Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta is a vivid explosion of history, heritage, art and beauty. The city rightly regarded as Indonesia’s cultural capital; the city that lets you travel across eras, see the past teeming with life, experience colourful traditions, customs and crafts, witness spectacular natural marvels, delve into a flavourful ethnic cuisine, and feel the soul of the authentic Javanese way of life.

Highlights of Yogyakarta:

Temples

Discover hallowed temples of the Buddhist and Hindu faith in and around Yogyakarta. Borobudur temple is the world’s biggest Buddhist temple, a 113-foot high pyramid dating back to the 8th century, set against the stunning backdrop of a volcanic range. While Prambanan is a spectacular complex of 240 temples dedicated to the Trimurti gods. And if the architecture and history doesn’t awe you enough, stay back in the evenings for a one-of-a-kind Ramayana ballet performance. These two UNESCO World Heritage Sites are bound to feature on your itinerary, but be sure to visit the other Candi or ancient sacred structures located across the region to complete visiting the religious wonders of the area.

Museums

Enthralling experiences of Javanese culture can be found in the exceptional museums around Yogyakarta. For art enthusiasts, the Affandi Museum promises an exquisite collection of the famed Indonesian artist’s paintings and self-portraits. The Museum Batik is indeed, the ultimate destination to learn all about the now world-famous native fabric dye technique. History lovers can take their pick between Museum Sonobudoyo, Fort Vrederburg and Museum UllenSentalu, that houses various historic and cultural artefacts that tell the story of Yogyakarta, from ancient to modern times.

Palaces

Palaces have always been at the heart of any monarchy, and here, it still is. That’s what makes exploring the Kraton, one of the best experiences in Yogyakarta. The Sultanate’s home is a marvellous complex that is in fact home many people, with homes, shops, schools and businesses. Many parts are open to the public, and its grandness is awe-inspiring, from the exquisite traditional architecture and lavish European influence to the many galleries and cultural shows that are put on daily for visitors. The other amazing palace to visit Taman Sari, the 18th century water castle and royal garden complex with its very own underground catacomb! And all of it is waiting to be explored!

Nature

Yogyakarta is home to many spectacular natural wonders, scenic spots and outdoor experienc-es. Wediombo Beach ranks high on that list, offering a lovely sandy curve and gentle blue wa-ters to enjoy on a warm sunny day. For thrill seekers, Jomblang Cave is an unmissable day trip from Yogyakarta. A one-of-a-kind cave that drops you 200 m underground, with a glorious ray of light shining down on you. And if you dare, go hiking up Mount Merapi, the city’s active volcano. Meanwhile, a more serene experience lies to the east of the city, the GembiraLoka Zoo.

Interesting Facts About Yogyakarta

• Yogyakarta is also called Jogja
• Yogyakarta is the only city in Indonesia, still ruled by a Sultanate. 
• This is considered the City of Scholars, as it is a university town and cultural learning centre.
• The name ‘Yogyakarta’ is derived from the Ramayana, and it means ‘a city to prosper’.
• Yogyakarta lies at the base of the still-active Merapi Volcano and has faced damaging eruptions.

Location

Yogyakarta City is in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, a province located in South Java. It shares three borders with the Central Java province, and one with Indian Ocean.

Best Time to Visit Yogyakarta

The best time to visit Yogyakarta is during the dry season, from April to November, when you can explore the region freely. The following months are the monsoon, when frequent rain may disrupt your daily plans.

How to Reach Yogyakarta

The easiest way to get to Yogyakarta is by flight from Jakarta, Bandung or Bali, to the Adisucipto International Airport. Jakarta offers train and bus services too, while there is an overnight train from Bandung too.

History of Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta was at first a part of the 7th century Buddhist Śailendras Kingdom, that by the 13th century, came under the rule of the Hindu Majapahit Empire. With the rise of the Islamic Mata-ram Kingdom, yet another cultural layer was added onto Yogyakarta. Followed by a period of colonial and World War II history that saw different powers take control of the region. When Indonesia gained independence, Yogyakarta was given special status and left under the custodianship of the ruling sultanate.