Borobudur – Travels Round The World

Where in the World Are We?

At the Temples south of Semarang, Java.

SEMARANG, JAVA, INDONESIA
A MELTING POT OF BEAUTIFUL ARCHITECTURE, RICH HISTORY, AND DELICIOUS FOOD

See a wonder of the world rising from Central Java – as you encounter the majestic Borobudur Temple, the largest
Buddhist monument in existence. Hidden from the world for hundreds of years, below the ash of a vast volcanic eruption, it stands in all its restored glory, with Mount Merapi looming imposingly behind.

Semarang itself mainly functions as a gateway for Borobodur. Still, its port was a vital one for the Dutch colonizers,
and the city continues to be a bustling center of Java life. Hang around to discover Semarang’s collection of colonial
churches and the towering Avalokitesvara Pagoda, which reaches up seven tiers into the city’s skies.

A soaring UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sprawling Borobudur Temple covers 123 square meters of land and was
completed in the 9th century. Learn of its mysteries and secrets, and of the abandonment and eruption, which would
conceal it from view for hundreds of years. Built by the Syailendra dynasty – which ruled in Java for 500 years – the
lotus flower-shaped temple was restored to its former glory in the 1970s and features three layers stacked up with
intricate carvings. The monuments represent fundamental Buddhist beliefs relating to the process of attaining Nirvana.
Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple, Prambanan Temple, also rises nearby. Another lost UNESCO World
Heritage Site, its soaring stone spires date back to the 9th century.

GREAT MOSQUE OF CENTRAL JAVA
The Great Mosque of Central Java is designed in a mixed Javanese, Islamic and Roman architectural style, which is called Masjid Agung by locals. The main building of the pyramid-roofed mosque is typical of Javanese buildings, however, due to the grand size and fantastic architecture, many tourists are interested in visiting the mosque to conduct exploration and
photography.

SIGHTS

Lawang Sewu
Wisata Sam Poo Kong Temple
Tugu Muda Semarang
Old Town Semarang
Semarang Tawang Station
Semawis Night Market

Today’s Excursion – Overnight trip to “Where Majestic Temples Meet.”

We traveled to the mist-shrouded jungles of Central Java for an extraordinary overnight experience exploring two of the world’s most inspiring spiritual temples, both UNESCO-listed treasures.

Our discovery took us to the vibrant city of Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java revered for its kratons (palaces) set against a backdrop of terraced rice paddies and fertile valleys.

Our first stop was at the Mesa Stila Coffee Plantation, Hotel, and Spa where we toured the coffee plantation planting, processing, and grounds, viewed the suites, and had lunch in a central pavillion.

After noon, amidst the crossroads of ancient religions, we explored Borobudur, where the ancient stone stupas and intricate carvings of the world’s largest Buddhist temple whisper tales of forgotten empires.

That evening briought an exclusive gala event and show amidst the towering spires of Prambanan, Indonesia’s largest Hindu temple, as we witnessed a “Tawur Agung” prayer procession, savored an al fresco of dinner of local specialties as the setting sun casts its ever-changing hues over the surreal landscape. There were before and after dinner cultural shows.