Discover the best tourist destinations in Ambarawa that combine natural beauty, history, and exciting activities for a memorable vacation.
Ambarawa, a small town located at the foot of Mount Merbabu, Central Java, offers a variety of fascinating tourist attractions, from rich historical destinations to stunning natural scenery.
Famous for its cool air and green mountain views, Ambarawa offers a tourist experience that combines nature, culture, and history. Here are 10 interesting Tourist Attractions in Ambarawa that you must visit to get an unforgettable holiday experience.
1. Pendem Fort / Fort Willem I
Fort Willem I, better known as Benteng Pendem, is one of the historical tourist destinations you must visit in Ambarawa.
Built in 1834 by the Dutch as a defensive fort, the location of this fort gives visitors a glimpse into life during the colonial era. The term “pendem” comes from Javanese which means buried, referring to the position of the fort which is partially covered by earth.
In addition to being a historical tourist spot, most of the fort area is now used as a prison and military barracks. Benteng Pendem is also very close to the Ambarawa Railway Museum, allowing visitors to visit these two historical destinations in one trip.
2. Ambarawa Railway Museum
Railway Museum is a prime destination for history and railway enthusiasts. Previously, this station was a place for transporting Dutch troops to Semarang, but now functions as a museum that exhibits various collections of classic locomotives and railway antiques.
Visitors can experience a unique experience by joining the “Ambarawa Railway Mountain Tour”, a journey using a steam train that offers two different routes, namely Ambarawa-Bedono (35 km) and Ambarawa-Tuntang (7 km).
This museum not only provides insight into the history of railways, but also offers stunning views of the surrounding natural surroundings, making it a suitable destination for educational and adventure tourism.
3. Pening Swamp
Rawa Pening is a large lake that covers several sub-districts in Semarang Regency, including Ambarawa. The lake covers an area of 2,670 hectares, and offers peaceful natural scenery and fresh air.
The name “Pening” comes from the Javanese word “wening” which means calm or peaceful, reflecting the atmosphere around the lake.
Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the lake by renting a boat, or walking around enjoying the scenery. During the dry season, the northern part of the lake will dry up and reveal a beautiful savanna.
From here, you can also see Mount Merbabu, Mount Ungaran, and Mount Telomoyo surrounding the lake, creating an extraordinary view.
4. Ambarawa Battlefield Monument
The Ambarawa Battle Monument was built to commemorate the great battle that took place on 12-15 December 1945 between the Indonesian TKR (People’s Security Army) troops and the Allied forces.
This battle ended with the victory of the TKR troops under the leadership of Colonel Soedirman, and became one of the important moments in the struggle for Indonesian independence.
This monument was inaugurated in 1974 and is now a place that stores various historical objects, including war weapons and Mustang planes used by the Dutch army.
For visitors interested in the history of Indonesian independence, the Palagan Monument is a very informative and meaningful place.
5. Swamp Village
Kampoeng Rawa is a floating tourist attraction located in the Rawa Pening Lake area. Established in 2012, Kampoeng Rawa offers a unique tourism experience with various facilities, such as floating restaurants and exciting water activities.
Visitors can enjoy various activities such as playing jet skis, riding rubber boats, or going around on wooden boats.
Kampoeng Rawa is managed by the local community, most of whom are farmers and fishermen. Visitors can experience the daily life of the local people while enjoying the views and culinary specialties served at this floating restaurant.
6. Clear Mind
Eling Bening is one of the new tourist attractions that comes with a resort concept that offers beautiful views and cool mountain air.
Located in Bawen, Semarang, this place provides complete facilities such as restaurants, swimming pools, and Instagrammable photo spots. From here, you can enjoy the panorama of Lake Rawa Pening and Mount Merbabu which looks majestic in the distance.
Eling Bening is suitable for family vacations, couples, or anyone who wants to relax while enjoying delicious dishes. With various facilities available, this place is one of the must-visit destinations in Ambarawa.
7. Kerep Ambarawa Mary Cave
Gua Maria Kerep Ambarawa (GMKA) is a very important pilgrimage destination for Catholics, but is also interesting for general tourists.
Located at the foot of Mount Telomoyo, GMKA has a 42-meter-high statue of Maria Lourdes which is the icon of this place. Every week, many Catholics come on pilgrimage, but this place also offers extraordinary natural views.
Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of this place while enjoying the views of Mount Telomoyo and Mount Merbabu. For those who want to feel peace, Gua Maria Kerep is the perfect place.
8. Semirang Waterfall
Semirang Waterfall is one of the most famous natural attractions in Ambarawa. Located on the slopes of Mount Merbabu, this waterfall offers a very beautiful view, especially during the rainy season when the water discharge is quite large.
Surrounded by tropical forests and large rocks, the atmosphere around this waterfall is very beautiful and calming.
Semirang Waterfall is an ideal place for trekking, enjoying nature, or simply relaxing amidst refreshing greenery.
9. The Fountain Water Park
The Fountain Water Park is a water park that is suitable for families. Located in the center of Ambarawa, this place offers various swimming pools with complete facilities such as slides and children’s pools.
With affordable ticket prices and fun facilities, The Fountain Water Park is the perfect choice for fun with the family.
In addition to playing in the water, visitors can also enjoy various other facilities provided by the management, making it a family-friendly tourist spot.
10. Gedong Songo Temple
Gedong Songo Temple is a temple complex located in Ambarawa, and is a very interesting historical site.
This temple is estimated to have been built in the 9th century and is located in a mountainous area that offers stunning natural views.
Apart from visiting the temples, visitors can also rent horses to ride around the temple complex, providing a unique and enjoyable experience.
Gedong Songo Temple is an ideal place to combine historical tourism with natural beauty.
Ambarawa is a city full of natural beauty, history, and culture. With a variety of interesting tourist attractions that offer a variety of experiences, from historical tours to nature adventures, Ambarawa is a suitable destination for family vacations or personal adventures.
Additionally, exploring Things to do Ungaran will provide even more opportunities to enjoy breathtaking nature, cultural sites, and local delicacies. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this city and enjoy its beauty and heritage!
