Yogyakarta | Indonesia Travel Guide

10 Tempat Wisata di Jogja yang Wajib Dikunjungi

English version – Top 10 Things to Do in Yogyakarta

Jogja adalah ibukota dari Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta di Jawa Tengah, Indonesia lebih dikenal sebagai Yogyakarta atau Jogja. Jika seseorang bertanya dimana tempat yang akan saya tuju di Jawa, saya akan menyebut Jogja karena ada banyak hal yang dapat dilakukan dan tempat wisata yang wajib dikunjungi.

Terletak diantara dua candi bersejarah Jogja memiliki lebih dari sekedar keajaiban. Prambanan, candi Hindu yang megah dan Borobudur, candi Budha yang terkenal ke seantero dunia, anda dapat menjelajahi jalan-jalan utama dan gang-gang kecil untuk menemukan ‘harta karun’ peninggalan di masa lalu, mencicipi makanan khas Jawa terlezat dan menjadi bagian dari sejarah, seni dan budaya.

Tidak mengherankan, Jogja merupakan salah satu tujuan utama wisata di Indonesia, karena segala keunikan dan berbagai tempat wisata, pemandangan alam dan banyak hal lain dikemas di satu tempat.

-> Lihat Hotel di Jogja yang Terbaik

Prambanan di Jogja

Terpesona Keindahan Candi Prambanan, Jogja
Candi Prambanan dikenal juga sebagai Candi Rara Jonggrang, adalah candi Hindu yang sangat bersejarah dan terkenal di Indonesia. Dibangun pada abad ke 9 untuk Trimurti sebagai ungkapan bahwa Tuhan adalah Pencipta (Dewa Brahma), Pemelihara (Dewa Wisnu) dan juga Penghancur (Dewa Siwa). Terletak 18 km di timur Jogja dan dapat dicapai dengan mudah menggunakan bus Transjogja, yang sejauh ini merupakan alat transportasi terbaik dan termurah untuk mengunjungi Prambanan. Candi ini termasuk salah satu situs warisan dunia UNESCO, menjadi salah satu candi dengan arsitektur Hindu terbesar di Asia Tenggara.

Candi Sewu di Yogyakarta

Menggali Rahasia Candi Sewu
Hanya 10 – 15 menit berjalan kaki dari Candi Prambanan, sangat patut untuk dikunjungi jika anda ingin disambut reruntuhan candi yang menakutkan dan sekaligus menawan. Candi ini merupakan tempat yang baik untuk istirahat sejenak dari keramaian di Prambanan, terlihat seperti memiliki banyak rahasia di sudut-sudut gelap dan tersembunyi. Dinamakan Sewu berarti seribu, meskipun hanya ada 249 candi, berdasarkan legenda Loro Jonggrang. Sebagian dikembalikan, tampak lebih otentik dan dengan eksplorasi memungkinkan anda berimajinasi menafsirkan tempat, struktur dan ukiran candi.

Candi Sambisari (temple)

Mengagumi Rekonstruksi Kembali Candi Sambisari
Tanpa mengecilkan candi-candi di atas, candi ini bisa menjadi tempat persinggahan yang baik ketika Anda dalam perjalanan menuju ke Prambanan. Dulu Candi Sambisari pernah terkubur sedalam lima meter di bawah tanah selama ratusan tahun hingga lempengan batu pertama ditemukan pada tahun 1966. Candi yang membutuhkan waktu lebih dari 20 tahun untuk digali dan direkonstruksi kembali ini berdiri sebagai bukti bahwa banyak arkeolog mengupayakan yang terbaik untuk memulihkan kejayaan di masa lalu. Tempat terbaik untuk tinggal di Jogja juga terletak di sekitar sini, temukan penawaran hotel di Jalan Malioboro *.

Jalan Malioboro di Jogja

 Belanja di Jalan Malioboro dan Pasar Beringharjo, Jogja
Jogja hampir seperti surga belanja setelah Bandung di urutan pertama, dengan banyak barang murah yang dijual. Di jalan Malioboro dan pasar Beringharjo anda akan menemukan banyak kios yang berjajar menjual segala jenis barang yang anda inginkan mulai dari baju, tas, hingga kerajinan rotan dan perhiasan perak, makanan dan apapun yang anda pikir mungkin anda temukan di Indonesia.

