Jun 13, 2018
Mudik 2018
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Millions of Indonesians return home at this time each year to spend time with parents and relatives in a centuries-old tradition known as mudik.
The term itself means “to sail upstream,” but most people make the journey home by rail or road. The Indonesian government makes special travel accommodations and workers get extra time off to spend time reconnecting with loved ones in preparation for Lebaran. A joyous feast that marks the end of Ramadan—the Muslim season of fasting—Lebaran is usually celebrated with a lavish spread including ketupat dumplings, sayur lodeh soup, emping chips, and a chicken dish with coconut milk known as opor ayum.
As great as the food may be, the true focus of mudik is strengthening familial bonds by spending quality time together. No matter how far you have to travel—from major urban centers like Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya to the remotest rural destinations—mudik is one Indonesian holiday that’s not to be missed.
Eid al-Fitr!
Doodle by Cynthia Yuan Cheng
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More