Indonesia travel: 5 Things to do in Solo, Central Java

Next to Jogja (or Yogyakarta) as the cultural heart of Indonesia, Solo (or Surakarta) in Central Java is as important and strategic. It is tidy, clean, and neat. It is the unofficial model city where urban planning is applied even better than Jakarta. Bound for a quick business trip in Solo? You’ll end up wanting to stay longer for pleasure. We show you the 5 things to do if you find yourself on route to this charming city:

1. Staying in boutique hotels with a local flavour

Roemahkoe Heritage Hotel B&B in Laweyan area is a nostalgic and well-preserved Art Deco house with only 13 rooms. “Roemahkoe” means “my house”, and the name is well-justified by the homey atmosphere, the simplicity, and the kindness of the staff. Rumah Turi has a strong green concept. The 18 rooms will provide a calming stay completed with healthy food and refreshing environment. Omah Sinten  is located in the heart of the city. Its gallant Javanese architecture provides only 10 rooms, all dressed in traditional style. The restaurant is among the best in town, and serves local dishes.

2. Witnessing the mystical dance

Many stories wrap the origin of Bedhoyo Dance. It is said that the dance was created by The Goddess of South Sea around the 16^th century for the reigning King Senopati. The dance should be performed by nine female dancers who are still virgin and pure at heart. The choreography reflects the slow movements of stars in the wide universe. When done flawlessly on the right day according to the Javanese calendar, it is said that audience can notice the tenth dancer joining the troop, and she is none other but The Goddess of South Sea herself.

3. Street delights

Driving to the south of Mangkunegaran Palace will lead to Jalan Teuku Umar where cars are parked and people crowd the small kiosk of Nasi Liwet Wongso Lemu. The fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and served with shredded chicken, egg, and tumeric-cooked tofu comes in a folded banana leaf. Also not to miss is Serabi Solo Notosuman in Jalan Muhammad Yamin. The snack is made of coconut milk, pandan leaves, eggs, and sugar, topped with either chocolate or cheese, and cooked using charcoal. Yes, it’s very touristic, but none can deny its delight. As the night falls, locals usually hang out in Shi Jack outlets all across the town. Shi Jack serves fresh warm milk. The milk can be mixed with ginger, raw eggs, honey, and many more. It’s a unique experience that blends visitors with locals alike.

4. Hunting for Batik

There are two Batik villages in Solo; Kauman and Laweyan. Both are worth a visit to grab original Batik Tulis – or handpainted Batik – with classic Javanese patterns. Authentic Batik Tulis from Solo is dominated by the colours of black and chocolate. Patterns are usually geometrical. Learn more about Batik and observe the precious collections in House of Danar Hadi.

5. Exploring the traditional market

Pasar Gede Harjonagoro is the biggest traditional market in Solo, and the very heart of the city. Fresh produce, poultry, meat and other daily needs merge with food stalls. Among the most popular is Es Dawet Telasih Bu Dermi, or Mrs. Dermi’s milk-based iced desserts with sliced jackfruits and coconuts. Outside the market, do not miss Timlo Sastro stall where people flock for breakfast since as early as 06.30 am. Timlo is a bowl of warm clear soup containing glass noodle, chicken, sliced eggs, and chicken liver.

Ve Handojo

This post was written with the collaboration & support of the Ministry of Tourism Indonesia. Air Asia offers the best connectivity to Indonesia, check out their 15 destinations here!