Sultan Palace, Water Castle, Borobudur & Prambanan Day Trip

Exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Yogyakarta, this day trip offers a captivating journey through Indonesia’s renowned heritage sites. From the grandiose Sultan Palace to the serene Water Castle and the UNESCO-listed wonders of Borobudur and Prambanan Temples, this all-inclusive tour promises an immersive experience. Guided insights, seamless transportation, and entrance fees ensure a hassle-free exploration of these iconic landmarks. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a deeper connection with the region’s cultural legacy, this day trip promises to leave you with a newfound appreciation for Yogyakarta’s treasures.

Key Points

• This all-inclusive 12-hour tour covers Yogyakarta’s iconic cultural landmarks, including Prambanan and Borobudur Temples, Yogyakarta Palace, and Water Castle.
• The tour price of IDR 1,470 per person includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entry fees, guided tours, and transportation.
• Visitors can explore the intricate architecture, carvings, and historical significance of each site during the guided tours.
• The tour offers flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and an optional lunch add-on.
• Additional fees apply for Prambanan and Borobudur Temple entry, and there is a surcharge for airport area pickups.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The day trip package provides an all-inclusive tour of Yogyakarta’s top cultural sites, priced at a cost-effective IDR 1,470 per person.

The 12-hour experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

The itinerary covers iconic landmarks like the Prambanan and Borobudur Temples, the Yogyakarta Palace, and the Water Castle, with guided tours at each location.

Lunch is available for an additional fee.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, along with entry fees, parking, and donations, making it a convenient and value-packed way to explore the region’s rich heritage.

Itinerary Highlights

A captivating itinerary awaits on this comprehensive day trip, showcasing Yogyakarta’s most iconic cultural landmarks.

The tour begins with a visit to the impressive Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in Asia, where guests will embark on a 1.5-hour guided tour to admire the intricate reliefs depicting the epic story of Rama and Sita.

Next, the group will explore the 17th-century Yogyakarta Palace, the current Sultan’s residence, on a 1-hour guided tour.

The excursion continues to the serene Water Castle, a 18th-century royal retreat, before proceeding to the UNESCO-listed Borobudur Temple for a 1.5-hour guided exploration of this magnificent Buddhist monument.

Prambanan Temple

Towering majestically, Prambanan Temple stands as the largest Hindu temple complex in Asia, a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This 9th-century architectural masterpiece features over 200 individual temples, with the main structures dedicated to the Trimurti of Hinduism – Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu.

Visitors can explore the intricate carvings and reliefs adorning the temple walls, which depict scenes from the Hindu epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata.

The temple’s impressive scale and attention to detail make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to enjoy Indonesia’s captivating cultural tapestry.

A guided tour provides deeper insight into the temple’s history and significance.

Yogyakarta Palace

Yogyakarta Palace, also known as the Kraton, serves as the 17th-century residence of the current Sultan of Yogyakarta.

This impressive complex features:

• Ornate architecture with a blend of Javanese and Sultanate styles
• Expansive gardens and courtyards that were once used for royal ceremonies
• Guided tours that allow visitors to explore the palace’s intricate interiors, including the throne room and Sultan’s private quarters

The Yogyakarta Palace offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and the ongoing legacy of the Sultanate.

Exploring this historic site provides travelers with a deeper understanding of Java’s influential royal lineage.

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Water Castle

Built in the mid-18th century, the Water Castle, or Taman Sari, was a former royal garden and meditation complex commissioned by the Sultanate of Yogyakarta.

Featuring underground tunnels, bathing pools, and observation towers, the Water Castle served as a retreat for the royal family.

Visitors can explore the ruins and imagine the former grandeur of this unique site.

Underground chambers, where the sultan and his guests would bathe and meditate, are now open for exploration.

The Water Castle offers a fascinating glimpse into Yogyakarta’s past and the lives of its former rulers.

Borobudur Temple

The Borobudur Temple is a massive 9th-century Buddhist monument located in the Kedu Valley of Central Java, Indonesia.

It features 72 stupas with Buddha statues, making it the largest Buddhist temple in the world.

Visitors can explore the intricate carvings and reliefs that depict scenes from Buddhist cosmology and the daily life of the Javanese people.

The temple’s architecture is designed to symbolize the Buddhist cosmological universe, with three levels representing the Buddhist concepts of Kamadhatu (the world of desire), Rupadhatu (the world of forms), and Arupadhatu (the world of formlessness).

• Largest Buddhist temple in the world
• Features 72 stupas with Buddha statues
• Intricate carvings and reliefs depicting Buddhist cosmology and Javanese life

Inclusions and Fees

Although the day trip price starts from IDR 1,470 per person, the tour includes several key inclusions such as hotel pickup and drop-off, water inside the temples, entry fees to the Sultan Palace and Water Castle, an English-speaking guide, parking fees, and donation fees. However, the entry fees for Prambanan and Borobudur Temples, which cost IDR 850,000 each, must be paid separately on the day of the tour. Plus, there’s a IDR 300,000 fee for airport area pickups. The inclusions and fees are summarized in the table below:

Inclusions	Fees
Hotel pickup/drop-off	Prambanan Temple: IDR 850,000
Water inside temples	Borobudur Temple: IDR 850,000
Entry fees to Sultan Palace and Water Castle	Airport area pickup: IDR 300,000
English-speaking guide
Parking and donation fees

Additional Information

While the day trip covers a variety of historical and cultural sites, the itinerary is subject to change. The experience is led by an English-speaking live guide, providing visitors with an immersive and informative tour.

The tour is a private group experience, allowing for a more personalized and exclusive exploration of the landmarks. Plus, the following details should be noted:

• Tips for the driver and guide aren’t included in the tour price.
• Entry fees for Prambanan and Borobudur Temples are paid separately on the day of the tour.
• Airport area pickup comes with an additional charge of IDR 300,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Other Sites?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to visit other sites. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the day’s activities to your preferences within the allotted time frame.

What Is the Dress Code for Entering the Temples?

When visiting temples in Indonesia, modest and respectful attire is generally expected. This typically means covering shoulders and knees, and avoiding overly revealing or tight-fitting clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.

Are There Any Stops for Shopping or Local Markets?

The day trip doesn’t include any scheduled stops for shopping or local markets. However, there may be opportunities to explore local shops and markets during the free time between tours if participants are interested.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Into the Temples?

Visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks into the temples, though they may be asked to leave them outside certain restricted areas. Some temples may have designated picnic spots available.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?

You don’t need any special equipment for this day trip. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour includes hotel pickup, entry fees, and a guide to provide information at each site.

Recap

This enriching day trip offers a comprehensive exploration of Yogyakarta’s cultural gems. Visitors will marvel at the grandeur of the Sultan Palace, the serene beauty of the Water Castle, and the UNESCO-listed Borobudur and Prambanan Temples. With guided insights, transportation, and entry fees included, this tour provides a memorable journey through Indonesia’s rich heritage, ensuring an immersive and hassle-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: