Not only popular as the centre of Javanese arts and culture in Indonesia, Yogyakarta is also well-known for its breathtaking natural landscape. Therefore, Yogyakarta has various tourism spots that need weeks to explore. Below are some of the best tourism spots in Yogyakarta.
1. Borobudur Temple
When one is in Java, one of their main destinations should include Borobudur Temple as this is one of UN World Heritage. It was built between 8th and 9th centuries under the Syailendra Dynasty. This temple has 4 main platforms and it has one large circular stupa at the top. You can try to talk a walk around this big temple or go to the top and enjoy the beautiful scenery around. For your information, this temple is surrounded by four mountains.
If you need to have more unforgettable experiences, try to see Borobudur at sunrise.
2. Prambanan Temple
Lying about 20 km in the east of Yogyakarta, the beautiful Prambanan Temple was built around 850 AD. In 1991, Prambanan temple was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage. The main three temples of Wisnu, Brahma, and Siwa, symbolise Hindu God Trimurti. Each is accompanied by their respective animal which was built in front of them.
The main temple stands at 47 meter high. In the compound there is also a museum that displays the history. Journeys to the temple compound can be done by public transport during the day
3. Kraton Palace
Visiting the Keraton (Palace) Yogyakarta and its Museum at the heart of the city is a must for those that come to this city since this is the monarch that is still very much alive in Indonesia. Ancient Javanese culture is practised and can be felt and observed here. Visitors can see for themselves the serene atmosphere of the place, the old and antique buildings and decorations, and so on. The Palace is ruled by the Sultan, who today also serves as Governor of the Province of Yogyakarta Special Region.
Near the Palace, visitors can see the old remnants of Water Castle (Taman Sari), which has been renovated to preserve the beautiful architecture of the bathing venue for the royal family.
4. Tugu Jogja
The icon of Yogyakarta is Tugu (monument) which lies at the centre of the city. Built in 1755 by Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono I, founder of Kraton Yogyakarta, the monument has a symbolic meaning that links the south sea, Keraton Jogja, and Mt. Merapi. It stands at 15 meter which is now became a popular spot for selfies.
5. White Sand Beaches
Apart from cultural remnants, Yogyakarta is adorned with natural beauties that come in the form of white sand beaches. Visitors will find countless these white sand beaches in Gunung Kidul regency at the south of the city. The beaches include the popular ones Indrayanti, Wedi Ombo, Krakal, Sadranan, Kukup, Drini, Sepanjang, Sundak, Ngrenehan, and Pok Tunggal, and many more.
The rocks, the cliffs, coral reefs, the white sand, and sunrise or sunset are things that visitors can enjoy there, not to mention snorkeling, surfing, or camping. It takes around two to three hours from Yogyakarta to get to Gunung Kidul, so visitors are advised to depart early or spend the night at a resort there.
6. Mt. Merapi and Kaliurang
To date, Kaliurang at the south slopes of Mt. Merapi or 25 km from Yogyakarta is a popular resort. People come here to enjoy a cool weather and to do other exciting and fun activities.
There are a number of facilities being offered for visitors such as Mt. Merapi observation post, camping site, lodgings, swimming pool, etc.
Lava tour is one of the most popular attractions in this area that has drawn a considerable number of local and international tourists.