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Introduction:
Indonesia is an archipelago of over 18,000 islands, and each one of them has a unique story to tell. However, there is one particular island in Indonesia that stands out among the rest, and that is Java Island. Java Island is home to Borobudur, one of the most famous Buddhist temples in the world. Candi Borobudur has become one of the main pillars of Indonesian tourism.
The History of Candi Borobudur:
Borobudur was built in the 9th century, during the Sailendra dynasty. It is a Mahayana Buddhist temple that was constructed in the shape of a mandala. Borobudur is built around a natural hill, and it took almost one century to complete the entire temple complex.
Exploring the Temple:
When you first arrive at Candi Borobudur, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer size and scale of the temple. The temple is built in several tiers, with each tier representing a different stage of the Buddha’s enlightenment. As you make your way through the temple, you will discover a series of relief sculptures that portray the Buddha’s life and teachings.
The Mysteries of Borobudur:
Despite the fact that Borobudur is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Indonesia, there are still many mysteries surrounding the temple. For instance, no one knows why the temple was abandoned for hundreds of years. Some people believe that it was because of a volcanic eruption that occurred in the area.
The Restoration of Candi Borobudur:
After Candi Borobudur was discovered in the early 19th century, it started to crumble due to its exposure to natural elements. Fortunately, in the 1970s, the Indonesian government launched a massive restoration project to preserve the temple. The restoration was completed in the late 1980s, and ever since then, Borobudur has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia.
An Adventure to Candi Borobudur:
If you want to explore the mysteries of Candi Borobudur and get a glimpse of its rich history and culture, then you need to plan a visit to Indonesia. As soon as you arrive in Yogyakarta, the nearest city to Borobudur, you will feel the warm welcome of the local people. From Yogyakarta, it takes around one hour to reach Candi Borobudur.
The Best Time to Visit Candi Borobudur:
The best time to visit Borobudur is in the early morning when the temple is less crowded, and the temperature is mild. If you visit the temple during the peak season, which is from June to August, you will need to be prepared for long lines and large crowds.
How to Reach Borobudur:
You can reach Candi Borobudur by taking a bus, a taxi, or a private car from Yogyakarta. If you want to avoid the hassle of public transportation, you can hire a private driver who will take you directly to the temple.
Where to Stay Near Borobudur:
If you are planning to stay near Borobudur, there are several accommodation options available. You can choose from luxurious hotels, resorts, homestays, or guesthouses. Some of the most popular accommodations near Candi Borobudur are the Amanjiwo Resort, the Plataran Borobudur Resort, and the Manohara Resort.
The Food of Yogyakarta:
One of the highlights of visiting Yogyakarta is the food. Yogyakarta is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, such as gudeg, a dish made from young jackfruit and coconut milk, and sate klathak, chicken or beef skewers grilled over charcoal.
Exploring Yogyakarta:
Aside from Candi Borobudur, Yogyakarta has many other attractions that you can explore, such as the Kraton, a palace that was once home to the sultans, and the Taman Sari, a former royal bathing complex.
The People of Indonesia:
The Indonesian people are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. When you visit Indonesia, you will be greeted with a smile and a warm welcome. Indonesians are proud of their culture and history, and they are always willing to share it with foreigners.
The Culture of Indonesia:
Indonesia has a rich and diverse culture, which is influenced by its many different ethnic groups. The arts, crafts, music, and dance are all important parts of Indonesian culture. When you visit Indonesia, you will be able to experience this rich culture first hand.
The Environment of Indonesia:
Indonesia is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world, such as the beaches of Bali and Lombok, the rainforests of Kalimantan, and the volcanoes of Java. However, Indonesia is also facing environmental challenges, such as deforestation, climate change, and pollution.
The Future of Indonesia:
Despite the challenges that Indonesia faces, there is no doubt that the country has a bright future. The government is working hard to promote sustainable tourism and develop the country’s infrastructure. Indonesia has a young and dynamic population that is eager to embrace the future.
Conclusion:
Candi Borobudur is not just a temple, but it’s a journey into the heart of Indonesia. When you visit Borobudur, you will discover the mysteries of the past, the beauty of the present, and the hope for the future. So, pack your bags, and come explore the wonders of Indonesia.
Goodbye, and see you in the next article.