There is one word for Borobudur Temple: magnificent! Located in the city of Magelang, Central Java, only 40 kilometers from Jogja, this World Wonder Heritage listed by UNESCO is definitely one of Indonesia’s most prestigious historical sights.

The temple comprises a six square platform and stacked by another three circular platforms. Its panels are decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. At the very top, located at the center of the platform, is a main dome surrounded by 72 Buddha statues placed inside perforated stupas.

The 34.5-meter-high-temple is both a shrine to the Lord Buddha and a place for Buddhist pilgrimage. Its architecture and function supports a place for Buddhists to say their prayers. The relief panels on the temple reflect Buddha’s teaching which functions as an educating medium for those who want to learn Buddhism. The journey for pilgrims begins at the base of Borobudur circulating to the top ascending three levels of Buddhist cosmology. Kamadhatu, the base of Borobudur symbolizes the world of desire. The upper four stories are Rupadhatu symbolizing the world of forms portraying humans whom are free from lust but are still bound to appearance and shape. On these levels, the Buddha statues are placed in open air, a different picture from the upper level at Arupadhatu symbolizing the world of formlessness, where the Buddha statues are confined in perforated domes. The top dome in the center is called Arupa symbolizing nirvana. The journey of pilgrimage walks through a system of stairways and corridors.

Borobudur is noted to be the biggest Buddhist temple in the 9^th century. It was built by King Samaratungga, a king of old Mataram Kingdom, and a descendent of Sailendra Dynasty. Based on the Kayumwungun inscription, Borobudur was completed on 26 May 824, almost a hundred years since the beginning of the construction began. As for the name, some say it came from the word budhara meaning mountain of terraces or named after the village Budur close to the temple. In the 14^th century, evidence suggests Borobudur was abandoned following the decline of Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms in Java, and the Javanese conversion to Islam. Borobudur’s existence was then discovered by Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles after the temple was buried for a long time following the eruption of Mount Merapi. Borobudur has since been preserved through several restorations; the largest project was done between 1975 and 1982 by the Indonesian government and UNESCO.

Until today, Borobudur is still one of Indonesia’s most visited tourist attractions in Indonesia and still used for pilgrimage. The most popular event at Borobudur is once a year where Buddhist from all over the country (and world) celebrates Vesak at the temple. The surroundings of Borobudur also hold attraction where one can enjoy the beautiful scenery at the villages near by.

Address: Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
GPS Coordinate: S7°36’28.3″ E110°12’13.5″

Visiting this museum gives you a different museum experience. Ullen Sentalu Museumholds a concept of a moving, amusing, and living museum.

The museum is run by Ulating Blencong Foundation and initiated by The Haryono Family to preserve the Javanese tradition, especially Batik. The items on display do not rely on large amount, but rather fewer carefully chosen eclectic artifacts. Labeled artifacts are not applied, but rather the tour guides explanations are put forward for a more dynamic and relaxed feel. As a window of civilization and culture of Javanese art, Ullen Sentalu has a mission to collect, communicate and preserve the heritage of Javanese art and culture that are threatened fade away to foster the pride in the richness of Javanese culture as one of the nationals identity.

Ullen Sentalu is located in the tourist area of Kaliurang on an 11.990 m2 area of land called Taman Kaswargan. The park is located in a historic district, such as Pesanggrahan Ngeksigondo and Wisma Kaliurang. The name Ullen Sentalu was selected because Kaswargan is located at the altitude slopes of Mount Merapi where the community considers being one of the sacred places in Jogja. Located about 24 miles from the center of Jogja, exciting experience awaits you in the cool air of North Jogja.

The building is like a castle and is dominated by the beautiful architecture that aims to harmonize human with nature. Entering the building, you will first step in the Selamat Datang Room where you are welcomed and given explanation about the history of the museum. The showrooms consist of many rooms such as Ruang Tari displaying a set of gamelan donated by the prince of Yogyakarta sultanate. Then there is Guwa Sela Giri, a showroom that was built in the basement forming to contour the uneven grounds. The Giwa Sela Giri architecture is dominated by the use of stone materials from Merapi. Next, are 5 showrooms, located in an area that stands above water with a floating and labyrinth concept. This area is called Kampung Kambang. These 5 rooms exhibit a collection of poems written by the daughter Sunan PB XI, a collection of batik, paintings, personal photographs and documentation, and the Sultanates private collections. The museum is not only dominated by the building space, but the park itself, Taman Kaswargan, that has become a tourist attraction on its own where it is dominated by natural forests, some sculptures, and gardens which accentuate the atmosphere of the mountains.

