125 Things to See & Do in Yogyakarta and Surrounding Areas
Explore the Architectural Wonders of the Lost Civilization in Yogyakarta and Surrounding Areas
As a well-known archaeotourism destination, Yogyakarta is a paradise where you can explore ancient temples and discover the ruins of the lost, mysterious civilization.
- Borobudur Temple
The Largest Buddhist Temple Visited by Millions of TouristsBorobudur Temple is the world's largest Buddhist temple. Built in the 9th century, Borobudur Temple today has turned into a tourism magnet that attracts millions of tourists every year. Find unique facts, history, and pictures of Borobudur Temple here.
- Prambanan Temple
A Timeless Love Story in a Temple Basking in GloryPrambanan Temple was built in the ninth century. Soaring 47 meters into the sky with all of its alluring ornaments, the beauty of this Hindu temple is beyond compare. It is located 17 km to the west of the center of Jogja and can easily be visited by bus.
- Mendut Temple
A Throne for The Giant Buddha StatueMendut Temple is a Buddhist temple built by King Indra of Syailendra Dynasty. Mendut Temple niches became the throne for a large Buddha statue.
- King Boko Palace
The Glory on a Peaceful HillKing Boko Palace is a luxurious palace complex that was built in the eighth century. The most luxurious building during its time was built by one of the relatives of Borobudur founder.
- Ijo Temple
The Temple Located at The Highest Place in YogyakartaIjo (in Javanese language, this word means 'Green') temple is a temple located at the highest place in Yogyakarta that presents natural and cultural enchantment with additional view of taking off and landing airplane.
- Plaosan Temple
The Twin Temple near PrambananPlaosan temple that was built by Rakai Pikatan has some uniqueness compared to other temples, namely its twin main temple and the terrace with smooth surface. In this temple, there are Vajrapani, Amitbha, and Prajnaparamitha figures.
- Tara Temple
The Oldest Buddhism Heritage in YogyakartaTara Temple is the oldest Buddhism temple in Yogyakarta that was built by Rakai Panangkaran, the king of Syailendra dynasty who also conceptualized the construction of Borobudur Temple.
- Pawon Temple
The Midpoint of The Three Buddha TemplesDifferent from other temples that are nearby, Pawon Temple has vent in its chambers. Pawon Temples becomes the midpoint linking Mendut Temple and Borobudur Temple.
- Sambisari Temple
21 Years Constructing The "Giant Puzzle of Stone"After being buried under the earth for hundreds of years, the first slab of the stone was discovered in 1966. It took 21 years to excavate and construct hundreds of "puzzle" pieces of the stones before Sambisari temple finally stands firmly.
- Barong Temple
Barong Kalas' Smiles to Accompany You for the SunsetOn Batur Agung Hill, in the southeast of Ratu Boko Palace, there is a temple complex where farmers worshipped God Wisnu and Goddess Sri. The smiling kala barong ornaments on each side of the temple is the hallmark, attracting people to pay the temple a vi
Discover Lovely Beaches Hidden in Yogyakarta
The Southern region of Yogyakarta lies adjacent with the Indian Ocean. Along its 110 km shore are dozens of beautiful beaches-most of which remain hidden.
- Indrayanti Beach
A Clean Beach with Cafe RestaurantsBesides offering the charm of white sandy beaches with crystal clear sea water, Indrayanti also offers the sensation of starry romantic dinner at the restaurant located by the beach.
- Parangtritis Beach
A Romantic Sunset View at ParangtritisParangtritis Beach is only 27 km from the center of Jogja City and is famous for its romantic sunset views. Riding a horse cart along Parangtritis Beach in the afternoon will be a sweet memory.
- Sadranan Beach
A New Paradise to Explore the Beauty of UnderwaterIf you think that we can only enjoy the beauty of Sadranan beach from the surface, now we can have a challenging water sport known as snorkeling - get into the depth of ourselves and sink into His almighty creation.
- Baron Beach
The Tale of the Miraculous Bule and His Tall LighthouseThe South coastal line of Java is indeed full of unique tales, including that of Baron Beach, which is said to be where a miraculous bule was stranded. You could imagine the tale from the shady shore, or from the tall lighthouse.
