Did you know that Indonesia now has its own high-speed train, similar to Japan’s Shinkansen? It’s called Whoosh, and it’s the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. This train connects Jakarta and Bandung, two major cities in Indonesia.
Before Whoosh, traveling the 140-kilometer distance from Jakarta to Bandung could take up to 3 hours by regular train or even longer by car, especially with traffic jams on the weekends.
Now, Whoosh offers a much faster and smoother alternative, cutting travel time to just 40 minutes.
Although the Whoosh high-speed train currently only connects Jakarta and Bandung, it’s meant to be just the first phase. In 2025, the Indonesian government revealed ambitious plans to extend the line all the way to Surabaya, potentially linking major cities across Java. When—or even if—that full vision comes to life remains to be seen. But for now, it’s a promising glimpse into the future of Indonesian rail travel.
About the High-Speed Train Whoosh
The High-Speed Train in Indonesia, known as Whoosh, is the first high-speed train project in Indonesia. The name Whoosh was inspired by the sound of a train traveling at high speed, reflecting the efficiency and speed of its journey. This project is a collaboration between Indonesia and China, under the consortium of PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC).
This major project signifies progress in the field of transportation technology in Indonesia. As a developing country, public transportation modes, especially trains in Indonesia, have been improving in quality over the past few years.
In Jakarta itself, there are now many new public transportation options. Previously, there were only commuter trains, known as KRL (Kereta Commuterline). Later, other trains like the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and LRT (Light Rail Transit) were introduced, and now Whoosh has emerged as a connection for mobility between Jakarta and Bandung.
Get around Jakarta like a local! Check out our guide to Public Transportation in Jakarta.
The construction of the high-speed train route was first initiated in 2016, followed by trial runs in 2022. A year later, on October 2, 2023, the Whoosh train began operations for the public, offering 48 trips per day (24 trips from Bandung and 24 trips from Jakarta).
The high-speed train Whoosh is designed to have a maximum speed of 350 km/h and uses the latest engine technology from China, CR400AF. As a result, it takes an average of only 40 minutes to travel from Jakarta to Bandung.
With 8 carriages and a total capacity of 601 passengers, this high-speed train offers three classes:
- First Class
- Business Class
- Premium Economy Class
The seats are ergonomic, and the train is equipped with adequate supporting facilities such as power outlets, televisions, foldable tables, restrooms for people with disabilities, spacious baggage compartments, and a mini bar selling food and beverages.
Here’s the new schedule of Whoosh high-speed train (updated in February 2025):
Whoosh Travel Route
The Whoosh High-Speed Train connects Jakarta and Bandung, two major cities that serve as business and tourism hubs. There are four stations where the Whoosh High-Speed Train stops:
- Halim Station (Jakarta)
- Karawang Station
- Padalarang Station
- Tegalluar Station (Bandung)
How to Get to Whoosh (Halim Station) in Jakarta
One thing to note: the Whoosh train doesn’t depart from the main central stations like Gambir or Pasar Senen. Instead, it leaves from Halim Station in East Jakarta—a location quite far from the city center. Depending on traffic, getting there can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour.
From Jakarta’s City Center
If you’re coming from central Jakarta and need to get to the Whoosh KCIC Halim Station, public transport is a convenient option. Start at Dukuh Atas Station in the Sudirman area and take the Jabodebek Line (LRT) heading toward Bekasi. Get off at Halim LRT Station—there’s a skybridge that connects directly to the Whoosh station, making the transfer quick and straightforward.
If you prefer a more direct route, ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab can take you straight to the station without any transfers.
From Soekarno-Hatta Airport
For those starting their journey directly from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Bandung, there are several options:
Using the Airport Train
You can travel from Soekarno-Hatta Airport to Jakarta using the airport train. After landing, take the free skytrain from the airport to the airport train station. At the station, purchase a ticket at a starting price IDR 70,000 (USD 4.32) to BNI City Station.
Once you arrive at BNI City Station, exit and walk to Sudirman Station to get to Dukuh Atas LRT Station via the pedestrian bridge. Choose the LRT Bekasi line and get off at Halim LRT Station. From Halim LRT Station, walk through the skybridge to KCIC Halim Station.
Jakarta’s LRT uses a cashless payment system, so don’t forget to buy a tap card before your trip. Learn more in JakCard vs JakLingko: Which Card Travelers in Jakarta Need.
Using DAMRI
You can also take a DAMRI bus from Soekarno-Hatta Airport. Once you arrive at the terminal, look for the exit and head toward Circle K. Walk down the corridor to find the DAMRI ticket machine, where you can select your destination, schedule, and pay online. The fare is approximately IDR 80,000 (USD 4.94) per person.
After purchasing your ticket, scan it at the entrance gate of the DAMRI bus stop. Then, board the bus and get off right in front of KCIC Halim Station. This option is usually the fastest since it uses the toll road.
Before you go to Bandung, read our detailed guide Bandung: Ultimate Travel Guide to the Capital of West Java.
Using a Taxi
The easiest way to get from the airport to the high-speed train station is by taxi. Outside Soekarno-Hatta Airport, you’ll find plenty of taxis, including Blue Bird Taxi. Alternatively, you can book an online taxi through apps like GoJek or Grab and set KCIC Halim Station as your destination.
While the cost is higher than other options (from around 250,000 IDR or 15 USD), a taxi is the best choice if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage or in a group.
The journey to KCIC Halim Station takes approximately 45–60 minutes via the toll road, ensuring a smooth and direct ride.
Not keen on traveling alone? Combine your Whoosh high-speed train journey with a guided day tour to Bandung.
