Candi Kidal Tumpang
An ancient 13th-century Hindu temple in Tumpang, Malang, dedicated to King Anusapati, featuring unique Garuda reliefs and serene grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Candi Kidal Tumpang
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient 13th-century Hindu temple in Tumpang, Malang, dedicated to King Anusapati, featuring unique Garuda reliefs and serene grounds.
"Nice, well-maintained small temple in the kampung. Worth a visit if you are in the area."
📚 Research Before You Go
Limited on-site info; learn about King Anusapati & Singhasari Kingdom beforehand.
👟 Respect the Heritage
Please do not touch or step on the candi. Keep kids supervised.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Garuda Relief
Temple walls
Marvel at the unique Garuda relief, a distinctive feature not found in other temples, showcasing intricate Javanese artistry.
Temple Architecture
Main sanctuary
Admire the blend of Hindu and Javanese architectural styles, reflecting the rich heritage of the Majapahit Kingdom.
Serene Temple Grounds
Temple complex
Enjoy the clean, well-maintained garden and peaceful ambiance, perfect for quiet contemplation and a break from city life.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Candi Kidal
Understanding Candi Kidal's History
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Research Before You Go
Limited on-site info; learn about King Anusapati & Singhasari Kingdom beforehand.
👟 Respect the Heritage
Please do not touch or step on the candi. Keep kids supervised.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Accessible from Malang city with a dedicated parking area.
📸 Capture the Serenity
The well-organized garden offers beautiful photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Research Before You Go
Limited on-site info; learn about King Anusapati & Singhasari Kingdom beforehand.
👟 Respect the Heritage
Please do not touch or step on the candi. Keep kids supervised.
🚗 Easy Access & Parking
Accessible from Malang city with a dedicated parking area.
📸 Capture the Serenity
The well-organized garden offers beautiful photo opportunities.
☕ Nearby Cafes
Enjoy a relaxing break at @pawon_godhong.gedang with traditional food and cool views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Candi Kidal to be a well-maintained, serene historical site with unique architectural features like the Garuda relief. While some note limited information available on-site, its peaceful ambiance and easy accessibility from Malang make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in Indonesian heritage.
"I short stop on our way to the museum. Nice temple area, quiet.. I wish I'd find some more information about this temple. ..."
Ralf K
"Nice, well-maintained small temple in the kampung. Worth a visit if you are in the area. Some limited information about this history."
Kate Parkin
"Candi Kidal is an ancient temple located in East Java, Indonesia. Believed to have been built during the 13th century, it is a Hindu temple that reflects the architectural style of the Majapahit Kingdom. The temple features intricate carvings and is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.
Candi Kidal is known for its unique blend of architectural elements, combining both Hindu and Javanese artistic styles. The temple consists of a main sanctuary, called the garbhagriha, and is surrounded by smaller structures. The carvings on the temple walls depict scenes from Hindu epics, such as the Ramayana.
Despite the passage of time and weathering, Candi Kidal remains a significant historical and cultural site, attracting visitors interested in exploring Indonesia's rich heritage and ancient architectural marvels."
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What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Candi Kidal is located in Tumpang, Malang. It's easily accessible by car or motorbike from Malang city. The journey takes approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
While specific public transport routes might be less direct, local transport options like angkots (public minivans) can be used to reach Tumpang, from where you might need a short taxi or ojek (motorcycle taxi) ride to the candi.
There is a parking area available at Candi Kidal, though it can be limited during peak times.
No, Candi Kidal is located in Desa Rejokidal, Kecamatan Tumpang, Kabupaten Malang, which is a district outside of Malang city center.
Absolutely! Candi Kidal is a great addition to a day trip exploring historical sites in the Malang region, often combined with Candi Jago or other attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Candi Kidal is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check for any specific holiday hours.
There is typically a small entrance fee for Candi Kidal, which helps with the upkeep of the site.
Online booking for Candi Kidal is generally not required. Tickets can usually be purchased directly at the entrance.
Yes, Candi Kidal is a good place to introduce children to Indonesian heritage. However, ensure they are supervised and do not touch the ancient structures.
While official guided tours might not always be readily available, local guides may offer their services. It's also beneficial to do your own research beforehand due to limited on-site information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the ancient Hindu temple itself, featuring intricate carvings, especially the unique Garuda relief. The well-maintained garden also offers a pleasant environment.
A visit to Candi Kidal typically takes about 1-2 hours, allowing time to explore the temple and its surroundings.
Candi Kidal is generally less crowded than major tourist attractions, offering a more peaceful experience, especially if visited during off-peak hours.
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
Candi Kidal is significant as a 13th-century Hindu temple from the Singhasari Kingdom, built to honor King Anusapati and featuring unique architectural elements.
📸 📸 Photography
The temple's intricate carvings, especially the Garuda relief, and the serene garden provide excellent photo opportunities. The surrounding natural beauty also adds to the charm.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. However, avoid using flash photography inside the main sanctuary if it's accessible and be respectful of the historical site.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
Drone usage might be restricted due to its proximity to residential areas and potential impact on the historical site. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both the overall temple structure and detailed carvings. A wide-angle lens can be great for the grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to emphasize the historical significance and encourage respectful behavior. Remind children not to touch or climb on the ancient stones, turning the visit into a learning experience about preserving cultural treasures. The serene atmosphere also makes it a peaceful outing away from the usual hustle and bustle.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the unique Garuda relief and the blend of Hindu-Javanese artistic styles. While on-site information might be limited, researching the temple's dedication to King Anusapati and its connection to the Majapahit era beforehand will greatly enhance your appreciation of this historical marvel.
📸 Photographers
The intricate carvings, particularly the distinctive Garuda relief, offer excellent opportunities for detailed shots. The well-kept gardens and the temple's serene setting also provide beautiful backdrops for both architectural and landscape photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Candi Kidal
The temple's architecture is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Javanese artistic styles, reflecting the cultural fusion of the era. It's constructed from andesite stone and is known for its vertical, geometric dimensions. The intricate carvings adorning its walls depict scenes from Hindu epics, offering a glimpse into the religious beliefs and storytelling traditions of the 13th century.
One of the most distinctive features of Candi Kidal is its Garuda relief, a motif not commonly found in other temples of its kind. This unique element, along with its historical context as a royal memorial, makes Candi Kidal a crucial site for understanding the evolution of Javanese art, architecture, and religious practices during the Singhasari period.
Exploring Tumpang and Its Surroundings
Beyond historical monuments, Tumpang is also known for its natural beauty. Travelers can explore nearby waterfalls and natural springs, offering a refreshing contrast to the historical exploration. This makes Tumpang a well-rounded destination for those interested in history, culture, and nature.
For a more contemporary experience, Tumpang also boasts aesthetic cafes like @kavcoffe.24 and traditional eateries such as @pawon_godhong.gedang. These spots provide opportunities to relax, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the scenic views after a day of sightseeing.
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