The Whoosh train, operated by the KAI Group under PT KCIC, has seen a significant increase in the number of foreign Whoosh passengers, as reported by Antara News. The Whoosh is the first high-speed railway in Indonesia and Southeast Asia.
This surge highlights Whoosh’s growing reputation as a modern and efficient mode of transport that offers exceptional speed, unparalleled comfort, and ease of access—especially for tourists and expats looking to explore Indonesia with convenience.
A Foreigner’s Guide to Booking and Riding Whoosh Indonesia
Among international travellers, Malaysian visitors lead the list from January to March 2025, followed closely by tourists from Singapore and China. This influx aligns with the broader trend of rising tourist numbers from Southeast Asia and China.
With Jakarta and Bandung, and other local destinations being top attractions, Whoosh itself has become a travel highlight, symbolising Indonesia’s remarkable strides in transportation technology.
The KCIC (PT Kereta Cepat Indonesia China), or Jakarta-Bandung high-speed train, can reach speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour, ensuring a stable and minimally vibrating journey. With this fantastic speed, the journey from Halim Station, East Jakarta, to Tegalluar Station, Bandung Regency, only takes about 50 minutes.
Whether you are a foreign tourist visiting for the first time or an expat living in Indonesia, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of riding the Whoosh fast train effortlessly.
Ticket Booking Methods for Whoosh Indonesia
1. Booking Through the Official WHOOSH App
The easiest and most efficient way to secure a seat on the Whoosh train is through its official mobile application. With just a few taps, you can plan your trip on the go:
- Download the WHOOSH app from the Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).
- Register an account by entering your personal information.
- Login after successfully registering.
- Select your route—popular options include Jakarta to Bandung or vice versa.
- Choose your departure date and preferred schedule.
- Pick a class and select your seat based on availability and comfort.
- Enter your passenger details carefully to avoid issues during boarding.
- Choose a payment method, such as bank transfer, QRIS, e-wallet, or credit card.
- Complete your payment following the in-app instructions.
- After payment, you’ll receive a QR code which serves as your boarding pass—no need to print a ticket.
Bookings via the WHOOSH app are available from 14 days before departure until just 60 minutes before the Indonesian high-speed train leaves, making it a highly flexible and convenient option.
2. Ticket Purchase Through KCIC’s Official Website
Prefer using a desktop or laptop? You can easily book your tickets via the official KCIC website at https://ticket.kcic.co.id:
- Open your browser and access the website.
- If you’re a new user, register by clicking the “Register” button.
- Complete the form with valid personal information, including an active email and phone number.
- Login with your new account.
- On the homepage, select your departure and destination stations.
- Enter your travel date and click “Search”.
- Browse available train schedules and select the one that suits your plans.
- Choose a train class and seat.
- Fill in passenger details accurately.
- Pick a payment method and follow the transaction steps.
- Once payment is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation and QR code.
Just like the app, there’s no need to print a physical ticket—your QR code is enough to board.
3. Booking via Access by KAI App
For those already using PT Kereta Api Indonesia’s services, booking through the Access by KAI app is a seamless experience:
- Ensure your Access by KAI app is updated to the latest version.
- Login with your KAI account.
- From the main menu, select “KCIC” or “Fast Train”.
- Input the departure and arrival stations (e.g., Halim, Karawang, Padalarang, or Tegalluar).
- Select your travel date and tap “Find Tickets”.
- Choose your desired train and schedule, then tap “Add Passenger”.
- Enter all passenger information, including full name, gender, date of birth, ID, email, and phone number.
- Tap “Save”, then select your preferred seat.
- After double-checking everything, tap “Pay”.
- Select a payment option like credit card, virtual bank account, convenience store, or QRIS.
- Follow the payment steps and receive a QR code for boarding once payment is successful.
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On-the-Spot Ticket Purchases
For many tourists and expats, purchasing tickets in person is simpler and more reassuring. You can do this at the station using two offline methods:
Purchase Through Station Counters
Prefer face-to-face transactions? Visit the ticket counter at your departure station:
- Head to the ticket counter at any Whoosh station (Halim, Karawang, Padalarang, or Tegalluar).
