Borobudur
Discover Borobudur: One of the world’s most iconic Buddhist temples
The Borobudur is recognised as one of UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Borobudur is the biggest and oldest Buddhist temple in the world. In 1814 the Borobudur was rediscovered after the temple was hidden; covered under ashes and vegetation for hundreds of years. The temple is still full of mysteries.
A Spiritual Experience
During restorations in the 1970s sculptured reliefs at the large base floor were brought to light. It is said that these reliefs were always meant to be hidden, in “the hidden foot” of the stupa, to prevent you from being tempted to earthly desire.
About 1250 years ago, the Borobudur was built close to where the rivers Ello and Progo meet, and a hill called “Tidar”. It is said that this hill is the place, where the gods ‘nailed’ the island of Java to the earth, to prevent the island from sinking or floating away.
As you wander through the temple’s corridors, you can’t help but feel a sense of tranquility. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place to create a memory for life.
Stunning architecture
The temple is shaped as a big stupa and built around a hill. Don’t miss the chance to walk around the circular platforms and admire the stunning stupas, each housing a statue of Buddha. If you count well, you can count 504 statues of Buddha.
There is a legend that if you can touch the Buddha with his legs crossed, any wish you have will be granted.
The central stupa at the top of the Borobudur can only be entered by Buddhist monks. Don’t be afraid, you won’t miss much; this stupa represents eternity and is therefore empty.
Panoramic view
The temple consists of nine stacked platforms, with the top three being circular. The view from the upper levels is simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic view over the surrounding hills and rice fields.
Getting There
Borobudur is located about 40 kilometers from Yogyakarta.
Explore Mendut and Pawon Temples: Hidden Treasures Near Borobudur
Consider pairing your visit to Borobudur with a trip to nearby attractions such as the stunning Mendut and Pawon temples. These smaller temples, rich in history and architecture, are located just a short distance from Borobudur.
The Pawon and Mendut temples are part of the Borobudur World Heritage Site. The three temples are built in a straight line. During the Buddhist Vesak-festival, Buddhist in Indonesia walk from the Mendut temple, passing the Pawon temple and end at the Borobudur to celebrate “Buddha’s birthday”.
Mendut Temple: A Symbol of Serenity
In Mendut temple we will find three big Buddhist statues from the 9th century.The most striking feature is a large seated statue of Buddha, which is over three meters tall and sits in a peaceful meditation pose. As you enter the temple, you’ll be greeted by a sense of tranquility. Couples who would like to have children, pray in this temple for good luck.
Pawon Temple: The Gateway to Enlightenment
Just a short distance from Mendut, Pawon Temple is a smaller site. Often referred to as the “Gateway to Borobudur,” Pawon is believed to have served as a ceremonial entrance for pilgrims on their way to the larger temple. At the Pawon temple we only find the temple, there are no statues in there. On the outside we find a beautiful waringin tree.
Getting There
Mendut and Pawon Temples are conveniently located about 3 kilometers from Borobudur,
Practical information 2024/2025
You will visit Borobudur under the guidance of a guide who works for Borobudur. The guide will tell you all about the background of Borobudur and answer all your questions.
When you visit Borobudur you can choose from two tickets:
- A ticket for the park around the Borobuder. Here you can see Borobudur up close, but not climb it
- A ticket for the park and to climb Borobudur
The tickets can be ordered online one week in advance (not earlier) at the official Borobudur website >>>
When ordering tickets you can choose from the following sessions:
- Arrive at 8:30 am (visit from 9:00 am – 10:00 am)
- Arrive at 9:30 am (visit from 10:00 am – 11:00 am)
- Arrive at 10.30am (visit from 11.00 am – 12.00 pm)
- Arrive at 11:30 am (visit from 12:00 – 1:00 pm)
- Arrive at 12.30 pm (visit from 1.00 pm – 2.00 pm)
- Arrive at 1:30 pm (visit from 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm)
- Arrive at 2:30 pm (visit from 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm)
- Arrive at 3:30 pm (visit from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm)
Tickets for the first session are especially popular and sell out quickly.
Please note: Borobudur is closed on Mondays.
World Heritage
In order to preserve Borobudur as a World Heritage Site, the maximum number of visitors has been set at 1,200 per day. You must change your shoes and slippers for special soft slippers that you receive at the entrance. (These slippers are included in the entrance fee.)
Only 150 tickets are sold per session. Every 10 to 15 visitors are accompanied by a guide who explains the background of the temple in English.
Borobudur at sunrise
To climb the Borobudur before the sun rises is not possible anymore, but it is possible to have breakfast on the nearby hill, the Dagi Hill, and watch the sun rise at 6am. Here you can enjoy the view and the morning sounds from the surrounding villages. The view keeps changing due to the light of the rising sun.
After breakfast you will go to Borobudur for the first session.
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