About the Singasari Heritage
The Singasari Kingdom was one of the most important kingdoms in East Java during the 13th century. This kingdom is famous for King Kertanegara, who once wanted to unite the archipelago under the Singasari banner. Although this vision was not realised, it was carried forward by the kingdom that came after, Majapahit. The Singasari Heritage includes the Singasari Temple, a major archaeological site and a symbol of its past glory. You can also find most of the historical collections, including artefacts, inscriptions and other items, at the Singasari Museum, where they are carefully preserved. The historical sites of the Singasari Kingdom are particularly appealing to tourists interested in the archipelago’s history, especially its medieval kingdoms.
Location & How To Get There
It is in the Singasari subdistrict (North Malang), which was once the capital of the Singasari Kingdom. It is about 12 kilometres from the centre of Malang. To get there, it’s best to rent a motorbike or car. You can rent these near the Malang train station. Or you can book a private tour (to any place you like).
Operational Hours & Admission Fee
The Singasari Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays (Monday to Friday). The Singasari Temple is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day.
It is free to get in. You can visit both locations for free. You only need to pay for parking if you bring a car.
Interesting Things About Singasari Heritage
The heritage sites of Singasari, including the Singasari Temple and Museum, offer many fascinating things to explore. Starting with:
Singasari Temple. Most temples follow either Hindu or Buddhist traditions (but not both). Singasari Temple is different because it is a mix of both.
Singasari Museum. Inside, there are many artefacts from the Singasari Kingdom, ranging from statues to everyday tools, weapons (keris, arrows), vehicles, and more.
History of the Kingdom. At the Singasari Museum, a model shows the history of the Singasari Kingdom. You can also see the royal family’s history on the walls. It’s really interesting to take a look. There’s an interesting story known as the “Kidung Panji Margasmara.”
Activities You Can Do at Singasari Heritage
Take a tour of the area’s history. At the Singasari Museum, some guides will show you around and explain the history. There are no tour guides at the temple, but you can explore on your own.
Take photos. There are lots of great places to take photos, but the best ones are at the temple. The temple isn’t big, but it’s impressive enough to be a great place to take photos.
While you’re there, you can also learn about the history of East Java and the influence of Hindu-Buddhist culture during that era, especially during the Singasari Kingdom.
Culinary tour: There are lots of stalls around the temple selling local food. Take the opportunity to chat with them, they might know some folk tales.
Useful Tips
- As for what to bring, there is nothing specific. Make sure you know what the weather is like in Indonesia. If not, be sure to bring sunscreen.
- The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon, but not too late in the day, when the lighting is good, and it’s not too hot. You can visit museums in the afternoon and then go to temples and other historical sites in the evening.
- Please follow the correct rules of behaviour. You must not damage historical artefacts. You can’t climb the temple structures.
- If you don’t have a car, make sure you have a way to get back.
Additional Facilities
The facilities at both locations are quite good. There is parking, food stalls, public toilets, gazebos, and places to rest. At the museum, there are local guides who will be happy to show you around.
