TIMESINDONESIA, JAKARTA – Indonesia’s first high-speed train, Whoosh, operated by PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC), has quickly become more than just a mode of transportation between Jakarta and Bandung. With sleek design, modern facilities, and the ability to cut travel time to under an hour, it stands as a milestone of Indonesia’s infrastructure development.
The name Whoosh itself is an acronym Waktu Hemat, Operasi Optimal, Sistem Hebat which translates to Time-saving, Optimal Operation, Excellent System. Beyond efficiency, it is increasingly seen as a travel experience in its own right.
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The Four Key Stations
The high-speed service connects four major stations. The Halim in East Jakarta, Karawang in West Java, Padalarang in West Bandung, and Tegalluar in Eastern Bandung. Each station has been designed with modern amenities such as dedicated check-in counters, spacious lounges, and boarding gates tailored for high-speed passengers.
Halim station, the central hub in Jakarta, is well connected by TransJakarta buses, ride-hailing apps, and toll road exits. Karawang, opened for Whoosh in late 2024, serves as an important stop for commuters in the industrial heart of West Java.
In Bandung, travelers may arrive at Padalarang, which provides free feeder trains into the city center, or at Tegalluar, conveniently located for those coming from eastern Bandung.
Access and Connectivity
Reaching these stations is relatively straightforward. In Jakarta, public transport integration ensures Halim can be reached quickly from key city points. Karawang is connected through regional roads such as Jalan Arif Rahman Hakim and Jalan Badami, making it accessible for surrounding towns.
Padalarang has become a vital link for tourists and residents of Bandung thanks to its feeder services that connect seamlessly with Bandung Station and other urban areas. Tegalluar, meanwhile, is positioned to cater to travelers from suburban zones, creating a well-balanced distribution of passenger flow.
A New Tourist Attraction
Whoosh is not only transforming daily commutes but is also making waves in the tourism sector. The Indonesian Tourism Ministry reports that nearly 43 percent of its foreign passengers are from Malaysia, many of whom ride the train as part of their holiday experience.
With direct flights from Malaysia to Bandung suspended, travel agencies have begun to design packages that route tourists through Jakarta before connecting them to Bandung via Whoosh. For many visitors, the ride itself has become a highlight, combining modern speed with cultural discovery.
Scenic Journeys and Tourism Value
The experience of riding Whoosh extends beyond efficiency. Panoramic cars with large windows and transparent ceilings provide travelers with sweeping views of West Java’s landscapes.
This makes the journey a spectacle in itself, enhancing Bandung’s existing appeal as a hub for shopping, culinary exploration, and its cool mountain climate.
Local authorities are working hand-in-hand with the tourism industry to ensure safety, cleanliness, and strong partnerships so that the Whoosh experience complements Bandung’s broader hospitality sector.
As tickets can be booked online through KCIC’s platforms, travel apps, or directly at stations, visitors have multiple options to secure their journey. With three travel classes—Premium Economy, Business, and First Class—there is flexibility to match different preferences and budgets.
Morning or midday departures are especially recommended for those who want to enjoy scenic daylight views.
Ultimately, Whoosh is reshaping how people view the Jakarta–Bandung corridor. It is no longer just about getting to the destination; for many tourists, the ride itself has become part of the adventure. (*)
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| Editor | : Khodijah Siti |
| Publisher | : Rizal Dani |
