Borobudur Temple is an otherworldly Mahayana Buddhist temple compound. The UNESCO site comprises nine layered platforms and myriad shapes that come together to form this astounding complex. Marvel at the sheer invention and variation in the décor and architecture in one of Buddhism’s most prominent and iconic monuments.
Arrive for sunrise to see the silhouettes of the temple spires against the dramatic backdrop of the sky. Surrounding the complex is the green, lush terrain of the Kedu Plain, which contains volcanoes and mountains. Marvel at the excellent attention to detail in the 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues.
Each side of the square base is 387 feet (118 meters) long. Climb up the many layers of the structure, which is made from dark gray andesite stone. At the central summit of the enormous monument is a large dome surrounded by 72 Buddha sculptures.
Employ a travel guide for a deeper understanding of the meaning behind the Buddhist statues. The archaeological park also contains the Samudraraksa Museum and the Karmawibhangga Museum, which shed light on local history.
Ride the miniature train with your kids for a fun way to get around the complex. Consider renting a bicycle to travel around the site and the surrounding villages in the area. Admire artisanal products form local vendors at the stalls outside the monument’s park. Haggling over price is common practice.
Relax in the serene grounds that surround the monument. Lay down a blanket and enjoy a picnic with your friends.
The site opens daily from early morning until late afternoon. There is a fee to enter the complex. Discounts are available for students. Combination deals that include a visit to the Prambanan temple compound are available. Pay an additional fee to ride the small train.
Borobudur Temple is in Central Java, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) north-west of Yogyakarta. Drive here from the city center in around 75 minutes. Take a bus from the Jombor bus terminal or try the Trans Jogja bus.
