Joanna James
As a dynamic city on Java Island that attracts countless visitors throughout the year, it should come as no surprise that Yogyakarta is no less engaging at night-time. From catching a show to dining in style, here are seven ways to have a great night out in the area.
Often regarded as one of the top things to do once the sun goes down in Yogyakarta, witnessing the audio-visual spectacle that is the Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan is a treat for the senses. The show opens at 7:30 pm each night and transports ballet enthusiasts to an otherworldly realm with plenty of charm and surprises. Those who are visiting Yogyakarta during the peak tourist season must book their seats in advance as the show is often sold out during this period.
Considered one of the best places to spend the after-dark hours in Yogyakarta, Jalan Malioboro, as its locally known, is a unique location where shopping hubs, street art, and dining hotspots come together to create an irresistible recreational Mecca. Visitors can not only enjoy a shopping spree in local retail outlets in the area but also witness street performances on traditional Javanese musical instruments such as the "Angklung".
Digital nomads and budget travellers based at POP! Hotel Timoho Yogyakarta or any other city hotel in Jogja must head down to Angkringan where a feast of Javanese cuisine awaits locals and tourists. Foodies the world over flock to this sprawling dining hub where scrumptious local dishes are served up at affordable rates. Some of the must-sample delicacies up for grabs at Angkringan include juicy satays as well as piping hot Nasi Ayam Balado dishes.
Also called Taman Pelangi, the Rainbow Garden is a vibrantly lit up green space that's ideal not only for unwinding after a hearty meal but also for enjoying a quiet stroll under towering trees. The atmosphere of the garden also makes for a stunning backdrop for your social media posts as it is quite literally lit up from every direction.
Another popular hangout spot for teens and young professionals in Yogyakarta, the trendy cafes lining Alun-alun Kidul makes it one of the best places to grab a cup of coffee after a day of sightseeing and shopping.
Those who wish to spend some time in nature on a night out in Yogyakarta should hike around Pengger Pine Forest, which also offers panoramic views of the city from its vaulted height.
Dubbed Patuk Kabupaten Gunung Kidul in the local tongue, this "starry hill" provides the perfect vantage point for star-gazers. Offering visitors an enchanting view of Yogyakarta by night, the bird's-eye views and its distance of 15km away from the heart of the city, make this excursion a great way to get away from it all on a night out.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
