Yogyakarta
This culture capital is a must see when visiting Java. There is so much variety in activities, it is the perfect destination for any traveller. If you want to shop you can enjoy Malioboro Road and take in all the beautiful local products on sale. Also in the city you can enjoy the amazing Kraton (palace) and take in the attention to detail on every part of this stunning structure. While there look for the local gardens and pools around the city. Of course you will not be disappointed by the food on offer in Yogyakarta with a wide selection of local and international. You can choose high end dining or opt for street food on Mangkubuni. When you are ready to take day trips out of the city there is so much more to see, such as enjoying sunrise at Borobudur, climbing volcanos, treks through rice paddies and even a chocolate factory.
Highlights
Candi Prambanan
This stunning 9th century Hindu temple is located in central Java near Yogyakarta, you can walk around the beautiful UNESCO world heritage site and enjoy its beauty.
Borobudur
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Borobudur is located just 45mins from Yogyakarta and is the worlds largest Buddhist temple. The best time to visit Borobudur is early in the morning. Climb up to the temple of Borobudur and on to the top of Arupadhatu. Enjoy the sunrise with a beautiful view.
Sewu temple Complex
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This 8th century Buddhist temple complex is the second largest in Java. It is in Central Java. The complex is in a mandala design. Work has begun to restore damaged areas in the temple.
Museums
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Yogyakarta is full of museums. The Indonesian Airforce museum, Museum Kereta Keraton, which houses artifacts from previous sultans, Fort Vredeburg Museum allows you to follow the journey of Indonesia’s independence, Batik Museum, Ullen Sentalu Museum a stunning building showcasing the history of the royal family, Mount Merapi Museum and so much more.
Goa Jomblang
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About an hour from Yogykarta this is a great day trip. You will be lowered 60m down the cliff into the cave. The cave system has holes allowing sunlight to stream through. It is ana amazing place to explore. If you would like an adventure this is the place for you.
Kraton (Royal Palace)
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The home of the sultan, who since the independence is not a ruler, but is the governor of the region. You can only visit in the morning, during the afternoon it is used for political meetings and events and is still a home. Not only are the sultan titles passed down by generations the guards also pass their role on to their son when they retire. The palace is very intricately designed and there are Buddhist, Hindu and Islamic elements to its décor.
Ramayana Ballet
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This dance and drama performance has been performed since 1961 in Prambanan. It is based on Hindu stories and has up to 200 performers. The performance is amazing and definitely worth going to see.
Timang Beach
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About an hour from Yogyokarta, this beach is great for a day trip. There are some excellent food stalls serving fresh coconut, noodles and seafood. There are also some excellent restaurants near by.
Food
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Malioboro Street is the place to be for excellent street food, some dishes we suggest you try are; Gudeg is a very popular dish in Yoryakarta that you simple must try made from jack fruit and spices. Another of the best foods in Yogyakarta is bakmi godog, a meat and noodle dish native to Yogyakarta. The noodles come in a traditional Javanese soup served with chicken and vegetables. Also the meat skewers are delicious so make sure you try them.
Merapi Volcano
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Still active this volcano last erupted in 2010. You can only hike to where it is safe, however it is one of the easier volcano hikes and worth a visit. You can see the lava rocks smoking at the top during the day.
Monggo Chocolate factory
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The factory makes Belgian chocolate with Javanese heritage. You can follow each step of the chocolate making process, from bean to bar. You can also make your own creations and try the chocolate drinks on offer.