Obelix Sea View: Chasing Sunset Above the Indian Ocean

 Jogja - After exploring the history of the Kraton and the tranquil beauty of Taman Sari, our final destination on the Klook Obelisk Tour was the breathtaking Obelix Sea View. The journey itself became part of the adventure, with a scenic one-and-a-half-hour drive through the winding roads of Gunungkidul as we climbed into the hills overlooking Yogyakarta's southern coastline.

Perched high above the cliffs facing the Indian Ocean, Obelix Sea View offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region. As we arrived, the vast blue ocean stretched endlessly before us, with powerful waves crashing against the rugged coastline far below. From this elevated viewpoint, even the famous Parangtritis Beach could be seen in the distance, making the scenery even more impressive.

The timing could not have been better. As the afternoon slowly faded, the golden sunlight painted the sky with warm shades of orange and pink, creating the perfect setting for sunset photography. It was easy to understand why this has become one of Yogyakarta's most popular sunset destinations.

Beyond the stunning views, Obelix Sea View also celebrates local culture through its open-air amphitheatre, where traditional Javanese dance dramas, or Sendratari, are regularly performed. Combining dramatic coastal scenery with Indonesia's rich performing arts makes this more than just a viewpoint—it's a memorable place where nature and culture come together, providing a perfect ending to our day's adventure in Yogyakarta.

Taman Sari Water Castle: Discovering Yogyakarta’s Hidden Royal Retreat

Jogja - After visiting the historic Kraton Palace, our next stop was Taman Sari, also known as the Water Castle. Located in the heart of Yogyakarta, this fascinating historical site offered us another glimpse into the lifestyle of the Javanese royal family.

Built in 1758 under Sultan Hamengkubuwono I, Taman Sari was originally a royal retreat where the Sultan and his family could relax away from the responsibilities of court life. The complex featured bathing pools, gardens, pavilions and secluded passages, creating a peaceful sanctuary within the bustling city.

As we explored the grounds, I was intrigued by the distinctive architecture, with its weathered walls, arched doorways and beautiful courtyards. The bathing complex, with its turquoise pools and surrounding structures, was particularly photogenic. It was easy to imagine how this tranquil setting once provided privacy and relaxation for the royal household.  The palace has interesting plants that I have never seen before..

 

Magnolia flower

Kepel 

Historically cultivated in Javanese royal palaces (like in Yogyakarta), eating Kepel was believed to make a person's body and sweat smell fragrant.  Beyond its beauty, Taman Sari also served practical purposes, including providing sheltered spaces and passages for the royal family. Its combination of water features, defensive elements and carefully planned architecture makes it much more than an ordinary garden.  

The guide brought us through the town that surrounds the palace.  

Although parts of the complex have been destroyed and deteriorate, restoration effects have helped preserve its historical character.   The mosts recent eruption by Mount Merapi eruption occured in 2010, which claimed over 300 lives and led to widespread evacuations across Central Java and Yogyakarta. 

Today, Taman Sari is a popular attraction where visitors can appreciate the ingenuity and artistic traditions of the old Javanese kingdom.

After the grandeur of the Kraton, Taman Sari offered a more intimate experience of royal life. It was a worthwhile stop that combined history, architecture and plenty of opportunities for memorable photographs.

Exploring the Kraton of Yogyakarta: A Living Legacy of the Javanese Sultanate

 Jogja - Today, we booked an Obelisk tour through Klook for $43.41, taking us to three interesting destinations in Yogyakarta: the historic Kraton Palace, Taman Sari Water Castle and the Obelisk Seaview. It was a convenient way to explore the city's royal heritage and surrounding attractions without having to arrange our own transport.

Our first stop was the Kraton, officially known as the Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat Palace, the historic heart of Yogyakarta's royal family and one of the city's most important cultural landmarks.

Unlike many royal palaces that have become purely historical attractions, the Kraton remains a living symbol of Javanese tradition. It continues to serve as the residence of the Sultan of Yogyakarta and his royal household.

What makes Yogyakarta particularly unique is its political status. The Special Region of Yogyakarta, commonly known as DIY, enjoys special autonomy within Indonesia. The region is governed under an arrangement that recognises the hereditary role of the Sultan as its governor, preserving a remarkable link between traditional monarchy and modern government.

Queen bathing the son the last time

Walking through the palace grounds, I was fascinated by the traditional Javanese architecture, open courtyards, ornate pavilions and carefully maintained surroundings. The buildings reflect a distinctive style that emphasises harmony, balance and respect for tradition rather than the extravagant grandeur associated with some European royal palaces.  The Sultan vast porcelain tea set collection.

The Kraton was originally established in the eighteenth century by Sultan Hamengkubuwono I. Over generations, it has remained a centre of Javanese court culture, including traditional music, dance, ceremonies and royal customs.

Today, parts of the palace are open to visitors as a museum and cultural attraction, allowing us to learn about the history of the sultanate, its royal family and the traditions that continue to shape local identity.

I found it particularly interesting that, even after Indonesia became an independent republic, Yogyakarta retained its special status and royal institution. The palace therefore represents more than a reminder of the past; it demonstrates how history and tradition can continue to coexist with modern society.

Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan: A Magical Evening of Dance, Culture and Ancient Legends

 Jogja - One of the highlights of my trip to Yogyakarta, Indonesia, was watching the spectacular Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan, a cultural performance that brings an ancient Hindu epic to life against the breathtaking backdrop of the illuminated Prambanan Temple.

After exploring the magnificent temple complex earlier in the day, the evening offered a completely different experience. Instead of admiring the temples in daylight, we returned to witness their beauty transformed by the night, with the ancient stone structures glowing under carefully arranged lighting. It was a wonderful way to appreciate Indonesia's rich cultural heritage.

A Spectacular Stage Beneath Ancient Temples

The Ramayana Ballet, also known as Sendratari Ramayana, is one of Yogyakarta's most iconic cultural performances. What makes the Prambanan production particularly special is its setting. During the outdoor performance season, the stage is positioned against the dramatic backdrop of the ninth-century Prambanan Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As darkness settled, the illuminated temple towers created an almost magical atmosphere. The sight of these magnificent Hindu monuments standing proudly behind the performers made the entire experience feel like stepping back in time.

The outdoor performance season generally runs from May to October, subject to weather conditions and the performance schedule. We were fortunate to visit towards the end of October, just as the rainy season begins in Yogyakarta. Had we arrived later, there would have been a greater risk of rain affecting the outdoor show.

It was one of those travel experiences where timing really matters. We had arrived at just the right time to enjoy the open-air production in this extraordinary setting.

The Timeless Story of Rama and Shinta

The ballet tells the story of the Ramayana, an ancient Hindu epic that has influenced art, literature, dance and religious traditions across Southeast Asia for centuries.

The central characters are Prince Rama, his beloved wife Princess Shinta (Sita), and the demon king Rahwana (Ravana), who abducts Shinta and takes her to his kingdom of Alengka.

Determined to rescue his wife, Rama embarks on a dangerous journey with the help of his loyal allies. One of the most memorable characters is Hanuman, the powerful white monkey general whose courage, intelligence and devotion make him an indispensable figure in the rescue mission.

The story unfolds through a series of dramatic dance sequences, expressive gestures, elaborate costumes and carefully choreographed movements. Unlike a conventional theatrical production, the ballet is performed without spoken dialogue. The audience follows the narrative through the dancers' expressions, body language, music and movements.

Even for visitors unfamiliar with the complete story, the emotions are easy to understand. Love, loyalty, courage, sacrifice and the struggle between good and evil are universal themes that transcend language and culture.

Dance, Music and Elaborate Costumes

I was impressed by how the performers communicated so much without saying a single word. Every movement appeared deliberate, from the graceful gestures of the female dancers to the more energetic and dramatic movements of the warriors and supernatural characters.

