For those who frequently travel between Malang and Surabaya or vice versa by train, the Arjuno Express Train is likely a familiar option. This train had previously ceased operations but is now active again, providing an alternative alongside the Penataran and Tumapel trains to Surabaya-Malang or vice versa.
For your information, the Arjuno Express Train initially offered services from Madiun to Surabaya and vice versa, utilizing KRDE (diesel-electric railcar) and KRDI (Indonesian diesel railcar). It was first tested in 2012 during the annual mass travel (mudik), transporting passengers for free.
However, around four years later in 2016, the Arjuno Express Train ceased operations. It wasn't until March 2019 that it resumed operations, but with a different and shorter route than before – the Malang-Surabaya route and vice versa. This change was initially aimed at reducing the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The reborn Arjuno Express Train was launched by PT KAI Daerah Operasi (Daop) 8 Surabaya and commenced operations on March 19, 20, 21, and 22, 2019. The train covers a distance of approximately 93 kilometers and can complete the journey in about 2 hours.
During the initial departures in March 2019, the passenger capacity was not 100% to comply with health protocols. Therefore, out of the total available seats, only a maximum of 280 passengers were allowed, whereas there could be 400 passengers under normal circumstances.
In addition to the partial passenger occupancy, passengers on the Arjuno Express Train were also required to adhere to health protocols, such as wearing masks and being encouraged to wear long clothing or jackets.
The Arjuno Express Train is a short-distance executive class train with 8 carriages in one journey. Each carriage has 50 single seats that can be reclined and rotated. The seats are blue, enhancing the overall comfort of the journey.
Aside from passenger carriages, the Arjuno Express Train also includes 1 dining carriage and 1 generator carriage, making a total of 10 carriages in one journey.
The route taken by the Arjuno Express Train includes Surabaya Gubeng-Wonokromo-Waru-Sidoarjo, Bangil, Lawang, and Malang. Despite passing through these stations, it only stops at a few stations: Sidoarjo, Lawang, and concludes in Kota Bunga, Malang. Occasionally, it may also stop at Waru Station for the Gubeng-Malang route.
The Arjuno Express Train falls into the category of facultative trains, meaning it operates on specific days according to demand. The departure schedule for the Arjuno Express Train is not daily; it only runs on weekends, specifically on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. This schedule has been in effect since September 2023.
As for ticket prices from Malang to Surabaya on the Arjuno Express Train, they range from Rp50,000 to Rp110,000, depending on the chosen executive class. In a day, this train makes one round trip between Malang and Surabaya.
For those planning to choose the Arjuno Express Train, here is its departure schedule for the Surabaya Gubeng to Malang route:
1. Departure Schedule for Arjuno Express Gubeng (SGU) - Malang (MLG)
Train |
Stations |
Departure |
Arrival |
Arjuno Ekspres (83F) |
Gubeng |
09.35 |
- |
Waru |
09.48 | ||
Sidoarjo |
10.13 | ||
Lawang |
11.13 | ||
Malang |
- |
11.37 |
Train |
Stations |
Departure |
Arrival |
Arjuno Ekspres (84F) |
Malang |
05.25 |
- |
Lawang |
05.53 | ||
Sidorajo |
07.03 | ||
Gubeng |
- |
07.27 |
The seating arrangement on the Arjuno Express Train is 2-2 (AB-CD). Passengers do not face each other, but the seats can be rotated and adjusted for comfort. Various facilities have been added to enhance the passengers' comfort during the trip.
Some of the facilities offered here include a security system with CCTV, spacious and flexible footrests, illuminated evacuation routes in the dark, smoke detectors, televisions, and air conditioning. Each seat also has an overhead luggage rack, a small table, power outlets for charging phones, and reading lights.
Passengers on this train can travel more comfortably by renting pillows and blankets. The train's toilets are also very clean, and there are cleanliness staff members who consistently maintain the hygiene of the carriage. Additionally, each seat is provided with a trash bag for temporary waste disposal.
Like most types of trains, although the Arjuno Express Train is facultative, it can be easily booked through various online applications, including trusted accommodation apps like Traveloka. Just a simple booking on your phone, and your journey will be comfortable and unforgettable.