- Drini Beach
Quiet Coral Reef BeachA coral island on the seashore stands across Drini Beach, dividing it into two parts with opposing characteristics. The East side is quiet while the West is ferocious, making Drini Beach appears as if having dual characteristic.
- Nglambor Beach
Aquatic Universe so Amazing with a Pair of Giant Turtle GuardingThe sea floor of Nglambor Beach is like an aquatic universe having millions of charms. Thanks to the success of a pair of "giant turtles" in taming the fierce wave of the Indian Ocean, the sea floor panorama in the south sea can now be explored.
- Pok Tunggal Beach
A Hidden Sanctuary with Beautiful SceneryThe journey to Pok Tunggal Beach is unpredictable. It is initially offered a hard road, then it leads to a hidden paradise enticing and challenging guts. A tree that is iconic makes this beach more beautiful.
- Glagah Beach
When Ferocious Waves Meet Quiet LagoonHere at the most famous beach in Kulon Progo, you can go fishing, cycling, sailing on a canoe across the lagoon, riding on a motorcross, or just sitting relaxed and enjoying tetrapods struggling to break the waves while waiting for the sunset to come.
- Ngobaran Beach
from Temple to Fried Sea UrchinNgobaran Beach is rich of cultural enchantment; ranging from the temple, the mosque directing to the south, to the hidden culinary potential of fried sea urchin.
- Krakal Beach
Welcoming The Barrel at Krakal BeachThe charming beaches along the Southern Sea coastal line - spreading far from the West to the East of Yogyakarta - cover several challenging surfing spots, one of them is Krakal Beach.
- Wediombo Beach
Fishing from The Coral HillFishing at the height of a coral hill to get big fish is certainly extraordinary tour. In Wediombo Beach, you can get not only such an experience but you can try to eat Panjo fish and see the Ngalangi ceremony.
- Sepanjang Beach
The Old Kuta BeachYou do not have to spend too much money going to Kuta Beach only for sunbathing. You may go to Sepanjang Beach to sun bathe with more beautiful scenery.
- Siung Beach
Having 250 Routes for Cliff ClimbingSiung Beach is rich in the huge coral reefs. There are 250 routes for climbing the cliff in the area and you can find the proper sites to enjoy the beach panorama. There is also siung wanara coral reef from which the name of the beach originates.
- Ngrenehan Beach
In Ngrenehan Beach visitor's could see the fisherman's activities and get various fried/ grill fishes as souvenirs.
- Jogan Beach
The Melting Point of Exotic Waterfall and Sea at The South of YogyakartaA waterfall standing on the seashore is rare to find in Indonesia, and even in the world. Hidden behind karst hills, Gunungkidul-at the South of Yogyakarta-turns out to be keeping a waterfall which falls directly to the sea.
- Sundak Beach
Dog and Sea Urchin Fight which Result A BlessingIt is not only waves that you can enjoy when you go Sundak Beach, but also historical evidences and the existing fortune; for example, the coral cave where a dog fight a sea urchin.
- Kesirat Beach
The Story of Enchanting Sunset and the Gratitude ImpliedThe absence of sands doesn't imply that Kesirat Beach is less attractive to visit. Aside from the story of gratitude offering implied in the local tradition, the painting of sunset on the west horizon looks so enchanting.
- Sadeng Beach
Visiting The Estuary of the Ancient Bengawan Solo RiverThe line and the estuary of the Ancient Bengawan Solo can be seen when you come to Sadeng Beach. Looking at the present condition while imagining the past time is like witnessing the evolution process. Our eyes will see in astonishment.
- Baru Beach
Fun Spot for Picnic, with Windmills so UniqueThe shadiness of Casuarinaceae turns the beach into a perfect spot for family picnic. The view becomes even more unique with tens of windmills functioning as the main source of electricity at the beach.
- Parangkusumo Beach
The Love Beach in YogyakartaParangkusumo Beach invites you to feel unforgettable spiritual experience through the Love Stone and to commemorate the meeting between Panembahan Senopati and the Queen of South.