Mencicipi salah satu makanan terbaik Indonesia – Gudeg
Gudeg merupakan makanan yang paling terkenal di Jogja, bahkan Jogja dijuluki sebagai Kota Gudeg. Makanan unik ini dibuat dari nangka muda yang diolah dengan menggunakan gula aren, santan, daging, bawang putih dan rempah-rempah lainnya. Rasa istimewa datang dari perpaduan rasa dan tekstur dengan kesempurnaan yang tepat. Cobalah gudeg di rumah makan terkenal yang berdiri selama beberapa generasi – Gudeg Yu Djum.

Gudeg Yu Djum

Mendaki Gunung Berapi Merapi
Bahkan jika anda hanya pendaki pemula, anda harus mencoba pendakian pendek menuju Gunung Merapi dan melihat sisa-sisa rumah yang ditinggalkan setelah letusan Gunung Merapi baru-baru ini pada tahun 2010. Anda akan merasa rendah diri melihat bagaimana besarnya akibat dari alam yang murka dan bagaimana orang-orang merespon bencana dengan berani. Jika anda mencapai tempat Mbah Maridjan, anda akan belajar bagaimana juru kunci Gunung Merapi tetap melaksanakan tugasnya bahkan ketika gunung meletus.

Sisa-sisa rumah di Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta

Menyelinap ke Taman Sari
Gunakan jalan kembali dari sisi lain benteng dan cobalah untuk menyelinap melalui dinding di dekat rumah-rumah desa yang tersebar. Setelah anda masuk, anda akan menemukan labirin lubang air bawah tanah, ruang-ruang rahasia, kebun dan kolam. Istana ini merupakan sebuah komplek besar yang dulu digunakan sebagai taman kerajaan Kesultanan Yogyakarta, istana ini juga digunakan untuk berbagai fungsi termasuk tempat pemandian. Ya, kolam pemandian bagi Sultan, ratu dan selir serta putri-putri Sultan, menurut saya yang paling menarik adalah kolam biru yang tenang dikelilingi bangunan berwarna pink.

Tempat permandian di Taman Sari, Jogja

Menikmati pemandangan dan cerita di Kraton Yogyakarta
Di istana Sultan Yogyakarta yang terawat dengan baik ini anda akan menemukan arsitektur unik dan pusaka yang di buat pada masa kejayaan Yogya. Semua wisatawan akan ditemani oleh pemandu wisata luar biasa yang dapat berbicara dalam berbagai macam bahasa, meskipun begitu anda jangan terlalu percaya ide mereka. Sangat menyenangkan saat anda mendengarkan mitos, ritual, cerita dan bahkan humor sambil mengelilingi istana. Kraton Yogya termasuk tempat yang harus dikunjungi untuk mengeksplor sejarah dan budaya Jogja yang kaya.

Kraton Palace

Mencoba memecahkan mitos dan keberuntungan berjalan di antara dua pohon
Setelah Kraton, agak jauh ke selatan di Taman Selatan (alun-alun) anda akan menemukan dua pohon beringin besar tumbuh berdampingan di tengah alun-alun. Mitos setempat mengatakan jika anda berhasil berjalan di antara pepohonan dengan mata tertutup, anda akan mendapatkan apa yang anda inginkan. Ada banyak orang di sekitar sini yang memberikan “layanan” dengan meminjamkan kain hitam untuk menutupi muka dan membantu anda berjalan dari ujung taman untuk menyeberang tepat di tengah-tengah kedua pohon dengan berteriak-teriak “kiri! benar!”. Tetapi dengan bantuan mereka atau tidak, sebenarnya hampir tidak mungkin untuk berjalan lurus di antara pohon-pohon dan gagal. Tapi mitos terus berlanjut dan terus menarik banyak orang untuk datang dan mencoba keberuntungan mereka!

