Highlights of Java - 5 Days
Highlights
- Admire Borobudur's 504 Buddha statues at the world's largest Buddhist temple
- Shop for batik (hand-dyed fabric) in Solo, one of the country's batik centers
- Trek to historic temples on the slopes of Mount Lawu
- Sample Javanese cuisine like the rice-based dish nasi uduk
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Yogyakarta & Sightsee | Yogyakarta |
| Day 2 | Visit Borobudur & Ullen Sentanu Museum | Yogyakarta |
| Day 3 | Go on a City Tour & Transfer to Solo | Solo |
| Day 4 | Trek in the Highlands | Solo |
| Day 5 | Depart Indonesia, End of Trip |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Yogyakarta & Sightsee
Welcome to Indonesia! Today you'll start exploring the culture and traditions of Java. Start with a stroll around the historical sites of Yogyakarta, including the sacred temple of Prambanan, erected in the 9th century. This stunning temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to more than 200 shrines. Sample Indonesian cuisine in a local restaurant before getting some rest at your hotel.
Day 2: Visit Borobudur & Ullen Sentanu Museum
In the early morning, begin your journey to the world's largest Buddhist temple. The famous Borobudur Temple, built between the 8th and 9th centuries, is located about 25 miles northwest of Yogyakarta. Roam around six terraces, three circular platforms, and 504 Buddha statues. Your guide will tell the story of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Then you'll go on a guided tour of the Ullen Sentalu Museum to learn about the culture and art of Java.
Walk along the Code River in the afternoon, then stop in the alun-alun (a large open square) at sunset. For dinner, try a regional dish like nasi uduk (rice cooked in coconut milk with lemongrass, cloves, and cinnamon).
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Go on a City Tour & Transfer to Solo
Today you'll go for a sightseeing tour around Yogyakarta, visiting the Sultan Palace and the water palace of Taman Sari. Then you'll move on to another Javanese city, Surakarta, also known as Solo. Check in at your hotel and indulge in a quick nap. Then go for a stroll around a local batik market—this is one of the best places in the country to buy the unique hand-dyed and printed fabric. In the evening, you'll attend a traditional Javanese cultural show to learn more about the island's musical and artistic traditions.
Day 4: Trek in the Highlands
Today you'll venture to the western slope of Mount Lawu, home to two important temples that are surrounded by nature. If you're up for it, enjoy a trekking tour to Cetho Temple. You'll then pass through local farms, enjoying the scenery on your way to the 15th-century Sukuh Temple. Continue on to Jumog Waterfall. Feel the spray of the cascades falling dramatically over a rock cliff before heading back to town to enjoy a free evening. It's another excellent opportunity to sample Javanese cuisine in a family-run restaurant.
Day 5: Depart Indonesia - End of Trip
Today the trip comes to an end. You'll transfer to the airport to catch a flight out. Safe travels!
More Great 5-Day Indonesia Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Indonesia? Check out these other 5-day Indonesia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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