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Special Region of Yogyakarta

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Special Region of Yogyakarta

The Special Region of Yogyakarta (or Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta (DIY)) is a melting pot for history, culture and modernity that brings a beautiful harmony. Led by a Sultan, Yogyakarta still maintains its age-old cultural tradition. The magnificence of its diverse historical sites also makes this region as a cultural heritage in Central Java. Prambanan Temple – the biggest Hindus temple in Indonesia – is one of the enchanting historical sites in Yogyakarta among the others. The Borobudur Temple, the world's biggest Buddhist temple, also lies nearby. During the annual Vesak ceremony, the Borobudur complex area will be filled with thousands of Buddhists who come for their religious pilgrimage. This region is also the home for the Kesultanan Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat located in the central Yogyakarta, one of the proofs how the city preserves its culture up until now.

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Travel Tips for Yogyakarta Province

What you need to know before traveling here

Practical Tips for Special Region of Yogyakarta

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What to do in Yogyakarta?

As the region where traditions, cultural heritage, and history blend together, there are many things to do in Yogyakarta. Explore the magnificent Borobudur Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the world, or visit the Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia. These temples have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their rich history and architectural details.

Take a closer look at the Yogyakarta Sultanate by visiting the Kraton (the Sultan’s Palace) or Taman Sari, a former royal garden and bathing complex. Don’t forget to stroll along Maliboro Street, where you can shop authentic traditional batik and handicrafts, watch a Wayang Kulit performance, or try local cuisines.

You can also explore the natural wonders of Yogyakarta, such as visiting the Parangtritis Beach, Jomblang Cave, Kulon Progo Mangrove Forest, Tengger Pine Forest, Parangkusumo Sand Dunes, and many more!

What is the best time to visit Yogyakarta?

Generally, the best time to visit Yogyakarta is during the dry season, which lasts from April to October. During these months, the weather is usually sunny with a low chance of rainfall.

However, if you plan to see festivals in Yogyakarta, such as ARTJOG (June - August) or Sekaten Festival, you should check the dates and plan your visit accordingly.

How to get to Borobudur Temple from Yogyakarta?

To get to Borobudur Temple, you can take a bus from Jombor Terminal. You can also drive to the temple through Magelang with a private vehicle.

What are the best local dishes to try in Yogyakarta?

This beautiful region is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, the most famous being Gudeg. This traditional Javanese dish is made from young jackfruit cooked in coconut milk and palm sugar. There are other delicacies as well, such as sate klathak, es dawet ayu, yangko, bakpia pathuk, and many more.

Are there any cultural experiences I can see in Yogyakarta?

If you want to immerse yourself in Javanese culture, Yogyakarta is the right place. You can do many things here, such as witnessing Wayang Kulit (Shadow Puppet Show) or gamelan music performance.

Take your time and explore cultural villages like Kasongan Village or Kampoeng Batik Laweyan, where you can see artisans at work and even try your hands at creating a batik or other artwork.

You can also watch religious ceremonies or festivals, such as the Sekaten Festival or royal processions during the Sultan’s anniversary.