Mitos keberuntungan berjalan di antara dua pohon diYogyakarta

Mitos keberuntungan berjalan di antara dua pohon di Jogja

Bersantai di kafe

Kafe di Jalan Prawirotaman, Jogja

Pada sore atau malam hari setelah seharian berjalan dan menjelajahi Yogyakarta, anda dapat bersantai di salah satu deretan kafe dimulai dari Jalan Prawirotaman. Di sini anda akan menemukan suasana nyaman untuk sekedar duduk-duduk dalam waktu yang lama dan mungkin membaca email atau berkumpul dengan teman-teman. Tersedia berbagai pilihan makanan di kafe-kafe mulai dari kuliner lokal hingga internasional dari makanan utama sampai makanan ringan. Minuman juga tersedia sesuai keinginan anda, minuman manis dan tentu saja kopi. Pergilah ke salah satu kafe di sini untuk berbaur dengan orang-orang atau hanya sekedar duduk di sudut kafe menikmati makanan dan minuman.  

Bonus number 11:
Menjelajahi ketenangan Borobudur
Banyak wisatawan yang menjelajahi Borobudur di siang hari (hanya 1 jam perjalanan dari Jogja ke Borobudur) atau berwisata beberapa hari (pilihan yang lebih baik jika anda punya banyak waktu). Pilihan yang bahkan lebih baik jika anda menginap di dekat Borobudur, seperti di Manohara Resort * dan melihatnya ketika matahari terbit (jika anda membayar untuk tur sunrise) atau setidaknya menjadi yang pertama datang pada saat dibuka pada jam 08.00 WIB. Saat ini adalah waktu terbaik menikmati keindahan Borobudur, ketika anda berada pada waktu yang paling tenang, dengan hanya beberapa wisatawan seperti anda yang menghargai keheningan dan keajaiban Borobudur. Candi yang dibangun pada abad ke-9 ini menjadi Situs Warisan UNESCO dan termasuk salah satu candi Budha terbesar di dunia, terdiri dari enam platform persegi dengan 2.672 panel relief dan 504 patung Budha. Ribuan umat Budha melakukan ibadah di Borobudur selama perayaan hari Waisak.

Borobudur di Java Tengah

Best Accommodations in Yogyakarta

Booking.com is a good choice as most of the bookings can be cancelled right up to the trip, allowing flexibility. In Yogyakarta, staying in the city center would help to save time in visiting all the must-visit places, but if you are looking for also some relaxation, just a little off center to north or south are some great choices. Here are a few of the best accommodations that we recommend to stay in Yogyakarta:

Luxury (from 150 USD)

Rosseno Villa
For those who want tranquillity and privacy, this villa lies just 15 minutes south of the city center surrounded by rice fields. It comes not only with a private pool, but also all meals provided and an all-day use of a car and driver! Well worth the splurge here. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Phoenix Hotel – McGallery by Sofitel
Run by the well known Sofitel, this hotel is for those who wants their luxury in the center of Yogyakarta. The hotel’s interior comes with a blend of grand Asian and European decor, with the rooms terraces overlooking a courtyard and pool. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Mid-range (50 – 150 USD)

Novotel Yogyakarta
For those who seek a well known brand and comfort, this hotel is located strategically to visit the tourist attractions. You can expect clean modern rooms with wide range of delicious breakfast. It also comes with a pool. Definitely value for money. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Dusun Jogja Village Inn
For those looking for a nature getaway and some tranquility, this hotel is like an oasis in the middle of the city. Surrounded by tropical gardens of palm trees around a beautiful pool. It is also well located, just south to the main attractions area. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Budget (below 50 USD)

Griya Wijilan
Just nestled next to the Keraton Palace, this small and Javanese designed boutique hotel is for those who knows a good deal. The location is hard to beat! There is also nice terrace and garden for those who hang to rest in between the hustle and bustle. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *
Rumah Mertua Boutique Hotel
For those looking for a boutique hotel, combining comfort with budget, this hotel comes wih Javanese decorated rooms and a pool surrounded by romantic gardens. It is located 20 minutes drive north from the city center in a tranquil setting. Check out the latest prices on Booking.com *

Yogyakarta 3 Days Itinerary

Yogyakarta is one of the must-visit place in Java, Indonesia. It is also known as Jogjakarta or Jogja or Yogya (you decide!) by travelers and locals alike. From all the places you must visit in Java, this is the one place you cannot miss.

If you have 3 days to spend in Yogyakarta, your itinerary would definitely include an in-depth tour of this interesting city plus visiting the two famous temples of Borobudur and Prambanan.

