Travel
10 January 2025
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As Ramadan approaches, many Indonesians and international visitors embark on a meaningful journey of spiritual reflection.
Among the most popular destinations for religious tourism are the tombs of Wali Songo, the nine revered Islamic scholars who played a pivotal role in spreading Islam across Java.
Steeped in history and spiritual significance, these tombs attract pilgrims from near and far. Whether you’re a devout traveler or simply curious about Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, here are some must-visit Wali Songo sites to include in your pilgrimage tour.
The Tomb of Sunan Maulana Malik Ibrahim is located on Jalan Malik Ibrahim, Gapuro Sukolilo Village, Gresik, East Java. Situated approximately 200 meters from the Gresik town square, the tomb is easily accessible on foot.
It serves as both a religious tourism destination and an iconic landmark of Gresik, drawing numerous visitors for pilgrimage.
Sunan Maulana Malik Ibrahim, also known as Sunan Gresik, was the leader of the Wali Songo and the eldest among them.
He played a pivotal role in spreading Islam in Java during the 14th century, a period when the Majapahit Kingdom still held power. He resided in Gresik until his passing on April 8, 1419 CE (12 Rabi’ al-Awwal 822 AH).
The tomb of Sunan Maulana Malik Ibrahim features unique and fascinating characteristics, including a gravestone made of marble with a keel-shaped design typical of Gujarat.
Additionally, it bears inscriptions commonly found in Gujarat, adding a distinctive cultural and historical element to this sacred site.
Nestled in the vibrant Kampung Arab district of Surabaya, the tomb of Sunan Ampel is a revered pilgrimage destination. Sunan Ampel, whose full name is Raden Muhammad Ali Rahmatullah, was the son of Sunan Gresik and played a significant role in the legacy of the Wali Songo.
Affectionately known as the “Father of the Walis,” he is credited with guiding future Wali Songo members, including his two children, Sunan Bonang and Sunan Drajat.
Sunan Ampel passed away around 1481 and was buried west of the historic Ampel Mosque, which he established in the 15th century.
The tomb, located at Jalan Ampel Blumbang Number 2A, is open 24 hours a day and sees a surge in visitors during Ramadan, especially on odd-numbered nights such as the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights of the holy month.
Pilgrims visiting the tomb often take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, which is rich in cultural and culinary experiences.
The Kampung Arab district offers a variety of Middle Eastern-inspired foods and fusion snacks, easily accessible from street vendors and restaurants alike, providing visitors with a taste of its unique heritage.
Located behind the Great Mosque of Tuban, to the west of Tuban’s town square, the tomb of Sunan Bonang offers a profound mix of spirituality and cultural artistry.
Born as Raden Makdum Ibrahim, Sunan Bonang was the son of Sunan Ampel and is widely celebrated for his impactful contributions to spreading Islam in Java.
Sunan Bonang employed a unique approach to preaching, skillfully integrating existing cultural practices and traditions into his teachings.
He is particularly known for using gamelan music and Javanese literature as tools to communicate Islamic values, making his methods deeply resonant with the local communities of his time.
The tomb itself is housed in a semi-open pavilion with marble flooring, offering a tranquil and elegant setting for pilgrims. While entry is free, visitors are encouraged to contribute donations to support the maintenance of the tomb complex.
After paying your respects, you can extend your journey with a visit to nearby Boom Beach, located just a short distance from the tomb.
This provides an excellent opportunity to blend a spiritual pilgrimage with a moment of rest and relaxation while enjoying the natural coastal scenery.
Known for his profound humanitarian philosophy and moral teachings, the tomb of Sunan Drajat in Lamongan stands as a lasting testament to his legacy.
Born as Raden Syarifudin, also known as Raden Qasim, he was the son of Sunan Ampel. Estimated to have been born in 1470, Sunan Drajat passed away in 1522.
His tomb is located in Drajat Village, Paciran District, approximately 5 kilometers from Wisata Bahari Lamongan and less than two hours’ drive from Surabaya.
Sunan Drajat is remembered for his deep commitment to humanity and the moral messages he imparted to his followers.
The tomb complex features the Sunan Drajat Museum, which houses a collection of historical artifacts, including traditional gamelan instruments such as the bonang, angklung, ketuk, rebab, gender, and saron.
Pilgrims visiting the tomb must pass through seven terraced levels, showcasing a blend of wooden and brick construction.
The earlier terraces are primarily made of wood, while the later ones use brick in a style reminiscent of miniature temples, adding a unique architectural charm to this spiritual site.
Situated about 4 kilometers from the Tomb of Sunan Gresik, Sunan Giri’s tomb is perched atop a hill on Jalan Sunan Giri in Kebomas, Gresik Regency.
Visitors must ascend a series of steps to reach the tomb, housed in a traditional wooden joglo-style structure, which reflects classic Javanese architecture.
Born as Joko Samudro and later renamed Raden Paku, Sunan Giri studied under Sunan Ampel and developed unique methods for spreading Islam.
He utilized children’s songs, including Jelungan, Jor, Gula-ganti, Lir-ilir, and Cublak Suweng, to teach Islamic values in an accessible and engaging way.
His influence extended far beyond Java, reaching regions such as Madura, Lombok, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Sumbawa, Flores, Ternate, and the Maluku Islands.
In Kudus City, the iconic Menara Kudus Mosque is a significant spiritual and cultural landmark, blending unique architecture with historical importance. Adjacent to the mosque is the tomb of Sunan Kudus, a prominent figure in the spread of Islam in Java.
Before visiting the tomb, pilgrims often pray at the mosque, which features a distinctive architectural style.
The tomb itself is located to the left of the mosque’s tower and is housed in a spacious pavilion draped in white cloth, creating a serene atmosphere ideal for reflection and prayer.
Sunan Kalijaga, known for his innovative preaching methods, used traditional arts and cultural practices to convey Islamic teachings. Born as Raden Said, he was also known by various names, including Lokajaya, Sheikh Malaya, and Ki Dalang Sida Brangti.
Located in Kadilangu Village, just 2 kilometers southeast of Demak City, Sunan Kalijaga’s tomb complex is accessible through three gates leading to the Kasunanan Building.
The site houses two ancient jars, once used by Sunan Kalijaga for ablution, water and rice storage. Today, pilgrims often use the water from these jars for purification or take it home as a blessing.
Sunan Kalijaga, known for his creative and innovative preaching methods, used traditional arts and cultural practices to spread Islamic teachings.
His real name was Raden Said, but he was also known by various other names, such as Lokajaya, Sheikh Malaya, and Ki Dalang Sida Brangti.
The tomb of Sunan Kalijaga is located in Kadilangu Village, about 2 kilometers southeast of Demak City. Pilgrims must pass through three gates before reaching the Kasunanan Building, where Sunan Kalijaga and his family are buried.
The site also features two ancient jars, originally used to store ablution water and rice, which are now filled with water pilgrims often use for purification or take home as blessings.
Perched on the slopes of Mount Muria at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level, the tomb of Sunan Muria offers a blend of spiritual and physical challenges. Pilgrims must ascend around 430 steps to reach the tomb, located in Colo Village, Dawe District.
Sunan Muria, born Raden Umar Said, was known for his strength and dedication to spreading Islam in the northern coastal regions of Java, including Pati, Tayu, and Kudus.
His resting place is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a tranquil environment for visitors to reflect and reconnect with nature.
Located in the Astana Religious Tourism Village in Cirebon Regency, the burial complex of Sunan Gunung Jati is a prominent pilgrimage site. Just 4.5 kilometers from the center of Cirebon City, the tomb is accessible within eight minutes by vehicle.
The complex is famed for its nine gates: Pintu Gapura, Pintu Krapyak, Pintu Pasujudan, Pintu Ratnakomala, Pintu Jinem, Pintu Rararoga, Pintu Kaca, Pintu Bacem, and Pintu Teratai.
General pilgrims can access up to the Pasujudan Gate, while the inner gates are reserved for the Cirebon palace family and Sunan Gunung Jati’s descendants.
The rich history and intricate design make this site a meaningful destination for both spiritual reflection and cultural exploration.
Enjoy a hassle-free journey to the tombs of Wali Songo with TRAC’s bus rental services. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or in a group.
A tourist bus is the practical and cost-efficient option. TRAC offers a variety of buses, from compact models for smaller groups to larger buses accommodating up to 59 passengers.
For a more exclusive experience, TRAC provides luxury buses outfitted with premium amenities. These are perfect for long-distance travel, offering a private, relaxed atmosphere for your pilgrimage.
Booking a TRAC tour bus rental can be done easily on the homepage of the TRAC website or the TRACtoGo application. Download the app at the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Don't forget to also follow Instagram @trac_astra, Facebook TRAC-Astra Rent a Car and Twitter (X) @TRACastra to get various interesting information, ranging from promos, tips and recommendations for tourist hits.
Whatever the track, just use TRAC!
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