First-time in Borobudur, Yogyakarta: Scaling its Mystical Beauty

Right in the heart of Indonesia, amidst the lush landscapes of Central Java, stands a magnificent testament to ancient craftsmanship and spiritual devotion. Borobudur, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a remarkable Buddhist temple complex that captivates visitors with its grandeur and cultural significance. As you approach this architectural masterpiece, you are transported back in time to the 9th century when it was built, and the intricate carvings and towering stupas tell a story of a bygone era. Join us on a journey to explore the wonders of Borobudur, where spirituality, history, and architectural brilliance converge to create an unforgettable experience.

I was posted in Indonesia during one of my past jobs, and while being there, the best way to spend my free time was to explore nearby areas. A few days after familiarizing myself with Jakarta, the new city which I would be calling “home” for less than a year, I went on a six-hour train ride to the central part of Java Island, in Yogyakarta specifically, for some business trip, which afforded me the opportunity to see Borobudur with my own eyes.

While in Yogyakarta and not sure when I’d be back in this city, I decided to visit the famous Borobodur. Borobodur is considered the world’s largest stupa. Its beauty is akin to that of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat. Located in Yogyakarta, Borobudur stands in a scenic background of the countryside. Upon arrival at the monument grounds, Borobudur greets tourists with its majestic view like a castle from the old Javanese kingdom. Borobudur in itself is a religious monument of the Buddhists that came to Yogyakarta. It might be a steep climb to its peak, but it is worth stopping at certain levels.

The walls of Borobudur have impressions and carvings that speak of Buddhism. At the summit, a number of bell-shaped stupas line up that make Borobudur shaped like a crown. The landscape of Yogyakarta and neighboring areas can be viewed at the top.

Borobudur is proof that Java has a colorful mix of various cultures and religion. Javans who live in Yogyakarta are proud to have Borobudur as a popular landmark. The largest stupa is a bit far from the city’s heart. While the Borobudur compound is serene, Yogyakarta’s city proper is bustling with vehicles, bars and shopping places. Although it’s a bit distant, still, many visitors find a way to see first hand this exotic beauty.

Apart from Borobudur, Yogyakarta is known to be the center of education in the Indonesian archipelago. It also has other major attractions like the Prambanan which is a Hindu monument.

When in Borobudur

Since it’s a bit far from the center of the city, you have to bring all your necessities when going to Borobudur, including water, a face towel or handkerchief and a cap. Just bring a light backpack with you so it would be easy for you when you do your climb. Bring as many extra batteries if possible. You wouldn’t want your camera to go dead on you when you already reach the peak of the monument.

Miniature Borobudurs are sold at the base of the monument and at the compound. Try to strike a bargain price when you opt to buy one of these souvenirs.

Best Way to Get Around

If you are coming in from Jakarta or Denpasar in Bali, get a plane or a train to Yogyakarta. Planes are faster but more expensive while trains are less comfortable, time-consuming and a bit cheaper.

From Yogyakarta, there are taxis that will take you to the cultural site, but if you are going as a group, rent a van instead. Don’t forget to haggle about the price. Locate the local tourism office for assistance. Better yet, if you have friends, they can take you around. Once at the compound, a hike or walk is suggested.

About Borobudur

Borobudur is the largest stupa in the world. Built centuries ago, it shows about the Buddhists of Java that once came to this island. It has carvings on its walls similar to other Buddhist monuments found in Thailand and India. It’s a steep climb, but once on top, the beauty of the land reveals the grandeur of Borobudur. It has a different kind of beauty that is comparable with Angkor Wat. What keeps tourists to flock to Borobudur is because of its mystique. The question hanging on everyone’s head about the Mexican pyramids is a bit similar to those who have been to Borobudur. How did they build such beauty?

Of all the places I’ve been to, Borobudur stands out because it is different. It’s not something that you can see everywhere. It has some kind of mysticism that gets one to be in awe when viewing the spectacular architecture.

Although I kept visiting Yogyakarta for training and business meetings, I’m glad that I climbed Borobudur on my first trip. It made my first in Yogyakarta worth remembering.