Yogyakarta: Climbing the Borobudur Structure and Prambanan Temple

Yogyakarta’s timeless allure lies in its iconic structures, Borobudur and Prambanan. Ascending the world’s largest Buddhist temple is a transformative experience, as visitors enjoy the intricate carvings and sweeping vistas. Nearby, the majestic Prambanan Temple Complex captivates with its towering spires and intricate Hindu architecture. Together, these UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer a profound glimpse into Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage. For the adventurous traveler, this day trip promises a harmonious blend of history, spirituality, and awe-inspiring landscapes.

Key Points

• The tour combines visits to the iconic Borobudur and Prambanan temples, allowing visitors to explore Yogyakarta’s rich cultural heritage.
• The 10-hour tour includes hotel pickup, guided exploration of Borobudur, and sightseeing at Prambanan, with all entrance fees covered.
• Group size is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience, and the tour is not suitable for individuals over 70 years old.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended for climbing Borobudur, and the tour includes sandals for comfort during the temple visits.
• The tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and a group guide to enhance the overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour is an activity-packed day that combines climbing the iconic Borobudur temple and visiting the renowned Prambanan temples.

An activity-packed day of climbing the iconic Borobudur temple and visiting the renowned Prambanan temples.

It lasts 10 hours and costs $25 per person. The group size is limited to 6 participants.

Pickup and drop-off locations include Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta, and Bantul Regency.

The entrance fee of IDR 950,000 per person must be paid in cash.

Participants will explore the largest Buddhist temple and Hindu temples, while enjoying hotel transfers, a group guide, sandals, water, and air-conditioned transportation.

Booking Information

Two key booking details are worth highlighting.

First, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Second, customers can reserve their spot without upfront payment via the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option.

The key booking information includes:

1. Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

2. Reserve now & pay later: Book your spot without upfront payment.

3. Entrance fee: IDR 950,000 per person, cash only.

4. Pickup time may vary based on Borobudur ticket availability.

Itinerary Details

Pickup from the hotel kicks off the day’s adventure. Guests are transferred to the remarkable Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, for a guided tour spanning 2 hours. Visitors climb inside the multilevel structure, admiring intricate stone reliefs depicting Buddha’s life stories. Then, it’s on to the Prambanan temples, a 1.5-hour journey away. Here, the group explores the impressive Hindu structures dedicated to Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu, as well as additional Buddhist temples within the complex. After 2 hours of sightseeing, the tour returns guests to their hotels.

| Itinerary | Duration |

| — | — |

| Pickup from hotel | – |

| Transfer to Borobudur | 1 hour |

| Guided tour at Borobudur | 2 hours |

| Transfer to Prambanan | 1.5 hours |

| Sightseeing at Prambanan | 2 hours |

| Return to hotel | – |

Inclusions

This tour includes several convenient amenities to enhance the experience.

The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the day. A group guide leads the exploration of Borobudur, providing insights into the temple’s history and architecture.

A hassle-free start and end to the day with hotel pickup and drop-off. A knowledgeable guide leads the exploration of Borobudur.

For comfort, the tour includes upanat (sandals) to navigate the Borobudur grounds. Participants also receive an air-conditioned vehicle and a bottle of water to stay hydrated.

Plus, the entrance fees to both Borobudur and Prambanan are included, eliminating the need for additional out-of-pocket expenses.

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Important Notes

Comfortable shoes are recommended for this tour, as you will be climbing the Borobudur temple.

The tour isn’t suitable for people over 70, and drones, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited.

Pickup times may vary depending on Borobudur ticket availability. Sunscreen is advised to protect against the tropical sun.

This full-day excursion combines the iconic Borobudur and Prambanan temple complexes, providing an immersive cultural experience.

While the included entrance fees cover admission, the tour guides and air-conditioned transportation ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey through Yogyakarta’s ancient wonders.

Customer Reviews

Reviewers have consistently rated this tour highly, with an overall 5 out of 5 score based on 3 reviews.

Customers highlighted several key points:

• The friendliness and punctuality of the guides and drivers

• The enjoyable nature of the overall experience

• The tour being highly recommended

One reviewer stated, "The guides were fantastic, and the drivers made sure we arrived safely and on time."

Another noted, "This was an amazing way to explore the historical and cultural gems of Yogyakarta. Highly recommended!"

Visiting Borobudur

The tour begins with a scenic 1-hour transfer to the iconic Borobudur temple.

Visitors climb the 72 bell-shaped stupas and 2,672 relief panels of the world’s largest Buddhist monument. They explore the temple’s intricate stone carvings depicting Buddha’s life and teachings.

The guided tour allows travelers to explore the temple’s rich history and significance. After the 2-hour visit, travelers transfer to the Prambanan Hindu temple complex, where they admire the towering temples dedicated to Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu, as well as the nearby Buddhist shrines.

Exploring Prambanan

After the visit to Borobudur, travelers transfer to the Prambanan temple complex, a remarkable Hindu architectural site situated just 18 kilometers east of Yogyakarta.

The complex features:

1. Towering temples dedicated to the Hindu triumvirate of Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu.

2. Intricate stone carvings and reliefs depicting Hindu mythological stories.

3. Additional Buddhist temples found within the larger Prambanan compound.

4. Sweeping views of the temple spires set against the backdrop of the Yogyakarta landscape.

Exploring Prambanan provides a captivating contrast to the Buddhist influences at Borobudur, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Java’s diverse religious heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Visit Borobudur at Night?

No, it’s not possible to visit Borobudur at night. The temple complex is only open during daylight hours, typically from 6 AM to 6 PM. Night visits are prohibited for safety and preservation reasons.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Sites?

The tour doesn’t allow you to bring your own food and drinks. However, a bottle of water is provided as part of the tour’s inclusions. Consuming outside food or drinks at the sites isn’t permitted.

Are There Any Wheelchair-Accessible Facilities at the Temples?

The tour doesn’t mention wheelchair-accessible facilities at the temples. It’s best to check with the tour operator or local authorities for up-to-date accessibility information before booking, as accessibility can vary at historical sites.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour to Include Other Nearby Attractions?

Yes, the tour can be extended to include other nearby attractions. Customers can discuss adding side trips to places like Affandi Museum, Taman Sari Water Castle, or Sultan’s Palace with the tour provider for a more customized experience.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Borobudur and Prambanan Sites?

The tour operator recommends wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Closed-toe shoes are required for climbing Borobudur. Visitors should avoid wearing revealing or disrespectful attire when visiting the sacred temple sites.

The Sum Up

Yogyakarta offers a unique cultural experience by visiting the Borobudur structure and Prambanan Temple. Travelers can expect a guided tour, comfortable transportation, and breathtaking scenery as they explore these UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The day trip provides a perfect blend of adventure and spirituality, showcasing Indonesia’s rich heritage. With its intricate carvings and stunning panoramic views, this day trip is a must-do for anyone visiting Yogyakarta.

You can check availability for your dates here: