Borobudur Temple – The Biggest Buddhist Temple in Indonesia

Borobudur Temple Compounds

Borobudur Temple is a Buddhist temple complex located in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia. It was built in the 9th century during the Sailendra dynasty and is considered one of the greatest Buddhist monuments in the world. The temple is a massive structure comprised of hundreds of stone blocks, and its design incorporates elements of both Mahayana Buddhism and indigenous Indonesian culture.

Borobudur is a massive pyramid-shaped temple with a base in the shape of a lotus flower and is adorned with thousands of relief sculptures and intricate stone carvings. The temple has nine levels, including a central dome and four terraces, each featuring its own set of relief sculptures and carvings depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and daily life. Visitors can walk along a series of stone walkways that lead to the central dome and explore the temple’s many levels and intricate carvings.

Today, Borobudur Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. The temple is considered an important symbol of Indonesia’s cultural heritage and a testament to the country’s rich history and spiritual traditions.

Things to Do in Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple is a rich and complex site with much to offer visitors. Here are some things to do when visiting the temple:

1. Explore the temple complex: Visitors can walk along the stone walkways and staircases of the temple to see its many levels and intricate carvings and sculptures.
2. Learn about Buddhist culture and history: The temple’s many relief sculptures and carvings depict scenes from Buddhist mythology, making it a great place to learn about Buddhism and its cultural influences in Indonesia.
3. Enjoy the sunrise or sunset: Borobudur Temple is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset viewing, and visitors can take advantage of the park’s early opening hours to catch the first light of the day and the last light of the evening.
4. Take a guided tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of the temple complex with a local guide to learn more about the site’s history and significance and to get a deeper understanding of the carvings and sculptures.
5. Visit nearby attractions: Borobudur Temple is located in the heart of Central Java, and there are many other cultural and natural attractions nearby, including the nearby town of Yogyakarta, Prambanan Temple, and Mount Merbabu.
6. Participate in a meditation or yoga session: Some visitors choose to participate in a meditation or yoga session on the temple grounds, taking advantage of the peaceful and spiritual atmosphere of the site.

Regardless of what you choose to do at Borobudur Temple, the site offers a rich and fascinating cultural experience that is sure to be a highlight of any visit to Indonesia.

Ticket Price of Borobudur Temple

The entrance fee for Borobudur Temple is subject to change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest information before your visit. As of my knowledge cut-off in 2021, the entrance fee for foreign visitors was approximately IDR 375,000 per person, while the fee for Indonesian citizens was approximately IDR 50,000 per person. There may also be additional fees for certain activities or services, such as guided tours or audio guides.

It’s always a good idea to bring local currency (Indonesian Rupiah) with you as some of the facilities and vendors inside the park may not accept credit cards or foreign currencies.

Please note that entrance fees and prices are subject to change, and I recommend checking the latest information before your visit to Borobudur Temple.

Facilities in Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple offers a range of facilities to make your visit as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Here are some of the facilities you may find at the temple:

1. Information center: There is an information center located near the entrance to the temple, where you can get information about the site and its history, as well as maps and guides to help you navigate the temple complex.
2. Rest areas: There are several rest areas throughout the temple complex where you can sit and relax, including open-air platforms and shaded seating areas.
3. Toilets: There are toilets located throughout the temple complex for your convenience.
4. Gift shops: There are several gift shops located near the entrance to the temple, where you can purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to Borobudur Temple and Buddhist culture.
5. Food and drinks: There are food stalls and vendors located near the entrance to the temple, where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and meals.
6. Parking: There is a large parking area located near the entrance to the temple, where you can park your vehicle.
7. Audio guides: Audio guides are available for rent at the entrance to the temple, providing audio commentary and information about the site’s history, architecture, and significance.

These are just a few of the facilities you may find at Borobudur Temple. The site is well-equipped to accommodate visitors and make your visit as enjoyable and convenient as possible.

How To Get Borobudur Temple From Yogyakarta

Borobudur Temple is located approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Yogyakarta, a city in Central Java, Indonesia. There are several ways to get to the temple from Yogyakarta:

1. By private car: You can rent a private car or hire a driver in Yogyakarta, which is the quickest and most convenient way to get to the temple. The drive takes around 1 hour to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
2. By public transportation: You can take a public bus or minivan from Yogyakarta to Borobudur Temple. Buses leave from the Jombor Bus Terminal in Yogyakarta and take around 2 hours to reach the temple. Minivans are a faster option, taking around 1.5 hours to reach the temple.
3. By tour: You can also join a tour from Yogyakarta, which typically includes transportation, a guide, and entrance fees. This is a convenient option for those who don’t want to navigate public transportation or rent a car.

Regardless of which option you choose, it’s a good idea to allow plenty of time for the journey to and from the temple, as traffic conditions can be unpredictable and the roads can be busy, especially during peak tourist season.

Once you arrive at Borobudur Temple, you’ll find plenty of facilities and activities to enjoy, including tours, audio guides, and food stalls. Enjoy your visit!