Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Candi Borobudur

Hello PikiranMedia’s Friends! Are you excited about exploring the hidden treasures of Candi Borobudur? If you’re a fan of ancient architecture and history, then this article is for you. Borobudur is a stunning 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple located in Central Java, Indonesia.

The Magnificence of Borobudur

Borobudur is one of the most magnificent temples in the world, and it’s on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is built on a hill consisting of millions of volcanic stones, and it stands majestically overlooking the lush greenery surrounding it. The architecture of the temple is a mix of ancient Javanese design and Indian influence.

Borobudur was founded by the Sailendra dynasty, who ruled Java. Construction of the temple began around AD 780 and was completed in approximately AD 825. For centuries, Borobudur fell into disrepair and was buried under volcanic ash and jungle growth. It was rediscovered in the early 19th century, and restoration work began.

Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Borobudur

At first glance, the temple looks like a giant stupa, but upon closer inspection, it’s far more than that. Borobudur consists of six square platforms topped by three circular platforms, and each platform is adorned with hundreds of ancient Buddha statues and intricate carvings depicting scenes from Buddhist teachings.

The real hidden treasures of Borobudur are the relief panels. There are over 1,460 relief panels on the temple walls, depicting various scenes from the life of Buddha, as well as everyday life in ancient Java. Some of the panels portray scenes from the Karmavibhangga Sutra, an ancient Buddhist text that explains karmic consequences and the law of cause and effect.

The panels also depict stories from ancient Javanese folklore, such as the story of the hunter and the jackal. The panels are so intricately detailed that you could spend hours examining each one, trying to understand the story it tells.

Sunrise at Borobudur

One of the most popular experiences at Borobudur is watching the sunrise over the temple. Visitors usually start climbing the temple around 4 am to reach the top platform by sunrise. At the top, you can witness the spectacular sunrise while standing amid the intricate stone carvings and statues.

The sunrise experience is so spectacular that it’s one of the most photographed sights in Indonesia. Remember to bring your camera and capture the moment; it’s truly breathtaking.

Visiting Borobudur

Borobudur is located in Magelang, Central Java, approximately 42 km from Yogyakarta. It’s open daily from 6 am to 5 pm. Admission fees vary depending on your nationality, with lower rates for Indonesian citizens. You can hire a local guide to help you navigate the temple and understand more about its history and significance.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen since the temple can get hot during the day. You can also buy souvenirs from the local vendors just outside the temple.

Conclusion

Candi Borobudur is an ancient temple with exquisite carvings, sculptures, and hidden treasures. The temple is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the brilliant minds and artistic capabilities of ancient Javanese and Indian artisans. By exploring the temple, you can gain an appreciation for Buddhism and ancient Javanese culture while immersing yourself in the temple’s peaceful atmosphere. Have fun discovering the hidden treasures of Candi Borobudur!

Until next time, goodbye, and don’t forget to check out more of our interesting articles!