Here is our suggested itinerary in Yogyakarta for 3 days.

Day 1 : Yogyakarta city center

It is good to stay near the city center, as it helps for quick access to all the tourist attractions in Yogyakarta. It includes the experience living in a bustling city of Indonesia. If you arrived early in the morning from an overnight train, grab a typical Indonesian breakfast at one of the food mongers spread along Malioboro Street. Also, check out the famous Pasar Beringharjo (market), where you can find souvenirs. Bring out your bargaining skills here!

A lady sells Pecel, traditional cuisine, Beringharjo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — A lady sells Pecel, traditional cuisine which combines some vegetables and served with peanut sauce dressing. Photo by : Manogamo

Without wasting more time, head to the famous Keraton Palace, a well-mainted palace from the days of the Sultans. Here you will find unique architecture and heirlooms of the days of glory. Everyone will be accompanied by a local guide who can speak all kinds of languages, and it is indeed a good experience as it gives you insights into the rich history and culture of Jogja.

Next head on to Taman Sari (Water Castle) which is not far from the palace. Use a back way from the other side of the castle and try to sneak your way in through rundown defense walls and scattered village houses. Once you got in, you will find yourself in mazes of underground water holes, secret chambers and gardens and pools. This castle is a huge complex that used to be a former royal garden of Sultanate of Yogyakarta used for various functions including bathing place.

Bathing pool at Taman Sari, Yogyakarta

After that, it is time to test your luck. Head to Alun-Alun Kidul (South Square park) in Yogyakarta, where an urban legend has it that anyone who successfully crosses between the two huge banyan trees blindfolded will get what they wish for. The amazing thing is apparently many people failed at this attempt despite the huge gap.

-> Check out Top 10 Things to Do in Yogyakarta

Day 2 : Museums, Gudeg and chill at a cafe

One of the popular museums here in Yogyakarta is the Art museum. It features the works of the Indonesia’s legendary painter Affandi, where he spent most of his life here producing many masterpieces while keeping it away from other painters.

Sneak in a lunch at a long standing establishment Gudeg Yu Djum for possibly the best Indonesian dish ever called Gudeg. This unique Indonesian dish is a stew made from young jackfruit (nangka) with palm sugar, coconut milk, meat, garlic, and spices. The special taste came from the slow melding of flavors and textures to the right perfection.

Gudeg Yu Djum, Yogyakarta

After that head to Sonobudoyo Museum,, another museum worth visiting. Do not forget to also watch the special leather puppet show featured here, available every day from 8- 10 pm. It is accompanied by Javanese Gamelan music and language. While waiting for the show, you can take a look at the collection of artefacts and collections of batik, keris, wayang, and antique weapons.

In the evening, return to Alun-alun Kidul park and find the new trend of bling-bling car. They are small cars decorated with bold lightings that will bring you around the city. The price is IDR 15,000 for one loop of the ride. Many locals love to give this attraction a try.

Bling bling car, Alun-alun Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Bling-bling car at Alun-Alun Kidul, Yogyakarta, each swith its own different characters. Photo by : Adnan Ali

For dinner, head to a traditional food stall, north of Malioboro street in a small alley, called Angkringan Lik Man. Angkringan is a typical roadside stall in Yogyakarta that you can find in almost every corner of the city. Lik Man is the most special as it has an anti-mainstream coffee to warm up your night, which is coffee served with a flaming charcoal. You must also try the Nasi Kucing and other side dishes here, such as chicken intestines satay, chicken gizzard satay, quail eggs and satay.

-> Check out the Best Places to Stay in Yogyakarta

Day 3 – Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple

Now it is time for our day trip to the two anceient temples of Java, Indonesia. Borobudur temple is located 1-hour drive from yogyakarta and it is well worth the trip. Try to get there early to avoid the crowd, and to enjoy the silent beauty of the place with respect. This 9th-century temple is an Indonesia UNESCO Heritage site and one of the largest Buddhist temple in the world, consisting of six square platforms with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha status. Thousands of Buddhists do their pilgrimage here in Borobudur during Waisak day.

-> Read our Guide to Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple Compounds upclose

After visiting this temple, you can grab a quick lunch in Borobudur city before heading back to Yogyakarta but with a stop at the next temple – Prambanan Temple.

