Semarang to Bandung

The return run, roughly 450km from Semarang Tawang to Bandung in around seven hours. Two named trains cover it direct: the Ciremai, which starts at Semarang Tawang, and the Harina, which comes through Semarang on its way from Surabaya Pasarturi to Bandung.

The route. The line runs west along the flat north coast through Pekalongan, Tegal and Cirebon to Cikampek, then turns south and climbs through Purwakarta into the Priangan highlands. Save your window seat for the last couple of hours: the train crosses the Cisomang bridge high above a wooded gorge before running through Padalarang and Cimahi into Bandung.

Which train? The Ciremai begins its journey at Tawang, so it is usually on time leaving Semarang. The Harina has already covered the stretch from Surabaya by the time it reaches you, and runs in both the morning and the evening. Both carry eksekutif and premium ekonomi carriages.

Getting to the station. Semarang Tawang is at the edge of Kota Lama; Semarang Poncol, a short distance west, is also a calling point for the Ciremai. If you are coming from Solo, the Banyubiru gets you to Tawang in about two hours (see Solo to Semarang).

Times on both trains change between timetables. Check current departures and fares in Access by KAI before you book.