Coban Rondo is a waterfall in Batu, Malang, East Java. It is located on the slope of Mount Banyak, 1135 m above sea level. Coban Rondo features an 84 m high waterfall surrounded by a sprawl of tropical greens. From Malang downtown, it only takes an hour to get here.
So far due to its close proximity, Coban Rondo Waterfall has been the local favorite escape. Away from the city’s hustle and bustle. “The waterfall of a widow” is literally the meaning of Coban rondo. The name is originally inspired by the local legend.
People say the story begins when a newlywed couple goes traveling. But they suddenly faced an enemy who desired the woman. The wife, Anjasmara, ran to the waterfall to hide. While the husband fought the enemy. Unfortunately, the husband lost and died.
Leaving the now-widowed wife mourning for the rest of her life. It’s hard to believe that the waterfall has a tragic story. Since now it’s practically a lively place. Opened in 1980, the waterfall continues to be one of the most visited destinations in Malang.
A labyrinth garden was recently just built to offer more excitement. The pine forest nearby is also a favorite spot for camping, biking, and other outdoor activities.
Coban Rondo Waterfall Strong Water
Flowing from a spring Cemoro Mudo, water flows down heavily from the 84 meters canyon. The water discharge reaches 90 liters per second in the dry season. In the rainy season, it can reach 150 liters per second. In short, the waterfall is beautifully powerful.
Perhaps this is the reason why there’s a yellow line sign. Prohibiting tourists to get too close to the water. The high cliff combines with a strong force of water. Making the area prone to a landslide.
However, do not be discouraged to explore the waterfall. There’s a small river where the water continues to flow. Take a plunge here to taste the chilly mountain water.
Fun Tubing
Apart from swimming, the river is fun for tubing. For readers who might not know. Tubing is an activity where a person is strapped on a tire and then glides through the river currents. Imagine one-person rafting – it’s pretty much like that. And since Coban Rondo’s river is by no means calm, expect the same excitement as if it is real rafting.
The New Coban Rondo Labyrinth
Solve the puzzle at the labyrinth of Coban Rondo. The walls here are 2-meter height and the maze is quite challenging. Find the way to the prize, a fountain with a koi pond in the middle of the labyrinth. The route here is always changing every two weeks.
So forget about looking for a cheat sheet on the internet. However, there’s a viewing tower nearby if visitors want to take a peak.
Outdoor Activities
At Coban Rondo, there is no shortage of activities to do here. A zip line hangs across the labyrinth. For anyone who prefers sliding down into the maze, rather than solving it.
Coban Rondo also has an arena for paintball and archery. Depending on people’s preference, pick either a gun or a bow. Both offer an equal amount of fun anyway.
Animal lovers can meet deer and monkeys who live around the area. Pet and feed the deer but be careful with the monkeys. Monkeys are mischievous and they do not hesitate to steal. Coban Rondo was once filled with these primates. Sadly their number has been declining significantly.
Exploring Coban Forest
The pine trees here invite forest exploration. Thanks to the paved road. Visitors can forget muddy difficult tracks and instead, can focus on the scenery. Rent an ATV to get around the area faster. An ATV costs Rp30.000 to rent. A slower but healthier way to explore the forest is by bike.
It is also cheaper as a bike’s rental fee is only Rp5.000. Along the way, meet and greet the locals who are working in their field. There’s also an apple farm nearby. During the harvesting season, tourists are more than welcome to join an apple-picking party.
See: Guide To Explore Coban Pelangi & Entrance Ticket.
Coban Rondo Waterfall Opening Hours
Although its open daily for 24 hours. The attractions are mostly open from 7 AM to 7 PM. There’s a parking fee, Rp10.000 for cars and Rp4.000 for motorcycles.
| Coban Rondo Waterfall Opening Hours | |
| Monday – Sunday | Open 24 Hours |
| Ticket Counter | 07:00 – 17:00 |
See: Goa China Beach Malang, Caving & Guide.
Coban Rondo Waterfall Entrance Fee
Coban Rondo’s ticket already includes all the attractions on the site. The weekday entrance fee costs Rp35.000 and Rp40.000 on weekend. The attraction beside the waterfall are games and rides and also the labyrinth.
| Coban Rondo Entrance Fee | |
| Weekday | Rp35.000 |
| Weekend | Rp40.000 |
| Camping Fee | Rp20.000 |
| Parking Fee | Rp4.000 motorcycle / Rp10.000 car |
See: Three Colors Beach, Malang, Trekking to Conservation Area.
Facilities
Coban Rondo provides many facilities for tourists. The parking space is spacious. It is surrounded by a row of food vendors and souvenir stalls. Other basic facilities include toilets and an information center. The road toward the waterfall is paved, providing easy access and also wheelchair-friendly.
See: SIM Card Guide, Internet Data Price & Coverage.
How To Get To Coban Rondo
Tourists can rent a motorbike from a rental nearby Malang Station. And it cost Rp60.000 for a day. With private vehicles, the waterfall is a straight drive from Malang to Trunojoyo Street for the first 22 km. Once arriving at the Trunojoyo intersection, go the left lane heading toward Mount Banyak.
Follow the winding mountain road for 5 km to get to Coban Rondo Waterfall. Using public transport minivan, take ADL/AL van from either Malang Railway Station or Malang Bus Station. Stop at Landungsari Terminal then continue with BJL van heading to Batu.
Get off in front of Jatim Park 2 and change into a van with route Batu-Kesambon. Ask the driver to stop near the waterfall entrance.
See: Surabaya Airport Guide & Public Transportation.
Address & Location
The waterfall is located in Jl. Coban Rondo, Krajan, Pandesari, Pujon, Malang, East Java 65391.