- Depok Beach
Enjoy Seafood Cuisine from Fresh FishDepok Beach serves seafood cuisine from fresh fish and other sea catches in typical nuance of coastal restaurants. Not far from this area, you can see the sand dune panorama as the only such a view in South-East Asia.
- Ngongap Beach
Tracing the Footprints of Junghuhn the ExplorerEnjoying a steep cliff where the Island of Java meets the Indian Ocean while tracing the footprints of the legendary explorer, Franz W. Junghuhn
Places to Breathe Fresh Air in Yogyakarta
See Cave Tubing Gua Pindul, Jomblang Cave, and many others.
- Lepo Falls
"Erawan Falls" in the Far Corner of DlingoLedok Pokoh is now a new destination for fun vacation. Just like Erawan Falls in Thailand, Lepo Falls has 3 waterfalls and 4 natural pools to swim or play in 'till you lose track of time.
- Kalisuci Cave Tubing
An Intimate Experience with The Stream in The Bowels of The EarthWading across the river that cuts across the karst slope on a floating tube will serve special sensation. The real adventure will begin when the stream enters the dark cave, so prepare yourself for this unforgettable exotic adventure.
- Cave Tubing Gua Pindul
An Adventure of Going along Underground River That Has Many StoriesFeel the sensation of an adventure in the river inside a cave using a lifebelt. While going through the dark valley in the cave with stalactite and stalagmite, you will also have a story about the journey of Joko Singlulung looking for his father.
- Ketingan Tourism Village
Chosen Habitation for Thousands of HeronsThe busy voice of thousands herons was heard as we entered the area of Ketingan Tourism Village. It's been years since the birds chose to stay on the tall trees there, sharing quarters and living together with the local people.
- Embung Batara Sriten
Fascinated by the Batara, The Highest Man-Made Lake in JogjaBatara Sriten is not a name among the many gods and goddesses in the Javanese shadow puppet stories. It is only a man-made lake on top of the highest peak of Gunungkidul, offering the panoramic beauty to fascinate everyone.
- Jomblang Cave
An Ancient Forest and Heavenly Light in The Bowel of The EarthJomblang cave is a vertical cave with dense ancient forest below. A 300 meter alley with its beautiful natural ornament will bring you to the edge of Gua Grubug (Grubug Cave), a place where you can see light from heaven.
- Kiskendo Cave
A Piece of Ramayana Epic Left in a CaveKiskendo Cave offers an experience of exploring through the long curves of the cave decorated by stalactites and the traces of what's left deep in the Earth from a piece of story of the Ramayana epic.
- Rancang Kencono Cave
A Historical Cave Under The Tree Giant KlumpitRancang Kencono is a cave that saves stories from the pre historic period until the struggle of Mataram people. A giant klumpit tree has been the witness of every story happening there.
- Gunung Nglanggeran
An Ancient Volcano with 7 Families on Its PeakMount Nglanggeran is an ancient volcano form a giant boulder. Besides being able to watch the sunset & sunrise dazzling and sparkling Yogyakarta at night, in the East Peak Nglanggeran there are also the mystery of hamlet with 7 heads of households.
- Kalibiru
Enjoying the Emotional Mountains of MenorehWaiting for the sunset to come above the lines of pine trees, within the green mountains of Menoreh, while watching the lake from afar. The fresh air and tranquil place are the relief for stress.
- Kaliurang
Tour a la Madam and MeneerTo enjoy the enchanting natural view in the north end of Yogyakarta. To touch the cool air and feel romantic atmosphere a la Dutch madam and meneer of the past time in Kaliurang that is located at the foot of Merapi Mountain.
- Mount Merapi
Admiring Sunrise at Indonesia's Most Active VolcanoEnjoying sunrise at the country's most active volcano, while directly seeing Merapi's whirling caldera-it's a must-have experience in life.
- Suroloyo Peak
Telescoping Borobudur Temple from The Hills of Sleeping BuddhaSuroloyo Peak is the highest peak of Menoreh mountains. From the height of 1019 m above sea level, we can telescope Borobudur Temple which looks very small surrounded by 4 of its "fortress": Mount Sindoro, Sumbing, Merbabu, and Merapi.
