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10 Best Places You Must See in Yogyakarta - Indonesia
10 Best Places You Must See in Yogyakarta - Indonesia
Yogyakarta, or “Jogja,” is a city filled with rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient wonders. Whether you’re exploring majestic temples, wandering through vibrant streets, or relaxing in lush nature, Yogyakarta has something for everyone.
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Last Update
6 Dec 2023
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5
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1. Borobudur Temple – The Magnificent Buddhist Wonder
Rising majestically from the lush plains of Central Java, Borobudur Temple is not just a monument; it’s a spiritual and artistic triumph. Built in the 9th century during the Sailendra dynasty, Borobudur is considered the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a timeless symbol of Indonesia’s cultural depth. The temple’s massive, multi-tiered structure is designed like a mandala, representing the Buddhist cosmology of the universe. As you ascend each level, you’re not only climbing a sacred monument, you're symbolically journeying toward enlightenment.
What makes Borobudur so breathtaking isn’t just its scale but its extraordinary detail. Over 2,600 intricate relief panels tell stories from Buddhist texts, while 504 Buddha statues, each with serene expressions and elegant mudras, line the terraces. At the summit, the central stupa stands in silent elegance, surrounded by 72 smaller stupas, each containing a statue inside.
Visit Info
• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Best Time: Early morning to catch the sunrise for a magical experience
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official Website or Local Tour Operators
• Tickets: IDR 500,000 (foreigners); discounts for locals
• Tip: Arrive before dawn for a breathtaking sunrise view from the top
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Top of Borobudur: Capture the magnificent temple against a backdrop of misty mountains
• The Central Stupa: A perfect shot of the towering stupa surrounded by smaller Buddha statues
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Mendut Temple: A smaller but equally stunning temple nearby
• Borobudur Village: Visit local artisan workshops for unique crafts
Address: Borobudur, Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1.5-hour drive
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2. Prambanan Temple – The Majestic Hindu Temples
Just a short drive from Yogyakarta lies Prambanan Temple, Indonesia’s most magnificent Hindu temple complex. Built around the same era as Borobudur, Prambanan showcases the splendour of classical Hindu architecture with its pointed spires and intricate stone carvings. Towering 47 meters high, the main temple is dedicated to Shiva the Destroyer, flanked by equally beautiful temples devoted to Vishnu and Brahma.
Prambanan isn’t just a temple, it’s a storyteller in stone. The bas-reliefs carved into its walls recount tales from the Ramayana, and the atmosphere becomes even more magical when the temple is lit up at night for the famed Ramayana Ballet performance. The site invites visitors to reflect on ancient spirituality, the artistry of ancient builders, and the coexistence of Hindu and Buddhist traditions in Java.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Sunset for a dramatic view of the temples
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official Website or Local Tour Providers
• Tickets: IDR 350,000 (foreigners); discounted tickets for locals
• Tip: Visit the nearby Ratu Boko Palace for stunning panoramic views of Prambanan
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Temple Complex: Capture the towering temples with the surrounding greenery
• Sunset Views: The golden-hour light makes for the most magical photos
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Ratu Boko Palace: Explore the ruins and capture sweeping views of the temple from above
• Plaosan Temple: A lesser-known yet beautiful Buddhist temple nearby
Address: Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 30-minute drive
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3. Kraton Yogyakarta – The Heart of Javanese Culture
At the cultural core of Yogyakarta lies the Kraton, the royal palace of the Sultan of Yogyakarta. But it’s more than a palace, it’s a living institution where Javanese culture, tradition, and daily life continue to evolve. Built in the 18th century, the Kraton remains the residence of the current Sultan and a sacred space that embodies centuries of heritage and identity.
Visitors to the Kraton are greeted by elegant courtyards, intricately decorated halls, and pavilions that host live gamelan music and traditional dance performances. The architecture, a blend of Javanese and colonial influences, reflects the Sultanate’s connection to both local tradition and the outside world.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Morning to avoid crowds
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official Kraton Website or Onsite
• Tickets: IDR 15,000–25,000 (local and foreign visitors)
• Tip: Attend the traditional dance or gamelan music performance in the evening for an immersive experience
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Inner Courtyards: Capture the serene and regal beauty of the palace
• The Sultan’s Throne Room: Intricate details and Javanese craftsmanship make for beautiful shots
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Taman Sari Water Castle: A hidden gem nearby offering a glimpse of royal leisure and architecture
• Alun-Alun Kidul: A vibrant public square with street vendors and local entertainment
Address: Jl. Rotowijayan No.1, Sultan Ground, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Walking distance from Malioboro Street
4. Taman Sari Water Castle – A Royal Escape
Just a short walk from the Kraton lies Taman Sari, the “Water Castle” that once served as the royal garden, bathing complex, and meditative retreat for the Sultan of Yogyakarta. Built in the mid-18th century, this unique site was part of a grand vision that blended hydraulic engineering, leisure, and mysticism. Though much of the original complex has been lost to time, the restored sections still exude tranquillity and romance.
