Borobudur: Exploring the Majestic Buddhist Temple of Central Java

History of Borobudur

This famous Buddhist temple is located in central Java and dates back to the 8th and 9th centuries. It is built in a unique structure with three parts: a pyramid-like base with five square terraces, a cone-shaped middle section with three circular platforms, and a grand stupa at the top. The walls and railings of the temple are adorned with beautiful carved designs, covering a total area of 2,500 square meters. There are also 72 decorative stupas around the circular platforms, each containing a statue of the Buddha. In the 1970s, with the assistance of UNESCO, the monument underwent restoration.

How Long is the drive from Jakarta to Borobudur ?

By Car

The direct drive from Jakarta to Borobudur is 310 mi (498 km), and should have a drive time of 5 hrs 44 mins in normal traffic.

By Train

If you're planning to visit Borobudur from Jakarta, traveling by train is a convenient option. Here's a simple guide on how to reach Borobudur from Jakarta by train. First, make your way to Jakarta's main train station, which is called Gambir Station. From there, you can purchase a train ticket to the city of Yogyakarta. The journey typically takes around 7 to 8 hours, so it's a good idea to choose a comfortable train class.

How can I reach Borobudur when Arrived in Yogyakarta ?

Once you arrive in Yogyakarta, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Borobudur, which is located about 40 kilometers away. The trip from Yogyakarta to Borobudur usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic. Remember to check the train schedules in advance and allow enough time for the journey. 

You have a couple of options to get to Borobudur. You can take a public bus from Yogyakarta, which costs around $2 USD, or you can opt for a minibus, which costs around $6 USD. The journey usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes.

By Plane

If you're traveling from Jakarta to Borobudur and prefer a faster option, flying is a convenient choice. Here's a simple guide on how to reach Borobudur from Jakarta by plane. Firstly, you'll need to go to one of Jakarta's airports, such as Soekarno-Hatta International Airport.

Look for flights to Adisucipto International Airport in Yogyakarta, as it is the closest airport to Borobudur. Once you land in Yogyakarta, you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach Borobudur, which is approximately 40 kilometers away.

The journey from the airport to Borobudur typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic.

Be sure to check flight schedules and book your tickets in advance for a smooth travel experience. Enjoy your visit to the breathtaking Borobudur temple!

Preparation

Here are some easy-to-understand tips to help you have a great time visiting Borobudur:

1. Come early - This place gets crowded quickly. To avoid the crowd, arrive early in the morning, either by joining a sunrise tour or getting there before 6am when the gates open.

2. Avoid weekends - The most people come here on weekends. To have a more peaceful visit, try to go during the weekdays when there are fewer tourists.

3. Dress comfortably - Wear clothes that are suitable for the occasion and also comfortable because you'll be on your feet exploring for a while.

4. Bring water - The temple is big, and if you're taking a bus to get here, you might get thirsty. Remember to bring water and some snacks.

5. Stay nearby - Borobudur is about a 90-minute drive from Yogyakarta. If you want to arrive early and avoid the crowds, consider staying closer to the temple. It may cost a bit more, but it will make your visit much more enjoyable.

Here's a simplified version of the text using spoken English and easy-to-understand words:

Ticket Price and When to Visit

The site is open to the public every day from 6am to 5pm. Tickets cost $25 USD per person. If you want to visit both Borobudur and the Prambanan temples, there's a combined ticket available for $40 USD per person, but this doesn't include the sunrise tickets.

For an amazing experience, you can join the Borobudur Sunrise Tour, which costs $35 USD. This tour allows you to take beautiful pictures of the temple at dawn (check the top photo in this post for an example!). Usually, hotels in the area can arrange this tour, so if you're staying nearby, your accommodation can help you.

During the tour, you'll receive a flashlight and be taken up to the temple gate at 4:30am, just in time to see the sunrise and explore the site before the crowds arrive. To make the most of your visit, it's a good idea to hire a guide who can explain the carvings and help you understand the temple better.

What should I wear when visiting the Borobudur temple?

To show respect for the religious site, it's important to dress modestly. Wear loose clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. It's recommended to wear pants because the temple's steps are high and not suitable for shorts or skirts. Also, choose comfortable shoes since you'll be walking for a while. It can be a bit chilly at the top, especially in winter, so bring a light jacket or sweater.

What is the Borobudur temple made of?

The temple is constructed with stone and consists of nine platforms stacked on top of each other. There are six square platforms and three circular ones, all topped by a dome.