- Selokan Mataram
Cycling Along The Historic DitchIf you were raised as "city people", going along the Mataram ditch can be a minor yet pleasant adventure to enjoy the sceneries of green rice fields and shepherds, and to go off road by crossing Krasak River while carrying our mountain bike.
- Sri Gethuk Water Fall
Thunderous Sound in The Silence in Dry RegionLocated between Oya river surrounded by green rice field area, Sri Gethuk water fall flows without being influenced by the weather. It's thunderous sound seems breaking the silence in Gunungkidul that is well-known as a dry region.
- Sermo Reservoir
Waiting for Sunset at the Bank of the LakeAs the only dam in Jogja, Sermo Reservoir is like an oasis in the middle of the exotic limestone mountains of Menoreh. Sailing on a boat across the dam or enjoying the sunset at the bank will both offer the same fun.
- Wanagama
Piece of a Story about Reforestation and The Teak Wood Tree of Prince CharlesStrong will of a temporary Srikandi named Oemi Han'in was able to change lime hill critical land into green forest. It was such a great reforestation that made Prince Charles visited Wanagama and left reminiscence there.
Lay Your Eyes on the Cultural Heritage and Artworks of Yogyakarta's Maestros
Aside to widely known as the center of Javanese Culture, Yogyakarta is also named Candradimuka Crater of the artists residing in the city (in the realm of wayang (shadow puppet), it is said that Candradimuka is a crater that may make a warrior either stronger or die if the said warrior is thrown into the crater). See the Sultan’s Palace, Affandi Museum, Ramayana Ballet, and the other four attractions.
- Museum Affandi
Visit the Palace of the MaestroAffandi Museum is all parts of Affand''s life as a painting maestro. In the riverside region of Gagah Wong, Affandi lives working, transforming his knowledge and living in his eternal home.
- Gamelan Show
The Javanese OrchestraGamelan is the music created by integrating voices of gong, kenong and other Javanese music instruments. Soft music that reflects the life harmony of Javanese people will soon greet and calm the soul down once someone is listening to it.
- Jazz Mben Senen
Enjoying the Night in Jogja while Listening to JazzEnjoying Monday night under the magical sky of Jogja while listening to live jazz music, and at the same time exploring the typical hospitality of the city may become an interesting option to refresh and relieve the fatigue in the early week.
- Yogyakarta Palace (keraton)
A Living Museum of Javanese Culture and The Place Where The King of Jogja LivesYogyakarta Palace is not only home to the king and his family, but also becomes the flame guard of Javanese culture. In this place you can learn from seeing directly on how culture still preserved in the the pace development of the world.
- Ramayana Ballet
A Drama in Typical Javanese DanceThis dance-drama is a marvelous visualization of legendary epos in Javanese culture, Ramayana. Performed in an open stage, Ramayana ballet invites you to enjoy the story in a set of typical Javanese dance accompanied by gamelan music.
- Sonobudoyo Museum
Admiring The Keris CollectionAs many as around 1,200 keris from all parts of Indonesia can be seen in Sonobudoyo Museum. They range from the keris from Yogyakarta, Solo, Madura,to the ones from Kalimantan (it is called Mandau) and Sulawesi or celebes.
- Wayang Kulit (leather Puppet) Show
The Masterpiece of Javanese Performance ArtsThis performance art has been more than five centuries of age. Presenting the story of Ramayana and Mahabharata, this overnight performance serves the proper space to spend the night, reflect and understand Javanese life philosophy.
Retrace the Footprint of the Past
See Kotagede, Monumen Jogja Kembali (monjali), Sasana Wiratama, and others.
- Bintaran
from the Residence of Prince Bintoro to an Indische RegionBintaran developed parallel with the coarse of time. Starting from a dwelling place of Prince Haryo Bintoro during the rule of Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono, this area became an Indische housing area in 1930s.