The traditional Javanese gamelan music added another dimension to the performance. Its distinctive rhythms and melodies created the atmosphere for each scene, building tension during confrontations and providing a more delicate musical background during romantic or emotional moments.

The costumes were equally fascinating. Rich colours, ornate headdresses, decorative accessories and intricate designs helped distinguish the royal characters from the warriors and other figures in the story.

Hanuman was particularly entertaining, bringing energy and personality to the stage. His movements were lively and expressive, providing moments of excitement and humour amid the more serious dramatic scenes.

The battle sequences were another highlight. The combination of coordinated movements, music and theatrical staging made the confrontations engaging to watch. Rather than relying on dialogue or elaborate modern special effects, the production used traditional performing arts to tell its story.

What impressed me most was the discipline and coordination required from the dancers and musicians. Bringing such a lengthy and well-known epic to life through movement alone requires considerable skill, rehearsal and teamwork.

Our Special Class Experience

We purchased Special Class tickets at Rp350,000 per person, which included a drink. While it was more expensive than some of the other seating categories, it was a worthwhile opportunity to enjoy this renowned cultural performance.

For travellers, I would recommend checking the seating plan when booking, as prices and inclusions may vary depending on the performance date and ticket category. If you are planning to watch the outdoor production, it is also sensible to confirm that the show will take place on the open-air stage rather than an indoor venue.

Arriving early is advisable, as it gives you time to settle into your seats and enjoy the surroundings before the performance begins. You can also appreciate the temple backdrop as the sky darkens and the lights gradually bring the ancient structures into focus.

One practical consideration is the weather. Since the outdoor show is seasonal and Yogyakarta's rainy season generally begins around October or November, bringing a light rain jacket or checking the forecast beforehand would be sensible.

More Than Just a Ballet

What makes the Ramayana Ballet so memorable is that it is much more than an evening of entertainment. It is a living expression of the cultural connections between India and Indonesia, demonstrating how an ancient Hindu epic has been embraced and reinterpreted through Javanese artistic traditions.

Although the story originated in the Indian cultural world, its characters and themes have become deeply embedded in Indonesian performing arts. The Prambanan production combines Hindu mythology with traditional Javanese dance, music and theatrical techniques, creating a distinctive cultural experience.

Watching the performance also gave me a greater appreciation of the temples we had visited earlier that day. During daylight, Prambanan impressed me through its architecture and historical significance. At night, the ballet added another layer of meaning, connecting the magnificent monuments with the stories and traditions that inspired them.

It was fascinating to see how a heritage site could serve not only as a reminder of the past but also as a setting for contemporary cultural performances that continue to attract audiences from around the world.

The Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan was undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences of my Yogyakarta trip. The combination of traditional dance, gamelan music, elaborate costumes and the illuminated Hindu temples created an atmosphere that would be difficult to reproduce elsewhere.

From Borobudur to Prambanan: A Journey into Indonesia’s Magnificent Hindu Heritage

 Jogja - After spending time exploring the magnificent Borobudur Temple, our journey through Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage continued with a visit to Prambanan Temple, another of Java’s most remarkable historical treasures. While Borobudur showcases the grandeur of Buddhist architecture, Prambanan offers a fascinating glimpse into the Hindu civilisation that once flourished on this island.

We drove from Borobudur to Prambanan, a journey of approximately two hours. Knowing that the temple complex closes at around 4.30 pm, we decided to skip lunch and head straight there. It was a race against time, but I was determined not to miss the opportunity to visit one of Indonesia’s most iconic landmarks.

The drive itself was an interesting part of the journey. Leaving Borobudur behind, we travelled through the Central Java countryside, passing villages, local homes, rice fields and glimpses of everyday Indonesian life. The rural landscape offered a refreshing contrast to the impressive monuments we had visited earlier.

Although skipping lunch was not ideal, the thought of exploring another UNESCO World Heritage Site kept us going. With the closing time approaching, every minute mattered. Fortunately, we arrived with enough time to enter the complex and appreciate its extraordinary architecture.

