Borobudur is a 9th-century Buddhist temple located in Indonesia, and it’s the largest Buddhist monument in the world! This ancient temple complex is made up of six square platforms topped with three circular ones, all adorned with 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues. It’s truly massive and a must-see if you’re traveling through Indonesia.
I’ve been fascinated by Borobudur for years, ever since I first learned about it on National Geographic. I read books, watched documentaries, and knew that I had to visit it one day—and I’m so glad I did! If you’re planning to backpack through Indonesia, Borobudur should definitely be on your itinerary. It’s a unique and awe-inspiring place.
To help you make the most of your visit, here’s everything you need to know about Borobudur:
The History of Borobudur
Borobudur is not just a temple; it’s a giant representation of the journey to enlightenment. The complex was built during the 9th century under the Sailendra Dynasty, but it was eventually abandoned in the 14th century as the region converted to Islam. Although there’s no official record of its construction, scholars believe it was built around 800 CE.
For centuries, Borobudur was forgotten and buried under jungle and volcanic ash. In 1814, British Lieutenant Governor-General Thomas Stamford Raffles rediscovered it, along with a team of 200 men who cleared the area to reveal the temple. Since then, it has become one of the top tourist attractions in Indonesia.
When you visit, you’ll follow a path that takes you through three levels of Buddhist cosmology: Kamadhatu, Rupadhatu, and Arupadhatu. Pilgrims begin at the bottom and work their way up, deciphering each relief along the way. Each panel teaches a lesson from Buddha’s life, and as you progress, the teachings get more complex. By the time you reach the top, you’re meant to have achieved enlightenment.
Tips for Visiting Borobudur
Here are some helpful tips to make the most of your trip to Borobudur:
- Arrive Early – This site gets crowded quickly, so try to get there early to beat the rush.
- Avoid Weekends – The weekends are especially busy, so if you can, visit during the week for a more peaceful experience.
- Dress Comfortably – You’ll be on your feet for a while, so wear comfortable shoes. The temple is large, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring Water and Snacks – The heat can be intense, especially if you’re hiking up to the top, so bring water and something to snack on.
- Stay Nearby – Borobudur is about a 90-minute drive from Yogyakarta. If you want to get an early start, consider staying nearby. It might cost a bit more, but it’s worth it to avoid the crowds and have a more relaxed visit.
How to Visit Borobudur: Logistics
The site is open daily from 6 am to 5 pm. The standard entrance fee is $25 USD per person. If you’d like to visit both Borobudur and the Prambanan temples, you can get a combined ticket for $40 USD, though this doesn’t include sunrise tickets.
Speaking of sunrise, Borobudur offers a Sunrise Tour for $35 USD. If you want those iconic sunrise photos, this is the tour for you! You’ll be taken up to the temple at 4:30 am, equipped with a flashlight, and be able to explore the temple before the crowds arrive. It’s an incredible experience, and if you’re staying nearby, your hotel can usually help arrange this tour for you.
To get to Borobudur, the most common way is by public bus from Yogyakarta, though this is mainly for Indonesian visitors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the Trans-Jogya service to the Jombor bus terminal and switch buses to Borobudur for about $2 USD. Alternatively, a full-day guided tour of Borobudur, Prambanan, and Merapi Volcano costs around $95 USD.
Visiting Borobudur: Frequently Asked Questions
- What should I wear?
Dress modestly and comfortably, as this is a religious site. Loose-fitting clothes that cover your shoulders and knees are ideal. The steps to the top are high, so I recommend wearing pants rather than shorts or skirts. Also, the mornings can be cool, especially in the winter, so bring a light jacket or sweater. - What is Borobudur made of?
The temple is made of stone and consists of nine stacked platforms—six square and three circular—topped with a dome. - How do I get there?
You can take a public bus from Yogyakarta for around $2 USD, or a minibus for about $6 USD. The trip takes about 60 to 90 minutes. - Can I book a guided tour?
Yes! Guided full-day tours of Borobudur, including sunrise, Prambanan, and Merapi Volcano, are available through various tour providers, like Get Your Guide. - How much is the entrance fee?
Admission is $25 USD for adults, or you can buy a combined ticket for Borobudur and Prambanan for $40 USD. - Is Borobudur the largest Buddhist temple in the world?
Yes! It’s not just massive—it took 75 years to build!
Final Thoughts
Borobudur is one of the most incredible historical sites in the world, and visiting it is a truly unique experience. Many travelers stick to Bali, but if you’re heading to Java, don’t miss the chance to see Borobudur. It’s well worth the journey, and you won’t be disappointed!