Another interesting experience waits at the end of the tour. All guests will receive a special drink, a recipe inherited from Gusti Kanjeng Rator Mas, daughter of Sultan Hamengkubuwana VII. This beverage is believed to provide health and to stay youthful. At the end of this tour, you will also reach Beukenhof Restaurant that is also located in the area where visitors can dine in a building designed in the style of colonial architecture. Ullen Sentalu truly is a different and inspiring experience.

Tickets are divided into: US$ 5.00 or Rp. 45.000 for international tourist; Rp. 25.000 for international students; Rp. 25.000 for adult domestic visitors; and Rp. 15.000 for domestic highschool students. Every tour in the museum must carry at least 2 people.

Writer: Sheila Oktya F.

Another beautiful scenery one can find on the coastal area of the South Sea is Glagah Beach. Located 40 kilometers to the west of Jogja, in the Kulon Progo regency, you will find a plain coastal land with a stunning view.

The long coastal line enables visitors to get a lovely view of all directions without being blocked by cliffs or large corals. This dark brown sandy beach definitely holds a terrific panorama which makes it a must-see destination.

At Glagah Beach, there are three main places that one may not want to miss. The first spot is located right by the entrance, called Dermaga Wisata. This spot in known as the best spot to get the best view of the coastal area. It is also the place planned to become the future harbor.

A few hundred meters away from Dermaga Wisata, is the lagoon which divides Glagah Beach into two – the coastal area where plants and grass grow, and the sand dune area which borders with the water. The last place to see is the fishing area where visitors can join local fishermen to fish and try their luck. This lagoon was formed by a big tide that resulted the sea water to enter in the lower land forming a huge puddle, like a lake.

Besides the natural sights, Glagah Beach also holds various beach entertainment facilities, such as swimming, canoeing, duck-pedal-boats, and motorboats. The asphalt roads are also fun for visitors who want to enjoy biking by the beach. Don’t forget to try fish and seafood sold at nearby stalls that are worth to try. The area of Glagah Beach is also known as a popular place for camping and family gatherings.

In order to get to this pretty location, one can take either of the two alternative roads. The first route is via Bantul or the second route via Wates heading to Purworejo. You should take a left turn after finding a signboard with directions to Glagah Beach. The two hour ride should not feel too long for there is nice scenary along the way and the fact that you will soon reach a beautiful place will push your tiredness away.

Address: Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
GPS Coordinate: S7°54’45.8″ E110°3’59.5″

Writer: Sheila Oktya F.

Personally, this market located at the end of Malioboro Street gives a splendid experience. Almost all primary and secondary needs are available at this market. The varieties are rich and the prices are the most generous of all places.

This popular traditional market in Jogja holds a historical and philosophical value to the Jogja Palace. The market is the oldest market in Jogja and one of the ‘four in one’ poles of the city planning by the palace that symbolizes economy functions. The other three poles are the Palace, the South Square, and North Square.

Beringharjo market found its name from banyan trees (Bering) as it was formerly a banyan tree forest. The name was given by Hamengkubuwana IX with an addition the word Harjo meaning expected to bring welfare. Therefore, the name Beringharjo was appropriate as it hoped to bring prosperity to the people. It’s function as a trading place took place since 1758 and has gone through some renovations. Now, tourists call it an enjoyable place to shop.

What can one find at the market? Name it, and it’s there! The market now consists of a permanent building broadening from East to West. The main entrance is on the West side facing Malioboro Street. As you enter, you will find a 2 meter passage with variety of Batik clothes and open stalls all along passage of the West side. Buying Batik at Beringharjo market is a good choice since there are a rich variety of choices ranging from the cheapest to million rupiah Batiks. It is indeed a heaven for Batik lovers. Traditional clothes such as blangkon, kebaya, and sarongs are also easily found here. Approaching the middle of the west side, there are a variety of sandals, shoes, and bags sold. Don’t forget to bargain since the system is clearly still applied at this traditional market. At this side of the market, you can also find delicious traditional snacks that are waving for you to try.

