Climbing Borobodur

Borobodur is considered the world's largest stupa. Its beauty is akin to that of Cambodia's Angkor Wat. Located in Yogyakarta, Borobodur stands in a scenic background of the countryside. Upon arrival at the monument grounds, Borobodur greets tourists with its majestic view like a castle from the old Javanese kingdom. Borobodur in itself is a religious monument of the Buddhists that came to Yogyakarta. It might be a steep climb to its peak, but it is worth stopping at certain levels. The walls of Borobodur have impressions and carvings that speak of Buddhism. At the summit, a number of bell-shaped stupas line up that make Borobodur shaped like a crown. The landscape of Yogyakarta and neighboring areas can be viewed at the top. Borobodur is proof that Java has a colorful mix of various cultures and religion. Javans who live in Yogyakarta are proud to have Borobodur as a popular landmark. The largest stupa is a bit far from the city's heart. While the Borobodur compound is serene, Yogyakarta's city proper is bustling with vehicles, bars and shopping places. Although it's a bit distant, still, many visitors find a way to see first hand this exotic beauty. Apart from Borobodur, Yogyakarta is known to be the center of education in the Indonesian archipelago. It also has other major attractions like the Prambanan which is a Hindu monument.

Quick Tips:

Since it's a bit far from the center of the city, you have to bring all your necessities when going to Borobodur, including water, a face towel or hanky and a cap. Just bring a light backpack with you so it would be easy for you when you do your climb. Bring as many extra batteries if possible. You wouldn't want your camera to go dead on you when you already reach the peak of the monument. Miniature Borobodurs are sold at the base of the monument and at the compound. Try to strike a bargain price when you opt to buy one of these souvenirs.

Best Way To Get Around:

If you are coming in from Jakarta or Denpasar in Bali, get a plane or a train to Yogyakarta. Planes are faster but more expensive while trains are less comfortable, time-consuming and a bit cheaper. From Yogyakarta, there are taxis that will take you to the cultural site, but if you are going in group, rent a van instead. Don't forget to haggle about the price. Locate the local tourism office for assistance. Better yet, if you have friends, they can take you around. Once at the compound, a hike or walk is suggested.

Wisma Nendra is found in the heart of the city. It is near the malls, the shopping places, and the restaurants. In fact, it is very convenient to stay in this hotel because of its accessibility. Just across the street are small shops and art galleries.

Its rooms are clean and just right for two people. The toilets have the amenities needed for any traveler. There are TV sets and air-conditioning units available in every room that will give you the comfort and entertainment you need at night.

There are also function rooms available for seminars or conferences. The food they serve is authentic Indonesian food that is pleasing to the palate. It's not a very large hotel, but it is spacious enough for those who value space and privacy.

Borobudur is the largest stupa in the world. Built centuries ago, it shows about the Buddhists of Java that once came to this island. It has carvings on its walls similar to other Buddhist monuments found in Thailand and India. It’s a steep climb, but once on top, the beauty of the land reveals the grandeur of Borobodur. It has a different kind of beauty that is comparable with Angkor Wat. What keeps tourists to flock to Borobodur is because of its mystique. The question hanging on everyone's head about the Mexican pyramids is a bit similar to those who have been to Borobodur. How did they build such beauty? Of all the places I've been to, Borobodur stands out because it is different. It's not something that you can see everywhere. It has some kind of mysticism that gets one to be in awe when viewing the spectacular architecture.