Taman Sari: The Enigmatic Water Castle of Yogyakarta
Discover the majestic Taman Sari, a historical water castle in Yogyakarta, where history, beauty, and culture intertwine.
A brief summary to Taman Sari
- Yogyakarta City, Patehan, Kraton, Special Region of Yogyakarta, 55133, ID
Taman Sari, often referred to as the Water Castle, is a stunning historical landmark located in the heart of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This enchanting site was once a royal garden and bathing complex for the Sultan and his family during the 18th century. The intricate Javanese architecture, combined with its rich history, creates a captivating atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. As you wander through the lush gardens, you’ll discover a series of beautiful pools, pavilions, and waterways that illustrate the craftsmanship of the era. The serene setting is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of Javanese culture. One of the highlights of Taman Sari is its impressive water features, including the main bathing pool known as the Umbul Binangun. Here, you can imagine the sultan and his entourage enjoying leisurely afternoons amidst the tranquil waters and vibrant flora. In addition to its architectural beauty, Taman Sari offers insights into the traditions and beliefs of the Javanese people, making it a valuable educational experience for visitors. As you explore this remarkable site, be sure to take your time and appreciate the serene ambiance and historical significance that Taman Sari embodies. Visiting Taman Sari is not just about admiring the structures; it’s about immersing yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Yogyakarta. The location is easily accessible and provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city, making it a perfect stop on your journey through this vibrant region. Don't forget to visit during the weekdays to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with this historical gem.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and better lighting for photographs.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and exploring various levels.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn about the rich history and cultural significance of Taman Sari.
- Bring a hat and water, as the midday sun can be quite intense, especially when exploring the gardens.
- Check the visiting hours beforehand, as Taman Sari may close earlier than other attractions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to Taman Sari from another city in Java, you can use Google Maps for navigation. Taman Sari is located at Patehan, Kraton, Yogyakarta City, Special Region of Yogyakarta 55133. Make sure to take the main highways, such as the Jalan Jogja-Solo or Jalan Ringroad, depending on your starting point. Once you reach Yogyakarta, follow the signs for Kraton and Patehan. Parking is available nearby, but be prepared to pay a small fee, typically around IDR 5,000 to IDR 10,000.
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Public Transportation (Train)
You can take a train to Yogyakarta from major cities like Jakarta or Surabaya. The most convenient train station is Tugu Station in Yogyakarta. Once you arrive at Tugu Station, you can take a local taxi or ride-sharing service (like Gojek or Grab) to Taman Sari. The taxi ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes and should cost around IDR 30,000 to IDR 50,000.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
If you prefer to travel by bus, there are several bus companies that operate routes to Yogyakarta from other cities in Java. Arrive at the Giwangan Bus Terminal in Yogyakarta. From there, you can take a taxi or a local minibus (angkot) to Taman Sari. The taxi ride will take about 20 minutes and cost around IDR 30,000 to IDR 50,000. If you take an angkot, make sure to ask the driver to drop you off at Taman Sari for a fare of around IDR 5,000 to IDR 10,000.
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Walking from Nearby Attractions
If you are staying in the Kraton area or visiting nearby attractions like the Yogyakarta Palace, you can easily walk to Taman Sari. From the Yogyakarta Palace, head south towards Jalan Taman and follow the signs to Taman Sari. The walk takes about 15-20 minutes and is a great way to enjoy the local scenery.
Attractions Nearby to Taman Sari
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Water Castle of Royal Jogjakarta
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Gedhong Gapura Hageng Istana Air Taman Sari - ꦒꦥꦸꦫꦠꦩꦤ꧀ꦱꦫꦶ
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Gapura Panggung - Taman Sari Water Castle
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Pulo Kenanga
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Pasar Ngasem
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Sasono Hinggil Dwi Abad
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Alun-Alun Kidul Yogyakarta
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Bringin Kembar Yogyakarta
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Alun Alun Kidul
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Bangsal Magangan
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Gedhong Prabayeksa
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Plengkung Gading
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Museum Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono IX
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Kraton Jogja
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Museum Wahanarata
Landmarks nearby to Taman Sari
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Castelo de Água do Sultanato de Yogyakarta
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Situs Gedhong Carik
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Pagongan Kidul ꦥꦒꦺꦴꦔꦤ꧀ꦏꦶꦢꦸꦭ꧀
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Sonobudoyo Museum, Unit II
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Sonobudoyo Museum New Building
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Ndalem Mangunkusuman
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Monumen Ngejaman Malioboro
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Monumen Urip Sumoharjo
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Beringharjo Market
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Tourism Zone Malioboro
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Lokabana
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De Hostel
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The Cosmological Axis of Yogyakarta Management Unit
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Happy Buddha Hostel
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Indies Heritage Hotel