7 Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
This vivacious city, fondly known as "Jogja", doesn't just let you watch the ebb and flow of life, it entices you to dive into the brimming cauldron of culture, history, and natural beauty. In this article, we invite you on a journey of inspiring tales, vibrant life scenes, and mesmerising experiences that make Yogyakarta a paradise for globetrotters.
Are you imagining the fragrance of exotic spices wafting through the markets, the quiet hum of ancient temples, or the misty grandeur of volcanic landscapes? In the coming words, we will whisk you across the bustling streets and into the hidden corners of Jogja, spotlighting the not-to-be-missed destinations and unearthing its best-kept secrets.
Buckle up for an enchanting escapade through a city where tradition and modernity dance a beautiful waltz - Yogyakarta!
Read more: Best Places to Visit in Berastagi, Sumatra
Table of Content
- Kampung Wisata Taman Sari
- Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
- Prambanan Temple
- Borobudur
- Museum Ullen Sentalu
- Sewu Temple
- Ratu Boko
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| 7 Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia |
7 Best Things to Do in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Kampung Wisata Taman Sari
As you meander through Yogyakarta's compact lanes, laden with secrets and history, the captivating Taman Sari unfolds before you. Once the regal water castle of the Javanese Sultanate, this exquisite complex from the 18th century bewitches with its fascinating blend of charm, antiquity, and tranquillity. Taman Sari has become one of Yogyakarta's most iconic and beloved sites, an oasis of calm amidst the city’s bustling spirit, brimming with the resplendent history of Indonesian monarchy.
Taman Sari truly is a visual delight, scattered with artificial lakes, bathing areas, and ostentatious pavilions that flaunts the aristocratic Javanese architecture. An emblem of the city's past grandeur, it offers an insightful peek into the royal lifestyle of bygone eras. A must-visit in Yogyakarta, Taman Sari is a place where you don't just observe the magnificent Javanese royal architecture, but proactively experience it - stepping into the shoes of royalty of ages past, existing in a sphere of time where charm and tranquillity dance a perfect duet.
Address: Wisata Taman Sari, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Opening hours: 9 AM - 3 PM
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000
Contact number: +62 274 373 721
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| Step Back in time at Taman Sari, Yogyakarta |
Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
Just a stone’s throw away from the regal Taman Sari is the astounding Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat. This stately palace has risen in prominence, seeping deeper into the cultural consciousness of travellers worldwide and remaining a central figure in Indonesian history. This majestic palace, known as the "ngayogya," offers a glorious glimpse into a world where history and culture entwine in an elegant dance.
In this extraordinary establishment, one doesn't merely observe the Sultan's home. It's a stepping stone into a world of art and narratives, where every artifact narrates a tale of the past. The Keraton not only boasts lavish, manicured gardens that are a visual feast but also houses a museum teeming with invaluable treasures, showcasing the rich heritage of the country's royalty. The hypnotic tranquillity of the palace's enticing gardens offers a therapeutic retreat, making it a must-visit spot.
Opening hours: 8.30 AM - 2 PM, closed on Mondays
Entrance fee: IDR 15,000
Contact number: +62 274 373 721
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| Discover the royal grandeur of Keraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat |
Prambanan Temple
This UNESCO World Heritage site has garnered growing acclaim, etching its grand silhouette even deeper into global consciousness. Enveloped in mystical lore, this majestic Hindu temple complex dances with dramatic tales from the epic sagas of Ramayana and Mahabharata, brought to life by the complex's intricately carved stone masonry.
Yet, beyond its physical allure, Prambanan Temple offers an even more evocative spectacle - the celestial dance performances against the backdrop of the ever-changing colours of the setting sun. These enthralling performances, a symphony of tradition and artistry, breathe life into the very stones that constitute this sacred complex.
The resonating beats of the music, merged with the rhythmic movements of the dancers as they narrate timeless tales, cascade into an immersive experience that transcends these temporal bounds and plunges one into the awe-inspiring grandeur of historic Indonesia. This is not merely sightseeing; it's an intimate encounter with the heartbeat of Indonesia's cultural legacy, an adventure not to be missed.
Address: Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Opening hours: 6 AM - 5 PM
Entrance fee: IDR 370,000 for Adults, IDR 250,000 for Students
Contact number: +62 274 496 006
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| Lose yourself in the mystical Prambanan Temple |
Borobudur
Amidst the lush, emerald-green landscape of Central Java lies one of the world's most enchanting Buddhist marvels—Borobudur Temple. A sight that truly takes your breath away, this awe-inspiring temple complex invites you on an unforgettable journey of cultural discovery. From the melodic chants of devoted monks that resonates through the cool morning air, to the first warm rays of sunlight illuminating the sky in a symphony of golden hues, every moment spent here is a precious cacophony of serene spirituality. As you wander the temple grounds, the intricate carvings that adorn the walls come to life, illustrating Buddha's inspirational teachings and providing an irresistible glimpse into a world of ancient allure.
