Temple
Candi Prambanan
9th-century Hindu main complex with the pointed towers of temples for Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, as well as their mounts. The reliefs on the Shiva temple depict the Ramayana.
Point of Interest
Prambanan
Prambanan, east of Yogyakarta, is Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Prambanan, east of Yogyakarta, is Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The pointed towers of the 9th-century main complex are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma; nearby lie other temples such as Sewu and Plaosan.
Prambanan is located about 17 kilometers east of Yogyakarta directly on the main road to Solo, on the border between the Special Region of Yogyakarta and Central Java. The archaeological park comprises the main Hindu complex as well as the Buddhist temples Lumbung, Bubrah, and Sewu to the north, reachable by a small train and rental bikes. In the wider surroundings are scattered Plaosan, Sari, Kalasan, and the Ratu Boko plateau. For the park alone, you'll need two to three hours; with the surrounding temples, a whole day. In the evenings, the Ramayana Ballet is performed on the open-air stage in front of the illuminated towers.
Sights in Prambanan
Discover the most important sights and attractions
Place of Worship
Candi Sewu
Buddhist temple complex in the north of the park, Indonesia's second largest after Borobudur. Around the main temple stand rows of smaller shrines, guarded by paired guardian figures at the entrance.
Historic Landmark
Candi Plaosan
Buddhist twin temples approximately one kilometer northeast of Prambanan, surrounded by small stupas and rice fields. Mostly quiet, especially beautiful in the early morning.
Attraction
Ratu Boko
Ruins of a palace or monastery complex from the 8th and 9th centuries on a plateau south of Prambanan. The double entrance gate, bathing pools, and caves are widely scattered; the view extends to Merapi.
Attraction
Candi Kalasan
One of the region's oldest Buddhist temples, located on the road to Yogyakarta and dated by an inscription to 778. Remains of the original stucco layer are preserved on its facade.
Sights in Prambanan
Discover the most important sights and attractions
Temple
Candi Prambanan
9th-century Hindu main complex with the pointed towers of temples for Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, as well as their mounts. The reliefs on the Shiva temple depict the Ramayana.
Place of Worship
Candi Sewu
Buddhist temple complex in the north of the park, Indonesia's second largest after Borobudur. Around the main temple stand rows of smaller shrines, guarded by paired guardian figures at the entrance.
Historic Landmark
Candi Plaosan
Buddhist twin temples approximately one kilometer northeast of Prambanan, surrounded by small stupas and rice fields. Mostly quiet, especially beautiful in the early morning.
Attraction
Ratu Boko
Ruins of a palace or monastery complex from the 8th and 9th centuries on a plateau south of Prambanan. The double entrance gate, bathing pools, and caves are widely scattered; the view extends to Merapi.
Attraction
Candi Kalasan
One of the region's oldest Buddhist temples, located on the road to Yogyakarta and dated by an inscription to 778. Remains of the original stucco layer are preserved on its facade.
Restaurants in Prambanan
Food and Drink
Warungs at Park Entrance
Around the entrance, stalls sell Soto, Bakso, Gado-Gado, and fresh coconuts.
Gudeg
For a proper meal, many drive back to Yogyakarta or eat on the road to Solo.
History and Significance
Temples of the TrimurtiPrambanan was built around 850 under King Rakai Pikatan of the Sanjaya Dynasty, shortly after Borobudur. The three main temples are dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma; the Shiva temple is about 47 meters tall. The reliefs on the galleries depict the Ramayana epic. According to legend, the petrified Princess Roro Jonggrang, who sought to deceive an unwanted suitor, stands within the Shiva temple.Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions caused the temples to collapse; reconstruction began in the 1930s and continues to this day. During the 2006 earthquake, parts were damaged again. Since 1991, the complex has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. The juxtaposition of Buddhist and Hindu temples shows the coexistence of both religions in ancient Mataram.
Plan a visit
Getting There and TicketsHow to Get There: Approximately 40 minutes from Yogyakarta by Grab or private driver. Trans-Jogja Bus 1A goes directly to the temple.Tickets: The ticket is valid for the main complex and the temples within the park; combo tickets with Borobudur and Ratu Boko are available.Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and lower temperatures.Ramayana Ballet: Performed on the open-air stage during the dry season, and in the indoor hall during the rainy season. Book tickets in advance.
Excursions & Activities
Ratu Boko at Sunset
From the palace complex plateau, you gaze across the plain to Prambanan and Merapi.
Plaosan and Sewu by bike
The Buddhist temples north of the park are quieter and accessible on side roads between rice fields.
Onward to Solo
The royal city of Surakarta is located an hour east on the same road.
Accommodations in Prambanan
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