- Inform the staff about your travel details: destination, date, and time.
- The staff will check availability and inform you of the price.
- If you proceed, provide your personal information.
- Pay using cash, debit/credit card, or QRIS.
- You’ll receive a physical ticket to board the train.
Counter ticket purchases are available from 14 days to 30 minutes before departure, depending on seat availability.
Purchase via Ticket Vending Machine (TVM)
Want a quicker, contactless option? Use a Ticket Vending Machine (TVM) at the station:
- Locate a TVM at your departure station.
- Select the fast train ticket purchase option.
- Follow the screen prompts to choose your route, date, and time.
- Pick your class and seat.
- Enter passenger information.
- Choose QRIS as your payment method.
- Scan the QR code using your e-wallet or mobile banking app.
- Once payment is made, the machine will print your physical ticket.
TVM purchases are available up to 60 minutes before departure, perfect for last-minute plans.
Whoosh Ticket Prices
KCIC offers both flexibility and affordability by providing multiple booking platforms and dynamic pricing for different passenger classes:
- Premium Economy Class uses dynamic pricing, which fluctuates depending on demand, schedule, and booking time.
- Business Class tickets are fixed at IDR 450,000.
- Main Class tickets are priced at IDR 600,000.
You can book tickets online through the Whoosh app, KCIC website, and partner platforms like Access by KAI, Livin’ by Mandiri, Brimo, BNI Wondr, and tiket.com.
Whoosh Train Routes and Stations
The Whoosh high-speed train currently serves the Jakarta–Bandung corridor, stopping at four stations:
- Halim Station (Jakarta)
- Karawang Station (West Java)
- Padalarang Station (West Bandung)
- Tegalluar Station (Bandung)
Note: Not all trains stop at every station—some are express services between Halim station in Jakarta and Tegalluar train station.
Whoosh Schedule (Starting 1 February 2025)
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From 1 February 2025, the Whoosh high-speed train will operate 62 daily trips with 31 departures each way. Trains run at 25–30 minute intervals, making scheduling very flexible:
- Halim to Tegalluar: First train at 06:25 WIB, last at 21:25 WIB
- Tegalluar to Halim: First train at 06:05 WIB, last at 21:05 WIB
- Halim to Padalarang: First train at 06:42 WIB, last at 22:02 WIB
- Padalarang to Halim: First train at 06:23 WIB, last at 21:23 WIB
Tips for Choosing the Best Seats on Whoosh Indonesia
Make your ride more scenic and enjoyable by choosing your seat wisely:
1. Use the Odd-Even Seat Rule
Seats are designed with window alignments in mind:
- Halim to Padalarang: Choose odd-numbered seats (1, 3, 5, etc.) for a full window view.
- Padalarang to Halim: Opt for even-numbered seats (2, 4, 6, etc.) for the same effect.
2. Pick the Best Side of the Train
For the most picturesque views:
- Halim to Padalarang: Sit on the left side.
- Padalarang to Halim: Sit on the right side.
3. Recommended Seat Numbers for Scenic Views
Consider these specific seat numbers:
- From Halim to Padalarang: 1A, 3A, 5A, 7A
- From Padalarang to Halim: 2A, 4A, 6A, 8A
Travel Tips for a Comfortable Journey for Whoosh High-Speed Train Passengers
Ensure a smooth and pleasant trip with these extra tips:
- Arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid rushing.
- Bring a powerbank to charge your gadgets.
- Pack light snacks and drinks, especially if travelling in Premium Economy.
- Dress comfortably, and wear shoes that are easy to remove for security.
- Bring a neck pillow and sleep mask if you plan to nap.
- Download entertainment (music, films, podcasts) in advance.
Onboard Train Service You’ll Love
Whoosh Indonesia offers world-class features to enhance travel experience for all Whoosh passenger:
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the train
- Onboard entertainment system
- Ample luggage storage space
- Modern and clean toilets in each carriage
- Wheelchair-friendly compartments (in selected coaches)
- Food and beverage services, which vary by class
