"Borobudur Temple / Waisak" Top 5 Page for this destination Yogyakarta Special Region Things to Do Tip by Bonobo2005

This famous monument was founded back in 9th century. Many visitors, like me, go for the magic of the temple in early morning, walking around the terraces, and being astonished by all these magnificent details. Three hours is enough for that. If you're interested, though, the Temple has about 1500 panels from which you can learn everything about Buddhist teachings and there's also a museum for explanation and background!

One of the most magical things is the sunrise at Borobudur, when the sun comes from behind the active Gunung Merapi while the valley is still covered in mist. Splendid! The sunrise was around 06.00 hr, while the gates opened at 05.45 hr, so we had to hurry a bit to reach the highest level before the sun came up. But it was possible and definately worth it!

The temple is still in use for Buddhist ceremonies. A perfect timing of visiting Borobudur would be at Waisak, when 1000's of Buddhist pelgrims come to meditate and ceremoniate the birth and enlightenment of Buddha. It's usually held at the full moon of May, and starts with a colourful and fascinating procession from the Mendut temple to Borobudur. After that, meditations and ceremonies are starting, that are really intense. The spiritual ambience was all around. The meditations, the thick clouds of incense, the full moon and -of course this fantastic monument- in the centre! Officially you need an invitation, that agences in Yogya sell at almost $20 pp (incl. transport), but we just entered the gate without, no entrance fees, no trouble.

Directions: about 1-1,5 hour from Yogyakarta town. If you want to see sunrise go with a taxi. Many tourbuses arriving late. Entrance fee $7.