Prambanan and Borobudur
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Welcome to the first article of my travel blog! I'm excited to share my recent journey and document future adventures here as well.
In the beautiful month of May 2023, I contemplated visiting Siem Reap in Cambodia or Yogyakarta as my initial travel destinations for the year. Ultimately, I chose Yogyakarta due to my previous experience with Indonesia's hospitality. The warmth and friendliness of Yogyakarta's locals, known for their genuine smiles and welcoming demeanor, contribute to the city's enchanting charm and make it a truly unforgettable destination.
Often referred to as Jogja, Yogyakarta captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Located in the heart of Java, Indonesia, this city presents a magical atmosphere where the past and present coexist harmoniously.
Yogyakarta also boasts some of the world's most renowned temples, including the iconic Prambanan and Borobudur. These ancient marvels feature intricate carvings and awe-inspiring structures, transporting visitors back in time and allowing them to experience the spirituality and grandeur of the past.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Yogyakarta's magical surroundings. These surroundings offer a unique experience where the past and present coexist harmoniously, creating an enchanting and unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival at the Airport and Stay at Joglo Ayem Tentrem
Upon arrival, I headed to Joglo Ayem Tentrem and checked into my lovely Javanese-style villa. This traditional villa features a sitting porch facing the garden, a kitchenette, a spacious bedroom, a high ceiling, and a large toilet/bath. Its serene atmosphere and beautiful garden make it the perfect place to unwind. The local breakfast was also quite generous.
Prambanan Temple and Ramayana
After settling into my villa at Joglo Ayem Tentrem, I ventured to the stunning Prambanan Temple. Despite the rain, the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia left me speechless with its intricate carvings and towering spires. This 9th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to the Trimurti (the expression of God as the Creator (Brahma), the Preserver (Vishnu), and the Destroyer (Shiva)).
In the evening, despite the drizzle, I attended a mesmerizing performance of the Ramayana Ballet, with the Prambanan Temple as the backdrop. This traditional Javanese dance-drama is based on the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. Accompanied by traditional gamelan music, the captivating show provided a perfect end to my first day.
Day 2: Rumah Boedi Borobudur and Borobudur
After checking out from Joglo Ayem Tentrem, I stopped by a floating restaurant for a satisfying lunch. Then, I headed to Rumah Boedi Borobudur, a charming boutique hotel surrounded by lush gardens. This tranquil setting offered the perfect place to unwind. I checked in at Rumah Boedi Borobudur and met its humble host. They arranged transportation to and from Borobudur and the other places I visited the following day, as well as a traditional massage for me after returning from Borobudur Temple.
Borobudur Temple
The world's largest and most majestic Buddhist temple, Borobudur Temple, is a 9th-century marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of nine stacked platforms, six square and three circular, topped by a central dome. The intricate carvings depicting the life of Buddha and the stunning panoramic views from the top were truly unforgettable.
Day 3: Obelix Hills, Gereja Ayam, and Mary's Sendangsono Shrine
My day began with a trip to the beautiful Obelix Hills, where the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the fresh mountain air revitalized my spirit. Next, I visited the unique Gereja Ayam, also known as the "Chicken Church." This abandoned building, shaped like a giant chicken, offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Afterward, I paid a visit to Mary's Sendangsono Shrine, a sacred Catholic pilgrimage site in the hills of Magelang. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings made it a truly special place.
I concluded my stay at Borobudur and enjoyed a delicious meal at the Mushroom restaurant in Magelang, where most dishes featured mushrooms as the main ingredient. Then, I proceeded to Joglo Plawang Boutique Resort for my final night in Yogyakarta, the perfect conclusion to my unforgettable journey.
Day 4: Departure
After checking out and having lunch, I took a ride to the airport to return to Kuala Lumpur. At the airport, I witnessed a remarkable Javanese cultural dance performance outside the departure hall.
Overall, my trip to Prambanan and Borobudur was an incredible experience filled with awe-inspiring moments, delicious cuisine, and a deeper understanding of Indonesia's rich history and culture.
If you're considering a trip to Indonesia, I highly recommend adding Yogyakarta to your itinerary. The warmth and hospitality of the locals, the fascinating cultural experiences, and the enchanting beauty of the region make it a destination you won't want to miss. So, why not start planning your own adventure to Prambanan and Borobudur today?
Be sure to check out the links below for more information on the accommodations and attractions I visited during my trip. I can't wait to hear about your own experiences and discoveries in this magical part of the world.
