Candi Prambanan / Candi Rara Jonggrang

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

According to Lonely Planet, Yogyakarta is the soul of Java while Jakarta is its financial and industrial powerhouse. It is the center of the island’s artistic and intellectual heritage. I couldn’t agree more!

Along with Solo, Yogyakarta is the cradle of civilization of Java, the seat of religion and power that produced Borobudur and Prambanan, both world’s largest temples and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Borobodur is for Buddhists, Prambanan is for Hindus.

Based on UNSECO’s official account, Candi Prambanan, also known as Candi Rara Jonggrang, was built in the 10th century and known to be the largest temple compound dedicated to Shiva in Indonesia. It presents the grandiose culture of Siva art as a masterpiece of the classical period in Java and in the region.

I got to visit Candi Prambanan on a day when I happened to visit Yogyakarta in 2014. Thankfully, a new bus service directly connects Prambanan to downtown Yogyakarta, making the travel to this complex relatively easier and cheaper.

How to Get to Candi Prambanan:

Take TransJogja 1A bus from Malioboro Street, first trip is around 5:30 AM with departure every 30 minutes. Travel time is at least 30 minutes, fare is approximately IDR3,600 (~PHP15 or USD0.30). Prambanan Complex is just around 15 minutes walk from Prambanan TransJogja Terminal.