On the second floor of the market, you will find a heaven of herbs with a fascinating aroma filling the air. Any kind of herb or remedy can be found on this floor. The extraordinary herb that may not be found at small markets is ascertained to be found here. The third floor is the vintage lovers area. At this floor you will find many antique products such as clothes, shoes, or bags. After wondering around the market for any basic necessities, don’t forget to stroll to the north of the market where you can find the Chinese Kampong. Here, you can look up old money, old cassettes and unique other stuff.

Officially, the market is closed at 5pm but the area is most likely to stay busy and crowded till dawn. Vendors loading and unloading their belongings are an every day sight. Nevertheless, you can still experience Beringharjo in the evening and night while you can choose from a variety of dishes to enjoy like martabak and klepon, and also the gudeg dish that is available later in the night. This market is highly recommended for those who have only a short time in Jogja and need a complete place to get all the goods before they depart.

Address: Jl. Pabringan 1, Yogyakarta 55122, Indonesia

Phone: (0274) 515 871, 561 510
GPS Coordinate: S7°47’55.4″ E110°21’54.7

Text: Sheila Oktya F.

Sekitar tiga kilometer dari Candi Prambanan berdiri sebuah kompleks candi lain yang bernama Ratu Boko. Terletak 17 kilometer di sebelah timur kota Jogja, tepatnya di kabupaten Bokoharjo, sisa-sisa Kerajaan Mataram yang berdiri di sinilah dapat menjadi tujuan wisata Anda.

Menurut sejarah, kompleks ini dibangun oleh Rakai Panangkaran, seorang keturunan Dinasti Syailendra. Kompleks itu kabarnya ditemukan pada tahun 1790 dan bernama Abhayagiri Vihara yang memiliki arti biara di bukit yang penuh kedamaian. Tidak heran kabarnya tempat ini adalah tempat beribadah.

Terbagi menjadi empat daerah – pusat, tenggara, barat, dan wilayah timur – kompleks yang berada 196 meter di atas permukaan laut dan berdiri di area tanah seluas 250.000 meter persegi. Bagian tengah terdiri dari gerbang utama, candi pembakaran, kolam, teras persegi, dan assembly hall. Wilayah timur terdiri dari gua, ada Gua Lanang dan Gua Wadon, juga patung Buddha. Area tenggara meliputi ruang, platform, tiga candi, kolam, dan kompleks putri.

Di daerah ini, juga ada sumur air suci ynag disebut Amerta Mantana. Sejarah mengatakan bahwa siapapun yang minum air dari mata air tersebut akan mendapat keberuntungan. Orang Hindu menggunakannya untuk Upacara Tawur Agung sehari sebelum Nyepi. Penggunaan air dalam upacara ini diyakini dapat mendukung pencapaian tujuan, yakni memurnikan diri kembali serta mengembalikan bumi dan isinya pada harmoni awalnya. Daerah barat kompleks ini terdiri dari perbukitan yang indah.

Meskipun Candi Ratu Boko dibangun oleh seorang Budha, unsur Hindu terlihat jelas. Hal ini dapat dilihat dari adanya Lingga dan Yoni, patung Ganesha, dan sebuah piring emas dengan tulisan “Om Rudra ya namah swaha” sebagai bentuk ibadah untuk Rudra, nama lain dari Shiva. Ini menandakan bahwa sang pendiri, Rakai Panangkaran, merupakan seorang Buddha yang memiliki rasa hormat yang tinggi terhadap rakyatnya yang kebanyakan beragama Hindu.

Di Plaza Andrawina, lokasi lain di kompleks ini, bisa jadi posisi paling tepat untuk menikmati pemandangan indah kota Jogja dengan Candi Prambanan dan Gunung Merapi sebagai latar belakang. Silakan tinggal lebih lama menjelang malam untuk menangkap sunset untuk menutup kunjungan di kompleks ini. Sungguh memesona!