Joglo Ayem Tentrem
Instagram: Joglo Ayem Tentrem
Instagram: Rumah Boedi Borobudur
Instagram: Joglo Plawang Boutique Resort
In the beautiful month of May 2023, I contemplated visiting Siem Reap in Cambodia or Yogyakarta as my initial travel destinations for the year. Ultimately, I chose Yogyakarta due to my previous experience with Indonesia's hospitality. The warmth and friendliness of Yogyakarta's locals, known for their genuine smiles and welcoming demeanor, contribute to the city's enchanting charm and make it a truly unforgettable destination.
Often referred to as Jogja, Yogyakarta captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Located in the heart of Java, Indonesia, this city presents a magical atmosphere where the past and present coexist harmoniously.
Yogyakarta also boasts some of the world's most renowned temples, including the iconic Prambanan and Borobudur. These ancient marvels feature intricate carvings and awe-inspiring structures, transporting visitors back in time and allowing them to experience the spirituality and grandeur of the past.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Yogyakarta's magical surroundings. These surroundings offer a unique experience where the past and present coexist harmoniously, creating an enchanting and unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Arrival at the Airport and Stay at Joglo Ayem Tentrem
Upon arrival, I headed to Joglo Ayem Tentrem and checked into my lovely Javanese-style villa. This traditional villa features a sitting porch facing the garden, a kitchenette, a spacious bedroom, a high ceiling, and a large toilet/bath. Its serene atmosphere and beautiful garden make it the perfect place to unwind. The local breakfast was also quite generous.
Prambanan Temple and Ramayana
After settling into my villa at Joglo Ayem Tentrem, I ventured to the stunning Prambanan Temple. Despite the rain, the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia left me speechless with its intricate carvings and towering spires. This 9th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site is dedicated to the Trimurti (the expression of God as the Creator (Brahma), the Preserver (Vishnu), and the Destroyer (Shiva)).
In the evening, despite the drizzle, I attended a mesmerizing performance of the Ramayana Ballet, with the Prambanan Temple as the backdrop. This traditional Javanese dance-drama is based on the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. Accompanied by traditional gamelan music, the captivating show provided a perfect end to my first day.
Day 2: Rumah Boedi Borobudur and Borobudur
After checking out from Joglo Ayem Tentrem, I stopped by a floating restaurant for a satisfying lunch. Then, I headed to Rumah Boedi Borobudur, a charming boutique hotel surrounded by lush gardens. This tranquil setting offered the perfect place to unwind. I checked in at Rumah Boedi Borobudur and met its humble host. They arranged transportation to and from Borobudur and the other places I visited the following day, as well as a traditional massage for me after returning from Borobudur Temple.
Borobudur Temple
The world's largest and most majestic Buddhist temple, Borobudur Temple, is a 9th-century marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It consists of nine stacked platforms, six square and three circular, topped by a central dome. The intricate carvings depicting the life of Buddha and the stunning panoramic views from the top were truly unforgettable.
Day 3: Obelix Hills, Gereja Ayam, and Mary's Sendangsono Shrine
My day began with a trip to the beautiful Obelix Hills, where the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the fresh mountain air revitalized my spirit. Next, I visited the unique Gereja Ayam, also known as the "Chicken Church." This abandoned building, shaped like a giant chicken, offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Afterward, I paid a visit to Mary's Sendangsono Shrine, a sacred Catholic pilgrimage site in the hills of Magelang. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings made it a truly special place.
I concluded my stay at Borobudur and enjoyed a delicious meal at the Mushroom restaurant in Magelang, where most dishes featured mushrooms as the main ingredient. Then, I proceeded to Joglo Plawang Boutique Resort for my final night in Yogyakarta, the perfect conclusion to my unforgettable journey.
Day 4: Departure
After checking out and having lunch, I took a ride to the airport to return to Kuala Lumpur. At the airport, I witnessed a remarkable Javanese cultural dance performance outside the departure hall.
Overall, my trip to Prambanan and Borobudur was an incredible experience filled with awe-inspiring moments, delicious cuisine, and a deeper understanding of Indonesia's rich history and culture.
If you're considering a trip to Indonesia, I highly recommend adding Yogyakarta to your itinerary. The warmth and hospitality of the locals, the fascinating cultural experiences, and the enchanting beauty of the region make it a destination you won't want to miss. So, why not start planning your own adventure to Prambanan and Borobudur today?
Be sure to check out the links below for more information on the accommodations and attractions I visited during my trip. I can't wait to hear about your own experiences and discoveries in this magical part of the world.
Joglo Ayem Tentrem
Instagram: Joglo Ayem Tentrem
Instagram: Rumah Boedi Borobudur
Instagram: Joglo Plawang Boutique Resort