Borobudur Temple: Feel The Almighty’s Presence In The World’s Largest Buddhist Monument

23 Nov 2021

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The world is full of exciting places and overwhelming wonders. Borobudur Temple in Central Java is an outstanding proof of architectural amazement and devotion to Lord Buddha.

Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist monument in the whole world, will stun you with its captivating design and enchanting scenery. The appealing aesthetics and natural surroundings make it one of the beautiful temples in Indonesia and also one of the wonders of the world. While it is already an important religious site for Buddhists, it has not failed to gain the attention of the tourists.

The long, uneven stairs of the temple not only take you through a physical journey but also guide you on a spiritual journey. Meandering inside the temple complex will make you feel like you are in the presence of God.

If you have a bucket list of all the places that you want to visit, make sure you add this UNESCO World Heritage Site too. Here is all the information you need to know about the astounding temple:

Borobudur Temple Location

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Suggested Read: A Tour Guide To The Java Island In Indonesia

Borobudur Temple Indonesia is located in a village of Megelang in Central Java. The divine temple is 40 km northwest of Yogyakarta and about 86 km west of Surakarta. The structures sit with aplomb in the elevated area between the twin volcanoes of Sindoro-Sumbing and Merbabu-Merapi. The two rivers, Progo and Elo, elevate the beauty of the picturesque scenery of the temple complex.

Borobudur Temple Entrance Fee

Borobudur Temple Ticket Price costs around INR 1,400.
The sunrise tour inside the temple costs around INR 1850

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Borobudur Temple: How to get there

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By Air

In case you are wondering how to get to Borobudur, the nearest airport to Borobudur Temple is Yogyakarta Airport. There are daily flights connecting Yogyakarta to Surabaya, Jakarta, and Semarang. The flight from Jakarta to Yogyakarta only takes 50 minutes. The flight can cost you as low as INR 6700.

By Bus

If you are coming from Yogyakarta, you can catch a bus to either Magelang or Muntilan. Both of these have direct bus services to Borobudur. It takes about 2 hours to reach the temple by bus.

If you are coming from Semarang, the bus ride takes about 3 hours to reach the temple owing to the busy roads.

By Taxi

The taxi ride to the temple location only takes 45-minute to reach. However, it will cost you around INR 1200 for one side. For to and fro service, you can get a bargain for INR 2100.

The best way is to join a Borobudur Temple Tour which will take care of the transportation and entrance fee. The group tour to the temple will cost you around INR 2500.

Borobudur Temple History

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Although there are no certain proofs about the intention and the builder of the temple, it is believed that the temple was built by King Samaratungga, the descendants of Shailendra house who glorifies God Indra. The construction of the temple began in 780 AD and took 75 years to complete (830 AD). But in 950 BC, the temple collapsed due to the eruption of Mount Merapi. For centuries, the temple was buried under the debris of the eruption.

It was not until 1907 AD when the restoration of the temple began. But even during this time when Indonesia was under the rule of Dutch, only the large, voluptuous rocks were removed from the structure to cease the further damage to the temple. After the independence of Indonesia, the restoration resumed with innovative technology and was completed in 1983.

Borobudur Temple Compounds

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One of the architectural wonders of the world, Borobudur Temple comprises of three temple compounds; Borobudur, Mendut, and Pawon. While Mendut Temple is 3 km east from Borobudur, Pawon Temple is located between the two other temples.

As awe-inspiring the whole structure is, it is found that the three temples are positioned along an imaginary axis. Borobudur Temple is the largest of three. It is recommended to visit the temples of Mendut and Pawon during your visit to Borobudur Temple.

The architecture of Borobudur temple is what sets it apart from other Buddhist temples around the world apart from the scenic backdrop and massiveness. The temple is built in three tiers;

The first tier is a pyramidal base with five concentric square terraces,
The second tier is a trunk of a cone with three circular platforms.
The third tier is a monumental Borobudur stupa which is located at the top.

The groundwork of Borobudur Temple resembles tantric Buddhist Mandala, a symbol of Buddhist cosmology and nature of mind. The three tiers of the temple signify the three realms of Buddhism; Kamadhatu (the world of desire), Rupadhatu (the world of forms), Arupadhatu (the formless world).

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What not to miss

1. Borobudur Temple Sunrise

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If there is a competition of spectacular sunset and sunrise, Borobudur Temple would definitely be one of the top contenders. Tourists from all over the world come to witness the breathtaking Borobudur sunrise and sunset from the temple premises.

Note: The temple organizes a-special sunrise tour which you can book in advance if you do not wish to miss the heavenly experience. Leave for the temple around 5 AM and by 6 AM you will be at the temple looking over one of the mystical sunrise of your life.

2. Festival of Vesak

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Festival of Vesak is an important celebration for Buddhists followers. Each year in May, Buddhists from all over the world come to Borobudur Temple to celebrate Waisak which is marked with a riot of colors and plenty of varied and unique traditions.

Borobudur Temple Facts

Borobudur Temple is the largest Buddhist monument in the world.
It is built of volcanic rocks without any use of cement or adhesive.
It was built in a span of 75 years without any use of sophisticated tools.
There are about 504 Buddha statues and 2,672-panel reliefs in the temple.
It was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1982.

Borobudur Temple: Keep in mind

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Wear pants inside the temple or the temple authorities will give you a Sarong to cover yourself if you are wearing shorts. The bottomline is your legs should be covered.
You will have to climb a lot of rugged and uneven stairs. Make sure your shoes are comfortable.
Camera and tripods are allowed inside the temple premises.
If you are confused between choosing a sunset tour or a sunrise tour, go fo sunset tour since there are not many people around that time. Sunrises get crowded. This is for photography intention only.
Do not mess around the temple because the security force is armed.
If you have a day or two, also plan your tour to the temple of Prambanan and Ratu Boko.

Further Read: 10 Bali Temples That Look, And Feel Like Magic Woven With The Stones

If you are planning a holiday in Indonesia in anytime soon, especially Java, you ought to visit the staggering Borobudur Temple. The island never fails its visitor with its captivating beauty and unique experiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Borobudur Temple

Is Borobudur Temple is the Seven Wonders of the World?

No, Borobudur Temple is not the seven wonders of the world. Although, the captivating beauty and architecture make the architectural a great contender.

Who found Borobudur?

The temple was built by King Samaratungga, the descendants of Shailendra house in 780 AD. Though there is no certain proof.

What is the Borobudur temple made out of?

Borobudur Temple is made out of volcanic rocks which are present in abundance around the region.