- Ganjuran Church
Seeing Jesus in Javanese FaceGanjuran Church that was built in 1927 is not just a place to contemplate, but it also offers an opportunity to see the global Jesus in local appearance, wearing the Javanese clothes named surjan while listening to gamelan.
- Gua Maria Tritis
Spritual Refreshment on a Barren HillLocated in a wood on a karst hill in Gunungkidul, Gua Maria Tritis (a sacred place for worshiping Mother Marry in Catholicism) is like an oasis for the visitors who wish for peace.
- Kauman Village
The Enchantment of Islamic StruggleThe small village of Kauman turns to keep great enchantment, ranging from populous Mabulir library to the Great Mosque as wide as 13,000 m2.Its enchantment has delivered some prominent Islamic characters in Indonesia.
- Kotabaru
The Exploration to an Old Park TownIt is an Indische town worth mentioning as one of the most advanced areas by its time. Built with garden-city concept with radial pattern, Kotabaru becomes an area that is parallel to Menteng, an Indische area in Jakarta.
- Kotagede
Witness of The Rise of Islamic Mataram Kingdom (16th Century)Kotagede is a silent witness of the rise of the Islamic Mataram Kingdom that ruled almost the entire Java. The cemetery of Islamic Mataram Kingdom forefathers, the fort's ruins, and the other historical remains can be found in Kotagede.
- Kotagede Mosque
The Oldest Mosque in YogyakartaKotagede mosque that is older than Kauman Great Mosque has a unique, beautifully carved speaker's platform, a hundred-years drum, and sugar palm juice-cemented wall.
- Monumen Jogja Kembali (monjali)
The Track of Six-Hours Occurrence in YogyakartaIn six hours time the Dutch troop fled in disorder. An attack serves as the return point of the sovereignty of the Republic of Indonesia.
- Pecinan (chinatown)
Historical Trading Area in YogyakartaChinese Area in Yogyakarta is one of historical Chinese dwelling places in Indonesia. This kampong is the place where the success of Chinese merchants began with shops and services kiosks of tens years old.
- Madukismo Sugar Factory
Madukismo Sugar Factory and The Iron of Kwai River Bridge in ThailandYou will be amazed by the building of this factory built in 1955. Madukismo is not just legendary because of its oldness, but because of its used irons that were utilized to construct the legendary Kwai bridge.
- Sasana Wiratama
Commemorating The Struggle of Prince DiponegoroOf aristocratic class, direct descendant of the Yogyakarta King, but he prefers to live humbly with lay people. Pangeran Diponegoro is one of the strugglers to whom the Dutch colony is afraid.
- Sasmitaloka Museum
Visiting The Home of A GuruSudirman is fatherly; holds to principle and conviction; always puts the interests of community and nation. He is the first General as well as the youngest Commander in the Republic of Indonesia.
- Sendang Sono
The Lourdes of IndonesiaSendang Sono is a place with so many stories, memories and tranquility. Here, you can pay a visit to the tomb of Mr. Sarikromo, enjoy the architecture winning AGA Khan Awards and send letters to God in front of the Cave of Maria.
- Sendang Sriningsih
The Medium of God's BlessingSendang Sriningsih that was found in 1934 is a pilgrimage place for Catholic people in Prambanan, the area that is famous for religious Hindu Buddha tourism objects. The Cave of Mary and the spring water will be the media of God's blessings.
Handicraft Shopping Spots in Jogja
One of the pleasures of travel, in addition to sightseeing and a bite to eat, must be shopping for souvenirs. These traditional markets are a paradise of handicrafts and batik in Yogyakarta. However, do not forget to bargain before buying.
- Diamond Baru
an ISO 9001 Certified Cement Tiles FactoryChoose floor tile and roof tile from the reliable supplier, Diamond Baru, whose factory has got an ISO 9001:2000 certificate for the system of quality management
- Sagio Puppet
Making Leather Puppets with Knowledge and PassionSince 1974, Sagio Puppet has been producing leather puppets with knowledge and passion. Sagio, a manager as well as a maestro of leather puppets, also gives opportunity to anyone who wants to obtain deep understanding of leather puppet.
