Borobudur Temple is a 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple located in Magelang Regency, not far from the city of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. It is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world and is renowned for its grand architecture, intricate lattice stupas, and numerous Buddha statues. The temple is also famous for its elaborate bas-reliefs which depict various scenes from Buddhist teachings and the life of Gautama Buddha.
Borobudur Temple is accessible by car or bus from Yogyakarta, which has an international airport and several accommodation options. Tourists often hire a car or join organized tours that provide round-trips to the temple. The journey typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions.
The best time to visit Borobudur Temple is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. Many tourists also prefer visiting early in the morning around sunrise to avoid the midday heat and to catch the stunning view as the sun rises over the temple.
Yes, there are entrance fees for Borobudur Temple. The fee structures are subject to change, and there are different rates for domestic and international visitors. It's advisable to check the official website or contact a local tourism office for the latest information before your visit.
Visitors to Borobudur Temple are advised to dress respectfully, as it is a religious site. This typically means covering shoulders and wearing clothing that extends at least to the knees. Comfortable footwear is also recommended as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved in exploring the temple.
As a sacred and historical site, visitors should respect the cultural and religious significance of Borobudur Temple. It's important to follow local customs such as not climbing on the stupas or statues and speaking softly while within the temple grounds. Photography is generally allowed, but drones might require special permissions.
Borobudur Temple hosts numerous annual Buddhist events, the most famous being Vesak Day, which marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Visitors are welcome to observe these celebrations, but they should be aware that the site can get very crowded during these occasions and accommodations may need to be booked well in advance.
Aside from visiting the temple, tourists can enjoy exploring the surrounding villages, visit nearby smaller temples, go on a hike to the Menoreh Hills, or enjoy a sunrise or sunset tour of Borobudur. The nearby city of Yogyakarta also offers attractions like the Kraton (Sultan's Palace), Taman Sari water castle, and Prambanan Temple.
Yes, guided tours are available at Borobudur Temple. These can be arranged on-site or pre-booked through tour operators. Guides can provide valuable insight into the history, architecture, and religious significance of the temple, and many can provide tours in multiple languages.
There are several souvenir shops, art galleries, and local craft stalls located near Borobudur Temple, where visitors can purchase traditional Indonesian souvenirs and handicrafts. Dining options are also available, ranging from small warungs (local eateries) serving Indonesian food to more upscale restaurants. Additionally, visitors will find vendors selling snacks and drinks near the temple.