Recommended Hotels in Jakarta
If you’re planning to take the Whoosh train to Bandung, staying near the LRT stations is a smart and convenient choice. Options like La Boheme Jakarta, with its cozy tropical vibe, or Casa Living Setiabudi, Luxeur Setiabudi, all located near LRT Dukuh Atas or Setiabudi stations, offer easy access to the train.
For those seeking a central location, Menteng is an excellent area with great connectivity. Budget travelers can choose Konko Hostel, just 1 km from Gambir Station. Couples may prefer Erian Hotel, while families can opt for True Blue Hotel, which provides spacious suites near Cikini Train Station.
Looking for a place to stay in the capital? Check out our guide Where to Stay in Jakarta: Top Areas and Accommodations.
How to Get from Whoosh Station in Bandung to City Center
The Whoosh train stops at two stations outside central Bandung: Padalarang (to the west) and Tegalluar (to the east). Each offers a different route into the city depending on your destination.
Padalarang Station
Padalarang is the better choice if you’re heading to Bandung’s city center or popular areas like Dago, Cihampelas, or Jalan Braga. From here, a free feeder train takes you directly to Bandung City Station in about 20–30 minutes.
Once there, you can easily continue your journey by public transport, ojek (motorbike taxi), or ride-hailing apps.
Tegalluar Station
If you’re staying in the eastern part of the city, near areas like Cibiru or the Summarecon Mall, Tegalluar Station might be more convenient. A free shuttle bus takes you from the station to Summarecon Mall Bandung (around 15 minutes).
From there, you can hop on a Trans Bandung bus or grab an online taxi to reach the city’s landmarks.
Backindo Tip: Need a reliable driver in Bandung? We can share contacts of trusted locals we know personally - just drop us an email at hello@backindo.com.
Recommended Hotels in Bandung
If you’re traveling by Whoosh train, you don’t have to stay near Bandung Station, as the city is compact and transport options like Grab or Gojek make getting around easy. Staying in central areas like Sumurbandung, Riau, or Braga street might be a better choice if you want to explore the city’s attractions. For example, Buminakura offers a classic ambiance with spacious rooms, while Dafam Rio Hotel is a kid-friendly option.
If you prefer to stay closer to the station for convenience, Bobopod Paskal is a great budget-friendly option with its unique capsule design. Families or groups might enjoy Favehotel Braga. For a boutique experience, Summerbird Bed & Brasserie, also near the station, stands out with its stylish design and cozy ambiance.
How to Get Tickets
You can get tickets for the Whoosh High-Speed Train online through the official website or tiket.com or Traveloka, or offline at your chosen departure station.
On-the-spot or offline ticket purchases are available starting from 14 days before departure up to 15 minutes before departure at the ticket counters in the departure station.
There are also vending machines at the station for self-service ticket purchases, and payments can be made using QRIS, credit cards or debit cards.
Differences in Classes and Facilities on the Whoosh Train
The Whoosh train offers at least three travel classes: First Class, Business Class, and Premium Economy Class, in a single train service. So, what sets these three classes apart?
First Class
This class offers a more private and comfortable space. There are around 18 passenger seats located in carriages 1 and 8, with doors separated from other classes. The seats are made of leather, arranged in a 1-2 seating configuration, and the space between seats is quite spacious.
To travel in this class, you need to pay at least IDR 600,000 (USD 37,07). The facilities are not much different from other seating classes, including foldable tables, power outlets, and TVs.
Business Class
Business Class stands out from First Class, as it features visually distinctive red leather seats. There are 28 seats arranged in two seats on the right and left.
The ticket price for Business Class is IDR 450,000 (USD 27,8) per trip. In this class, you can enjoy facilities such as foldable tables, power outlets, and TVs.
Premium Economy Class
This class has the highest number of seats with comfortable and more affordable seats in Premium Economy Class. You’ll get facilities such as comfortable seating with ample legroom, arranged in five seats on one row (two seats on the right and three on the left).
The facilities are the same as other classes, including power outlets, TVs, and foldable tables. The ticket price is quite affordable at around IDR 300,000 (USD 18,54), allowing you to enjoy a trip on this high-speed train.
Facilities
The Whoosh train is equipped with various general facilities designed to ensure passenger comfort. Each carriage is fitted with public toilets, and there is even a special toilet for passengers with disabilities.
If you feel thirsty or hungry, there is at least one dedicated carriage with a bar where you can buy food and drinks.
Every seat comes with a foldable table and a power outlet for charging your gadgets. Unfortunately, the Whoosh train is not equipped with Wi-Fi because the train is too fast, and there are concerns it could interfere with the train’s journey.
For luggage, there is spacious overhead storage above the seats. Passengers are allowed to bring up to three pieces of luggage with a maximum total weight of 20 kg and dimensions not exceeding 100 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm. Additionally, passengers are allowed to bring folding bicycles, which can be stored at the end of the carriage if they do not fit in the luggage space.
Interested in panoramic train rides? Discover the best luxury trains in Indonesia and enjoy ultimate comfort while exploring the stunning scenery.
Is the Whoosh High-Speed Train Worth It?
Thinking of heading to Bandung? Taking the Whoosh high-speed train is definitely a great option. Yes, it costs more than a regular train, but it’s much faster. The ride is smooth, the views are stunning—lush mountains and green landscapes—and it’s a fun way to travel, especially if you’ve never tried a high-speed train before.
But keep in mind: the train doesn’t leave from Jakarta’s main stations, and it doesn’t arrive right in the center of Bandung either. So, you’ll need to factor in some extra time (and maybe a little extra cost) to get to and from the stations at both ends.
Still, if you value speed, comfort, and a unique travel experience, Whoosh is absolutely worth it. After all, how often do you get to ride a high-speed train in Southeast Asia?
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