It is a well known ancient Hindu Temple in Indonesia built during the 9th century for Trimurti as an expression that God is the Creator (Brahma), Preserver (Vishnu) and also the Destroyer (Shiva). It is also one of the Indonesia UNESCO World Heritage Site, being one of the largest Hindu temple architecture in Southeast Asia. At the same time, don’t forget to check out Candi Sewu, located just 15 minutes walk from Prambanan temple. This place is a good respite from the crowds of Prambanan, featuring many hidden structures and carvings for self-exploration. If you are here on the right day, there would be a Ramayana Ballet show, with 200 artists playing a role and dancing to classsical Javanese music. This show does not run every day so check online if you want to catch it. The ticket price starts from IDR 125,000 and the show begins at 19.30.

-> Read our Guide to Prambanan Temple

The Ramayana Ballet, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — When the spotlight makes the show even more beautiful. Photo by Deep Goswami

With that is the end of your full 3 days itinerary in Yogyakarta. There is always something more to explore in Yogyakara if you have the time, there are a lot of cafes to check out in the city and there are a number of options for day trips, such as to Mount Merapi, Gunung Kidul, Jamblang Cave or Mangunan Fruit Garden. Check out our Yogyakarta 5 days / 4 nights Itinerary for the expansion.

Yogyakarta 5 Days / 4 Nights Itinerary Blog

Yogyakarta has long been my must-visit place in Java, Indonesia. It is also known as Jogjakarta or Jogja or Yogya (you decide!) by travelers and locals alike. From all the places you must visit in Java, this is the one place you cannot miss.

If you have 5 days to spend in Yogyakarta, your itinerary can include a city tour, visiting the two famous temples Borobudur and Prambanan and also some nature trip nearby. Here is my own itinerary in Yogyakarta for 5 days and 4 nights.

Day 1 : Yogyakarta city center tour

It is good to stay near the city center, as it helps for quick access to all the tourist attractions in Yogyakarta. It also offers to experience the hustle and bustle of every day from the morning till night. If you just arrive early in the morning from the overnight train, you can grab a typical breakfast of either Soto, Jenang, Nasi Liwet, or Pecel. All of those food mongers are spread along the Malioboro Street and Pasar Beringharjo (Beringharjo Market). You can easily find some souvenirs at Pasar Beringharjo too. Do not forget to test your bargaining skill here. Also, a tip is to not easily agree with the first price they offer. You can start bargaining with 50% markdown.

If you are already tired from walking, you can choose to take the “becak” (local trishaw) to go around the city. You should also bargain so that it would not be overpriced. They will start with IDR 10,000 to visit some stores like Bakpia and clothes store but be aware that they will be unhappy if you end up not buying anything at the store. This is because they are hoping to get some percentage from the things you buy at certain stores. Therefore, it is better for you to confirm from the beginning whether if you would want to shop for bakpia and clothes. If you are not, then you can bargain for a more reasonable price to go around the area (maybe around IDR 30,000). You just need to tell them where you want to go.

-> Check out Top 10 Things to Do in Yogyakarta

Do not forget to tell the becak driver to take you to visit the popular tourist attractions in Yogyakarta, such as the Royal Palace (Keraton). It has an open pavilion extravagantly decorated with the golden colored ornaments. There are also galleries which keep treasures of the royal family and also showcased of historical batik fabrics.

After that, head to Taman Sari (Water Castle). Only a step away from the palace, this castle used to be a historical bathing complex for the royals. It is built by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I but finished by Sultan Hamengkubuwono II. Since this place is aimed at resting and relaxing, its four areas are consist of an artificial lake, pavilion, and the bathing complex itself.

Bathing pool at Taman Sari, Yogyakarta

Since Javanese is well known with its Batik, you may also want to try a Batik workshop, just stop by in one of the small alleys around Taman Sari. Here, you can learn how to make all kinds of stuff using Batik patterns such as bags, purses, or any other accessories.

