Yogyakarta is one of the famous cultural city located in Java Island. That is why, until now, Yogyakarta is one of the center of Javanese culture. The Javanese culture in Yogyakarta is actually a relic of the ancient Mataram kingdom from 8th century, such as a temple that used as a place of worship.
Besides Prambanan and Borobudur temple, apparently, there are 5 other temples in Yogyakarta that are less-known but have interesting spots that you shouldn’t missed. Here are the top 5 lists of the best temple to visit.
1. Barong Temple
On Batur Agung Hill, there is a temple complex where farmer worshipped their god and goddess, God Vishnu and Goddess Sri. The smiling kala barong head ornaments are on each side the temple is the icon which attract people to visit this temple.
Located in Candisari Hamlet, Bokoharjo Village, Prambanan District, Barong Temple is a heritage of Hinduism era. The name “Barong” comes from head ornaments in the room which looks like a Barong. This temple also known as Sari Suragedug Temple. Barong temple is also written in ancient Javanese letters and mentioned in the Queen Baka inscription (856 AD) in Sanskrit.
2. Ijo Temple
Do you want to see temple in high place so you can see Yogyakarta’s scenery from above? Go visit Ijo temple!
Located in the sub-village of Gropyokan, Sambirejo village, Prambanan sub-district, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Ijo temple is one of the best place to enjoy great and amazing sunset at its top. You can see a very beautiful sunset, then you can go down to Breksi Hill to continue see sunset and the city from that area.
Although this temple is less-known spot in Yogyakarta, Ijo temple is still beautiful. As the highest temple in Yogyakarta, when you visit here, you have to prepare yourself to see Yogyakarta’s scenery from above and if the sky is clear, you can also see Adisucipto runway.
3. Sambisari Temple
Sambisari Temple is a heritage of Mataram Kingdom from the 9th-century. If you plan to visit it, you will be able to learn a lot of the history because there are many ancient statues in this temple, such as God Ganesha, goddess Durga, even the statue of Agastya.
Located in Sambisari Hamlet, Purwomartani Village, Kalasan Sub-district, District of Sleman, Yogyakarta, Sambisari Temple has a calm atmosphere. Just take a photo in some instagenic spots, or sitting on a green grass around the temple to make you relax. It is also recommended to visit Sambisari Temple with family or friends during the afternoon because the sun is less sweltering.
4. Sari Temple
Sari Temple is a heritage of 8th-century Buddhist temple that located at Dusun Bendan, Tirtomartani Village, Kalasan, Sleman regency, Yogyakarta. This temple has an outstanding architecture design because it is consist a two-floor built with wooden beam, stairs, floors, and complete with doors and windows.
One thing that unique from this place, Sambisari Temple is situated under the ground which is very different from the other less-known temples in Yogyakarta. It is suggested to go there as a quick visit for you who love to travel around the temple in Yogyakarta.
5. Ratu Boko Temple
Another temple that is less-known but not less interesting is Ratu Boko Temple. The great temple was one of Ratu Boko palace that used to serve as a place of worship. There are many worship spots you cannot miss in this temple. Take a beautiful photo or just sitting around the temple to get warm ambiance.
The great thing if you visit here is you can see the sunset from a high place, about 190 meters above sea level, with the great background of the temple.
That was 5 less-known temples that had a beautiful scenery which you cannot missed. Want to visit them? Don't forget to prepare your camera to catch the best spots there. Happy traveling!
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