Sewu Temple: A Majestic Buddhist Sanctuary
Explore the breathtaking Sewu Temple, Indonesia's second largest Buddhist temple complex, a serene testament to ancient spirituality and architecture.
Nestled in the heart of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sewu Temple stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of ancient Indonesia. As the second largest Buddhist temple complex in the country, it boasts a stunning array of intricately carved structures that date back to the 8th century. The temple's name, 'Sewu,' translates to 'a thousand,' and while it may not house that many shrines, it certainly offers a wealth of beauty and tranquility. Visitors to Sewu Temple are greeted by a magnificent entrance flanked by lush greenery, leading them into a serene sanctuary. The temple complex features a central stupa surrounded by numerous smaller shrines, all adorned with exquisite bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings. The craftsmanship of these stone carvings is exceptional, providing insight into the artistic and spiritual practices of the time. The temple is not only an architectural marvel but also a place of pilgrimage and reflection for many. The peaceful ambiance encourages visitors to take a moment to meditate and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings. With its well-maintained grounds and informative signage, Sewu Temple offers a perfect blend of history and spirituality, making it an ideal stop for tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture. Open daily from 6 AM to 5 PM, Sewu Temple is easily accessible and welcomes visitors from all walks of life. Whether exploring the ruins, taking photographs, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this iconic site promises an enriching experience that will linger in your memory long after your visit.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through the expansive temple grounds.
- Bring a camera to capture the intricate stone carvings and stunning landscapes.
- Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the temple's history and significance.
- Respect the sacred atmosphere by maintaining a quiet demeanor and following any posted guidelines.
A brief summary to Sewu Temple
- Jl. Raya Solo - Yogyakarta No.KM.16, Sleman Regency, Bugisan, Prambanan, Special Region of Yogyakarta, ID
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Yogyakarta, head east on Jl. Solo - Yogyakarta (Jl. Raya Solo - Yogyakarta) for approximately 18 kilometers. After about 16 km, you will see signs for Prambanan. Turn left into the access road leading to Sewu Temple, which is just off the main road. There is parking available near the temple, and the entrance fee is about IDR 20,000.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
From Yogyakarta, take a local bus (called 'trans Yogyakarta') heading towards Prambanan. The bus will drop you off at the Prambanan bus stop. From there, you can walk to Sewu Temple, which is approximately 1.5 km away. Alternatively, you can take a motorcycle taxi (ojek) from the bus stop for a small fee, usually around IDR 10,000 to IDR 15,000.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
You can book a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Gojek or Grab for a more direct route. Simply input 'Sewu Temple' as your destination. The cost from Yogyakarta should be around IDR 100,000 to IDR 150,000 depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Sewu Temple
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Alga Lova Tour (Experience Tour Provider)
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Prambanan Authentic Bike (by Alga Lova Tour)
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Candi Gana
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Lumbung Temple
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Shiva Temple
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Prambanan Temple
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Perwara Temple
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Brahma Temple
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Ramayana Ballet Prambanan
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Kawasan Candi Prambanan
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Pintu Masuk Candi Prambanan
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Plaosan Lor Temple
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Sojiwan Temple
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Pendhapa Jemparingan
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Kedulan Temple
Landmarks nearby to Sewu Temple
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Borobudur Sunrise Tours
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Bangunan Cagar Budaya Sumur Retno Dumilah
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Gardu ANIEM Pasar Kotagede
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Panggung Kanthil
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꧋ꦫꦸꦩꦃꦒꦸꦮꦺꦪꦺ rumahguee
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Lawang Pethuk Kotagede
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Masjid Gedhe Mataram Kotagede
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Makam Panembahan Senopati
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Between Two Gates
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Situs Benteng Cepuri
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Kotagede Historic District
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Gang soka Kotagede
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Omah UGM Kotagede Yogyakarta
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Yogyakarta Monument
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Dronjongan Kali Code Kotabaru