Borobudur - the world largest Buddhist Temple..
Borobudur Temple is the world’s largest Buddhist Temple, built between 750-850 – it’s a magnificent and awe-inspiring structure and a place to visit!
The ancient Borobudur temple (temple – hill) is the biggest Buddhist monument in the world. It’s located in central Java with the nearest town Muntilan, close to Magelang city and an hour drive from Yogyakarta (often called Jogja by local people). Here is all you need to know before visiting the place, entry tickets, dresscode and directions on how to get to Borobudur Temple. For memorable experience visit the place early in the morning to witness a wonderful Borobudur sunrise at Setumbu Hill.
Is Borobudur worth visiting?
Borobudur temple is one of the most magnificent places on earth and you must visit at least once in your life. The history of the place is captured on its reliefs, which cover the walls of the terraces, presenting the life scenes of Buddha and jataka. Some of the art reflects India’s influence on the region. The temple was abandoned when Islam arrived on the island in 14th century.
Borobudur is constructed with more than 2 million individual stone blocks arranged without any mortar. The entire structure represents a mandala, a symbolic representation of the universe in Buddhist cosmology. The temple is adorned with 72 perforated stupas.
The temple monument is best to be discovered with the sunrise, slowly unveiling the beauty of the temple architecture, ringed by smoking volcano peaks.
Jataka stories of former lives of the Buddha.
Jataka – one of the popular stories of former lives of the Buddha, often illustrating Indian’s customs and traditions. Around the circular platforms on the top terraces are 72 stupas, each containing a statue of the Buddha.
Nodoby used this temple for almost one thousand year. Then explorers rediscovered it in ruinous condition in 1814. Thanks to the association of 27 countries, the government of Indonesia and UNESCO, Indonesian people restored it and since 1983 it remains one of the most spectacular ancient temple on earth.
The temple is located in plain Kedu surrounded by pure jungle. Borobudur is based on Mount Meru in Hindu mythology – a mystic Buddhist symbol of the universe, combining the square as earth and the circle as heaven.
How to get to Borobudur Temple by public bus?
From Yogyakarta Airport (YIA), you can take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to Yogyakarta’s main bus terminal called “Giobugan,” which is about a 30-minute drive. From there look for buses going to Borobudur or take a minivan called “TransJogja” to Jombor Terminal, which is the closest terminal to Borobudur. Once you reach Jombor Terminal, you can take a public bus or arrange for a local minivan (locally known as “angkot”) to take you to Borobudur Temple.
Where to stay in Yogyakarta?
There are plenty of accommodation options in Yogyakarta which you can check on agoda.com. My top picks would be those two below:
How to get to Borobudur Temple from the airport.
If you are approaching Borobudur Temple from Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA), commonly known as Kulon Progo Airport, the easiest way to get to the temple is hiring a private transportation, taking you directly to Borobudur Temple. It is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the airport, depending on the traffic conditions. Check Top Yogyakarta Airport & Hotel transfers options or book one of the following options:
However the most convenient way of visiting Borobudur is taking one of the well organized tours, the most popular options can be viewed on Viator with top rated:
Borobudur Sunrise from Hill & Prambanan Temples!
You can’t miss the scenic sunrise views from Borobudur Hill! Sunrise is considered one of the highlights of visiting this magnificent site and I can tell it’s a memorable experience! To witness the sunrise from Borobudur, you will need to start your journey very early in the morning. It is recommended to arrive at the temple complex well before sunrise, ideally around 4:30 to 5:00 a.m., to secure a good spot.
I used local public transport almost everywhere in Java. It’s most valuable way of traveling and interacting with local people. Me and my friend Nati were aiming for the sunset in Borodubur and decided to take an early taxi. We paid 300 000 Rupiah but I know the fares are around 200 000 – 250 000Rp. The drive takes 30-40 minutes. We left at 4am, as most important was to get there before the crowds. It was one of the most amazing mystique experiences to have this place for your own.
To hear the silence of the place best time to visit Borodubur would b early morning. However lots of visitors arrive for the sunset, which is equally spectacular. But the view spreading over the surrounding jungle and volcano peaks is much more pensive in morning hours. You need to walk a little to the base of the hill then climb a series of steps to reach the top of the temple for best sunrise view.
Tickets to Borobudur Temple.
Entrance fee to Borobudur Temple is different for locals and foreigners. All types of tickets – for national and international visitors – can be purchased on Klook. Remember to bring your ID or passport for ticket verification.
Hot to dress for Borobudur Temple?
Like every religious site in Indonesia requires proper dresscode. Shorts and skirts are not allowed, you would need to be covered up to your ankles. Shoulders should be covered as well.
Best Viewing Point – to enjoy the sunrise, head to the eastern terrace of Borobudur Temple, which offers the best vantage point. The temple’s design allows for a stunning view of the sun rising over the distant hills and illuminating the surrounding landscape.
Keep in mind that the visibility of the sunrise is subject to weather conditions such as cloud cover. When I was there there was a small fog, which limited the visibility of the surrounding jungle.
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