Journeying Through the Wonders of Candi Prambanan: A Visual Odyssey
Hello PikiranMedia’s Friends! Today, let’s take a journey through the wonders of Candi Prambanan located in Central Java, Indonesia. Candi Prambanan is one of the biggest Hindu temples in Southeast Asia, and it is included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let’s explore this amazing temple complex!
The History of Candi Prambanan
Candi Prambanan was built in the 9th century during the reign of Rakai Pikatan, a king of the Mataram Kingdom. The temple was dedicated to the Trimurti, the three Hindu gods Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The complex consists of 8 main temples and 250 smaller ones, and it took more than 50 years to complete.
The Architectural Design of Candi Prambanan
Candi Prambanan is famous for its architectural design, which features intricate carvings, reliefs, and statues. The temples are made of volcanic stone and were built without the use of cement. The biggest temple, which is dedicated to Shiva, stands at 47 meters high and is adorned with 104 reliefs that tell the story of the Ramayana epic.
What to See in Candi Prambanan
Visitors to Candi Prambanan can explore the main temples and smaller ones. Each temple has its own uniqueness and symbolism. For example, the Brahma Temple is a symbol of creation, while the Vishnu Temple represents preservation. The Shiva Temple, which is the biggest one, symbolizes destruction and rebirth.
The Makara Statue
One of the most famous statues in Candi Prambanan is the Makara statue. It is located at the entrance of the Shiva Temple and is a combination of an elephant, fish, and crocodile. The Makara statue symbolizes the balance between the land, water, and sky.
The Ramayana Ballet
Aside from exploring the temples, visitors can also watch the Ramayana Ballet, which is held in the open-air theater inside the temple complex. The ballet tells the story of the Ramayana epic through dance and music. It is one of the highlights of visiting Candi Prambanan.
The Restoration of Candi Prambanan
In 2006, Candi Prambanan was hit by a devastating earthquake that caused serious damage to the temples. The Indonesian government and UNESCO launched a restoration project to repair the temples and preserve their historic value. Today, the temples are open for visitors to explore.
How to Get to Candi Prambanan
Candi Prambanan is located about 17 kilometers from Yogyakarta, and there are various ways to get there. Visitors can take a public bus, a private car, or a taxi. It is best to go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat.
The Best Time to Visit Candi Prambanan
The best time to visit Candi Prambanan is during the dry season, which is from May to September. The weather is pleasant, and the sky is clear, providing a picturesque background for taking photos. It is also best to visit during weekdays to avoid the crowds.
What to Wear When Visiting Candi Prambanan
Since Candi Prambanan is a sacred place, visitors are required to dress modestly. It is best to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. Also, visitors should remove their shoes when entering the temples.
The Entrance Fee to Candi Prambanan
The entrance fee to Candi Prambanan is IDR 475,000 for foreign visitors, and IDR 40,000 for Indonesian visitors. The fee includes entrance to the temple complex and the Ramayana Ballet.
The Best Way to Explore Candi Prambanan
The best way to explore Candi Prambanan is by hiring a guide. A guide can provide information about the history and the symbolism of the temples, making the visit more meaningful. A guide can also help visitors to navigate the complex and avoid getting lost.
Where to Stay Near Candi Prambanan
There are various accommodation options near Candi Prambanan, ranging from budget to luxury hotels. The most popular areas to stay are Yogyakarta and Solo, which are both located nearby.
The Local Cuisine around Candi Prambanan
Visitors to Candi Prambanan can also enjoy the local cuisine, which is known for its rich flavors and spices. Some of the must-try dishes include gudeg, nasi kucing, and sate klatak.
Shopping Souvenirs around Candi Prambanan
There are also various souvenir shops around Candi Prambanan where visitors can buy local handicrafts and products. Some of the popular souvenirs include batik, wayang kulit, and silver jewelry.
Candi Prambanan and Borobudur
Candi Prambanan and Borobudur, which are both located in Central Java, are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. Borobudur is a Buddhist temple complex, and it is also included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visitors to Central Java should not miss both of these magnificent temple complexes.
The Spiritual Experience at Candi Prambanan
Aside from being an architectural wonder, Candi Prambanan is also a spiritual place where visitors can experience the ancient Hindu culture and religion. The temples are still used for religious ceremonies and festivals, providing a glimpse into the local traditions and customs.
The Wonders Await You
Candi Prambanan is a must-visit destination for those who are interested in history, architecture, and culture. The temples are not only a testament to the ancient Hindu civilization in Indonesia but also a remarkable achievement in engineering and design. Take your time, and let your senses be amazed by this visual odyssey.
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