Prambanan is located on the border between Yogyakarta and Central Java, approximately 17 kilometres northeast of Yogyakarta city centre. It is recognised as the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1991.

As we approached the temple grounds, the towering stone structures immediately captured my attention. Their tall, pointed silhouettes rose dramatically against the sky, creating a magnificent sight that was quite different from Borobudur's broad, tiered structure.  The whole temple is built using interlocking method (above) with cement or mortar.  

Towering Monuments Dedicated to the Hindu Gods

What impressed me most about Prambanan was the scale and intricacy of its architecture. The central complex is dominated by three magnificent temples dedicated to the principal deities of Hinduism, collectively known as the Trimurti: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

The tallest and most imposing is the Shiva Temple, which rises approximately 47 metres above the ground. Standing before this towering structure, I could only imagine the engineering skills, craftsmanship and devotion required to construct such a monumental building more than a thousand years ago.

The temple's tall, tapering design is characteristic of classical Javanese Hindu architecture. Its numerous decorative details, carved reliefs and sculpted figures demonstrate the extraordinary artistic abilities of the craftsmen who worked on the complex.

The three principal temples are dedicated to different aspects of the Hindu divine tradition. Shiva represents destruction and transformation, Vishnu is associated with preservation, while Brahma represents creation. Together, they express a broader understanding of the cosmic cycle of creation, preservation and renewal.

The complex also contains temples dedicated to the divine vehicles, or vahanas, associated with these gods. These include Nandi, the sacred bull associated with Shiva, Garuda, the eagle-like figure associated with Vishnu, and Hamsa, the swan associated with Brahma.

Walking among these impressive structures gave me a greater appreciation of how religion, art, architecture and cultural identity were intertwined in ancient Java.

A Temple Complex of 240 Temples

One fascinating fact about Prambanan is that the original compound contained approximately 240 temples of different sizes. Today, visitors can see the restored principal temples alongside numerous smaller structures and ruins scattered throughout the grounds.

Although many of the smaller temples remain in a damaged condition, their presence provides an indication of the immense scale of the original complex. This was not simply a place of worship with a few grand buildings. It was an extensive religious landscape, carefully planned and constructed to reflect the spiritual beliefs of its builders.

The temples were built during the ninth century, when powerful Hindu and Buddhist kingdoms flourished in Central Java. Prambanan is generally associated with the Mataram Kingdom and the Sanjaya dynasty, whose rulers supported Hindu religious traditions.

What makes this period particularly interesting is that Hindu and Buddhist monuments were constructed within the same broader cultural landscape. Rather than viewing the region's history through a single religious tradition, the surviving monuments reveal a more complex world of artistic exchange, royal patronage and religious interaction.

From Greatness to Ruins

Standing among the temples, it was difficult not to wonder how such a magnificent complex could eventually fall into ruin.

Prambanan was gradually abandoned as political power shifted and population centres changed. Earthquakes and other natural forces contributed to the collapse of its buildings over the centuries. Many structures eventually became damaged, with fallen stones and vegetation concealing much of the original complex.

Although local communities continued to know about the ruins, systematic archaeological investigation and restoration came much later.

The site attracted renewed attention during the colonial period, and major restoration efforts began in the twentieth century. Reconstructing these temples was an enormous challenge because many original stones had collapsed or become displaced.

Restoration specialists used a technique known as anastylosis, which involves reassembling a monument using its original architectural components wherever possible. This painstaking process requires considerable archaeological knowledge to identify the correct positions of individual stones.

The restored Shiva Temple was formally reopened in 1953, representing a major milestone in the preservation of Indonesia's cultural heritage.

Looking at the restored structures, I was reminded that historical preservation requires more than money and manpower. It demands patience, scholarship and a deep commitment to protecting the achievements of previous generations.

Hindu and Buddhist Heritage Side by Side

Another remarkable aspect of the wider Prambanan Temple Compounds is the presence of nearby Buddhist monuments, including Sewu, Lumbung and Bubrah temples.

