
One day trip – Explore Majapahit Heritage at Trowulan: A Journey Back in Time

Have you ever wondered about the powerful empires that once shaped the history of Indonesia? Have you heard of the legendary Majapahit Empire, a kingdom that unified the archipelago and whose influence stretched far beyond its borders? If not, or even if you have, join us for an unforgettable One day trip – Explore Majapahit Heritage at Trowulan.
Trowulan is more than just a site; it’s the historical heart of the Majapahit Empire. Located on the border of Mojokerto and Jombang districts, this sprawling archaeological area is believed to be the capital city of this great kingdom. Here, you’ll find a trove of historical relics that tell the story of a golden age in Indonesian history. From grand temple complexes and ancient bathing pools to a magnificent museum filled with precious artifacts, we will bring the past to life with our knowledgeable tour guide. This trip is your chance to step back in time, walk in the footsteps of kings and queens, and forge a deeper connection with the rich history of the Indonesian nation.
This convenient one-day tour from Surabaya is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone looking for a unique and educational weekend activity. You can join whether you’re traveling solo or with a friend, and you’ll be sure to meet new, like-minded people who share your passion for discovery.
Unearthing the Glory of Majapahit: The Trowulan Legacy
The Majapahit Empire (c. 1293–1527) was one of the most powerful and influential kingdoms in Southeast Asian history. At its peak, under the reign of its most celebrated king, Hayam Wuruk, and his powerful prime minister, Gajah Mada, the empire’s influence extended across the archipelago and beyond. Trowulan is where this immense power resided. Archaeological excavations here have unearthed a vast complex of royal residences, temples, and daily artifacts, painting a vivid picture of a sophisticated and prosperous society.
Our tour will provide an intimate look into this historical marvel. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the empire’s social structure, religious practices, and architectural achievements. Our expert guide will narrate the stories behind each site, from the legendary tales of kings to the daily lives of Majapahit citizens. This is a journey that will enrich your understanding of Indonesia’s cultural roots.
The Ultimate One-Day Itinerary: A Journey Through Time
This one-day trip is a seamless and efficient way to explore the highlights of Trowulan’s historical wonders.
06:00 – 08:00 AM: The Journey Begins Our historical expedition starts promptly at 6:00 AM from our designated meeting point at Jatim Expo in Surabaya. After a brief introduction and a quick safety check, we’ll embark on our comfortable, air-conditioned transportation. The drive to Trowulan is quick and easy, taking approximately 1.5 hours. You can relax, enjoy the morning scenery of East Java, and get ready for a day of historical immersion.
08:00 – 10:00 AM: Candi Brahu & A Rustic Breakfast Our first stop upon arriving at Trowulan will be Candi Brahu. As the largest and most well-preserved temple in the area, its intricate red brick structure is a magnificent sight to behold. It’s believed that this temple was a royal cremation site for the early kings of Majapahit. After exploring the temple and learning about its history, we’ll enjoy a delicious and authentic rustic breakfast at a nearby local eatery, savoring the simple flavors of the countryside.
10:00 – 12:00 PM: The Majesty of Segaran Pool & Trowulan Museum From Candi Brahu, we’ll continue to the vast Segaran Pool. This ancient reservoir is an impressive piece of engineering, measuring a staggering 800 by 500 meters. According to legend, it was used as a public bathing area for the royal family and as a training ground for the Majapahit army. The serene atmosphere of the pool provides a perfect backdrop for a moment of quiet reflection.
Just a short walk from the pool, we’ll enter the Trowulan Museum. This is the heart of the site’s archaeological discoveries. The museum houses a comprehensive collection of artifacts, including pottery, bronze tools, and magnificent terracotta sculptures. You’ll get to see the real relics of the Majapahit Empire, from the famous Majapahit figurines to household items and ancient coins.
12:00 – 01:00 PM: Lunch & A Moment to Relax After our museum visit, we’ll enjoy a satisfying lunch served on the beautiful grounds of the museum. This is a perfect opportunity to rest and recharge before the afternoon’s adventures.
01:00 – 02:00 PM: The Elegance of Bajang Ratu Temple Our next destination is the elegant Bajang Ratu Temple. Its name, which means “Premature King,” holds a fascinating story. Legend says it was built to honor King Jayanegara, who was a child when he ascended to the throne. The temple’s beautiful, ornate gate is a popular spot for photographers and a testament to the advanced architectural skills of the Majapahit era.
02:00 – 03:00 PM: The Humble Beauty of Candi Tikus Finally, we will visit Candi Tikus. The name, meaning “Temple of Rats,” comes from the fact that it was discovered buried beneath a mound that had become a rat’s nest. But don’t let the name fool you. This temple is a beautiful and intricate miniature complex built below ground level. Its tiered layout and charming statuary are a unique sight and provide a glimpse into the hydraulic systems and religious practices of the time.
03:00 – 05:00 PM: The Return Journey With our exploration complete, we’ll board our transportation for the return journey to Surabaya. The drive back is a perfect time to reflect on the historical wonders we’ve seen and the stories we’ve heard. We will arrive back at the meeting point in the early evening, concluding our immersive One day trip – Explore Majapahit Heritage at Trowulan.
Essential Information for Your Trip
What’s Included:
- Round-trip transportation from Surabaya to Trowulan.
- A professional driver and a knowledgeable tour guide.
- A complimentary bottle of mineral water for each participant.
- A delicious breakfast and lunch.
- All entrance fees to the destinations mentioned in the itinerary.
What’s Excluded:
- Transportation to and from the meeting point in Surabaya.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses (e.g., snacks, souvenirs).
- Professional documentation (photos/videos).
Important Notes:
- Departure Time: Every Sunday at 6:00 AM.
- Meeting Point: Jatim Expo, Jl. Ahmad Yani, Surabaya.
- Minimum Quota: A minimum of 5 participants is required for the trip to proceed.
- Non-Indonesian Citizens: An additional fee of IDR 50,000 will be charged.
This One day trip – Explore Majapahit Heritage at Trowulan is a unique opportunity to connect with Indonesia’s glorious past in a convenient and comfortable way. We handle all the logistics so you can focus on the history, the beauty, and the adventure.
Ready to start your journey back in time? Book your spot now!