Discover the hidden gems of Java’s ancient Hindu heritage on this captivating tour from Yogyakarta. Venture beyond the typical tourist trail to uncover the magnificent Mangkunegaran Palace, Sukuh Temple, and Cetho Temple – architectural wonders that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural tapestry. With a flexible itinerary and expert guidance, you’ll have the freedom to learn about these historical sites, uncovering their unique stories and marveling at their serene landscapes. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey that will leave you intrigued and eager to learn more.

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Key Points

This tour from Yogyakarta explores the last remaining Hindu temples in Java, including the Mangkunegaran Palace, Sukuh Temple, and Cetho Temple.
The tour provides an opportunity to learn about the decline of the Hindu-Buddhist civilization in Java and the transition to Islamic Sultanates.
Visitors can experience the unique architectural and cultural features of the Sukuh Temple, known for its distinct statues and carvings.
The Cetho Temple, situated at an elevation of 1400 meters, offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere for exploration.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and entry fees, making it a convenient way to discover Java’s ancient Hindu heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

Experience the last ancient Javanese Hindu temples from the 15th century at a price of €54.74 per person.

This tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later. The 10-hour tour with flexible starting times includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, and entry fees for the temples and palace.

Not included are food, drinks, and optional tips for the driver. Wear comfortable clothes, bring a camera, and expect long drives between locations.

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From Yogyakarta: The Last Ancient Javas Hindu Temples

Itinerary and Locations

The tour kicks off with pickup from any area in Yogyakarta, Sleman, or Bantul. The main stops on this journey include:

| Site | Duration |

| — | — |

| Mangkunegaran Palace | 1.5 hours (guided tour) |

| Sukuh Temple | 1.5 hours (self-guided) |

| Cetho Temple | 1.5 hours (self-guided) |

Scenic drives, particularly up to Mount Lawu at 1400 meters, are included. The tour wraps up with drop-off in Yogyakarta, Sleman, or Bantul. Drivers assist with ticket management, sarong rentals, and provide on-site information to ensure a seamless experience.

Cultural Significance

Java’s tradition and religion have a long and storied history, with significant sites like Borobudur and Prambanan marking the peak of Hindu and Buddhist civilization over 1,200 years ago.

The decline of this civilization occurred in the 15th century, transitioning to Islamic Sultanates.

Explore the rich history of the Mataram Empire, established in the 14th century, which later split into Yogyakarta and Solo City:

The Mataram Empire was a powerful kingdom that rose to prominence in the 14th century.
This empire marked the transition from Hindu-Buddhist to Islamic rule in Java.
The split of Mataram into Yogyakarta and Solo City reflects the complex political history of the region.
Understanding this cultural significance provides context for the ancient Hindu temples visited on this tour.

Temple Exploration

Visitors can discover the unique statues and carvings at Sukuh Temple, which is noted for its distinctiveness compared to other Javanese temples. Just a short drive higher, Cetho Temple offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Drivers assist visitors with ticket management, sarong rentals, and provide information on-site.

| — | — | — | — |

These ancient Hindu temples provide a glimpse into Java’s rich cultural heritage, as visitors explore the remnants of a bygone civilization.

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Included and Not Included

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, fuel, parking fees, and entry fees for the temples and palace.

However, it doesn’t cover food, drinks, or optional tips for the driver. Visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes and clothes, a camera, sunscreen, and cash for the entry fees (approximately IDR 400,000 or USD 25 per person).

The entry fees must be paid in cash to the driver upon pickup. Visitors should also be aware of the long drives between locations and that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old.

Recommendations

While preparing for the tour, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the itinerary involves exploring ancient temples and scenic drives.

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing to explore ancient temples and scenic drives on this tour.

Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and natural landscapes. Sunscreen is also advised, as the outdoor sites can expose you to direct sunlight.

It’s best to have some cash on hand for the entry fees, which amount to approximately IDR 400,000 or USD 25 per person.

Visitors should be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old due to the potentially strenuous activities.

Accessibility

Though the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 95 years old, it can accommodate most visitors with average mobility.

The temples and palace can be explored with some walking, including:

Navigating uneven terrain and stairs at the temple sites.
Climbing hills and slopes to reach higher elevations, like Cetho Temple.
Wearing appropriate footwear for the varied terrain.
Pacing oneself during the long driving times between locations.

The tour provides flexibility with pickup and drop-off locations, and the driver can assist with managing tickets and equipment rentals as needed.

Getting There

Getting to the ancient Javanese Hindu temples is straightforward, as the tour includes pickup from your location in Yogyakarta, Sleman, or Bantul.

The driver will handle all the logistics, from ticket management to providing information on-site. The scenic drive takes you up to Mount Lawu, reaching an elevation of 1400 meters.

Along the way, you’ll marvel at the lush landscapes and the remnants of Java’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour covers three main stops: Mangkunegaran Palace, Sukuh Temple, and Cetho Temple, with flexible starting times to accommodate your schedule.

The Sum Up

This journey through Java’s ancient Hindu temples offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels of the region. From the impressive Mangkunegaran Palace to the serene Sukuh and Cetho Temples, this tour immerses you in the history and spirituality of these significant sites. With a flexible itinerary and knowledgeable guides, you can explore these treasures at your own pace and create an unforgettable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: