This is a detailed Yogyakarta Travel Guide with Yogyakarta itinerary, sample budget, top tourist attractions and budget hotels, ideal for first-time tourists here.
Yogyakarta is one of my favorite backpacking destinations in Indonesia because it’s cheap and it’s packed with things to do. It is a warm whirlwind of sights, sounds, smells and tastes. Yogyakarta being the soul and culture of Java is still headed by its Sultan. It is thronging with traffic and brimming with temples, palace, traditional markets, and Javanese art scene. It is highly recommended for first-timers in Indonesia who want to have a glimpse of the Javanese way of life, arts, and traditions.
TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS
YOGYAKARTA AT A GLANCE
Yogyakarta is the capital of the Special Region of Yogyakarta situated in Central Java. First time tourists and backpackers usually stay in the area near Tugu Train Station (Yogyakarta Station) and Malioboro Street in the city center, peppered with affordable hotels, guesthouses, eateries, and restaurants. Two of the most popular choices as base in Yogyakarta are: Sosrowijayan area where Gang I and Gang II are located (this is where I usually stay), and Jalan Prawirotaman (see more details on the Where to Stay in Yogyakarta section below).
Most of Yogyakarta’s tourist spots are located around the Royal Palace Complex (kraton). The most popular attractions though like Prambanan Temple, Ratu Boko, Merapi Lava Tour, and Borobudur (which is located in Magelang), are quite a distance from the city center, but can be done as a day trip via group or private tours, commuting by bus, or car rental. I’d usually go for a tour whenever I am in Yogyakarta since they are reasonably-priced and widely available.
Here’s a detailed Yogyakarta Travel Guide with sample Yogyakarta itineraries and budget to help you plan your trip.
YOGYAKARTA PRE-TRAVEL GUIDE
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT YOGYAKARTA : Best time to visit Yogyakarta is from April to October, the dry season. It’s still possible to pay a visit outside the rainy season though, just check the weather updates. Hotel are also cheaper during the lean season, and you can expect lesser crowd.
INDONESIA VISA: If you are a Philippine Passport holder, you are entitled to a non-extendable 30-day visa-free short visit permit in Indonesia. Other countries with visa-free entry includes: Brunei Darussalam, Chile, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Morocco, Peru, Thailand, Vietnam, and Singapore.
30-day or 7-day Visa on Arrival (VOA) is granted to 52 countries, including Australia, Taiwan, Canada, Cambodia, The Netherlands and most Schengen member countries. See full list HERE.
DOCUMENTS TO BRINGS:
Passport with a validity of at least 6 months before it expires.
Onward or return ticket.
YOGYAKARTA TIMEZONE: GMT + 7 Hours (1 hour behind Manila)
YOGYAKARTA CURRENCY AND MONEY EXCHANGE: Like the rest of Indonesia, Yogyakarta uses Indonesian rupiah (IDR), you can exchange at the airport or at money exchange centers near your hotel. However, the best rate is still the bank’s rate. I prefer withdrawing from ATMs scattered near my hotel or at the airport.
Current exchange rate is IDR 14,470 = ₱52 = $1
MODE OF PAYMENT: Most establishments accepts cash only (Indonesian Rupiah), but some major hotels, souvenir shops and restaurants accepts credit cards.
YOGYAKARTA ELECTRICITY: Type C and F, 230 Volts, 50Hz.
YOGYAKARTA SIMCARD AND WI-FI: Pick up your simcard upon arrival at Yogyakarta Airport (Adisutjipto International Airport) and enjoy staying connected online with your 3G/4G connection.
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE HERE
YOGYAKARTA TRAVEL GUIDE
HOW TO GET TO YOGYAKARTA
JAKARTA TO YOGYAKARTA
By Train
Train fare: Executive Class – Starts at IDR 300,000 (₱1,087/$21/SGD 28)
Travel time: 8 – 9 hours
Schedule: 8:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 4:30 PM, 5:40 PM, 8:15 PM, 8:45 PM
If you have the luxury of time, you can travel by train from Jakarta to Yogyakarta for about 6 – 8 hours. I have tried this route a few years back (via Gambir Station), the executive class train ride is just okay, pretty much like a bus ride. You can book your tickets in advance online at tiket.com
Take note that there are 2 train stations for the trains en route to Yogyakarta:
From Gambir Station (Jakarta), executive class trains to Tugu Station (Yogyakarta Station)
From Pasar Senen Station (Jakarta) to Lempuyangan Station (Yogyakarta) you can ride the economy class trains
Jakarta Airport to Gambir Station (beside Monas): Take the Damri Bus to Gambir Station. Fare is around IDR 46,600 (₱169/$3.2/SGD4.41)
NOTE: The new Jakarta Airport Train (Soekarno-Hatta Airport Train) passes by Manggarai, Surdirman Baru, Duri, Batu Ceper and Soekarno-Hatta Stations. I’ve yet to try this though. The Jakarta Airport train schedule from Jakarta airport to Jakarta city center is from 4:40 AM to 12:40 AM. Travel time is about 54 minutes.
By Bus
Bus fare: start at IDR 190,000 (₱688/$13/SGD 18) to IDR 230,000 (₱833/$16/SGD22)
Travel time: 12 hours
Schedule: 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 4:50 PM depending on the bus company
From Jakarta Barat bus station, you can take a Pahala Kencana VIP bus to Terminal Giwangan in Yogyakarta for about IDR 150,000. With 25 kg bag allowance. Departs at 4:50 PM in Jakarta and arrives at 05:20 in Yogyakarta. That’s about 12 hours travel time. You can at pahalakencana.co.id.
Alternatively, other buses like Santoso, Maju Lancar, from Jakarta to Yogyakarta (Terminal Giwangan) depart at Jakarta Selatan from 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:00 PM up to 4:00 PM. Fare starts at IDR 190,000 (₱688/$13/SGD 18) to IDR 230,000 (₱833/$16/SGD22). Travel time is about 12 hours.
By Plane
There’s no regular flights from Manila (Philippines) to Yogyakarta (Indonesia), but you can fly to Jakarta with a layover in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). Airasia Indonesia has regular flights between Jakarta and Yogyakarta daily, fare starts at ₱1,487 (IDR 388,000/$28/SGD 38) one-way.
BOOK HERE: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] Airasia.com
YOGYAKARTA AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER
By Bus
Yogyakarta Adisucipto International Airport (JOG) is situated about 6 km east of Yogyakarta city. It is well-connected to the city center by public transportation.
If you plan to stay along Sosrowijayan area near Jalan Malioboro, the cheapest way to get there is by 1A Bus, get off at “Garuda’ shelter or tell the driver you are heading to Jalan Malioboro. Bus fare is about IDR 3,600 (₱14 /$0.25/SGD 0.34).
If you will be staying at Prawitoraman area, ride the 3B Bus. Tell the driver you are getting off at Jalan Prawitoraman.
By Train
From Maguwo Train Station (Yogyakarta Airport Train Station), you can get to the city center by train to Tugu Station (Yogyakarta Train Station) near Malioboro Street. At Yogyakarta airport, walk to the tunnel to get to the train station. Here are the rates:
Pramesk Train – IDR 8,000 (₱30/$0.60/SGD 0.76)
Sriwedari Train – IDR 13,000 (₱45/$ .90/SGD 1.23)
Madiun Jaya – IDR 22,000 (₱75/$1.5/SGD 2)
By Taxi
If you have a big luggage and you just want a hassle-free transfer to your hotel, you can go by taxi. But prepare to pay around IDR 150,000 (₱549/$10/SGD 14).
GETTING AROUND YOGYAKARTA
BY CAR RENTAL
A convenient way to get around Yogyakarta at your own pace is by hiring a car with driver (fuel cost included). It’s cheap and you can pick the places you want to visit. Price usually starts at IDR 440,000 (₱1,602/$31/SGD 42). Entrance fees to temples and tourist attractions, meals, parking fee + toll fee are NOT included. 10 hours max. Good for 2- 5 persons.
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE HERE
BY BUS
Trans Jogja, the bus rapid system is the most popular mode of transportation for the locals around Yogyakarta and nearby regencies.
Fare (within the city): IDR 3,500 (₱ 13/$ 0.24/SGD 3.31)
Fare (outside the city): IDR 15,000 (₱ 53/$1/SGD 1.42) to IDR 29,000 (₱ 105/$ 2/SGD 3)
Schedule: 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM
There’s also a direct Damri bus from Yogyakarta Airport to Prambanan Temple and Borobudur Temple.
Fare: Around IDR 58,000 (₱ 211/$4/SGD 5)
Schedule: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
BY TAXI
Taxi is cheap in Yogyakarta, as long as you insist on using the meter. Rate starts at IDR 21,600 (₱78/$1.5/SGD 2)
BY TOURS
A popular way to get around Yogyakarta is by joining a group tour. And honestly, whenever I am there, I just join group tours because it is more convenient and they’re pretty cheap! You can book in advance below so you don’t have to worry about it once you arrive in Yogyakarta.
Borobudur Sunrise Tour: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] DISCOUNTED HERE
Borobudur + Prambanan Temple Tour: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] DISCOUNTED HERE
Borobudur Sunrise, Prambanan Temple + Merapi Lava Tour: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] DISCOUNTED HERE
Merapi Lava Tour: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE HERE
Jomblang Cave Tour: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE HERE
WHERE TO STAY IN YOGYAKARTA
Sosrowijan Area (Gang I)
Yogyakarta is a backpacker’s haven, it has a range of guesthouses and hotels with cheap rates. A popular backpacker area is Sosrowijayan, and most of the cheap accommodations called losmen is situated in Gang I and Gang II, a maze of alleys. This backpacker street is conveniently located near Yogyakarta Train Station and walking distance to Malioboro Street, the shopping mecca of Yogyakarta. This is where I stayed when I first solo backpacked Yogyakarta back in 2010 and on my recent trip, I went back there alone to check how it looks like now. The area is pretty safe, though it’s a bit dark at night, because generally, the locals living here are quite protective of the tourists. Watch out for my YouTube video about it.
Another popular area is Jalan Prawirotaman with a wealth of mid-range to cheap guesthouses as well as a growing number of boutique hotels.
YOGYAKARTA BUDGET HOTELS
Emersia Malioboro Hotel
Location: Yogyakarta City Center (near Tugu/Yogyakarta Train Station and Malioboro Street)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
Hotel Bladok Yogyakarta
Location: Yogyakarta City Center (near Tugu/Yogyakarta Train Station and Malioboro Street)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
Hotel Neo Malioboro
Location: Yogyakarta City Center (near Tugu/Yogyakarta Train Station and Malioboro Street)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
The Cabin Hotel
Location: Yogyakarta City Center (near Tugu/Yogyakarta Train Station and Malioboro Street)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
Fave Hotel Maliboro
Location: Yogyakarta City Center (near Tugu/Yogyakarta Train Station and Malioboro Street)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
Adhisthana Hotel Yogyakarta
Location: Jalan Prawirotaman II, Yogyakarta (near Kraton Yogyakarta)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
Greenhost Boutique Hotel
Location: Jalan Prawirotaman II, Yogyakarta (near Kraton Yogyakarta)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
Ayaartta Hotel Malioboro
Location: Yogyakarta City Center
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
THE 1O1 Yogyakarta Tugu Hotel
Location: Yogyakarta City Center (near Tugu/Yogyakarta Train Station)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
Satoria Hotel Yogyakarta
Location: near Yogyakarta Airport
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
We stayed at The Phoenix Hotel during our last trip. It’s a 5-star hotel located in the city center, Malioboro and Tugu Station can be reached on foot from here.
The Phoenix Hotel
Location: Yogyakarta City Center
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] CHECK ROOM RATES HERE
YOGYAKARTA TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
PRAMBANAN TEMPLE
The elaborately designed Prambanan Temple is composed of soaring shrines with piercing ratna (the temple’s pinnacle). It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the largest temple compound dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia, honeycombed with over 508 stone temples (both ruined and well-preserved) in sundry shapes and sizes.
Entrance Fee: Adult – $25 (₱ 1,447/ IDR 400,000/SGD 38), Child $15 (₱ 790/ IDR 218,000 /SGD 21)
Open Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Jl. Raya Solo – Yogyakarta No.16, Kranggan, Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
How to get there:
From Tugu Railway Station and Yogyakarta Airport (Adi Sutjipto Airport):
Take Route 1A Trans Jogja Bus and alight at Prambanan shelter. Fare is IDR 4,000 (₱14/$ 0.27/SGD 0.38).
From Giwangan Bus Terminal:
1.Take Trans Jogja Route 3A bus and alight at Airport Shelter.
2.Switch to Route 1A bus and alight at Prambanan Shelter. Fare is IDR 4,000 (₱14/$ 0.27/SGD 0.38).
I usually go for a hassle-free, cheap tour that includes the entrance fee, pick-up, and drop-off to hotel:
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] DISCOUNTED TOUR HERE
For combined Borobudur + Prambanan tour: [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE HERE
If you want to create your own itinerary, you can rent a car (entrance fee not included):[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RENT A CAR HERE
RAMAYANA BALLET
There are several venues to watch the Ramayana Ballet in Yogyakarta, but nothing beats the show at the open air stage on Prambanan Temple complex. Ramayana Epic in Javanese version consists of four episodes divided into: The Abduction of Dewi Sita, Hanuman on Fire, Death of Kumbakarna and Rama Meet Sita. But we only got to watch the condensed performance not the episodic show. During the show, over 200 performers clad in traditional costumes retell the Ramayana Story through expressive movements of classical Javanese dance accompanied by traditional gamelan music. Needless to say, the show rendered me speechless!
Entrance Fee:
VIP – IDR 350,000 (₱ 1,275 /$ 24 /SGD 33)
Special Class – IDR 300,000 (₱ 1,093 /$ 21 /SGD 28)
Class 1 – IDR 200,000 (₱729 /$ 14 /SGD 19)
Class 2 – IDR 125,000 (₱ 455 /$ 9 /SGD 689)
If you want to join a group tour, includes the entrance fee, hotel-pick up and drop off, you can book below:
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE TOUR HERE
LAVA TOUR MERAPI
A thrilling adventure tour in Yogyakarta is the Merapi Kaliadem tour where you’ll experience a wild ride via 4×4 jeep through the rocky and muddy trail. If the weather is okay, it’s a great spot to view Mt.Merapi.
It’s quite complicated to go there by commute for a first timer, since you have to go by bus (usually 2 transfers) and hire a jeepney by yourself ( 3-4 people minimum) at the jumping off point. So, if you are a solo traveler or a party of 2, your best bet is to join a group tour that includes hotel pick up and drop off. Book below, it’s cheap!
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE TOUR HERE
RATU BOKO
Proudly standing on top of hill, overlooking the Prambanan Temple, is another important archaeological site that houses the ruins of an ancient kraton (palace) – Ratu Boko. A key discovery here is an Abhayagiri Vihara inscription dating back to the 792 CE, which mentioned a Buddhist monastery on top of a hill. Because of its strategic location, it is also believed to have been used as a fortress during the struggle for power of the Mataram Sultanate. Ratu Boko is a great spot to catch the scenic Yogayakarta sunset when the weather is okay.
Entrance Fee: Adult – $25 (₱ 1,447/ IDR 400,000/SGD 38), Child $15 (₱ 790/ IDR 218,000 /SGD 21)
Open Hours: Daily 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Gatak, Bokoharjo, Prambanan, Sleman Regency, Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia
How to get there:
From Tugu Railway Station or Yogyakarta Airport: Take Route 1A Trans Jogja Bus and alight at Prambanan shelter. Fare is IDR 4,000 (₱14/$ 0.27/SGD ). Then walk or take ojek (motorcycle) to Ratu Boko. There’s also a free shuttle bus between Prambanan and Ratu Boko.
From Giwangan Bus Terminal:
1.Take Trans Jogja Route 3A bus and alight at Airport Shelter.
2.Switch to Route 1A bus and alight at Prambanan Shelter. Fare is IDR 4,000 (₱14/$ 0.27/SGD 0.38).
3.Walk or take ojek (motorcycle) to Ratu Boko or better yet, take the free shuttle between Prambanan and Ratu Boko.
KRATON YOGYAKARTA (ROYAL PALACE)
The Royal Palace is a sprawling complex of pavilions, built entirely on ancient beliefs. It was designed to reflect the Javanese cosmos; facing directly north towards Mt. Merapi, while its back is pointing towards the south where the Indian Ocean is located, which is believed to be the dwelling of a key Indonesian sea spirit. Even the placement of pavilions and trees all have symbolic meanings based on ancient Javanese world view.
Today, the Royal Palace is not just the home of the Sultan and his family, but it also serves as the setting of important ceremonial and cultural functions. Visitors can explore its pavilions and get up close with some of the essential historic collections kept in glass boxes, such as antique weapons, glassware, ceramics, statues, furniture, royal carriages, and photographs.
Entrance Fee: IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42)
Open Hours: Saturday – Thursday 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Friday 8:00 – 11:00 AM
Location: Jalan Rotowijayan Blok No. 1, Panembahan, Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Getting there:
From Tugu Train Station or Yogyakarta Airport: Take Trans Jogja Bus 2 A and get off at Vredeburg Fort Shelter. Then walk or take motorcycle (ojek) to Taman Sari.
