Hello PikiranMedia’s Friends! Welcome to an article about one of the most remarkable cultural and spiritual landmarks in Indonesia – Candi Borobudur.
Located in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia, the Borobudur Temple Compounds is a UNESCO World Heritage listed archeological site. Built in the 9th century, this magnificent historic monument holds vital significance in Indonesian culture and religion. It is one of the prime tourist attractions and an excellent gateway to Indonesia’s cultural and spiritual legacy.
The History of Candi Borobudur
According to historical records, Candi Borobudur was built during the reign of the Sailendra dynasty, which ruled over Central Java and, later, East Java during the period AD 760-830. The Sailendra dynasty was a Mahayana Buddhist dynasty that ruled over Indonesia at that time. This temple was a symbol of triumph for the dynasty, who are thought to have built it to commemorate their ancestors, a practice common at the time.
The temple took around 75 years to complete and was initially abandoned and exposed to various natural disasters until its rediscovery by British explorers. In the early 19th century, Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, then Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies, spearheaded a restoration of the temple, which would eventually become a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
The Structure of Candi Borobudur
Candi Borobudur sits on a hill in the midst of lush, green nature, with a breath-taking view of surrounding mountains, volcanoes and rice fields. The temple is built on a massive stone foundation and comprises of nine stacked platforms, covering an area of over 2,500 square meters. The total height of the temple is approximately 35 meters.
One of the main attractions of Candi Borobudur is its intricate carvings, which depict historical events, allegories, and stories relating to Buddhism. On the walls and niches of the temple, visitors can see 2,672 relief panels and 504 Buddha statues, offering a glimpse into the Buddhist philosophy and way of life during that period.
The Spiritual Significance of Candi Borobudur
Borobudur has an immense spiritual significance, being a tribute to Buddha’s wisdom and his early teachings. Visitors can find a spiritual balance in this serene environment, where the sound of the nearby river and the chirping of the birds assimilates with the calmness of the temple’s atmosphere.
Candi Borobudur is also the ideal place for people to meditate, practice yoga and find inner peace. Early morning ascents to the temple, a common practice in Indonesia, are known to have spiritual and rejuvenating effects on the body, mind and soul.
The Importance of Candi Borobudur in Javanese Culture
Aside from its Buddhist relevance, Candi Borobudur holds important significance in Javanese culture. For Javanese people, this temple is their legacy and national treasure, symbolizing the union between religion, art and architecture.
The temple has an annual worship event known “Waisak,” where Javanese Buddhists gather to commemorate Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death. This event attracts thousands of visitors each year from around the world.
How to Visit Candi Borobudur
Candi Borobudur is approximately 42 km from Yogyakarta, and it takes approximately an hour and a half to make that journey by car. As the temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia, visitors should come early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
The best time to visit Candi Borobudur is during the dry season, which is from May to October. Visitors can purchase tickets online or directly at the entrance. There is also an available option to hire a tour guide, which will provide a more informative experience of the temple’s history, culture and spiritual significance.
Conclusion
Candi Borobudur is not only a significant cultural and spiritual heritage landmark but also a symbol of Indonesia’s diversity and strong national identity. Its history, intricate carvings and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a glimpse into Indonesian culture and spirituality. A visit to Candi Borobudur is an experience that encapsulates Indonesia’s unique heritage and will leave visitors with memories that last a lifetime.
Thank you for reading, PikiranMedia’s Friends. See you again soon for another interesting article!