the impermanents: Java: Yogjakarta, Borobudur, Mendut, & Prambanan

the majestic borobudur temple

This 9th century temple stands regally in the heart of Central Java. Built by the monks in the Sailendra Dynasty, the infrastructure is an impressive fusion of buddhism and hindu architecture and design. Hence, within, one can witness both Buddhas and Hindu Gods.

The temple was abandoned around the 14th century due to the decline of Hinduism in Java when the locals decided to convert to Islam. It was left uncared for and in deterioration until the 19th century when the British employ to Java, Sir Thomas Raffles, hearing about its existence took on a restoration project and spread its knowledge to the world. From then on, various interests on its historical value and appeal have funded its preservation. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

How to get there? (From Bali)

There are daily flights from the airline carriers so you can choose the best schedule for your itinerary. Fare is about ~$100 Return per person.

You will need to ride a taxi from the airport to get to the hostel and hotel area of Jl Malioboro and Sosrowijayan.

WARNING: Don't be fooled by the numerous men barking at you as you exit the airport saying "No taxi, just private transport!" These men are relentless and very aggressive, purposely blocking your view of the taxi cab office. They will promise you the skies and once you agree and are in their car, you will be charged sky high as well!

Be informed, alert, and smart.

The taxi company office booth is near the Exit Doors of the airport. Look to the right and you will see the small booth with a receptionist inside asking for your destination. They will give you a receipt and will assign you a cab. This is the legit cab operator in Yogyakarta.

Where we stayed?

We found this little homestay place online called Dewi Homestay Inn.

It's a quaint place to rest and hang-out in the city center of Yogjakarta. It is walking distance to the hospitals, restaurants, museums, and busy shopping street of Jl. Malioboro.

The amenities are basic but with a homely island feel. Fee per night is Rp150,000 (~$15) without breakfast.

Like with other hostels and hotels, you can book tours with them. Since we were only there for the weekend, we could only do the 1 day Borobudur, Menduit, and Prambanan tour for Rp300,000 per person.

There are other tours including a hike up Mount Bromo, etc... that you can choose. You can even tailor your own adventure.

What to do there?

We went around the town on foot and explored without any planned itinerary. There are several museums near the hotel and we decided to check out the Batik Museum. They have people making the the Batik Sarongs and you can even try drawing on the cloth canvas if you want!

it's been Micahel's dream to drive the local transport.
the old man seems to be liking it!

beautiful wall art

cheap shopping on Jl. Malioboro

We were fortunate enough to experience a parade by the Airforce Academy of Yogyakarta. Young men in their uniforms gallantly showed us their drumming, baton twirling, and marching skills.

And of course, a yummy chicken satay snack break!

Borobudur

We woke up early the next day and walked to the meeting point to wait for the tour van. We picked up other tourists at a different spot. Soon, we were on our way to the historical temples.

Here are photos of our tour: Click to enlarge.