Train tickets are available now for Idul Fitri in mid-late August.

Every year, train tickets for the days before/after Idul Fitri – when tens of millions of Indonesians travel from cities to their hometowns/villages, then back again – are sold out.

However, it is widely predicted that this year train tickets will sell out much sooner. Why?

The Indonesian railway operator, Kereta Api Indonesia, recently increased the amount of time that executive/business class tickets can be purchased in advance from 40 to 90 days.

In addition, there will also be fewer tickets available, with standing room tickets no longer sold.

Finally, this year Indonesians get an extra long holiday.

Mgu = Sunday, Sen = Monday, etc

Idul Fitri is celebrated on 19-20 August, just after Indonesia’s Independence Day, on 17 August. In addition, there are also two compulsory leave days (cuti bersama) on 21 and 22 August. Most businesses and public services e.g. banks will therefore be closed on 17-22 August.

People wishing to travel by train between 11 and 26 August 2012 are encouraged to act quickly. The first step is to fill in an enquiry.

Want to know more? A map and basic timetable is here, while the advantages of train travel are discussed here.