Yogyakarta

Things to see and do

Kraton (Sultan's Palace)

For the people of Yogyakarta, the Kraton, or Sultan's Palace, has been at the heart of civic life since the mid 1700's. However, for the tourist, it can seem a little unimpressive. That's largely because the Kraton is still used as the current home for Yogyakarta's sultan, Hamengkubuwono X, so most ... read more
Taman Sari (Water Palace)

There's not much to the water palace, but it offers a peek into the opulent lives led by Yogyakarta's royals in times past. The small complex hosts several bathing pools, canals, as well as rooms used for leisure and relaxation by the Sultan and his family — and also, allegedly, secret rooms ... read more
Pasar Burung (Bird Market)

Birds play a significant role in Javanese culture, and most homes will have at least one as a pet. The historic bird market might be a bit of a shock for those who have never set foot in a crowded and dirty Indonesian traditional market, but the rows and rows of wooden traditional bird cages make ... read more
Jalan Malioboro and Pasar Beringharjo

Starting from the top near Tugu station all the way down to the large Beringharjo market near the Sultan's palace, Jalan Malioboro is filled with warung, kiosks and shops selling batik and souvenirs. There's also a large shopping mall, Plaza Malioboro, and the government tourist information office. ... read more
Kota Gede

Known for its thriving silver trade, Kota Gede is also a nice place to visit just to absorb the village ambiance. It is also historically significant as the site of the capital of the ancient Mataram Islam kingdom. Traditional Javanese architecture abounds, and it's also possible to see how ... read more
Borobudur

Set in a fertile valley between two rivers and two volcanoes, the Buddhist temple complex of Borobudur, some 40 kilometres northwest of Yogyakarta, is a must see during any stay in Central Java. While there are no written records that detail the construction of Borobudur, it is believed to have ... read more
Prambanan Temple Complex

This UNESCO heritage listed temple complex is sometimes overshadowed by the popularity of Borobudur, however it is a captivating place in its own right. Home to some 224 individual Hindu temples, Prambanan is the largest complex of its kind in Java. Three main towering constructions dominate the ... read more
Parangtritis Beach

Parangtritis is probably not worth the trip if you've already been sunning yourself in Bali or elsewhere along the Java coast where the beaches are far more spectacular. But if you're craving some sea air, this black volcanic sand beach can put on a spectacular sunset. It is a fun place to spend a ... read more