Address: Jalan Raya Jogja-Solo, Prambanan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
GPS: S7°46’17.9″ E110°29’24.9″

Penulis: Sheila Oktya F.

This bustling street is a must-go destination in Jogja. You haven’t experienced the city if you haven’t strolled the streets of Malioboro.

The famous street located approximately 1 km from the heart of Jogja and 1.5 km from the Sultan Palace offers a paradise of souvenirs. You can call this one-way-street a one-stop-shopping ground where you can have fun purchasing goods ranging from the lowest until high prices with a wide range of choices. It certainly is an exciting experience to hunt and bargain as you go for accessories, clothes, jewelry, key chains, sandals, shadow puppets, miniature traditional vehicles, to household ornaments and street art along the pavements of the street. Malioboro’s Batik collection is also considered paradise for Batik lovers. Hunt for the classic or modern kind in a variety of models, colors and prices. If you are good at bargaining, you should be able to carry home your shopping for a relative cheap price and a smile on your face.

Take a shopping break to try out the traditional rides waiting at the sidewalks. You can take Jogja’s becak ride (three wheeled vehicle) around the block to experience the makings of Jogja’s Bakpia or ride the Andong (horse carriage) to the end of the street and around the downtown area – both, a special experience. Day turned night, Malioboro Street will be beautifully lit and slightly dominated by food stalls offering lesehan dining – another uniqueness worth to try, especially with the addition of street musicians accompanying your meal.

The atmosphere and charm of this street will leave a ‘magnet’ in the hearts of its visitors. If not for the goods then simply for a stroll or drive through the street another time to absorb the exotic ambiance. The street offers more than just a trading center and economy boost for the region, but also a sweet memory that will keep you coming back.

Address: Jl. Malioboro, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
GPS: S7°47’34.9″ E110°21’57.3″

Writers: Sheila Oktya F.

Three out of five people in Jogja would mention the Parangtritis Beach if you asked information on what beach to visit in Jogja. While Parangtritis is not the only must-seen beach in Jogja, it is the most popular. This grey-sand beach located 27 km south of Jogja has a charm of its own. The west coast is mostly a cluster of rocks while the east coast consists of connections to Parangkusumo Beach, Depok Beach, sand dunes – other lovely sights.

You might not need to bring swimwear since visitors are prohibited to swim in the sea at this beach, mainly because of the ferocious waves. But the fact is also related closely to the legend of Queen of the South Sea (Nyai Roro Kidul) whom owns a kingdom and controls the South Sea. Story tells that Parangtritis is the gate to the Kingdom. The myth says that one should avoid wearing the color green when visiting Parangtritis Beach – a color that Nyai Roro Kidul likes and can bring misfortune to anyone who wears the color at the South Seas. Eventhough one is not allowed to swim, splashing around as the water hits the sand is just as fun. Tired playing in the sand, why not ride the horse carriages (bendi) to the end of the coast – a pleasant experience. If not, kite flying or riding the ATV are other options Parangtritis Beach offer for entertainment. You can easily choose from a variety of kites and ATV rides which suit you.

Dusk at Parangtritis is always awaited by tourists and photographers. It is as beautiful as other sunsets on the beach. Waiting for the sun to set while sipping on iced coconut drinks offered along the shore are a match. As the beach turns dark, vendors along the shore shift from iced goods to roasted corn on the cob. Many hotels, inns, and restaurants located near to the beach may accommodate your stay here at affordable prices.

Parangtritis’ history is interesting to know. The name itself was developed from when a fugitive from the Majapahit era came to the place to meditate and then saw water dropping (tumaritis) from rocks (parang). So then he named the place Parangtritis. Parangtritis is also believed that it is a spot together with Keraton Jogja (Jogja Palace) and Mount Merapi that are manifestations of the unseperable trinity. Because of that, rituals are routinely held at Parangtritis. Every Tuesday and Friday Kliwon, fishermen and visitors throw offerings and flowers to the sea meant for Nyai Roro Kidul. This ritual called Labuhan, also practiced by the Palace, is mainly meant to ask for safety and Gods blessing.

