YOGYAKARTA AT A GLANCE
CITY
Yogyakarta
COUNTRY
Indonesia (Republik Indonesia)
TIMEZONE
UTC+7 (ICT/WIB)
TRAIN
BUS
TERRAIN
Medium City Tropics
WEATHER
72ºF - 90ºF Year-Round, Dry Season May - September, Wet Season October - April
AVERAGE MEAL COST
Rp60000 IDR / $3.64 USD
AVERAGE HOSTEL COST
Rp100000 IDR / $6.06 USD
LAST UPDATED
26/06/2024
LANDSCAPE
NOTABLE FEATURES
Yogyakarta, often referred to as Jogja, is renowned for being the cultural heart of Java. The city is famous for its classical Javanese fine arts and culture, including batik, ballet, drama, music, poetry, and puppet shows. One of the most significant landmarks is the Sultan's Palace (Kraton), which remains a focal point of traditional Javanese culture. Yogyakarta is also a gateway to the iconic Borobudur and Prambanan temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites that attract tourists from around the globe. The city's vibrant street art, bustling markets, and rich history make it a center for education and culture, home to Indonesia's prestigious Gadjah Mada University. Additionally, Yogyakarta is known for its delicious local cuisine, such as gudeg (a sweet jackfruit stew), and for the warm hospitality of its residents, who often greet visitors with a friendly "Selamat Datang."
ACTIVITIES
Popular Activities
Visit Borobudur Temple: Explore the world's largest Buddhist temple, known for its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views.
Tour Prambanan Temple: Discover this 9th-century Hindu temple complex, famous for its towering spires and detailed bas-reliefs.
Explore the Sultan's Palace (Kraton): Learn about Javanese culture and history in this royal palace complex.
Shop at Malioboro Street: Experience the bustling street market, known for its batik, souvenirs, and street food.
See the Ramayana Ballet: Watch this traditional dance-drama performed at Prambanan or the Kraton.
Visit Taman Sari Water Castle: Explore the historical royal garden with its pools, underground tunnels, and pavilions.
Hike Mount Merapi: Take a guided trek up this active volcano for spectacular views.
Visit the Ullen Sentalu Museum: Learn about Javanese art and culture in this well-curated museum.
Explore the Caves of Jomblang and Goa Pindul: Experience cave tubing and rappelling in these stunning natural caves.
Try Gudeg: Sample this traditional Javanese dish made from young jackfruit, often served with rice and chicken.
Underrated Destinations
Explore the Taman Pintar Science Park: This interactive museum is designed for both children and adults, featuring exhibits on science, technology, and arts in a hands-on environment. It's a fun and educational stop away from the more well-trodden tourist paths.
Visit the Imogiri Royal Cemetery: Located south of Yogyakarta, this historic cemetery is the resting place of Javanese royalty from the Mataram Sultanate. The site offers a glimpse into Javanese culture and history, away from the typical tourist spots.
Discover the local batik workshops in Kampung Batik: Experience traditional batik-making techniques and learn about the intricate art form directly from local artisans in this less-visited neighborhood.
NEIGHBORHOODS
Malioboro: This is the bustling commercial heart of Yogyakarta, famous for its vibrant street market, shops selling batik and souvenirs, and street food. It's a lively area that captures the essence of Yogyakarta's culture and commerce.
Kraton (Sultan's Palace): The area around the Kraton is historically significant, centered around the royal palace. It's a cultural hub with museums, traditional Javanese architecture, and nearby markets that offer traditional crafts and local cuisine.
Prawirotaman: Known for its mix of traditional and modern amenities, Prawirotaman is a popular area for tourists and expats, featuring boutique hotels, restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Jalan Gejayan: This area is known for its educational institutions and vibrant student life, with numerous cafes, bookstores, and dining options catering to the local student population.
Taman Sari: Located near the Water Castle, this area offers historical significance with its old buildings and traditional Javanese architecture, as well as local markets and cultural attractions.