Borobudur and Prambanan temples, Mt. Meraki are the most prominent places to see in Yogyakarta. We went on an overnight tour to Yogyakarta from Bali, taking a Air Asia flight to Yogyakarta airport and a Lion Air flight back to Denpasar
We hired a car from Absolute transport Yogyakarta. The driver was not English speaking, but we did not have any problem. We actually prefer local drivers who know the region well and give flavor of local life
Borobudur temple
It took 2 hours from airport to reach Borobudur complex. The temple is large with multiple floors having statues of Buddha and domes alternating in patterns. We could not climb on top, it was closed during the pandemic phase
You can find bell shaped structures of different sizes places as layers at different heights. Each of them has a statue inside. The surroundings have good trees and calm atmosphere
Prambanan temple
We then headed to Prambanan temple complex. It is like similar to the temples in Cambodia, however smaller and better preserved. Go during sunset time to see light beaming on temple towers. There are smaller temples and ruins around the main temple
Ramayana ballet
Post sunset, we went to Ramayana ballet close to Prambanan temple. It is an enactment of Ramayana with scenes like Hanuman lighting fire all around the stage. It seemed a little long as we could not understand the language and overall story was already known to us. The show gives you a good flavor of Hindu side of Indonesia. You can book tickets here and find more information here
Where we stayed
OYO 2314 Hapsari Homestay which does not seem to be operational now. It was close to airport. The place was fit for purpose. The best part was a host cat who welcomed us, spend good time with us till next morning check out!