Location: Jl. Parangtritis km 28 Yogyakarta 55188, Indonesia
GPS Coordinates: S8°1’29.7″ E110°19’57.2″

Teks: Sheila Oktya F.

Taman Sari is another site of Jogja’s cultural heritages. This water castle was built with a main function as a relaxing ground for the Sultan but also functioned as a meditation area, a defense area, and a hiding place.

History tells, in the mid 18th century after the Giyanti Treaty, Sultan Hamengkubuwana I demanded to build a palace right in between the imaginary line connecting Parangtritis Beach and Mount Merapi. That point laid a fountain where then Taman Sari was built. Taman Sari is located 500 meters to the south of the Sultan’s Palace (Keraton).

Taman Sari, meaning ‘Beautiful Gardens’ is precisely how the water castle was built — with a series of 18 water gardens, flowers plants in the artificial islands, and pavilions surrounded by artificial lakes. Constructed by a Portuguese architect, Taman Sari consists of buildings including a mosque, meditation chambers and swimming pools. The complex was effectively used between the years 1765-1812. But eventhough built by a Portuguese, the constructions show high details of Javanese character. Today, the surroundings of Taman Sari, which were once fruit gardens, have now been largely occupied by people’s residence known as Kampung Taman. Many residents now living in Kampung Taman craft batik, and some even open batik crafting classes for tourists.

The main object at Taman Sari is a big pond surrounded by a 6-meter high wall. This pond was used by the Sultan’s wives to bath. Close by is a construction shaped like a tower known to be the place where the Sultan can watch his wives bath. Another object here is the underground cylinder shaped mosque built with two floors with hollow spaces on the walls pictured as windows. There is a small round pond in the middle of this compartment with four staircases meeting in the center above it – truly an artistic design. Also, there are underground tunnels leading to passageways around the palace. Legends say that there is a secret tunnel connecting Taman Sari with the palace of the Queen of The South (Nyai Roro Kidul) in the South Sea.

Ever since the death of Sultan Hamengkubuwana I, Taman Sari was abandoned, partly because the hydraulic works were difficult to maintain. The gardens were neglected and the buildings suffered damage in the Java War. The earthquake in 1867 also destroyed some buildings and drained water features. In the early 70’s, restoration was made but only the bathing complex has been completely restored.

Address: Jl. Taman, Kraton, Yogyakarta 55133, Indonesia
GPS Coordinate: S7°48’36.4″ E110°21’34.2″

Jam Buka:Senin – Minggu, pukul 09.00 – 15.30 WI

Hours Open: Monday – Sunday, 09.00 – 15.30 WIB

Ticket:

• Domestic Travelers: IDR 3,000
• Foreign Travelers: IDR 7,000
• Guide: Negotiable (IDR 10,000 – 20,000)

Text: Sheila Oktya F.

Dusun Jogja Village Inn
Jl. Menukan 5, Yogyakarta 55153, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 373 031, 384 438

D’Omah Jogja
Jl. Parangtritis km 8.5 Tembi, Bantul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 368 050

Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort
Jl. Laksda Adisucipto km 8, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 488 418, 566 418

Sejahtera Family Hotel
Jl. Pringgodani 22, Yogyakarta 55221, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 511 355

Pose In
Jl. Mayjend Sutoyo 62 Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 371 975

Poeri Devata
Klurak, Taman Martani, Kalasan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 496 453, 496 435

Matahari Hotel
Jl. Parangtritis 123 Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 372 020, 372 953

Jentra Dagen
Jl. Dagen 85 Malioboro, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 580 789

Griya Persada Hotel
Jl.Boyong 99, Kaliurang Barat, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 446 4401, 446 4402

Cakra Kusuma Hotel
Jl. Kaliurang km 5,2 No. 25 Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 588 066, +62 819 0500 8000

Cakra Kembang
Jl. kaliurang Km 5,5 No. 44 Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 563 048, 586 807

Brongto Hotel
Jl. Suryodiningratan 26, Yogyakarta 55141, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 382 602, 371 038

Batik Yogyakarta Hotel
Jl. Dagen, Taman Komplek Yuono, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 561 828, 561 823

Abadi Hotel
Jl. Pasar Kembang 49 Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Phone: (0274) 563 435