From Giwangan Bus Station: Take Trans Jogja Bus 3A and alight at Pojok Beteng Wetan Shelter. Then take Trans Jogja Bus 2B and get off at the Post Office. Walk or take a motorcycle (ojek) to Taman Sari.
TAMAN SARI (WATER PALACE)
Entrance Fee: IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42)
Open Hours: Saturday to Thursday 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Jalan Nogosari No.6, Patehan, Kraton, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa
Getting there:
From Tugu Train Station or Yogyakarta Airport: Take Trans Jogja Bus 2 A and get off at Vredeburg Fort Shelter. Then walk or take motorcycle (ojek) to Taman Sari.
From Giwangan Bus Station: Take Trans Jogja Bus 3A and alight at Pojok Beteng Wetan Shelter. Then take Trans Jogja Bus 2B and get off at the Post Office. Walk or take a motorcycle (ojek) to Taman Sari.
MALIOBORO STREET
In the olden days, Malioboro Street was an important road where the Sultan usually pass on his way to the Royal Palace. Today, it is a popular shopping street in Yogyakarta, dappled with shops selling batiks, handcrafts, antiques, souvenirs, etc.
Entrance Fee: FREE
Getting there: From Yogyakarta Airport, take 1A bus, fare is roughly IDR 3,600 (PHP 14 /USD 0.25). From Tugu Station (Yogyakarta Train Station), it’s about a 5-minute walk, use Google Maps.
BATIK MAKING
The mere mention of Indonesia conjures images of batik, a technique of wax resist dyeing applied to a cloth. In fact, Indonesian batik was designated as a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
There are several places in Yogyakarta where you can try batik making, but recently we tried it at Omah Kecebong. Here, craftswomen teaches visitors how to draw intricate patterns using canting and wax that are kept heated in a small pan. You can even buy hand-painted batiks starting at IDR 150,000. Cheaper than the ones sold at Malioboro Street. You can also book batik tours through the link above.
Location:
Omah Kecebong
Jl. Sendari, RT.02 / RW.41, Dusun Sendari, Tirtoadi, Mlati, Sendon, Tirtoadi, Mlati, Kabupaten Sleman, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
JOMBLANG CAVE
A rising adventure tour in Yogyakarta is spelunking at Jomblang Cave, best known for its mystical “Light of Heaven” that can be reached by descending 60 meters deep into the cave.
Location: Jl. Ireda No.65/139, Keparakan, Mergangsan, Kota Yogyakarta, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
Entrance Fee: IDR 500,000 (₱1,821 /$ 35/SGD 47)
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE TOUR HERE
KOTAGEDE
Entrance Fee: FREE
Getting There: Take Bus 3A or 3B
Kotagede is typically visited because of its silver jewelry. The history of the silver craft here dates back to 18th century when the Mataram Sultanate employed Kotagede as a silver handicraft center for the palace needs. Sometime in 1930, the silver craft of Kotagede made its mark internationally when the wife of the Dutch Governor ordered large quantities of hand-crafted silver products and had it shipped to the Netherlands. Many of the ancient silver jewelry made in Kotagede from 1929-1932 are reportedly displayed at the Dutch Tropen Museum in Netherlands.
Overtime, silver craft jewelry in Kota Gede shifted to mass-produced goods due to economic crisis and to meet the locals and tourists demands for affordable silver products. You can visit one of the shops dappled around Kotagede to watch and learn how to create a silver jewelry.
ULLEN SENTALU MUSEUM
Museums are sprinkled around Yogyakarta, one of the most interesting here is the Ullen Sentalu Museum, located at the foot of Mt. Merapi. Haryono family who founded this grew up in the batik industry, and for the conservation of ancient batik, batik-lovers chose to display their works here. It’s easy to get lost in its maze-like corridors, housing a variety of exhibitions from age-old photographs of the royal family, including 3-dimensional paintings of Sultans and Princesses, to intricately designed gamelan. But I particularly enjoyed the poignant hand-written poems and letters of Gusti Nurul to her lover – her cousin. She is known as the desired Princess of Solo because she is beautiful, smart, and talented, yet she opted not to marry a royal because she refused polygamy, instead, she married a soldier (her cousin) and lived away from the public eye in Bandung.
Entrance Fee: Adult IDR 50,000 (₱3/$182/SGD5) , Children IDR 30,000 (₱2 /$ 109/SGD 3)
Open Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday
Location: Jalan Boyong KM 25, Kaliurang Barat, Hargobinangun, Sleman, Kabupaten
YOGYAKARTA DAY TOURS
BOROBUDUR TEMPLE
In the fertile volcanic plains of Kedu Valley in Magelang, lies a gigantic Buddhist temple, built around the 18th to 19th century during the reign of Syailendry dynasty. From Yogyakarta, Borobudur is a popular side trip. This UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of 9 platforms; the upper three are circular while the lower 6 are square in form. The colossal Borobudur temple is embellished with over 2,000 gorgeous relief panels of Buddhist elements and over 504 Buddha statues. But perhaps its most distinct features is the recurring stupas – the dome shaped monuments housing a variety of Buddhist relics. The best time to visit Borobudur is during sunrise when the rising sun and the fog carpeting its surroundings slowly reveals its majesty. You can do this DIY style, but if you need to catch the temple at sunrise, best to book a Borbobudur sunrise tour. I usually just book tours in Yogyakarta since it’s cheap, hassle-free, and I could maximize my time (because it includes a visit to other attractions as well).
Entrance Fee:
Borobudur – $25 (IDR 364,000/₱1,317/SGD 34)
Sunrise Borobudur via Manohara Resort – $42 (IDR 450,000/₱1,628/SGD 42)
Combo ticket for Borobodur + Prambanan – $40 (IDR 582,000)/ ₱2,107/SGD 54)
*Bring your passport or a copy of it, they will scan it. Bring IDR as they no longer accept USD.
Open Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
How to get to Borobudur Temple:
1.Take Trans Jogja Bus B to Jombor Bus Terminal. Fare is IDR 4,000 (₱14/$0.27/SGD 0.38) and travel time is 10 minutes.
2.At Jombor Bus Terminal, take bus to Candi Borobudur. Fare is IDR 25,000 (₱90/$1.72/SGD 2.35) and travel time is about 1 hour.
I usually go by tours to Borobudur for a hassle-free trip since entrance fee, pick up and hotel drop-off is included. [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] DISCOUNTED TOUR HERE
YOGYAKARTA ITINERARY + BUDGET (3 Days 2 Nights)
Here’s a sample Yogyakarta itinerary for 3 days 2 nights. If you are pressed for time, I hope the 2 days 1-night Yogyakarta itinerary below helps.
*Airfare + hotel + snacks + shopping not included in the budget breakdown. You can get a room in Yogyakarta City Center near Malioboro Street and Tugu Train Station from ₱ 450 (IDR 123,000 /$9/SGD 12).
| DAY 1 | YOGYAKARTA CITY TOUR + RATU BOKO
|
05:45 AM | ETD Jakarta via Airasia flight |
06:55 AM | ETA Yogyakarta |
07:30 AM | ETD hotel. Bus 1A to Sosrowijayan area. IDR 3,600 (₱ 14 /USD 0.25/SGD 0.34) Bus 3B to Jalan Prawirotaman. IDR 3,600 (₱14/USD 0.25/SGD 0.34) |
08:00 AM | Hotel check-in or leave luggage at reception/concierge |
08:30 AM | Breakfast. IDR 9,000 (₱ 33 /USD 0.62/SGD 0.85) |
09:00 AM | Kraton (Royal Palace). IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42)
|
11:00 AM | Taman Sari (Water Castle). IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42) |
12:30 PM | Lunch/Food trip IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5)
|
01:00 PM | Shopping at Malioboro Street |
03:30 PM | Hotel check-in. Freshen up. |
04:00 PM | ETD Raku Boko. |
1.Go to Tugu Railway Station (Yogyakarta Train Station) | |
2. Ride bus 1A. Tell the driver you are getting off at Prambanan shelter IDR 4,000 (₱15/$0.28/SGD 0.38) | |
3.Take ojek or walk to Ratu Boko. | |
05:30 PM | Sunset watching at Ratu Boko. Dinner included.
