Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java, is home to two of Indonesia’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the magnificent Prambanan and Borobudur temples. Embarking on a comprehensive tour of these ancient structures offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the country’s rich history and spiritual heritage. From scaling the 100 steps to the summit of Borobudur for breathtaking views to uncovering the intricate carvings and significance of Prambanan, this experience promises to be both visually captivating and culturally enlightening. With knowledgeable guides and a limited group size, travelers can expect a personalized and enriching adventure that will leave them eager to uncover more of Indonesia’s wonders.
Key Points
- This comprehensive tour from Yogyakarta provides guided visits to the UNESCO-listed Borobudur and Prambanan temple complexes.
- Visitors can climb the 100 steps to the top of Borobudur Temple for panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
- The tour includes admission to Mendut Temple, Pawon Temple, and Mendut Monastery, with insights from knowledgeable guides.
- Convenient transportation, including pickup and drop-off, is provided, and all necessary entrance tickets are included in the tour price.
- The tour group size is limited to 4 participants, and a free cancellation policy is available up to 24 hours before departure.
Tour Overview and Pricing
Offering a comprehensive tour from Yogyakarta, this excursion takes visitors to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Borobudur and Prambanan temples, priced at $146.79 per person for a 10-hour journey with a group size limited to 4 participants.
The tour provides the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, as well as a reserve now and pay later option.
With pickup and drop-off from your accommodation included, this guided experience allows visitors to learn about the history and philosophy of the temples while discovering the stories behind the intricate relief carvings at Borobudur.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Yogyakarta.
Temples and Attractions
The tour explores two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Borobudur and Prambanan temples – allowing visitors to climb the 100 steps to the top of the Borobudur Temple and view the impressive 3-meter-high Buddha statue inside Mendut Temple.
At Prambanan, travelers can marvel at the towering statues of the Hindu gods Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu.
The tour also includes visits to Pawon Temple and Mendut Monastery, with admission tickets provided.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guides share insights into the history and philosophy behind these magnificent structures, bringing the stories carved into the relief panels of Borobudur to life.
Guided Experience
Knowledgeable guides provide a live tour in English, sharing insights into the history and philosophy behind the temples throughout the journey. They’ll reveal the stories depicted in the intricate relief carvings at Borobudur and guide you through the magnificent Prambanan Temple, home to statues of the Hindu gods Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu.
Guided Experience at the Temples | ||
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History and Philosophy Explained | Stories from Relief Carvings | Guides at Both Borobudur and Prambanan |
Insightful commentary on the temples’ origins and significance | Uncover the meanings behind the detailed sculptures | Knowledgeable experts lead the way at each location |
Live English-language tour from start to finish | Bring the ancient sites to life through engaging narratives | Ensure you fully appreciate the cultural and spiritual importance |
Transportation and Inclusions
Complementing the guided experience, this tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in Yogyakarta, along with all necessary entrance tickets to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Borobudur, Prambanan, Mendut, and Pawon temples.
The climbing ticket for the iconic Borobudur Temple is also included, allowing you to ascend its 100 steps and explore the intricate Buddhist structures at the top.
Convenient free parking is available, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
With all the key inclusions taken care of, you can focus on enjoying the rich cultural and historical significance of these ancient wonders without any logistical worries.
The tour provides a comprehensive and seamless way to discover the highlights of Yogyakarta.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information and Tips
Climbing to the top of Borobudur Temple requires navigating over 100 stairs, as there’s no elevator available for visitors.
Plus, an extra fee of IDR 95K (approximately $6) applies for a local guide to accompany you on the Borobudur climb.
It’s important to note that Prambanan and Borobudur temples are closed every Monday, with only the courtyards accessible on those days.
To ensure a spot on the climb, it’s recommended to book your tour at least a week in advance, as there’s a daily limit of 1,200 people allowed to climb the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The tour organizer will contact you one day before your departure to confirm the details.
Exploring Borobudur Temple
Visitors ascending the 72 individual platforms of the colossal Borobudur Temple are treated to a spellbinding journey through Buddhist philosophy and history, as they navigate the intricate bas-relief carvings adorning each level.
The world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur’s design is a mandala symbolizing the Buddhist cosmological universe.
Climbing to the top, visitors are rewarded with stunning vistas across the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Along the way, they’ll discover the temple’s 72 stupas, each containing a statue of Buddha.
The climb isn’t for the faint of heart, with over 1,200 steps to navigate, but the reward of standing atop this magnificent monument is well worth the effort.
Discovering Prambanan Temple
After exploring the grandeur of Borobudur, the journey continues at the equally captivating Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple site in Indonesia.
Towering above the Yogyakarta landscape, the Prambanan complex features an array of ornate shrines dedicated to the three major Hindu deities – Shiva, Brahma, and Vishnu.
Visitors can:
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Marvel at the intricate carvings and statues that adorn the towering temples, depicting scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana.
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Climb to the upper levels of the main temples for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
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Discover the powerful spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has endured centuries of natural disasters and cultural upheavals.
Group Size and Cancellation Policy
The tour group size is limited to 4 participants, providing an intimate and personalized experience.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows for a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. This flexibility ensures that guests can make last-minute changes to their plans without incurring any penalties.
The reserve now and pay later option further enhances the convenience, allowing travelers to secure their spot on the tour while deferring the payment until closer to the departure date.
These thoughtful policies cater to the needs of modern travelers, making the Prambanan and Borobudur tour a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?
The weather is generally warm and sunny during the tour, with temperatures ranging from 80-90°F (26-32°C). Occasional light rain may occur, but the tour will proceed rain or shine. Visitors should dress comfortably and bring sun protection.
Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?
Visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the temples, though some areas may be restricted. It’s best to follow the tour guide’s instructions and be respectful of the sacred sites. Photography policies can vary, so it’s a good idea to ask beforehand.
Are There Any Dress Code Requirements?
There are dress code requirements for visiting the temples. Visitors should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious sites. Modest and conservative attire is expected.
Is the Tour Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tour may not be fully accessible for people with disabilities, as it involves climbing over 100 stairs at Borobudur Temple. However, the tour operator can accommodate guests with limited mobility, so it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility needs.
Can I Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour can be extended to visit additional sites. Travelers can customize the tour by adding visits to other nearby attractions, such as the Sultan’s Palace or the ancient Javanese city of Kota Gede, for an additional fee.
Recap
This comprehensive 10-hour tour from Yogyakarta offers a unique opportunity to explore the iconic Prambanan and Borobudur temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Visitors can climb 100 steps to the summit of Borobudur for breathtaking views and discover the intricate carvings and spiritual significance of these ancient structures with knowledgeable guides.
The limited group size ensures a personalized experience, making this a culturally enriching adventure in Indonesia.
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