The different classes of Indonesian trains explained.

Previously, different fare classes were quite distinctive. For example, first class had air-conditioning and second/third class didn’t.

However, Indonesia’s rail operator recently completed refurbishing its trains; air-conditioning is now installed on all long-distance trains.

But there remain some small but important differences, which impact passenger comfort.

It is hoped that this detailed explanation will help passengers make an informed choice. Please click below the preferred class, or just scroll down.

Executive (First) Class | Business (Second) Class

Economy (Third) Class With A/C | Economy (Third) Class Without A/C

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Executive (First) Class

Number of rows/seats per carriage: 13 rows, 4 seats per row Graphic
Air-conditioning: Yes
Seats face the: Front, but can be rotated to face the rear; this is suitable for families and groups
In Jakarta, trains depart from: Gambir Station
Popular routes: Jakarta to Yogyakarta, Jakarta to Bandung
Also:
1. Seats have footrests, reclining backrests and cushions.
2. Eks (A), Eks (H), Eks (I) and Eks (J) are only ticket classes, like the different fares on a flight; the seats are the same.

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Business (Second) Class

Number of rows/seats per carriage: 17 rows, 4 seats per row Graphic
Air-conditioning: Yes
Seats face the: Alternating front and rear; see YouTube video above for configuration
In Jakarta, trains depart from: Pasar Senen Station
Popular routes: Yogyakarta to Surabaya, Bandung to Yogyakarta
Also:
1. Sometimes business class is one section of a multi-class train; sometimes it’s a completely different train.
2. Photographers used to like sitting in business class because the top of the windows can be opened for (ventilation and) photos. These days you are not supposed to open the windows, but there is nothing STOPPING you from doing so temporarily.
3. Bis (B), Bis (K), Bis (N), Bis (O) are only ticket classes, like the different fares on a flight; the seats are the same.

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Economy AC (Third) Class With Air-Conditioning

Number of rows/seats per carriage: 24 rows, 5 seats per row Graphic
Air-conditioning: Yes
Seats face the: Front or back, alternating i.e. seat backs are facing each other.
In Jakarta, trains depart from: Pasar Senen Station
Popular routes: Yogyakarta to Malang, Banyuwangi to Yogyakarta More
Also:
1. These are long-distance economy class trains.
2. Trains tend to stop at more stations than other classes, which increases the travel times.
3. Eko (C), Eko (P), Eko (Q) Eko (S) are only ticket classes, like the different fares on a flight; the seats are the same.

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Economy (Third) Class Without Air-Conditioning

Popular routes: Medan to Pematang Siantar (near Lake Toba), Semarang to Solo

These trains have the same configuration as the other economy (third) class trains, but there is no air-conditioning, only fans and windows that can be opened. They are mostly shorter routes and offer the lowest fares, often only a few dollars. Please note: some of these trains cannot be booked in advance; passengers can only buy tickets on the day of travel.

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Questions welcome – you can ask them below in the comment field.