The Unique Temple of Borobudur
Something that used to be a dream for me
Borobudur, man. It's like stepping into a different universe. Nestled in the heart of Java, this colossal temple takes you back to the 8th and 9th centuries. It's the biggest Buddhist temple in the world.
I remember the first time I`ve heard about it, 10 years ago in Bali, looking through brochures in a travel operator on side of the road in Kuta. It looked out of this world, and I had to see it. Took me that long, but I was finally here.
Picture this: a massive, step-pyramid structure, not your typical Egyptian-style but something more mystically complex, it mimics Buddhist cosmology. The base, a square with five concentric terraces – that's the world of desire. Climb up, and you hit the world of forms – three circular platforms. And right at the top? The world of formlessness – a massive central dome, like a cherry on this architectural sundae.
But hey, it's not just about the climb. The real deal is in the details – the walls are like an ancient comic strip, telling stories in stone. Over 2,500 square meters of intricate carvings, man! You've got lessons from Buddha's life, moral fables, and even some snapshots of daily Javanese life from a millennium ago.
What makes Borobudur stand out, apart from its sheer size and cosmic symbolism, is how it's a hotspot for both pilgrims and tourists. Borobudur's not just a temple; it's a journey – through time, through Buddhist philosophy, and through some epic craftsmanship. It's a reminder of Indonesia's rich history and a testament to human creativity and spiritual quest. So, if you ever find yourself in Central Java, make a beeline for Borobudur. It's more than a check on your bucket list; it's a trip you won't forget.
The temple is just over 40kms from Yogyakarta. You need to buy tickets for it in advance as time allocations are limited and sell out fast on high season (Jun-Oct). Cost is 375k(25USD) during low season, and if my memory doesn't fail me it goes up during high season.
Feel free to message me if you need a driver recommendation! People usually take a driver for the day and combine Borobudur with Prambanan temple(a just as amazing Hindu temple) - that's what I did. Below is the official website for Borobudur:
Happy Travels!
