The eastern end of Java doesn't have the huge ancient monuments of Central Java, but there is a lot to see in East Java. One of East Java's major attractions is the active volcano Mount Bromo, just a couple hours' drive from Surabaya. The island of Madura is just a 30 minute ferry ride from East Java's capital of Surabaya. Madura boasts several white sandy beaches that are excellent for swimming. If the beach isn't your scene, head south to the hill town of Malang. Just 90 kilometers south of Surabaya, Malang is a cool and comfortable escape. There are many ancient Hindu temples in the area, dating back to the thirteenth century.
In a country full of natural beauty, one of the most spectacular sights is Tengger Caldera. The collapsed remnants of an ancient volcano forms a steeply walled crater nearly 10 kilometers (six miles) in diameter. Rising from the nearly flat volcanic sand floor of the caldera is the dormant cone of Mount Betok and the active volcano of Mount Bromo. Just south of the caldera walls is Mount Semeru, Java's highest mountain and most active volcano.
Surabaya is the capital of East Java, and the second largest city in Indonesia. It is mainly an industrial city, with many factories scattered around its outskirts. Although the city is historically important - it's been a trading port for hundreds of years, and it was here that Indonesia's battle for independence was begun - there is not a lot for the tourist to see in the city itself.
