Yogyakarta, Jogjakarta, Jojga and
anything along those lines — these are all referring to the same place. This
city on Java in Indonesia is a famous tourist destination thanks to its
proximity to the ancient Buddhist temple, Borobudur and ancient Hindu temple,
Prambanan.
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A
wayang kulit show is often accompanied by gamelan music in the background. Image by Arian Zwegers on Flickr, used under Creative Commons.
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More than that, it is also popular as the centre of classical Javanese art and culture such as batik cloth, dance, gamelan music and shadow puppet shows (wayang kulit). One best place to catch a wayang kulit show would be at Siti Hinggil Selatan and Alun-Alun Selatan within the Kraton Complex (Sultan’s palace). They have scheduled performances at night that you can watch for no charge. It is convenient too, that you can come and leave as you like, as the show is long and hard to follow if you do not speak the language.
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| Prambanan. Image by afternoon on Flickr, used under Creative Commons. |
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| Borobudur. Image by Justyn™ on Flickr, used under Creative Commons |
Prambanan and Borobudur —the
largest Hindu temple in Indonesia and largest Buddhist
structure in the world, respectively. While Prambanan is identified by
its sharp and jaggedly sculpted towers, built tall and upright, Borobudur was built with a massive
horizontal orientation.
Some parts of these temples are
partially or fully blocked off from entry to allow for restoration works or to
minimise vandalism and general wear and tear. These preservation efforts are in
wake of disasters such as the May 2006 earthquake and 2010 volcano eruption of
Mount Merapi.
Visit these temples outside of
the November to March period to avoid the wet season, so that you can enjoy
exploring these sites in a good weather.
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| View of Mount Merapi from Borobudur. Image by ctsnow on Flickr, used under Creative Commons |
Speaking of Mount Merapi, this is
another breathtaking sight you do not want to miss. As an active volcano (last
erupted in 2010), it is no wonder that the name literally means Fire Mountain
in Indonesian. Pay for a cheap ticket to Ketep Pass and you will be able to
take in the amazing view of both Mount Merapi and Mount Merbabu from the best
spot.
There’s more
nature for you to enjoy at the Parangtritis beach. Although swimming is not
allowed here due to the deadly waves, there are still plenty of activities you
can have fun with. If you are feeling adventurous, the per half hour rates to
rent an All-Terrain Vehicle is very affordable, you will be zooming across the
beach in no time. For those who prefer something more tamed, take a ride on the
two-wheeled horse carriage as you calmly let the sea breeze through your hair.
The wind is also good for some kite-flying! It is said the the Parangtritis
beach shows off its beauty the best during sunset hours.
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Malioboro
street, although hot, noisy and hectic, is a well-known shopping district in
Yogyakarta. It spans some 2 km, lined with shops selling traditional and modern
batik, rattan, bamboo handicrafts, leather puppets as used in wayang kulit,
miniature toys and various other accessories and unique souvenirs. Do remember
to haggle hard!