Creativeness in making batik pattern, Taman Sari, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Show your creativeness by trying make any batik pattern as you wish. Photo by : Martijn Nijenhuls

Then it is time to test your luck. When the night comes, go to Alun-Alun Kidul (South Square park) in Yogyakarta. An urban legend has said that those who can successfully cross between the two huge banyan trees blindfolded will have their wishes come true. The amazing thing is apparently most people failed at that attempt, even though the gap is substantially big enough between the trees.

Urban legend about Banyan trees, Alun-Alun, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Close your eyes, get twirled around by your friends, and walk following your intuition. Photo by Isti

Day 2 : Art Museum, Bling-bling Car, Charcoal Coffee

Today you can expand your knowledge of art by visiting museums. Start your day enjoying art paintings at Affandi Museum, which consists of three galleries. This place is located at Jalan Laksda Adisucipto 167. Take a look at the work of Indonesia’s legendary painter, Affandi. This is also the place where he spent most of his life, produced many of his masterpieces and kept them all away from other painters.

-> Check out the Best Places to Stay in Yogyakarta

Another museum to visit is the Sonobudoyo Museum, located at Jalan Pangurakan Yogyakarta No. 6, Ngupasan, Gondomanan. Do not let your visit here go by without watching the special leather puppet show. The show is available every day from 8 PM – 10 PM. Accompanied by Javanese Gamelan music and Javanese language, this show is the epitome of the art and culture of Yogyakarta. While you are waiting for the show, you can take a look at the collection of artefacts and collections of batik, keris, wayang, and antique weapons.

Special leather puppet show at Sonobudoyo Museum, Jalan Pangurakan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — When the show is on, a Dalang is controlling all the puppet chraracters. Photo by : Hermitianta Prasetya Putra

On this night, go back again to the hip main square from yesterday. Again at Alun-Alun Kidul, you will find a bling-bling car decorated with bold lightings. Although it is such a small car, the lights will bring you to it from afar. The loud music makes the car even livelier. The price is IDR 15,000 for one loop of the ride.

For supper, we head to a traditional food stall. Heading north from the direction of Malioboro Street, you will find a small alley where Angkringan Lik Man is located. Angkringan is a typical roadside stall in Yogyakarta and I bet can find it in almost every corner of the city. But this one is special since Lik Man has an anti-mainstream coffee to warm up your night. This place will introduce you to a coffee served with the flaming charcoal. You must also try Nasi Kucing and other side dishes such as chicken intestines satay, chicken gizzard satay, quail eggs and satay here.

Coffee with flaming charcoal, Angkringan Lik Man, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Challenge yourself to drink a glass of charcoal coffee. Photo by Ivan Lanin

Day 3 – Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple

Borobudur Temple is not actually located in Yogyakarta but in the Magelang Regency, two hours drive away from the main city area. It is designated as a World Heritage by UNESCO. and consists of 72 stupas, each with statues of Buddha. Borobudur is built based on Buddhism, depicting three levels of the universe (Kamadhatu, Ruphadatu, and Arupadhatu).

-> Read our Guide to Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple Compounds upclose

Another must visit historical temple other than Borobudur is the Prambanan Temple. The most suggested thing to do here is to watch the Javanese culture show, the Ramayana Ballet, preserved since the olden days. The show is available indoor at Trimurti Theater and it is also possible to watch in an open air theatre. Do not forget to check the schedule online because the show is not performed every day. The ticket price starts from IDR 125,000 and the show begins at 19.30. Ramayana Ballet will showcase 200 artists combining their skills to play a role and dance along with the classical Javanese music.

-> Read our Guide to Prambanan Temple

Day 4 – Day Trip from Yogyakarta with Mountain peak, Caves and Beach

Now it’s time to escape the city of Yogyakarta to look for some dose of nature. We will be visiting Gunung Kidul, about 40 km west of the city of Yogyakarta. We will start at Ancient Volcano of Nglanggeran. If you are quite a fit hiker, you may need only 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the peak. While walking uphill, do not forget to enjoy the serene surroundings and the fresh air. The cold breeze here is great as it is located approximately 700 meters above the sea level

Ancient Volcano of Nglanggeran, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — A place for serenity and you can feel togetherness here more.. Photo by Isti

Next on our day trip from Yogyakarta is the Goa Jamblang (Jamblang Cave). This vertical cave is typically known as a collapsed doline, formed from a geologist process resulting in a sinkhole about 50 meters square. It is advisable to get a guided tour here to explore the caves. This guided tour will cost you around IDR 600,000-700,000 per person (including all the equipment rental cost). You need at least 2-3 hours to finish this caving adventure. The best time to explore Jamblang Cave is in the morning, finishing before lunch. You will meet a beautiful sunlight trickling onto the stone down at the cave.

