Welcome to the largest Buddhist temple in the world: Borobudur! This Buddhist sanctuary is located on the island of Java in Indonesia, 40 kilometers (24.9 miles) northwest of Yogyakarta. It is known as one of the most beautiful temples in Indonesia and was built between 750 and 850 AD. The base of Borobudur measures an impressive 123 by 123 meters (404 by 404 feet) and consists of 9 levels. The first six levels are square, while the top three are round. On the upper levels, there are 72 small stupas built around a large central stupa. Inside these stupas are statues of Buddha, and according to local superstition, if you touch them through the openings in the stupa, you will receive eternal happiness. Here are our tips for visiting Borobudur!
New Rules Since 2023
You may still read online about the opportunity to watch the sunrise at Borobudur, but unfortunately, this is no longer possible as the temple opens at 9:00 AM. For several years, climbing Borobudur was not allowed, but since 2023, new rules have been implemented, and it is now permitted again. The visit is now regulated, with only 1,200 people allowed to enter the Borobudur temple each day. These visitors are divided into several time slots with a maximum of 150 people per slot. This group is further split into smaller groups that go on tours with a guide. Upon arrival at Borobudur, you will need to pick up slippers and receive a bottle of water. Everyone must wear these slippers, and you will receive a bag to put your own shoes in. It might be a good idea to bring socks with you.
Tip: The Borobudur temple is closed for maintenance on Mondays. You can only purchase a ticket to walk in the gardens surrounding the temple.
Reserve Your Tickets and Time Slot in Advance for Borobudur
If you are going on a tour to Borobudur, entrance tickets are often not included in the tour price, but they are reserved for you. You will pay for these on-site. If you are visiting Borobudur independently without a tour, you must reserve your tickets in advance via the official website. You have the option of a Temple Ground Ticket or a Temple Structure Ticket. The first allows you to walk only around the grounds of the temple, while the Temple Structure Ticket allows you to actually climb the temple, which is highly recommended. You can book only one week in advance and choose a time slot of your choice. The early slots sell out the quickest, but we recommend the last slot at 3:30 PM, as you can experience the beautiful light of the setting sun atop the temple. The different names you see on the ticket, such as Dharma or Kalyanamitra, indicate the division into groups under the mandatory guides, but each group takes the same tour, so it doesn’t matter which one you pick.
Scam: At the exit, there are men trying to sell you a souvenir from Borobudur. They will show you a stupa that opens to reveal a Buddha statue inside. If you decide to buy it, they often give you a different, pre-packaged statue from their bag. Always check to see if it’s the same statue and if it can also open, as sometimes they scam you by giving you a solid one, which you only find out later.
How to Travel to Borobudur?
Virtually everyone who visits Borobudur does so from Yogyakarta. The Borobudur and Prambanan Temple Tour includes both transportation and an enthusiastic guide. A great benefit of this tour is that you also visit the Prambanan temple, allowing you to check off two major highlights of Yogyakarta at once. You can also travel to the temple independently by ordering a taxi through Grab or Gojek, or by taking the local bus. The bus from Yogyakarta to Borobudur departs every half hour from Jombor Terminal.
Note: There are tours available that advertise a sunrise experience, but this sunrise is not at Borobudur itself but from a nearby hill. Many people say it’s not worth the early wake-up call. The tour mentioned above is therefore a better choice.
Our Favorite Places in Yogyakarta
In Yogyakarta, you get a lot for your money when it comes to accommodations. However, you need to book early if you want to stay at the more appealing places. At Nextdoor Homestay, you can enjoy a lovely small hotel just a 3-minute walk from the lively street Jalan Prawirotaman. The decor is cozy, the owners are very friendly, and there’s a small pool to cool off in during the hot afternoons. Looking for more space and luxury? The modern Green Boutique Hotel Prawiritaman is a delightful base for exploring Yogyakarta. The courtyard is a real eye-catcher, adorned with tropical plants around the large pool. The rooms are comfortable, very clean, and well-equipped. Here, you’ll also find yourself in the same charming neighborhood with plenty of excellent restaurants and cafes nearby. Finally, we recommend Blue Garden Yogyakarta. This little paradise is slightly outside the city center, hidden among rice fields and palm trees in a wonderfully peaceful spot. You will have to spend more time in the car if you plan to explore Yogyakarta for the day, but for those who prefer to trade the city’s hustle and bustle for nature, this is the perfect place to unwind!
 Nextdoor Homestay |
 Green Boutique Hotel Prawiritaman |
 Blue Garden Yogyakarta |
