Mataram Train, a Weekend Travel Companion to Solo, a City Growing More Popular Among Tourists
Weekends always provide an opportunity to take a break from daily routines. Some people choose to experience a new atmosphere, sample regional culinary specialties, explore cultural destinations, or simply enjoy a relaxing journey with family. For customers looking to spend their weekend this way, the Mataram Train offers an attractive travel option to the city of Solo.
The Mataram Train serves the Pasarsenen–Solo Balapan route via Bekasi, Cirebon Prujakan, Purwokerto, Kroya, Notog, Sumpiuh, Kebumen, Kutoarjo, Wates, Yogyakarta, and Klaten. This route passes through various cities rich in culture, history, culinary heritage, and tourist attractions that have long been popular with travelers.
The journey begins in Jakarta and heads toward Cirebon, which is renowned for the Kasepuhan Palace, Kanoman Palace, Trusmi Batik, and a variety of culinary specialties from the northern coast of Java. Upon entering the Banyumas region, customers pass through Purwokerto, the gateway to the Baturraden tourist area on the slopes of Mount Slamet, one of Central Java's most popular nature destinations.
The train then continues to Kroya, Kebumen, and Kutoarjo. This region is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Kebumen Geopark and Menganti Beach—often regarded as one of Central Java's most beautiful beaches—to the Menoreh Hills stretching across the border between Central Java and the Special Region of Yogyakarta.
Upon arriving in Yogyakarta, customers are welcomed by one of Indonesia's most popular tourist destinations. Malioboro, the Yogyakarta Palace, Taman Sari, Prambanan Temple, along with numerous culinary and arts centers, make the city a favorite destination for visitors from across the country.
The journey continues to Klaten, known as the gateway to spring-water tourism destinations such as Umbul Ponggok and Umbul Manten, before finally arriving at Solo Balapan Station, the main railway station serving Solo and its surrounding areas.
Solo itself continues to strengthen its position as one of Indonesia's favorite tourist destinations. Known as the center of Javanese culture, the city offers a blend of historical attractions, performing arts, traditional cuisine, comfortable public spaces, and a variety of cultural events held throughout the year.
This development is reflected in data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) of Surakarta City. The occupancy rate of star-rated hotels reached 58.95 percent in December 2025, while in October 2025 it stood at 53.88 percent. These figures indicate the high level of tourism and travel activity in Solo throughout 2025.
Upon arriving in Solo, customers can visit a variety of leading attractions, including Mangkunegaran Palace, the Surakarta Sunanate Palace, Laweyan Batik Village, Kauman Batik Village, Balekambang Park, Pasar Gede, De Tjolomadoe, and numerous legendary culinary destinations that have become part of the city's identity.
Since 9 December 2024, the Mataram Train has been operating with Stainless Steel New Generation trainsets for both Economy and Executive classes. This rolling stock upgrade offers a more modern travel experience with elegant interior design, ergonomic seats, more spacious legroom, reclining and revolving seats that can be adjusted to the direction of travel, and various facilities designed to enhance customer comfort.
Vice President of Corporate Communication KAI Anne Purba said that traveling by train offers a unique experience because customers can enjoy the distinctive character of the many regions they pass through in a single journey.
"The Mataram Train connects customers with many attractive destinations across Java. Every city along the route has its own unique story, culture, culinary specialties, and tourism appeal. The journey itself becomes part of the travel experience," said Anne.
Anne added that the introduction of Stainless Steel New Generation trainsets further enhances the experience for customers wishing to enjoy a comfortable weekend trip.
"Solo has become one of the destinations that is increasingly attracting visitors. The city offers a welcoming atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary experiences, and many interesting places to enjoy with family and friends. Through the Mataram Train, KAI provides a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable journey to all of these experiences,"
VP Corporate Communication KAI