Tumpak Sewu Waterfall in Java 2025

Tumpak Sewu, also known as Coban Sewu, is a breathtaking 120-meter waterfall in East Java, formed by the Glidih River originating from Mount Semeru. Its most striking feature is the "water curtain" effect, created by the wide, steady flow of water cascading down the cliff, giving the illusion of numerous smaller waterfalls. This natural spectacle perfectly reflects its Javanese name, which translates to "a thousand waterfalls."

Best Season

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, located in a scenic valley at 500 meters above sea level, is best visited between April and October during the dry season. During this period, the valley is lush, and visitors can also enjoy the sight and scent of Sidomulyo villagers harvesting and drying cloves. However, visiting during the wet season, particularly between November and March, is not recommended due to an increased risk of landslides. Heavy rains can also make river crossings dangerous, requiring a local guide for safe passage. To avoid the large crowds, it’s advised to visit early in the day, as the waterfall tends to get crowded later, especially during the rainy months.

Getting There

Tumpak Sewu, or Coban Sewu, is located in the Lumajang Regency of East Java, Indonesia, within the Pronojiwo District, and is easily accessible through Sidomulyo Village. It is about 122 km from Surabaya and 31 km from Lumajang City. The best way to visit is through a day trip from Malang, which is around 70 km away and takes about 2-3 hours by car. Visitors can also rent a motorbike (60,000-80,000 IDR per day) or hire a private driver to reach the waterfall. For accommodation, you can stay in Malang for 2-3 days or opt for lodging in Lumajang, the nearest town to the waterfall.

Open Hours

Air Terjun Tumpak Sewu is open for visitors from 7 am to 5 pm. During this time, tourists can explore the stunning waterfall, its surroundings, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Tickets & Parking

The entrance fee to the Tumpak Sewu panoramic viewpoint is 20,000 IDR (approximately 1.30 USD) per person, and an additional 10,000 IDR (around 0.65 USD) is required to visit the base of the waterfall. For parking, it costs 5,000 IDR (0.35 USD) for motorbikes and 10,000 IDR (0.65 USD) for cars. Visitors can also hire a local guide at the entrance. The entrance fee to Goa Tetes Waterfall is 10,000 IDR (0.65 USD). Please note that both the entrance fees and the cost for local guides are payable in cash only.

Viewpoint & Hiking

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall can be accessed from two sides of the canyon: the west side (from Malang) and the east side (from Lumajang). The Lumajang side is the more popular route. Start your visit by heading to the viewpoint to get a panoramic view of the waterfall. After enjoying the scenery, begin the hike down to the base, which typically takes around 45 minutes.

The trail involves stone steps, metal steps, wet rocks, and wading through water, so expect to get wet. The mist from the waterfall and muddy paths make it a challenging yet rewarding experience. Visitors often line up for photos on rocks offering the best views of the falls. For a more adventurous experience, you can extend your hike to the nearby Goa Tetes (Dripping Caves), which is about 20-30 minutes further down the trail.

Safety Tips

When visiting Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, it's essential to come prepared for the hike. Wear hiking sandals, as the trail is wet and slippery, making sturdy footwear important for safety. Protect your camera lens with a polarized filter to reduce glare from the water, and be sure to bring a lens cleaner to keep your equipment dry. While swimming is not allowed, a light raincoat will help keep you comfortable if you get wet from the waterfall’s mist. Additionally, pack mosquito repellent to protect yourself from bugs, and water shoes are recommended for wading through the streams along the trail.

Nearby Attractions

In addition to admiring the stunning Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, visitors can explore various activities nearby. A trek to the Goa Tetes Waterfall offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to connect with nature. For those seeking adventure, river activities like tubing and rafting are available in the area. Sidomulyo Village, located just a few kilometers away, provides a chance to experience local culture. Visitors can explore traditional homes, observe clove harvesting, and sample local pastries and snacks. The village also offers a glimpse into rural life and its charming sunsets, creating a perfect cultural and scenic experience.