The vertical Jamblang cave, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Follow the light, that’s where you can find a way out. Photo by M. Reza Faisal

After a tiring morning of trekking and caving, it is time for you to just sit and relax, waiting for the sun to set at Indrayanti Beach. Located still in Gunung Kidul Area, this beach offers you a panoramic beauty which is completed by the white sand, majestic hills of coral rocks and sparkling blue sea. If you are a water sports lover, you can try jet ski here, costing IDR 250,000 per 15 minutes.

The panoramic beauty of Indrayanti beach, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Beach is such a best place to catch the sunset. Photo by Indra Kurniawan

Day 5 – Mangunan Fruit Garden before leaving

Have a visit to the increasingly famous Mangunan Fruit Garden. It is in the area of Bantul, which is 35 km away from the city center. Here you can learn about various kinds of fruits. All fruits are placed in accordance with the slope of its area such as durian, mango, orange, rose apple, orange, and mangosteen. You will also find a beautiful view here on the viewing dock, surrounded by the pine trees. This is one amazing spot for some selfies! Just stand up at the edge of the dock for the backdrop of greenery hills.

The Fruit Garden, Mangunan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia — Morning mist will welcome you above the clouds. Photo by Yopi Priatna

After this visit, head on back to Yogyakarta for your onward journey. Although you may have done quite a bit here for 5 days, there are always still much more things to do in Yogyakarta. There are always reasons to return to visit this area of Java Island of Indonesia.

Best Accommodations in Yogyakarta

Booking.com is a good choice as most of the bookings can be cancelled right up to the trip, allowing flexibility. While Agoda.com * has one of the most extensive listings in Asia with great deals.

In Yogyakarta, staying in the city center would help to save time in visiting all the must-visit places, but if you are looking for also some relaxation, just a little off center to north or south are some great choices. Here are a few of the best accommodations that we recommend to stay in Yogyakarta:

Luxury (from 150 USD)

Rosseno Villa
For those who want tranquillity and privacy, this villa lies just 15 minutes south of the city center surrounded by rice fields. It comes not only with a private pool, but also all meals provided and an all-day use of a car and driver! Well worth the splurge here.
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Phoenix Hotel – McGallery by Sofitel
Run by the well known Sofitel, this hotel is for those who wants their luxury in the center of Yogyakarta. The hotel’s interior comes with a blend of grand Asian and European decor, with the rooms terraces overlooking a courtyard and pool.
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Mid-range (50 – 150 USD)

Novotel Yogyakarta
For those who seek a well known brand and comfort, this hotel is located strategically to visit the tourist attractions. You can expect clean modern rooms with wide range of delicious breakfast. It also comes with a pool. Definitely value for money.
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Dusun Jogja Village Inn
For those looking for a nature getaway and some tranquility, this hotel is like an oasis in the middle of the city. Surrounded by tropical gardens of palm trees around a beautiful pool. It is also well located, just south to the main attractions area.
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Budget (below 50 USD)

Griya Wijilan
Just nestled next to the Keraton Palace, this small and Javanese designed boutique hotel is for those who knows a good deal. The location is hard to beat! There is also nice terrace and garden for those who hang to rest in between the hustle and bustle.
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Rumah Mertua Boutique Hotel
For those looking for a boutique hotel, combining comfort with budget, this hotel comes wih Javanese decorated rooms and a pool surrounded by romantic gardens. It is located 20 minutes drive north from the city center in a tranquil setting.
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Next destinations:
Malang – pitstop to Mount Bromo, with beautiful landscape and some more ancient temples
Mount Bromo – the most popular volcano crater in Indonesia, particularly for its breathtaking sunrise

Prambanan Temple Compounds, Yogyakarta

Candi Prambanan or Prambanan Temple Compounds, also known as Candi Rara Jonggrang is a well known ancient Hindu Temple in Java, Indonesia. This 9th-century temple built by Trimurti as an expression that God is the Creator (Brahma), Preserver (Vishnu) and also the Destroyer (Shiva) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Most travelers will gape at its magnificence as they approach the temple from the walkway as it loomed nearer. This is one structure to be noted with, being one of the the biggest Hindu Temple in Southeast Asia. It towers at 47 m high with a wide compound surrounding it inclusive with many temples arranged all around.

