More about Prambanan Temple
Guide and Tips to Visit Prambanan Temple
Description: Prambanan Temple is a beautiful destination in Central Java, but you need to follow proper tips to make the trip convenient.
Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia and one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Situated in the border between Central Java and Yogyakarta Provinces, the temple is a popular cultural destination. Domestic and international tourists flock to this temple every year, especially during the holiday. The temple has massive constructions and is considered holy. Make sure you understand what to expect when visiting and follow the guide.
Details of Prambanan Temple
Prambanan site consists of 240 temples, with pointed structures typical of Hindu architectures. The main, largest temple is dedicated to Shiva, while the slightly smaller main temples are for Vishnu and Brahma. The smaller temples that surround the main ones are dedicated to the deities’ mounts. The temples are famous for their elegant, intricate bas reliefs. The main reliefs depict the story of Ramayana, a Hindu epic from India that is also popular in Indonesia. The other reliefs depict celestial guardians, animals, brahmins, and many more. Because of its connection with Ramayana, Prambanan Temple often becomes the background for dance performances. Local artists regularly perform Ramayana on a special outdoor platform not far from the temple area.
Tips to Visit Prambanan Temple
Visiting Prambanan Temple can be quite challenging, especially with the crowds and tropical heat. Here are some tips to make your trip to this temple more convenient.
Visit during Low Season
You should prepare enough time to explore Prambanan Temple, especially if you want to capture the details with your camera. To make it easier, visit during the low season. In Indonesia, low seasons usually happen from February to May and September to November. Consider the school holidays and national holidays, such as the Eid, Christmas, and New Year.
Wear Proper Outfits
Despite being a popular destination, Prambanan is still a holy site for Hindu communities. You must wear proper outfits when entering the temple. Make sure any outfits you wear to cover at least the shoulders. Avoid wearing crop tops, miniskirts, shorts, and flip-flops. If you don’t have time to change, approach the sarong rentals to cover up. Make sure to bring a hat or umbrella. Prambanan has a sprawling architecture with separate temples, which don’t give enough protection from the scorching heat.
Visit in the Morning or Late Afternoon
Prambanan is open for visitors from 06.00 to 18.00 local time. However, visiting during the midday can be hot and uncomfortable. The ideal visiting hours are 06.00—10.00 or several hours before sunset. The trip duration from nearby Yogyakarta to Prambanan is between 30 and 45 minutes, so make sure to calculate your schedule and arrive at the right time.
Brings Snacks and Water
Prambanan Temple has nearby food stalls, but bringing your own snacks are cheaper. We recommend you bring your own water bottles. You can also reduce the presence of plastic trash by bringing snacks and water. Something fulfilling or salty, like bread, crackers, and sandwich, will fuel you when exploring the vast temple site. If you want to eat something heavier, visit Ramayana Resto. Situated near the temple area, this restaurant serves various local dishes, such as grilled chicken and fish with rice. The restaurant also offers a beautiful view of the temple.
Visit the Smaller Temples
Most casual visitors only explore the three main temples. However, if you love cultural trips, make sure to see the surrounding small temples. Prambanan has a golf cart rental to help guests exploring the surrounding areas. Try exploring the least-visited areas, such as the Sewu Temple in the northern part of the Prambanan site. Don’t be surprised if you become the only person there!
Don’t Skip the Performances
Prambanan becomes the regular venue for Ramayana dance performance after sunset. The performance involves around 200 dancers, beautiful costumes and lighting, and amazing music from traditional instruments. Watching the performance will be an unforgettable experience, especially with the well-lit temples as the background.
Buy Tickets in Traveloka
Avoid standing in line by buying your Prambanan tickets in Traveloka. Purchase the ticket you want and show it at the entrance with your smartphone (no printing needed). Fast and easy!
Prambanan Temple is an amazing cultural heritage site in Indonesia, and you must see it at least once. Order your ticket from Traveloka and get the best price to enter one of the most popular destinations in this country.
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