IDR 360,000 (₱1,447/$25/SGD34) |
07:00 PM | Dinner. IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5) |
07:30 PM | ETD hotel. |
1.Motor taxi to Prambanan shelter (bus stop) | |
2. Take Bus 1A to Sosrowijayan area. IDR 4,000 (₱15/$0.28/SGD 0.38) | |
3.Walk or becak to hotel. | |
09:00 PM | ETD hotel. Sleep. |
| DAY 1 EXPENSES: | IDR 510,600 ( ₱2,002/$34.43/SGD 48.79) |
| DAY 2 | BOROBUDUR SUNRISE + PRAMBANAN TEMPLE
|
03:30 AM | Borobudur sunrise tour. Hotel pick-up. IDR 440,000 (₱1,602/$31/SGD 42) |
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”]DISCOUNTED CAR RENTAL HERE | |
04:30 AM | Transfer to Borobudur |
05:30 AM | Borobudur Sunrise. IDR 450,000 (₱1,628/$42/SGD 42) |
07:30 AM | Transfer to Prambanan Temple. |
08:30 AM | Prambanan Temple. IDR 400,000 (₱ 1,447/$25/SGD 38) |
12:00 AM | ETD hotel. |
01:00 AM | ETA Yogyakarta. |
01:30 PM | Lunch. IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5) |
02:00 PM | Food trip + shopping at Malioboro + Becak ride. |
06:00 PM | Back to hotel. Freshen up. |
06:30 PM | Hotel pick up. Ramayana Ballet Show. *Optional |
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] DISCOUNTED TOUR HERE | |
07:30 PM | Ramayana Ballet Show. |
09:45 PM | End of show. ETD hotel. |
11:00 PM | Sleep. |
DAY 2 EXPENSES
| IDR 1,340,000 (₱4,859/$101/SGD 127) |
| DAY 3 | MERAPI LAVA TOUR |
06:00 AM | Hotel pick up. |
Lava tour. IDR 196,000 ( ₱714 /$14/SGD19) [wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”]DISCOUNTED TOUR HERE | |
07:00 AM | Transfer to Merapi Kaliadem. Start of Jeep tour. |
08:30 AM | End of Jeep tour. Return to hotel. |
09:30 AM | ETA hotel. |
10:30 AM | Lunch IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5) |
12:00 PM | Hotel check-out. |
Fly back to Jakarta or proceed to next destination. | |
| DAY 3 EXPENSES | IDR 246,000 (₱896/$17/SGD 24) |
| TOTAL EXPENSES
| IDR 2,096,600 (₱7757/$183.43/SGD 199.79 ) |
YOGYAKARTA ITINERARY + BUDGET (2 Days 1 Night)
Sample Yogyakarta Itinerary 1
| DAY 1 | YOGYAKARTA CITY TOUR + MERAPI LAVA TOUR |
05:45 AM | ETD Jakarta via Airasia flight |
06:55 AM | ETA Yogyakarta |
07:30 AM | ETD hotel. Bus 1A to Sosrowijayan area. IDR 3,600 (₱ 14 /USD 0.25/SGD 0.34)
Bus 3B to Jalan Prawirotaman.IDR 3,600 (₱14/USD 0.25/SGD 0.34) |
08:00 AM | Hotel check-in or leave luggage at reception/concierge |
08:30 AM | Breakfast. IDR 9,000 (₱ 33 /USD 0.62/SGD 0.85) |
09:00 AM | Kraton (Royal Palace). IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42) |
11:00 AM | Taman Sari (Water Castle). IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42) |
12:30 PM | Lunch/Food trip IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5) |
01:30 PM | Lava Tour. IDR 196,000 ( ₱714 /$14/SGD19) |
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] DISCOUNTED TOUR HERE | |
02:30 PM | Transfer to Merapi Kariadem. |
03:30 PM | End of jeep tour. |
04:00 PM | ETA hotel. Freshen up. |
05:00 PM | Shopping at Malioboro Street |
07:00 PM | Dinner. IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5) |
09:00 PM | ETD hotel. |
DAY 1 EXPENSES: | IDR 311,000 (₱1,296/$22.87/SGD 33.03) |
| DAY 2 | BOROBUDUR SUNRISE + PRAMBANAN TEMPLE |
03:30 AM | Borobudur sunrise tour. Hotel pick-up.
