Anastasia Smith
Yogyakarta is filled to the brim with many a candi which is the term given to Buddhist and Hindu temples built in Indonesia. Have a look at these marvellous sites, the next time you’re in Yogyakarta.
Excavated in 1836 is one of Yogyakarta’s off the beaten path cultural attractions that was constructed in the 8th century. Surrounded by green gardens and walkways, Gebang Temple ought to be called by during your time in the city. As a Hindu shrine, Gebang Temple comes across as one of the smaller temples in Yogyakarta and can be accessed between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm.
Unearthed from the volcanic ash of Mount Merapi in 1966, Sambisari Temple is yet another Hindu temple that you will stumble upon as you traverse through the city. Located some 15 km from downtown Yogyakarta, Sangisari Temple’s appearance is in stark contrast to similar temples for it lies 6.5 meters below ground level. As it is characterised by an open layout, visitors will do well to schedule visits in the morning as the heat can get to you if you arrive in the afternoon.
Should you yearn to capture stunning panoramas of Yogyakarta and the setting sun, then do beeline for Ijo Temple. Perched on a hill, this Hindu temple is well-known for its views and since it is nestled a short distance from other cultural and heritage sites in the city such as Ratu Boko Palace and Barong, one can easily combine trips to these tourist landmarks by spending time at Ijo Temple. International visitors will be charged a nominal fee (USD 0.7) prior to being allowed entry.
Demarcated as a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site, the astounding Prambanan Temple compound has left an indelible mark as Indonesia’s biggest Hindu temple complex. Having seen the light of day in the 9th century, the compound comprises three temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva. Worthy of mention is that this temple is associated with legend and can be reached within a 35-minuite drive from Yogyakarta.
Known to welcome visitors daily from 6 am to 5 pm, the stupendous site of Barong Temple cannot be ignored when looking for places to visit in Yogyakarta. Though regarded as a Hindu temple, Barong Temple’s stepped terraces are believed to be pre-Hindu and thus, come off as an architectural masterclass well worth every penny you pocket out.
Although the name ‘Sewu’ which means “a thousand” in Javanese is no reflection of the number of temples that are housed within Sewu Temple, the mentioned place of worship ranks as the 2nd largest Buddhist temple compound in all of Indonesia. Featuring as many as 249 temples and a lengthy list of stone architecture that will leave you completely overwhelmed, Sewu Temple is one of Yogyakarta’s shimmering jewels that would warrant a visit. In fact, at a cost of USD 1.4, you may rent a bike and move around the complex at your own pace or opt for the audio-visual centre where you can learn of the shrine’s storied past.
Established in the 8th century, the dorm-like layout of Sari Temple will easily have you snapping up many a picture no sooner you set foot on its hallowed grounds. Understand that both locals and foreigners will be charged a similar price to enter (3,000 Rupiah or USD 0.2) and in turn, one will have the luxury to inspect and discover a slew of design elements. The relief panels successfully accentuate the beauty of the shrine while numerous sculptures and ornamental figures all but complete the identity of Sari Temple which is believed to have functioned as a Buddhist monastery at the very outset.
While appearing to reflect similar characteristics as Sari Temple, what sets Kalasan Temple apart from the former can be attributed to the quality of its relief panels and ornaments. Historians and archaeologists affirm that its ornaments and relief panels were coated in ‘vajralepa’ that was made from tree sap and egg yolk; a technique that gave the temple’s exterior a smoother finish and importantly, made it durable. If looking for a place to stay near Kalasan Temple, then you may consider booking with Pop! Hotel Sangaji Yogyakarta which is a hotel near Tugu Jogja found 13.5 km from the shrine.
