the heritage while making it more accessible and informative for both domestic and international tourists.
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