Things to Do in Yogyakarta

The world's largest Buddhist temple and Indonesia's most visited tourist attraction. Built in the 9th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features nine stacked platforms decorated with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. The temple represents a Buddhist cosmological view of the universe. Sunrise visits offer magical misty views over the surrounding jungle and distant volcanoes. Located about 40km northwest of Yogyakarta city center.

The largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating from the 9th century, Prambanan features towering spires dedicated to the Hindu trinity: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The main Shiva temple stands 47 meters tall with intricate carvings depicting the Ramayana epic. The Ramayana Ballet performed here on full moon nights is unforgettable. Located 17km east of Yogyakarta, making it easily combined with city exploration.

The royal palace of the Sultanate of Yogyakarta, still home to the current Sultan and his family. This 18th-century complex showcases traditional Javanese architecture and houses a museum with royal artifacts, gamelan instruments, and historic photographs. Regular cultural performances include gamelan music, traditional dance, and wayang puppet shows. The palace represents the living heart of Javanese culture and royal traditions.

A former royal garden and bathing complex built in the mid-18th century for the Sultan and his entourage. The partially restored site features pools, underground passages, meditation areas, and Portuguese-influenced architecture. Explore the mysterious Sumur Gumuling, an underground mosque with impressive acoustics. The surrounding neighborhood has become an artist village with galleries and workshops. A fascinating glimpse into royal leisure.

An exhilarating 4WD adventure to explore Indonesia's most active volcano. Tours visit the remnants of the devastating 2010 eruption, including the preserved home of the volcano's late gatekeeper and hardened lava flows. The Alien Stone, a boulder thrown from the crater, is a popular photo stop. Early morning tours offer sunrise views, while evening tours showcase the distant glow. An unforgettable way to experience volcanic power.

Yogyakarta's most famous thoroughfare and the city's commercial heart since the 1800s. This bustling street stretches for about 2km, lined with shops selling batik, silver, wayang puppets, and souvenirs. Street food vendors serve local specialties like gudeg, bakpia, and wedang ronde. At night, the street transforms with lesehan (mat dining) restaurants. Visit Pasar Beringharjo, the oldest traditional market, for an authentic shopping experience.

A stunning archaeological site perched on a hilltop overlooking the Prambanan plain. This 8th-century palace complex offers panoramic views of Prambanan Temple and Mount Merapi in the distance. Unlike the crowded temple complexes below, Ratu Boko provides a peaceful atmosphere for sunset viewing. The site features ceremonial gates, meditation caves, and ancient pools. Less visited than Borobudur and Prambanan, yet equally impressive.

One of Indonesia's most complete museums of Javanese culture and art. The collection includes ancient Hindu-Buddhist artifacts, wayang puppets, traditional weapons, batik textiles, and gamelan instruments. The museum building itself is an architectural gem in traditional Javanese style. Evening wayang kulit (shadow puppet) performances are held regularly and offer an authentic cultural experience. A must for understanding Javanese heritage.