Yogyakarta: Borobudur Sunrise From Setumbu Hill and Climb up

Yogyakarta in Indonesia is home to one of the world’s most stunning cultural landmarks – the Borobudur Temple. Visitors can experience the magic of this iconic Buddhist monument by embarking on a Borobudur Sunrise Tour from Setumbu Hill. This unforgettable journey takes you to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic volcanoes, followed by an in-depth exploration of the temple’s intricate carvings and architectural marvels. Prepare to be captivated by the serene beauty and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Key Points

This tour offers a sunrise view from Setumbu Hill, surrounded by volcanoes, followed by a guided tour of the Borobudur Temple.
The tour is priced at Kč 563 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, parking fees, and an English-speaking driver.
The tour starts at 4 AM with a 1-hour drive to Setumbu Hill, and includes an optional visit to Mendut and Pawon temples or a breakfast stop.
Visitors can climb the levels of Borobudur Temple, except on Mondays when access is limited to the yard only.
The tour has received an overall rating of 5/5 from previous customers, who praised the driver’s flexibility and the guide’s exceptional knowledge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The tour offers an opportunity to witness the sunrise from Setumbu Hill, surrounded by the picturesque volcanoes of the region.

Witness the breathtaking sunrise from Setumbu Hill, surrounded by the picturesque volcanoes of the region.

Priced at Kč 563 per person, the 5-8 hour experience includes a visit to the world’s largest Buddhist monument, Borobudur Temple.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, parking fees, an English-speaking driver, and a guided tour of Borobudur.

Visitors should note that the temple is closed on Mondays, and drones aren’t allowed.

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Itinerary Details

Kicking off the tour at 4 AM, travelers are picked up from their Yogyakarta hotels and embark on a 1-hour drive to Setumbu Hill.

The itinerary includes:

Witnessing the stunning sunrise over the volcanoes from the vantage point of Setumbu Hill.
An optional visit to the nearby Mendut and Pawon temples or a breakfast stop.
A 15-minute drive to the iconic Borobudur Temple, where a guided tour unravels the temple’s rich history and architecture.
Access to climb the levels of Borobudur, except on Mondays when the temple is closed.

The tour wraps up with a return to the original pickup point.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, parking fees, an English-speaking driver, and entrance fees for Setumbu Hill and the Borobudur temple climb.

The tour also provides a guide at Borobudur. However, it’s not suitable for individuals with high blood pressure or those over 95 years old.

Drones aren’t allowed during the tour. The climb ticket to Borobudur is priced at 500k per person.

On Mondays, the temple is closed, and access is limited to the yard only.

Customer Reviews and Highlights

According to the reviews, travelers have highly praised the overall experience, particularly the breathtaking sunrise views from Setumbu Hill and the knowledgeable guidance provided at Borobudur.

Breathtaking sunrise views and knowledgeable guidance at Borobudur have impressed travelers, according to reviews.

Some of the highlights include:

An overall rating of 5/5 based on 3 reviews.
Praises for the driver Irfan’s timely pickups and flexibility in arrangements.
Recommendations for guided tours to enhance understanding of the temple’s history and symbolism.
Mentions of the guide’s exceptional knowledge, which helped travelers appreciate the significance of Borobudur.

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Important Information for Travelers

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, travelers should bring comfortable clothing.

It’s recommended to provide a WhatsApp number during booking to streamline ticket arrangements. The driver collects payment before the tour begins, and the Borobudur climb ticket costs 500,000 IDR per person.

Travelers should note that on Mondays, the temple is closed, and access is limited to the yard only. Individuals with high blood pressure or over 95 years old may not be suitable for this tour.

Plus, drones aren’t allowed on the premises.

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Exploring Setumbu Hill and Sunrise

As the sun begins to peek over the horizon, visitors are treated to a breathtaking display of hues at Setumbu Hill.

The tour starts with a 1-hour drive from Yogyakarta to reach this vantage point, set against the backdrop of majestic volcanoes.

Visitors can:

Witness the vibrant colors of the sunrise as they spread across the sky.
Snap stunning photographs of the iconic Borobudur temple in the distance.
Appreciate the serenity and peacefulness of the moment before the crowds arrive.
Prepare for the guided tour of Borobudur temple, just a short drive away.

Discovering the Wonders of Borobudur

After taking in the breathtaking sunrise over Setumbu Hill, the tour moves on to explore the wonders of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist monument in the world.

The guided tour provides insight into the temple’s intricate design and significance. Visitors can climb the 72 stupas and 2,672 relief panels, each depicting Buddhist teachings.

The tour includes entrance fees and an English-speaking guide to enhance understanding of the temple’s history and symbolic meaning.

With its impressive size and beautifully preserved architecture, Borobudur offers a truly immersive cultural experience for visitors to Yogyakarta.

Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

Although the Borobudur Sunrise tour offers a breathtaking experience, visitors can further enhance their enjoyment with a few simple tips.

Here are 4 tips for an unforgettable Borobudur experience:

Arrive early to secure the best vantage points for the sunrise.
Dress in layers to stay comfortable during the temperature changes.
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views.
Engage with the knowledgeable guide to learn about the temple’s rich history and symbolism.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Many providers offer private tours for a more personalized experience at an additional cost. This will allow you to customize the itinerary and enjoy the attractions at your own pace.

Is There a Discount Available for Children or Seniors?

Unfortunately, there are no discounts mentioned for children or seniors on this tour. The pricing is a flat rate of Kč 563 per person, regardless of age. Customers should contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any potential discounts.

How Much Time Is Allowed for Exploring Borobudur Temple?

The tour includes a guided tour of Borobudur Temple, allowing ample time for exploration. Visitors can spend approximately 1-2 hours walking through the temple’s nine stacked platforms and admiring its intricate architecture and Buddhist iconography.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks for the Tour?

You can’t bring your own food and drinks on this tour. The package includes hotel pickup, transportation, and entrance fees, but does not provide any meals or refreshments. You’ll need to purchase these separately during the tour.

Are There Any Optional Activities or Add-Ons Available?

The tour offers optional visits to Mendut and Pawon temples or a breakfast stop. However, there are no other additional activities or add-ons available for purchase during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Borobudur Sunrise Tour from Setumbu Hill offers an unforgettable experience. Witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the majestic volcanoes and exploring the iconic Borobudur Temple provide a unique cultural and scenic journey. With knowledgeable guides and included transportation, this tour ensures a memorable morning filled with stunning landscapes and insightful cultural discoveries in Yogyakarta.