IDR 440,000 (₱1,602/$31/SGD 42) |
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”]DISCOUNTED CAR RENTAL HERE | |
04:30 AM | Transfer to Borobudur |
05:30 AM | Borobudur Sunrise. IDR 450,000 (₱1,628/$42/SGD 42) |
07:30 AM | Transfer to Prambanan Temple. |
08:30 AM | Prambanan Temple. IDR 400,000 (₱ 1,447/$25/SGD 38) |
12:00 AM | ETD hotel. |
01:00 AM | ETA Yogyakarta. Hotel-check out. |
| DAY 2 EXPENSES | IDR 1,290,000 (₱4,677 / $98/SGD 122) |
| TOTAL EXPENSES | IDR 1,601,000 ($5,973/$120.87/SGD 155.03) |
Sample Yogyakarta Itinerary 2
DAY 1
| Arrival
|
04:45 PM | ETD Jakarta via Airasia flight |
06:05 PM | ETA Yogyakarta |
07:30 PM | ETD hotel. Bus 1A to Sosrowijayan area. IDR 3,600 (₱ 14 /USD 0.25/SGD 0.34) Bus 3B to Jalan Prawirotaman. IDR 3,600 (₱14/USD 0.25/SGD 0.34) |
08:00 PM | Hotel check-in. |
08:30 PM | Dinner. IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5) |
09:00 PM | Back to hotel. Sleep. |
| Day 1 Expenses: | IDR 536,000 (₱196/$3.25/SGD 5.34) |
| Day 2 | Borobudur Sunrise, Prambanan Temple + Merapi Lava Tour |
03:30 AM | Hotel pick-up for tour. |
| IDR 1,176,000 (₱4,283/$81.55/SGD 111.19) | |
[wp-svg-icons icon=”checkmark-circle” wrap=”i”] RESERVE HERE | |
03:45 AM | Transfer to Borobudur. |
04:30 AM | Borobudur sunrise |
07:30 AM | Transfer to Merapi Kaliadeam |
09:00 AM | Merapi Jeep tour |
10:30 AM | Transfer to Prambanan Temple |
12:00 PM | Prambanan Temple |
02:00 PM | End of tour |
03:00 PM | Back to hotel. |
04:00 PM | Hotel check-out |
Fly back to Jakarta or proceed to next destination. | |
| DAY 2 EXPENSES | IDR 1,176,000 (₱4,283/$81.55/SGD 111.19) |
| TOTAL EXPENSES | IDR 1,712,000 (₱ 4,479/$84.8/SGD 116.53) |
YOGYAKARTA EXPENSES (BUDGET BREAKDOWN)
Here’s a list of the possible expenses for a Yogyakarta trip.
Kraton (Royal Palace) | IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42) |
Taman Sari (Water Castle) | IDR 15,000 (₱57/$1/SGD 1.42) |
Borobudur Sunrise Entrance Fee | IDR 450,000 (₱1,628/$42/SGD 42) |
Prambanan Temple | IDR 400,000 (₱ 1,447/$25/SGD 38) |
Food budget (per meal) | IDR 50,000 (₱182/$3/SGD 5) |
Lava Tour | IDR 196,000 ( ₱714 /$14/SGD19) |
Hotel | IDR 125, 247 ( ₱452 /$9/SGD12) |
Bus from Airport | IDR 3,600 (₱ 14 /USD 0.25/SGD 0.34) |
Bus to Airport | IDR 3,600 (₱ 14 /USD 0.25/SGD 0.34) |
YOGYAKARTA TRAVEL TIPS + REMINDERS
Bring your passport or a copy of it, they will scan it when visiting Borobudur or other temples. Bring IDR as they no longer accept USD.
If you are visiting both Prambanan Temple and Ratu Boko, you can save if you buy the combo ticket. Same with Prambanan Temple + Borobudur combo ticket.
Kids need to show their passport or student ID to avail of the entrance fee for children or student.
If you’re doing the Merapi Lava Tour, bring extra clothes because you will most likely get wet. Bring dry bag for your gadgets.
*This post is brought to you by : Indonesia Tourism and Airasia Indonesia. For more information on Indonesia Tourism visit Indonesia.travel. Also check out #wonderfulindonesia #airlinesinfluencerstrip #airasiatravelbuddies.
ALSO READ:
YOGYAKARTA THINGS TO DO
JAKARTA ITINERARY
BALI ITINERARY
MAKASSAR THINGS TO DO
GILI TRAWANGAN TRAVEL GUIDE
About the Blogger : Gael is a Filipina travel blogger. Her work has appeared in local and international publications.
Follow her on [wp-svg-icons icon=”facebook-2″ wrap=”i”] Facebook , [wp-svg-icons icon=”twitter” wrap=”i”] Twitter and [wp-svg-icons icon=”instagram” wrap=”i”] Instagram.
For advertisements, sponsorship and partnerships, you may reach her at gaelhilotinblog (at) gmail (dot) com.
LIKE MY PAGE ON FACEBOOK FOR TRAVEL GUIDE UPDATES
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM
Watch my latest [wp-svg-icons icon=”youtube” wrap=”i”] Youtube video.
Don’t forget to click [wp-svg-icons icon=”point-right” wrap=”i”] SUBSCRIBE HERE
