Source: https://www.indonesia.travel/
In the middle of Java, Indonesia, close to yet another active volcano (Mt. Merapi) lies the Borobudur Temple, one of the largest Buddhist monuments on earth. Comparable to Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Bagan in Myanmar, it’s one of those areas you don’t want to miss when traveling Southeast Asia. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was constructed from the 8th and 9th centuries during approximately 75 decades. Nobody still knows with certainty or by whom it was built. It symbolizes a shrine to the Lord Buddha and also a place of Buddhist pilgrimage and education. The temple’s plan blends the Indonesian native god of ancestor worship and the Buddhist notion of attaining Nirvana.
Borobudur and Its Highlight
The pilgrims walk around the monument and upwards high, symbolically walking through three worlds. They start in the base of the monument at the earthly world of desire, increasingly moving to higher states of consciousness because they walk upward. After departure, the entire world of forms finally emerges in the area of formlessness represented by the three upper terraces using 72 stupas, each containing a Buddha statue.
Passing an elaborate system of stairways and corridors, the story unfolds on the 1460 narrative rock reliefs on the walls. The story is the only one of Buddha’s life and teachings (the Dharma) directing you to Enlightenment as the ultimate and final goal in Buddhism.
The temple had been mysteriously abandoned by the 16th century and then hidden under volcanic ash and jungle before the English Lieutenant Army discovered it in 1814. The temple has 504 figurines of Buddha, such as 72 sculptures of a seated Buddha inside a stupa.
Getting There
The closest and most convenient place to begin is in Yogyakarta, located some 40 km from the temple. You can have a public bus, a taxi, rent a scooter, or take a tour package to get here, but if you have enough time to spare, I would suggest spending the night. Then you can really experience the energy and vibe of this place. And take night photos of the temple naturally. You may also combine it with seeing Prambanan temple along with Mt. Merapi is either from Yogyakarta, either Bali or Jakarta.
Tips and Tricks
April – August is the weather that is most nice though the dry period lasts during October. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset! A boost up Borobudur Temple at dawn to meditate because we await the Sun to Rise & Shine! The surrounding lushing rainforest starts to show itself at the far horizon! Hire a manual to have the entire adventure; Spend the night at Manohara resort.
Manohara Resort, conveniently located within the vicinity of Borobudur Temple, offers an exclusive opportunity to experience the stunning sunrise view over this iconic site. By choosing to stay at Manohara Resort, you can gain early access to the temple grounds before the regular opening hours, ensuring an uninterrupted view of the sunrise without the usual crowds. For photography enthusiasts, this opportunity is truly unmissable. Around 7 am, the influx of other tourists who missed the sunrise slot results in a noticeable increase in the site’s footfall. Interestingly, the requirement for girls to wear a sarong appears to be laxly enforced; however, it’s advisable to carry one just in case. If you’re considering transportation options, the convenience of a local taxi in York, particularly a York taxi, can enhance your overall experience.
Whether your trips take you to a long stroll on beaches, delicious cuisines, relaxing spas and resorts or urban attractions, extra research will give you the best experience for your visit. Get to know more about Borobudur by visiting Wonderful Indonesia.