Dubbed as the Niagara Falls of Indonesia, Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is a spot that nature lovers cannot miss during their travels in the Malang area.

Located at the district borders of Lumajang and Malang, the waterfall is approximately 120 meters tall on the base of Mount Semeru.  The location is famous for its mystical lore of finding true love if you shower under the waterfall inside a cave dubbed as Goa Tetes. Its picture-perfect panorama of land and waterfall is transported to another realm in the midst of a forest with tall forest-green trees in many flattering angles. Although getting to this spot is quite a workout, you need to go down the stairs that are as long as 800 metres. This mystical location is another reason why Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is arguably called one of the best waterfalls in Indonesia.

To get to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, it takes two hours to drive from Malang or seven hours from Surabaya. There are two entrances to Tumpak Sewu Waterfall, one from the East and another from the West, with respective ticket offices that charge Rp 10.000 to enter the site. The entrances have different levels of pathway trails to get to the waterfall.

Being the one from the West is harder, hiking down bamboo ladders. The one from the East is much more sloping, giving easier access to get to the site. There is a car park at each entrance at the site, which you will be charged for another Rp 10.000 – Rp 20.000. The site also offers guided tours to explore the waterfall and cave area.

Tumpak Sewu Waterfall is best visited during the dry season, May through November, as the area is very wet. It is recommended to wear suitable footwear, bring enough water and dress according to the terrain. It is also recommended to visit the site during the early morning, as there are not many tourists in the area, and the sun shines on the Waterfalls, giving a gleam in the waters that will reflect in pictures to share with your friends online!