Kraton Yogyakarta (or ‘Yogyakarta Palace’ in English) is the heart of Yogyakarta. It is not only a palace complex, but also where the Sultan of Yogyakarta and his family live. Be prepared to be amazed at the Dutch-style stained-glass windows which decorate the palace, or the intricately decorated roof and marble floor. Here, you can find several small museums which display artifacts from the different sultanates, as well as other Javanese artifacts from different eras. You can also find old photographs of former Sultans of Yogyakarta.
Kraton Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Putu Bagus Susastra Wiguna / © Culture Trip
Taman Sari is a water castle located approximately two kilometers south of Kraton Yogyakarta. It is an old royal garden built in the 18th century. The complex includes a workshop area, a resting area, a meditation area, a defense area and a hiding place. Basically, Taman Sari can be divided into four different zones. These are the Segaran Lake area in the west and the Umbul Binangun bathing complex to the south of Segaran Lake. There is also the Pasarean Ledok Sari and Garjitawati Pool in the south of the bathing complex, and the remaining parts of the complex.
Being one of the largest Hindu temples in south-east Asia, Prambanan Temple was also believed to be the testimony of love from a powerful young man named Bandung Bondowoso to Princess Roro Jonggrang. The temple itself was built in the 10th century as an tribute to Shiva. Visitors will be mesmerized by its many magnificent structures. The temple opens daily from 7.30am to 5 pm. Tickets are classified by domestic or foreign visitors.
Prambanan Temple, Boko Harjo, Sleman Regency, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, +62 274 496 401
Putu Bagus Susastra Wiguna / © Culture Trip
The beautiful yet terrifying Mount Merapi is the perfect tourist attraction for adventurous travelers. This very active volcano in Indonesia has erupted 68 times since 1548. Dare to hike the mountain to shoot spectacular photos while grooving on amazing scenery. A ticket booth is available before the village of Selo, and it is the only way to hike to the summit of the mountain. Most climbers start their hike at 1am to be able to reach the summit by sunrise at 5.30 am.
Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Putu Bagus Susastra Wiguna / © Culture Trip
