| 4 mins read
When most people think of Indonesia, the first place that comes to mind is Bali. However, blessed with a vibrant history, culture and traditions, Yogyakarta is pushing its way to the top on the list of the country’s best-known tourist destinations. With ancient temples, grand palaces, stunning beaches and endless cultural attractions, it’s hard to imagine a trip to Indonesia without a visit to this former capital city. Here is some food for thought about the top things to do in Yogyakarta.
Ancient Temple Complexes
Let’s start off with a bang; Yogyakarta is best known for its proximity to the Borobudur Temple Complex, the largest Buddhist temple complex in the world. This 9th century Mahayana monument lies just outside Yogyakarta city and has become the single most visited attraction in the entire country. Whether history, religion, local culture and human construction feats are amongst your interests or you’d just like to see one of the world’s ancient wonders, this complex is a must visit.
One of the largest Hindu Temples in all of Southeast Asia is the equally stunning Prambanan Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 154 foot tall tower/temple lies only 11 miles outside Yogyakarta and attracts nearly as many tourists per annum as Borobudur. Time your visit for a viewing of the Ramayana Ballet, an unforgettable experience set against such a fantastic ambience.
Only a short walk and crowds away from the Prambanan Temple is Sewu, another stunning Buddhist temple complex, second in size only to Borobudur. These, and so many more exemplary temples like the Plaosan and the Sambisari Temple make a good example of the archeological and historical extravagance of Jogja!
Culture, History and Shopping within Yogyakarta city!
Sharing its name with the surrounding neighborhoods, Jalan Malioboro is the main shopping, art and tourist street of the city, where many of Yogyakarta’s most popular artists and entertainers get exposure. Filled with hotels, restaurants, vendors and food stalls, a stroll or stay in Jalan Malioboro provides a great first impression of Yogyakarta. A becak ride away, your Yogyakarta tour guide will recommend a visit to Kota Gede to pick and choose silver souvenirs from lines of workshops churning out fine filigreed silverware and jewelry.
Get a glimpse of the city’s royal history at the Yogyakarta Palace (Kraton Yogyakarta). Well preserved and maintained, this ancient palace of the Yogyakarta Sultanate now serves as a museum dedicated to the rich culture, traditions and history of the area. Filled with images, grand architecture, stories and myths, this restored seat of power is another of the city’s must-visit attractions.
Sticking with the royal theme, the multipurpose Taman Sari is an excellent next stop along the tour. Also known as the Water Castle, this former royal garden (just south of the Kraton) dates back to the 18th century and was used for defense, religious, and work purposes. Though somewhat rundown today, it still houses a well-preserved bathing complex that reflects the opulence and beauty that the Water Castle once displayed.
A walk around the city center will land you amongst European architecture at Bebteng Vredeburg, yet another cultural flashback (of a different kind and era) to Indonesia’s more recent Dutch colonial past.
The heartland of Javanese culture and arts, Yogyakarta further entertains visitors with its dramas and traditional puppet shows, music/poetry performances and beautiful batik shops and displays; it’s no wonder that this charming Indonesian destination beckons travellers from all over!
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