The main bathing area, flanked by high walls, towers, and terracotta roofs, is the most recognisable and photographed. It’s easy to imagine the Sultan and his consorts relaxing here in peaceful seclusion, surrounded by water, beauty, and calm. Beyond the pools, a maze of hidden corridors, underground passages, and meditation rooms awaits exploration.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Tickets are available at the entrance
• Tickets: IDR 5,000–15,000 (local and foreign visitors)
• Tip: Hire a local guide to learn about the history of each part of the castle
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Central Pool: Stunning for photos with lush greenery and pavilions in the background
• The Water Pavilions: Capture the serene, almost mystical atmosphere of the water-filled gardens
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Pasar Beringharjo: A traditional market where you can find souvenirs, textiles, and local treats
Address: Jl. Taman, Patehan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Walking distance from Kraton
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5. Mount Merapi – Indonesia’s Active Volcano
Looming over the northern horizon of Yogyakarta, Mount Merapi is one of Indonesia’s most iconic and active volcanoes. Its name means “Mountain of Fire,” and it lives up to the title with frequent eruptions and a history of both destruction and regeneration. Despite its fiery nature, Merapi is a source of life, culture, and adventure for locals and visitors alike.
For thrill-seekers, a sunrise trek to the summit is an unforgettable experience. The hike starts in the dark, guided by flashlights and the crisp mountain air, and ends with a glowing sunrise above the clouds. From the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of Central Java valleys bathed in mist, distant peaks, and the shimmering lights of towns waking up below.
Visit Info
• Duration: 4–6 hours (depending on your hiking route)
• Best Time: Early morning to catch the sunrise
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Local tour operators or hotels
• Tickets: IDR 200,000–400,000 (guided tours)
• Tip: Bring sturdy shoes and a jacket — the weather can be chilly at the top
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Sunrise View: Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
• Lava Rock Sites: Capture the dramatic landscape shaped by past eruptions
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Kaliadem Village: A village near Merapi where you can learn about the eruption history
Address: Cangkringan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1-hour drive
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6. Malioboro Street – Yogyakarta’s Bustling Shopping Hub
If there’s one place that captures the rhythm and spirit of modern Yogyakarta, it’s Malioboro Street. Stretching through the heart of the city, this iconic strip pulses with energy from morning till late at night. Lined with colourful stalls, batik shops, street food vendors, and buzzing crowds, Malioboro offers a dynamic blend of commerce, culture, and street life.
Here, you’ll find everything from traditional handicrafts and souvenir t-shirts to silver jewellery and woven bags perfect for picking up gifts or just indulging in retail therapy. As evening falls, the atmosphere shifts. The sidewalks fill with musicians, food carts, families, and young people out for a stroll. The street is alive with smells, sounds, and the kind of friendly chaos that makes travel memorable.
Don’t miss the chance to try Gudeg, Yogyakarta’s beloved jackfruit stew, or hop on a traditional andong (horse carriage) for a nostalgic ride. The street is also close to several key attractions, making it a natural hub for exploring the city.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Best Time: Evening when the street comes alive with lights and food stalls
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: No booking required
• Tickets: Free
• Tip: Try local street food such as Gudeg, a traditional Yogyakarta dish
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Street's Bustle: Capture the colourful life on Malioboro with bustling scenes of local life
• The Horse Carriages: Take a traditional “andong” ride for a fun photo experience
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Benteng Vredeburg: A historical fort near the street, showcasing colonial history
Address: Malioboro Street, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Accessible via taxi or on foot from Kraton
7. Goa Jomblang – A Stunning Vertical Cave
For those seeking something beyond temples and markets, Goa Jomblang offers one of Yogyakarta’s most surreal and adventurous natural experiences. This vertical cave system, located in the Gunung Kidul region, is famed for its dramatic entrance and the ethereal phenomenon known as the “Heavenly Light.”
Your journey begins with a thrilling descent down the side of a cliff, safely harnessed and guided by professionals. As you lower into the 60-meter-deep sinkhole, the temperature drops and silence envelops you. At the bottom, you’ll enter a lush, ancient forest, untouched by the outside world. A short trek through the tunnel leads to the highlight: a chamber where a shaft of sunlight pours through a crack in the roof, illuminating the mist in what looks like a divine spotlight. It’s a moment of pure wonder, and a dream shot for photographers.
