Cradle of Javanese culture

A city steeped in tradition and history, Yogyakarta, also called "Jogja", draws crowds with its close proximity to the ruins of two world-famous temples - Prambanan, the ninth-century Hindu temple, and Borobudur, the largest Buddhist structure on earth.

But there is more to Yogyakarta, the capital city of the Yogyakarta Special Region in Central Java, Indonesia, than it may seem at first.

For culture vultures

In Yogyakarta, culture is at the top of every traveller's mind. There is an abundance of ancient temples and cultural sites in and around the city, but Prambanan and Borobudur are must-dos on the travel itinerary.

Built to showcase the triumph of Hinduism, Prambanan is situated just 18km east of Yogyakarta. With 240 temples, it is the largest Hindu temple complex in South-east Asia and designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site. The best way to soak in the architectural splendours is to walk through the three main temples of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiv - the three symbols of Trimurti (trinity) in Hindu belief. Overlooking Prambanan temple complex on a hillside plateau, there are the remains of a former grand palace known as Ratu Boko.

Together with Sewu Temple, the second largest Buddhist temple in Indonesia after Borobudur, Prambanan and Ratu Boko are connected by the legend of cursed Princess Jonggrang, who was said to have turned into stone after she spurned a prince's affections.

At nightfall, most travellers make time to catch the Ramayana Ballet here. Set on an open-air stage against the stunning backdrop of Prambanan, this cultural dance performance brings the Hindu epic to life.

Meanwhile, the majestic Borobudur is located 90 minutes by car north of Yogyakarta. Set amidst green rice fields and volcanoes, the beauty and serenity of this Unesco World Heritage Site is best experienced at sunrise, before hordes of tourists arrive. With 2,672 relief panels depicting Buddhist philosophy and 504 Buddha statues, it is widely considered to be one of the world's seven wonders.

For adventure seekers

Situated at the foot of Mount Merapi, Yogyakarta has plenty of outdoor activities to attract those seeking an adrenaline rush. Although Mount Merapi, or "Fire

Mountain", is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, it is possible to take a guided trek up to the summit. Be sure to leave five hours before dawn to catch the spectacular sunrise over panoramic views of Central Java from the crater rim.

Just 28km off Yogyakarta, Parangtritis Beach is where an area of jagged cliffs meets a glistening volcanic black sand beach. Here, day-trippers can fly kites, eat grilled corn under the trees, ride a horsedrawn carriage or drive a four-wheeled, all-terrain motorcycle on the sand.

Meanwhile, nature enthusiasts should head to Gua Jomblang, a stunning vertical cave about 50km from Yogyakarta.

Located in Jetis Wetan Village, the cave gained popularity after its appearance on television reality show Amazing Race. Just descending into the cave by a single rope is an adventure in itself. At the bottom of the cave is a primeval forest of lush mosses, wild ferns and large trees.

For shopaholics and foodies Take a stroll down the bustling Jalan Malioboro, a shopping street filled with the incessant sounds of car horns, the tunes of gamelan cassette tapes and shouting shopkeepers. Pasar Beringharjo, a traditional market, is definitely worth a visit.

From Indonesian batiks to rattan baskets to silver handicrafts, there are a wide variety of souvenirs and handmade wares to be found here. Be sure to break for lunch at Soto Sulung Stasiun Tugu. Since 1968, this humble stall has been hunted down by foodies for its mouthwatering bowls of soto sulung, a traditional soup with beef or innards, and boiled egg.

At night, the street comes alive with stalls. Buy bakpia, a flaky, sweet pastry filled with mung bean, or ting-ting, a sweet snack made from caramel and peanut.

Then, head south to Jalan Wijilan and look for Yogyakarta's most famous dish, nasi gudeg, a delightfully sweet concoction of jackfruit stewed in coconut cream and spices, and served with egg, tofu or chicken. The rice-based dish is best tasted at Gudeg Yu Djum, one of the city's longest-standing establishments.

This article was published by the Special Projects Unit, Marketing Division, SPH.

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