Borobudur remains an ever-evolving destination, embraced by travellers seeking the perfect balance between adventure, cultural richness, and spiritual fulfilment. As you journey through the temple's many layers—which symbolise the Buddhist concept of attaining Nirvana—prepare to be captivated by its profound, intricate beauty. Experience the rhythms of daily life in the nearby villages, steeped in generations of local wisdom, and revel in every moment of your quest for inner peace.
Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia
Opening hours: 6 AM - 5 PM
Entrance fee: IDR 460,000
Contact number: +62 293 788 266
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| Witness the sunrise at Borobudur in Yogyakarta |
Museum Ullen Sentalu
Nestled amidst the ethereal mist of Kaliurang, this mesmerising sanctuary will transport you through time, weaving tales of royalty, showcasing the legacies of the noble houses of Yogyakarta and Surakarta. Ullen Sentalu has risen in prominence as a must-visit destination, enthralling visitors with its masterful curation of art, history, and tales of the regal past.
Embark on this thrilling voyage of discovery, as you wander the corridors of the museum and delve into a world of lavish opulence, vibrant culture, and time-honoured traditions. From the intricate textiles to the beguiling paintings and carefully preserved artefacts, the Ullen Sentalu tells stories that are intertwined with not just the regal lineage but also the resilient spirit of Java.
Opening hours: 8.30 AM - 4 PM
Entrance fee: IDR 50,000
Contact number: +62 274 895 161
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| Explore the Dutch colonial legacy at Museum Ullen Sentalu |
Ratu Boko
With its lofty perch high above the bustling city of Yogyakarta, Ratu Boko bestows a bird’s-eye view of the verdant paradise below that is utterly breathtaking. Splendid remains of a regal palace, an ancient pool, and enigmatic temples provide a compelling glimpse into Indonesia’s vibrant past. Ratu Boko has only continued to burgeon in popularity, keeping the curious minds of history buffs and casual travellers alike captivated and intrigued.
Step into the shoes of an archaeologist as you pore over the carvings and sculptures, each one beckoning you to unravel the mysterious folklores entwined in the very heartbeat of Yogyakarta. As you trace the echoes of the past, the panoramic vistas offer a vivid contrast between the city’s vibrant present and its ancient heritage. At the end of a day wandering through the remnants of Ratu Boko, find a serene spot to savour the sunset, painting the horizon in hues of crimson and gold over Yogyakarta.
Opening hours: 6 AM - 5 PM
Entrance fee: IDR 330,000 for Adults, IDR 230,000 for Students
Contact number: +62 274 496 006
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| Trek through the forgotten ruins of Ratu Boko in Yogyakarta |
Sewu Temple
Immerse in the peaceful harmony of the magnificent Sewu Temple—the second largest of its kind in all of Indonesia. Serenely nestled amidst the tranquil flora, this sacred monument is a testament to the Javanese reverence of silent contemplation.
Step inside this architectural marvel and lose yourself in the enchanting labyrinth of shrines, decorated with intricate carvings. Stare in awe as ancient stories reveal themselves on the stone walls, a harmonious symphony of devotion and artistic excellence. Take a moment to appreciate the age-old mastery of the ancient Javanese—each detail a whisper of their rich cultural heritage.
As the orange hues of the setting sun dance upon the temple, casting long, serene shadows, take a deep breath and surrender to the peace that washes over Sewu. It is more than just an exploration of an ancient world—it is an intimate journey inward, offering solace to the worldly adventurers, a delicate waltz between past and present, stone and soul, tranquillity and transformation.
Address: Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Opening hours: 6 AM - 5 PM
Entrance fee: IDR 370,000 for Adults, IDR 250,000 for Students
Contact number: +62 274 496 006
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| Explore the Ancient Sewu Temple in Yogyakarta |
As the whirlwind exploration of Yogyakarta reaches its finale, one stands not at journey's end, but poised at the metallic edge of myriad fresh adventures. The city, with a culture as richly woven as an antique tapestry, hums with countless stories that flirt with the explorer's undying spirit within every ardent traveller.
Make your travel and dining adventures universal by including us on your Instagram sojourn. Imprint your experiences with @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Enjoy your dynamic explorations!
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