Entering to Prambanan Temple Compounds, Yogyakarta

History and facts

Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple in ancient Java and this royal temple is probably built during the Hindu Sanjaya Dynasty. Historian suggests that this temple marks the return of the Hindu Sanjaya Dynasty to power in Central Java after almost a century of Buddhist Sailendra Dynasty domination. It also signifies the focus from Mahayana Buddhism to Shivaist Hinduism.

Upclose with Prambanan, Yogyakarta

In the Prambanan Temple compounds, there are 3 Trimurti temples – Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma, 3 Vahana temples – Nandi, Garuda and Hamsa, 2 Apit temples , 4 Kelir temples, 4 Patol Temples and 224 Pervara temples. There are also many reliefs on the walls of these temple that depicts many ancient stories.

This temple is also known for the Rara Jonggrang legend, where it is said that Prince Bandung Bondowoso fell in love with Princess Rara Jonggrang, daughter of King Boko. The princess rejected his marriage proposal because he had killed her father but after his insistence, gave him an impossible condition – to build thousands of temples in one night. With the help of supernatural beings, the prince managed to build 999 temples but the princess fearing his success, had the village maids to began pounding rice and set a fire in the East to fake the sunrise thus cheating the spiritual helpers to leave. The prince was furious about the trick and cursed Rara Jonggrang into a stone which she became the last and most beautiful of the thousand statues. According to the legend, this last unfinished thousand temple is the Sewu temple (means thousands) nearby to Prambanan and the Princess statue is in the north cell of the Shiva temple in Prambanan.

Where is it

Prambanan Temple compound is located 18 km east of Yogyakarta in Central Java, Indonesia.

Why visit

For the magnificence of one of the largest Hindu Temple in Southeast Asia and the rich legend behind these foreboding temples of ancient times.

Reliefs / carvings on Prambanan Temple, Yogyakarta

When is the best time to go

Most times is good for visiting Prambanan, whether it is the dry season (April – October) or wet season (November – March) of the two seasoned Indonesia.

Dry season will have a peak of tourists and also can be really hot while wet season will see rain later in the day so go early for your visit.

Where to Stay

It is best to stay at Yogyakarta and do a trip here to visit Prambanan temple. Read our Where to Stay at Yogyakarta guide.

Fees

The entry fees for Prambanan is 30,000 Rp for Indonesian adult and 12,5000 Rp for children. For foreigners it is 18 USD for adult and 9 USD for children under 6 (as of 2016).

Opening Times

6am to 6pm daily.

Inside Prambanan Temple Compounds, Yogyakarta

Get in and get around

Best way to get here is first fly to Yogyakarta, and then use the Transjogja public bus to visit Prambanan. You can also hire a car from Yogyakarta to Prambanan and stop by various temples on the way.

Nearby tourist attractions

Candi Sewu – just 10-15 minutes walk from the Prambanan temple, it is worth a visit as the temple ruins are eerily captivating and as a good respite from the crowds in Prambanan.

Candi Sambisari – a good stopover temple on the way to Prambanan, it had been buried underground for more hundred years before the discovery in 1966. Reconstructed, it now stands as a testament to archeologists efforts to restore the glory of the past.

Borobudur Temple Compounds – A 9th-century Buddhist temple is the largest Buddhist structure in the world and is an Indonesia UNESCO Heritage site. It consists of six square platforms with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha status.

Yogyakarta – packed with all the intricacies of a good travel place with hidden treasures of bygone days, narrow alleys and main streets of delights, large array of delicious food to try, arts and cultures dotted everywhere and rich in history.

Prambanan Temple Compounds, Yogyakarta

Travel Tips

Just like Borobudur, it is best to enjoy it at earliest hour possible to simply admire the grandeur in peace and quiet.

At night there might be a performance of Hindu Ramayana in the temple, you may check with the place you stay for an arranged tour.

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