Occupying pride of place on Java Island, the breathtaking Borobudur Temple is not only the biggest Buddhist landmark on the planet but also one of the best reasons to holiday in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
A Global Icon
Often regarded as the must-visit highlight for all travellers heading to Indonesia, the ancient Borobudur Temple is one of the world’s most well-loved heritage sites. Considered the largest Buddhist monument in the world, the compound was constructed between 780 to 840 AD by monarchs of the Syailendra dynasty. Spread out across 2500 square metres, the monument contains countless smaller temples and innumerable sculptures of Lord Buddha in various poses.
An Indonesian Treasure
Although the Gupta architectural features are evident, some of the indigenous images found across the complex make it a unique edifice of Indonesian identity. Its size and sheer scale are why those who are based at POP! Hotel Sangaji Yogyakarta or any other Yogyakarta accommodation hub in the area feels compelled to tour its confines.
Key Features
With a whopping 504 Buddha statues scattered across its interiors, it is no surprise that the stonework is what sets Borobudur Temple apart from similar historic and religious structures in Indonesia and Southeast Asia as a whole. What’s remarkable about the compound is that there is virtually no use of mortar in the construction of the buildings as the entire structure is made up of interlocking blocks of stone.
Visiting the Temple
In spite of its size, the best way to tour the temple is on foot as one must climb up a hill to access the temple grounds while passing by many stone carvings and other reliefs.