Visit Info
• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Best Time: Early morning for the best lighting effect
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Local tour operators offer guided tours
• Tickets: IDR 450,000–600,000 (guided tours)
• Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as the trek to the cave can be challenging
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Cave Opening: Capture the light pouring through the cave’s entrance
• The Vertical Cave: Stunning shots of the natural formations inside the cave
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Punthuk Setumbu: A hill that offers a fantastic sunrise view of Borobudur
Address: Jetis, Semanu, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 2-hour drive
8. Parangtritis Beach – A Coastal Escape
Rugged, spiritual, and windswept, Parangtritis Beach offers a very different side of Yogyakarta. Located about 27 kilometres south of the city, this dramatic stretch of coastline is known for its rolling waves, black sand, and legendary mystique tied to Ratu Kidul, the mythical Queen of the South Sea. According to local folklore, wearing green at the beach is discouraged, as it's believed to invite the Queen’s attention, a belief still honoured by many.
More than just a beach, Parangtritis is a place of contrast fiery sunsets meet cool ocean spray, while traditional beliefs mingle with extreme sports. Visitors can enjoy everything from horse cart rides and sandboarding on the dunes to paragliding off the cliffs, offering both peaceful and adrenaline-filled options.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Sunset for a stunning view
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: No booking required
• Tickets: IDR 10,000–15,000 for entry
• Tip: Try paragliding or take a ride on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) along the beach
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• Sunset Views: Capture the mesmerising sunset over the Indian Ocean
• The Sand Dunes: Great for action shots of ATV rides
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Gua Cemara: A peaceful beach area perfect for a relaxing picnic
Address: Parangtritis, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1-hour drive
9. Ratu Boko Palace – The Majestic Ruins
Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views over the Prambanan Plain, Ratu Boko Palace is one of Central Java’s most atmospheric and intriguing archaeological sites. Unlike the towering spires of Borobudur or Prambanan, Ratu Boko is not a temple; it's a former royal compound, blending palace structures, meditation caves, bathing areas, and gates that speak to a lifestyle of regal tranquillity.
Believed to date back to the 8th century, Ratu Boko offers a fascinating mix of Hindu and Buddhist influences, suggesting that it was once a multi-faith spiritual retreat as well as a political residence. Walking through its stone archways and terraces, you get a real sense of how ancient Javanese royalty lived, prayed, and entertained.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Best Time: Sunset for incredible views
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Official site or local tour providers
• Tickets: IDR 40,000–50,000
• Tip: Visit the temple ruins at dusk to catch stunning views and photos
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Main Gate: A great spot to capture the ancient architecture and landscape
• Panoramic Views: Take in the beauty of the surrounding countryside and temples
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Prambanan Temple: Explore this nearby temple for a more ancient temple experience
Address: Ratu Boko, Prambanan, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 40-minute drive
10. Pindul Cave – A Unique Cave Tubing Experience
Tucked away in the scenic hills of Gunung Kidul, Pindul Cave offers one of Yogyakarta’s most unique and family-friendly adventures: cave tubing. Unlike traditional cave treks, this experience lets you float leisurely along an underground river while lying on a rubber tube, gliding beneath stunning rock formations, glimmering stalactites, and the occasional beam of sunlight from the cave ceiling.
The water is calm and gentle, making it accessible for beginners, kids, and anyone looking for a low-effort, high-impact encounter with nature. Guides accompany you the whole way, sharing legends and geological insights as you make your way through the cave's cool and mystical interior. Some areas open up into small lagoons where you can pause, swim, or just float and take it all in.
Visit Info
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Best Time: Afternoon for calmer waters
Booking Tips
• Where to Book: Local tour operators
• Tickets: IDR 150,000–250,000
• Tip: Bring a waterproof camera for the best shots inside the cave
Top Photo/Reel Spots
• The Cave Entrance: Capture the mystical opening of the cave from a boat
• Inside the Cave: Stunning shots of the cave’s natural formations
Hidden Gems Nearby
• Goa Pindul Village: Explore the local village and its surrounding nature
Address: Bejiharjo, Karangmojo, Gunung Kidul, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
From Yogyakarta: 1.5-hour drive
If you are interested in other cultural places in Malaysia, Indonesia or the Kingdom of Brunei, click on the links below:
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The Atlas Aura
Welcome to The Atlas Aura – I’m Antares, the storyteller behind the journey. Alongside my husband and our little son, we explore the world together, turning everyday moments into lasting memories. With a deep passion for uncovering hidden corners of the world, we craft cinematic travel experiences that blend culture, authenticity, and wonder.
