A Day Trip to Architectural Masterpiece of Prambanan and Borobudur Temple
Yogyakarta is well-known for its historical monuments scattered in its territories such as the magnificent 8th century Borobudur temple, Prambanan temple, and Kraton (The Royal Palace). The center of Javanese culture has gained a reputation as well as a destination nature lovers should visit. It has stunning beaches, caves, a majestic volcano, secret beaches, waterfalls, and many more. While you are there, it makes sense to spend some time visiting the cultural wonders of Prambanan and Borobudur temples, a must visit destination in Yogyakarta, which you can do in one day.
Both temples are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer a fascinating glimpse into Javanese history and culture. They are a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the cultural heritage of Indonesia.
BOROBUDUR TEMPLE
Borobudur Temple is a 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple located in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia. It is one of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in the world, and it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The temple was built in the 9th century during the reign of the Sailendra Dynasty, which ruled over Central Java at the time. It was built in the shape of a mandala, with a central stupa surrounded by four square terraces and six concentric circular terraces. The temple is decorated with over 2,500 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues, making it one of the most extensive collections of Buddhist art in the world. Meanwhile, the central dome is surrounded by 72 Buddha statues, each seated inside a perforated stupa.
The temple's architecture and decorations reflect the influences of both Indian and indigenous Javanese art and culture. The temple's design and layout are based on Buddhist cosmology and are meant to represent the path to enlightenment.
Borobudur Temple was abandoned in the 14th century and was largely forgotten until it was rediscovered in the early 19th century by the British colonial rulers of Indonesia. Since then, the temple has undergone several restorations and renovations to preserve its structure and artwork.
Today, Borobudur Temple is a popular tourist attraction and a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. Visitors can explore the temple's terraces admire its intricate carvings and sculptures, and also learn about its history and significance.
If you've been wondering if you can climb up to the top or not, the answer is yes, tourists are allowed to climb up to the top of Borobudur Temple to explore its terraces and admire the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The temple has three main levels, each representing different stages of enlightenment, and visitors can climb up through the levels to reach the top of the temple where the central stupa is located.
However, there are some rules and guidelines that visitors need to follow when climbing Borobudur Temple. For example, visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the temple and must dress appropriately, covering their shoulders and legs. It's also recommended that visitors bring sunscreen and a hat to protect themselves from the sun, as there is no shade on the temple's terraces.
Visitors are also not allowed to touch the temple's carvings and sculptures or climb on them, as this could damage the artwork. There are security guards stationed throughout the temple to enforce these rules and ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.
PRAMBANAN TEMPLE
Prambanan Temple, also known as Candi Prambanan, is a magnificent Hindu temple complex located in Central Java, Indonesia, approximately 18 kilometers northeast of the city of Yogyakarta. It is one of the most iconic and important archaeological sites in Indonesia and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Prambanan Temple was built during the 9th century, primarily during the reign of the Mataram Kingdom's first king, Rakai Pikatan. It is believed to have been constructed as a Hindu temple complex to honor the Trimurti, the Hindu trinity of gods consisting of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer).
Prambanan is renowned for its stunning architectural design and intricate stone carvings. The complex consists of several towering temples with the central temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main temple stands at 47 meters (154 feet) in height, making it one of the tallest Hindu temples in Southeast Asia. The central and largest temple, known as Candi Shiva Mahadeva, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and houses a statue of Shiva's manifestation as the Mahadeva, the Great God. This temple is the focal point of the entire complex.
The temple complex features a series of tall, pointed towers called "Meru" or "Loro Jonggrang." Each tower is adorned with beautifully detailed reliefs and sculptures that depict scenes from Hindu epics, particularly the Ramayana. In addition to the central Shiva temple, Prambanan includes several smaller temples dedicated to other Hindu deities, including Vishnu and Brahma. The complex also has shrines for the vahana (mounts) of the deities, such as Nandi (the bull) and Garuda (the eagle).
One of the unique cultural experiences you can enjoy at Prambanan is the Ramayana Ballet, which is a traditional Javanese dance performance narrating episodes from the Ramayana epic. The ballet is often performed on an open-air stage with the temple complex as a backdrop.
When visiting Prambanan, it's advisable to wear modest clothing and be respectful of the temple's religious significance. There are also informative museums nearby that provide additional insights into the temple's history.
Prambanan represents the height of Hindu art and architecture in Java during the Mataram Kingdom's period. It is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia.
Dada Sabra S.
Log on theislandgirladventures for more interesting travelstories
image by Geoffery iGV from Pixabay">Geoffery iGV from Pixabay
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intrested in visiting this amazing sight ? Check out what Perama Tour Have to offer !
