Borobudur
In Central Java, Indonesia, Borobudur is the world's largest Buddhist temple and a marvel of ancient architecture. Constructed during the Sailendra dynasty in the 9th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site embodies Mahayana Buddhist beliefs and principles.
The temple, built atop a hill overlooking breathtaking landscapes, consists of nine stacked platforms: six square platforms below and three circular platforms above. The temple's design follows a path visitors traverse, symbolizing a spiritual pilgrimage. Starting at the base and circling the platforms while ascending, one moves from the realm of desire to the realm of enlightenment, symbolizing the path to Nirvana.
At the top, there used to be a big thing called a stupa that showed enlightenment. Even though it's not there anymore, the view from that spot is still incredible. It's like a reminder of how special the place is.
Borobudur's walls are adorned with detailed carvings, totaling over 2,600 individual narrative panels and more than 500 Buddha statues. They depict the life of Buddha, illustrating his teachings, past lives, and the principles of Buddhism.
As one of the best Buddhist temples in Indonesia, Borobudur is known as a symbol of Indonesia's cultural identity and a reminder of the country's glorious past. This is a must-visit destination for anyone eager to witness the splendor of ancient Buddhist architecture and spirituality.
Address: Jl. Badrawati, Kw. Candi Borobudur, Borobudur, Kec. Borobudur, Kabupaten Magelang, Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
Opening Hours: 6:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Monday–Sunday)
