Yogyakarta, often called Jogja, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, captivating landscapes, and majestic ancient temples. Most travelers associate the city with the famous Borobudur and Prambanan temples, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. However, beyond these well-known monuments, Jogja is home to a number of hidden, lesser-known temples that hold their own fascinating histories and architectural beauty. These hidden temples offer a more intimate and secluded exploration for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
In this article, we’ll uncover five of these lesser-explored treasures: Candi Ijo, Candi Barong, Candi Banyunibo, Candi Sari, and Candi Sambisari. Each of these temples provides a unique glimpse into Jogja’s ancient past and spiritual heritage. Whether you’re an avid historian, architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, these hidden gems offer a remarkable journey through time.
Hidden Temples in Jogja
Candi Ijo: The Highest Temple in Yogyakarta
Perched on a hill, Candi Ijo is Yogyakarta’s highest temple, offering panoramic views of the landscape. Located 18 kilometers southeast of the city center at 410 meters above sea level, it’s an ideal spot for sunset viewing.
History and Architecture
Candi Ijo dates back to the 9th century during the reign of the Mataram Kingdom. The temple is dedicated to Shiva and was primarily used for religious rituals. Unlike the grander temples of Borobudur or Prambanan, Candi Ijo’s charm lies in its simplicity and the connection it offers with the natural environment. The temple complex is comprised of a main temple, or Candi Utama, along with three smaller Perwara temples. Each temple features carvings and reliefs that depict Hindu deities and other sacred symbols.
One of the most interesting features of Candi Ijo is the use of andesite stones for its construction. The temple also includes a Yoni and Lingga symbol, which represents fertility and the union of Shiva and Parvati in Hinduism.
Why Visit Candi Ijo?
What makes Candi Ijo particularly special is its setting. From its elevated position, visitors can enjoy a clear view of the Adisucipto International Airport runway, as well as the sprawling green plains of Yogyakarta. As the sun sets, the temple is bathed in golden hues, creating a mystical atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. It’s a peaceful sanctuary away from the crowds, perfect for reflection and quiet contemplation.
Candi Barong: A Symbol of Fertility and Protection
Another lesser-known temple situated near Prambanan is Candi Barong. While it may not be as massive as the other temples in the region, its unique structure and spiritual significance make it a compelling site to visit. Candi Barong is located on a hillside, offering another chance to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Jogja.
The Story Behind Candi Barong
The Mataram Kingdom likely constructed Candi Barong between the 9th and 10th centuries. They named the temple after Barong, a mythical creature in Hindu and Balinese mythology often viewed as a guardian figure, symbolizing protection and good fortune.
Candi Barong is notable for its rare terraced structure in Central Java. It features three levels, each symbolizing a different plane of Hindu cosmology. The lower terraces contain the shrines, while the top terrace houses the main temple. Artisans decorated the temple with Barong carvings, symbolizing protection, fertility, and agricultural rituals.
Why Candi Barong is Worth Visiting
Candi Barong might not attract large crowds, but it offers a quiet and serene atmosphere perfect for those looking for a spiritual or meditative experience. Its position also provides a lovely view of the surrounding countryside, making it a great spot for twho enjoy combining history with nature.
Candi Banyunibo: The Temple of Solitude
Nestled in a quiet rural area, just a short drive from Prambanan, is Candi Banyunibo. Unlike many other temples that are located on hills or mountains, Candi Banyunibo sits in the middle of rice fields, making it a tranquil and secluded site perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.
A Hidden Buddhist Gem
Built during the late 9th century, Candi Banyunibo is a Buddhist temple, contrasting with the majority of the Hindu temples in the region. The name Banyunibo literally means “falling water,” reflecting the nearby agricultural activities and natural surroundings. Its simple yet elegant architecture features a stupa and a small pavilion at the entrance.
What makes this temple particularly intriguing is the combination of both Hindu and Buddhist elements in its design. Kala and Makara carvings, symbolizing protection, typically appear in Hindu temples, suggesting that both Hindus and Buddhists might have used Candi Banyunibo as part of a larger religious complex.
Why Candi Banyunibo Deserves Attention
The solitude of Candi Banyunibo makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path temples in Jogja. Its proximity to the Prambanan complex allows for an easy visit after touring the larger temples. For those interested in Buddhist architecture and its integration with Hindu influences, Banyunibo offers a fascinating study.
Candi Sari: A Temple with Monastic Roots
Candi Sari, near Candi Kalasan, stands as another hidden Buddhist gem in Jogja. Unlike other temples primarily used for religious ceremonies, Candi Sari functioned as a vihara, serving as a residence for Buddhist monks.
The Story and Design of Candi Sari
Built in the 8th century during the rule of the Sailendra dynasty, Candi Sari is an exquisite example of Buddhist architecture from the period. Constructed from volcanic stone, the temple boasts a tall, rectangular structure with multiple small chambers that monks once used for meditation and study.
A highlight of Candi Sari is its intricate exterior carvings, featuring beautiful reliefs of Bodhisattvas and celestial beings. This delicate craftsmanship and the temple’s historical importance make it a must-see for those interested in ancient Buddhist sites.
Why You Should Visit Candi Sari
Candi Sari’s monastic history offers a unique glimpse into the life of Buddhist monks during ancient times. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with its detailed carvings, creates an ambiance that is both serene and reflective. A visit to Candi Sari allows you to step back into a time when spirituality and scholarship were deeply intertwined.
Candi Sambisari: The Underground Temple
One of the most remarkable hidden temples in Jogja is Candi Sambisari, which is located underground. In 1966, a farmer plowing his field accidentally discovered this 9th-century Hindu temple, which had been buried under volcanic ash from Mount Merapi for centuries.
The Unique Underground Structure
Candi Sambisari sits about six and a half meters below ground level, making it one of Java’s most unique temples. The temple consists of a main temple and three smaller perwara temples. The main temple houses a lingga and yoni, symbols of Shiva and fertility, which are central to Hindu religious practices.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Candi Sambisari is its preservation. The layers of volcanic ash that covered the temple helped protect its structure from the elements.The temple’s underground nature adds an extra layer of mystery, drawing visitors to explore its ancient chambers.
Why Visit Candi Sambisari
The discovery of Candi Sambisari adds an intriguing chapter to Yogyakarta’s history. Walking down into the temple complex gives you a sense of entering a forgotten world, where time seems to stand still. For those interested in archaeology and ancient architecture, Sambisari offers an unforgettable experience.
Discovering Yogyakarta’s Hidden Temples
Jogja’s famous temples like Borobudur and Prambanan get much attention, but its hidden temples offer a quieter, more intimate glimpse into the region’s heritage. Temples like Candi Ijo, Candi Barong, Candi Banyunibo, Candi Sari, and Candi Sambisari provide unique insights into ancient Java’s spiritual and cultural life.
Visiting these hidden sites lets you step off the tourist path and personally experience Jogja’s magic, whether you’re drawn to its history, architecture, or serenity. These hidden gems leave a lasting impression on any journey through Yogyakarta.
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