Indonesia's Top 5 Longest Train Routes, Exceeding 1,000 KM

Indonesian Railways (PT Kereta Api Indonesia (Persero), hereafter KAI) is expanding its long-distance train services connecting cities across Java. Notably, the five longest routes, each exceeding 1,000 kilometers, are gaining attention. These routes offer not just transportation but also the appeal of a "journey" to enjoy the changing landscapes from urban areas to green rice fields and mountains viewed from the train windows. Anne Purba, Vice President of Corporate Communication at KAI, stated, "The diverse long-distance train routes provide the public with many inter-city travel options, including services exceeding 1,000 kilometers. Each train has different travel characteristics, stops, and destinations, allowing people to choose services according to their needs, whether for holidays, visiting family, work, education, or business." The top five longest routes are as follows: 1. KA Blambangan Ekspres (Pasar Senen–Ketapang): Approximately 1,030 km. It served 533,988 passengers in 2025 and 247,142 passengers in the first half of 2026. 2. KA Sangkuriang (Bandung–Ketapang): Approximately 1,002 km. It transported 133,119 passengers from May to June 2026. 3. KA Pandalungan (Gambir–Jember): Approximately 919 km. It served 409,200 passengers in 2025 and 211,325 passengers in the first half of 2026. 4. KA Gajayana (Gambir–Malang): Approximately 904 km. It served 308,106 passengers in 2025 and 162,379 passengers in the first half of 2026. 5. KA Gaya Baru Malam Selatan (Pasar Senen–Surabaya Gubeng): Approximately 825 km. It served 389,736 passengers in 2025 and 198,582 passengers in the first half of 2026. These long-distance routes connect a wide range of areas, from Jakarta to Banyuwangi at the eastern tip of Java, or from Bandung to Banyuwangi, and from Jakarta to Jember and Malang. KA Blambangan Ekspres, in particular, passes through cities along the north and east coast of Java, improving access to various tourist destinations such as Ijen Crater, Alas Purwo National Park in Banyuwangi, and Ketapang Port, a gateway to Bali. Furthermore, the operation of long-distance trains is expected to stimulate local economic activities, including secondary transportation, accommodation, dining, and souvenir shops utilized by passengers at stations. KAI recommends that passengers check schedules and ticket information in advance, arrive at the station with ample time, and take care of their luggage. Source: Liputan6