Sewu Temple, in particular, is an important Buddhist complex located close to Prambanan. Its proximity to the Hindu temples illustrates the remarkable diversity of religious architecture that developed in ancient Java.

For me, this is one of the most meaningful aspects of visiting the region. These monuments tell a story that goes beyond stone buildings and religious ceremonies. They offer a glimpse into a society in which different spiritual traditions existed within the same cultural environment and influenced the region's artistic development.

Today, Prambanan remains an important symbol of Indonesia's cultural identity. Hindu religious ceremonies, including celebrations associated with Mahashivaratri, continue to connect the site with living spiritual traditions. The famous open-air Ramayana Ballet also brings the ancient Hindu epic to life through dance, music and elaborate costumes, often with the illuminated temples providing a spectacular backdrop.

We explore every corner of the extensive grounds, even a relatively 2hrs of walking offered an unforgettable impression of Prambanan's grandeur.

Two Ancient Wonders, Two Different Experiences

Having visited both Borobudur and Prambanan on the same trip, I found it fascinating to compare these two extraordinary monuments.

Borobudur impresses visitors with its vast Buddhist structure, intricate narrative reliefs and symbolic journey towards enlightenment. Prambanan, by contrast, captivates with its soaring towers, dramatic vertical lines and elaborate Hindu sculptures.

Both demonstrate the extraordinary capabilities of ancient Javanese builders, who created monumental religious architecture long before modern construction machinery existed.

Visiting the two sites in succession also helped me understand the richness of Indonesia's history. The country is often celebrated today for its beautiful islands, beaches, volcanoes and diverse cuisine, but its ancient monuments reveal an equally impressive legacy of intellectual, artistic and spiritual achievement.

From Jogja to Borobudur: A Memorable Journey Back to the World’s Largest Buddhist Temple

Jogja - Stepping foot into Borobudur, the largest Buddhist temple in the world, is an experience that stays with you forever. However, returning to this ancient wonder after nearly two decades reveals just how beautifully a historic site can evolve.

Our adventure began in Yogyakarta (Jogja). Thanks to the hospitality of Donny’s friend, who kindly offered to drive us, we escaped the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. The drive took about 1.5 hours, offering a scenic transition from the bustling, culture-rich streets of Jogja to the serene, emerald-green landscapes of Magelang.

A Fresh Perspective: 17 Years Later

I last visited Borobudur 17 years ago with Joe Habib. Returning all these years later, I was instantly struck by how much the management and overall layout had upgraded. What used to be a somewhat chaotic tourist trek with touts; now it has been transformed into a highly professional, organised, and truly memorable experience.

The seamless journey began right at the gate. Included in our ticket price was a convenient shuttle ride that transported us from the main entrance closer to the monument. While the shuttle drops you off nearby, there is still a short, pleasant walking distance to reach the actual base of the massive stone structure, allowing you to take in its scale from afar.

Structured for a Better Experience

To preserve the ancient stones, the park now uses a structured group system. Upon arrival, we were assigned a group number. Once our number was called, we were paired with an dedicated English-speaking guide.

Our group was led by an elderly Indonesian guide whose warmth and wisdom made the day. She was incredibly patient, never rushing us as we climbed. Over the course of our 1-hour guided tour, she meticulously brought the stone walls to life, taking the time to explain the intricate relief carvings and the deep spiritual meanings behind the temple's architectural tiers. Having a guide added a profound layer of context that you simply cannot get from a guidebook.

Small Details, Lasting Memories

One of the most unique changes to the preservation rules is the footwear requirement. To protect the centuries-old volcanic rock from erosion, all visitors are required to take off their shoes and switch into special Borobudur sandals (Upahat). Not only were they comfortable for walking around the complex, but they were also ours to keep—serving as a wonderful, functional souvenir of our visit!

Looking back, Borobudur has managed to balance high-volume tourism with deep cultural respect. The new professional upgrades ensure that the monument will be preserved for generations to come, while giving modern travelers a deeply personal and educational look into Indonesia's rich heritage.