- Gabusan Art Market
Handicraft Paradise in BantulGabusan Art Market that accommodates 444 craftsmen has been a paradise of handicrafts in Bantul. Facilitated with information center, this market will eventually accommodate 8,015 handicraft units from all parts of Bantul district.
- Kasongan
Hunting Ceramics in Kundi CommunityClose look at ceramic handicrafts making that is done from generation to generation while hunting beautiful hand-made collections produced by skillful craftsmen.
- Beringharjo
A Complete, Traditional Market in YogyakartaBeringharjo has been functioning as a trading place since 1758. Now, it offers more merchandise, ranging from batik, traditional snacks, Javanese herbs, to Buddha effigy costing hundreds thousands.
Visit Unique Places that You Can Only Find in Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is a bonanza of unique and interesting places you wouldn't find anywhere else.
- Malioboro
The True Heart of Jogja's DowntownMalioboro is the true heart of Jogja's downtown. As such, it's no wonder that the neighborhood now offers numerous affordable lodgings despite the fact that the city has indeed had increased number of star hotels.
- Alun-alun Kidul
The Flickering Palace's Backyard At NightAt night, the Southern City Square located behind the King's Palace-is always full of people looking for affordable amusement. The flickering lamps of odong-odong driven around the square adds to the merry.
- Tugu Jogja
The Most Popular Landmark in YogyakartaTugu Jogja or the Jogja Monument becomes the landmark that is closely linked to Yogyakarta. There is a tradition to hug and kiss this monument after finishing the study in a university.
- Tebing Breksi
From Limestone Mine to the Best Place to UnwindLosing its function as a limestone mining site, the Tebing Breksi in Sambirejo, Prambanan now finds itself visited by crowds of all age groups. Who would have thought that a place that used to be unattractive can be turned into a tourist attraction so att
- Taman Sari
A Water Castle which is Full of Beauty and SecretThe sound of splash water, the beauty of its ancient architecture, and its wonderful view make Taman Sari becomes very enchanting. Its alleys and buildings make Taman Sari has many secrets to reveal.
- Taman Pintar Science Park
From The Whispering Parabolic Dishes to The Singing WallHave you ever imagined that there's a parabola that can whisper? Or a wall that can sing? Well, you can find them in the Taman Pintar Science Park, Yogyakarta.
- Gembira Loka Zoo
Discover the Komodo Dragon in YogyakartaGembira Loka is an exactly place to be visited with family. Not only we can try a variety of rides games and watch the behavior of various animals, we can also find a giant lizard, the Komodo Dragon.
- Sosrowijayan
A Tourist Kampong in The City Center of YogyakartaSosrowijayan is the second famous tourist kampong after Prawirotaman. Located in the center of Yogyakarta city, this kampong offers lodgings and hotels at affordable prices and other interesting facilities from old hotel building to batik course.
- Taman Pelangi
Enjoying Rainbow in The NightHere, you can see rainbows, even in the night. Lampions in various shapes and colors will enchant your eyes. Numerous amusements are also available for you to try.
- Yogyakarta De Arca Statue Museum
Meet Dahlan Iskan and Einstein in JogjaNo need to worry if you want to take photographs with Jackie Chan, Michael Jackson, or famous heroes or presidents; just come to De Arca Statue Museum in Yogyakarta. There are heroes of all times as well as well-known figures, all residing in this place.
- Yogyakarta Animal and Ornament Plant Market (PASTY)
Mini Zoo Accommodating TraditionPASTY is a paradise for animal and ornament plant lovers in Jogja. It is a mini zoo with all sorts of animals for sale. PASTY also accommodates a tradition growing among Javanese men: having birds as pets to comply with one of the chivalry criterias.
- Prawirotaman
A World-known Kampong of Batik and LodgingPrawirotaman kampong has many lodgings at affordable prices; most of them are managed by descendents of one clan. This predicated 'international kampong' was once an independence struggler post and a famous batik business area.
- Sosrokusuman
from Small Hotels to Wayang KancilSosrokusuman is not only provider of economy-priced lodgings. The kampong connecting Malioboro Street to Mataram Street has other enchantment such as wayang kancil, mural painting and center of gifts.