Serang is a city in Indonesia and serves as the capital of Banten province. It was formerly the administrative center of Serang Regency, whose capital has since moved to Ciruas. Located in the northern part of Banten on the island of Java, Serang’s Kasemen District borders Banten Bay and is home to the historic site of Old Banten, from which the province takes its name. Prior to the establishment of Banten province in 2000, Serang was part of the West Java province.
The city has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by consistent rainfall throughout the year with no dry season. It faces the Java Sea, near the Thousand Islands.
Serang is known as the third most populous city in Banten. Situated about 15 kilometers from the edge of Jakarta Metropolitan Area, Serang is sometimes also known as part of the Greater Jakarta region.
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Historic Heart of Banten
As the capital of Banten Province, Serang is a gateway to the historical treasures of Banten Lama, a former trading hub that thrived in the 16th and 17th centuries. Visitors can explore the Grand Mosque of Banten, Kaibon Palace ruins, and old fortifications that once guarded this powerful port city. The cultural mix here is rich, influenced by Islamic scholars, traders from China and India, and European colonial powers.
Beyond its historical core, Serang offers easy access to Anyer Beach, a favourite coastal getaway from Jakarta. The calm waters and scenic views of Mount Rakata, the remnant of Krakatoa, make it an inviting spot for relaxation. Inland, traditional villages and local food markets provide a taste of everyday Banten life, making Serang both a historical and cultural journey.
Home to the Historic Old Banten: Serang is home to Old Banten, a historic city that once served as the capital of the powerful Banten in the 16th and 17th centuries. The area features ancient mosques, royal tombs, and the ruins of a palace, making it a fascinating destination for history lovers.
Large Sundanese-Speaking Community: Although Serang is in Banten province, which has its own ethnic Bantenese group, it’s also notable for having a significant Sundanese-speaking population, reflecting cultural ties to neighboring West Java.
Gateway to Ujung Kulon National Park: While not in Serang itself, the city serves as a key gateway to Ujung Kulon National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rainforest, beaches, and the rare Javan rhinoceros. Many travelers pass through Serang on their way to explore this remote and ecologically rich park.