10 Famous and Must-Visit Temples in Central Java, Indonesia

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Central Java is known as the center of Hindu-Buddhist historical heritage in Indonesia. Many temples in Central Java date back to the Ancient Mataram Kingdom, which flourished between the 8th and 10th centuries.

Two of its main icons are Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Magelang, and Prambanan on the Klaten-Yogyakarta border. Both are strong evidence of the architectural and spiritual advancements of that era.

If you're looking for temples in Central Java besides Borobudur, there are many. Here are 10 famous temples in Central Java that are worth visiting.

1. Borobudur Temple, Magelang
   Borobudur Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. This site is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Indonesia's cultural icons. Its tiered structure depicts the journey to enlightenment, as seen from the reliefs that rise to the top of the main stupa.
2. Prambanan Temple, Klaten
   Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia. The complex is renowned for its magnificent architecture and three main temples dedicated to the Trimurti. Its proximity to the Buddhist temple complex also demonstrates strong cultural interactions in the past, making it an example of the diversity of temples in Central Java.
3. Mendut Temple, Magelang
   This Buddhist temple is located near Borobudur. Mendut is the starting point for the annual Vesak procession. Its architecture is simple yet rich in meaning.
4. Pawon Temple, Magelang
   This small temple is located between Mendut and Borobudur. Its function is believed to be a place of purification. Pawon completes the series of Central Javanese temples in a single spiritual line.
5. Gedong Songo Temple, Semarang
   This complex consists of nine Hindu temples. Located on the slopes of Mount Ungaran, the cool air and natural scenery add to its appeal.
6. Plaosan Temple, Klaten
   This temple is known as the twin temple. Its architecture combines Hindu and Buddhist elements. It is one of the temples in Central Java with a romantic historical significance.
7. Sewu Temple, Klaten
   Sewu Temple is a large Buddhist complex near Prambanan. Although its name means "thousand," the number of temples is not exactly 1,000. This is one of the temples in Central Java that is frequently visited by tourists.
8. Sukuh Temple, Karanganyar
   This temple has a unique shape. It is located on the slopes of Mount Lawu. Many people associate it with mystical and symbolic elements.
9. Cetho Temple, Karanganyar
   This Hindu temple is located on a plateau. Its layout is tiered, like a stepped pyramid. This is a unique example of a Central Javanese temple still used for rituals.
10. Asu Sengi Temple, Magelang
    This temple is located near a river. Its architecture is simple but holds significant historical significance. Its location is associated with the former Karangtengah Kingdom.