With its revolutionary architecture and rich history, it’s no wonder that Candi Borobudur has been recognised as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Its magnificence so undeniable that it overshadows the regency this historic site resides, Magelang. Yes, not Yogyakarta.
In truth, however, hidden amongst both Candi Borobudur and the town as well as regency of Magelang are diverse, fascinating tales and adventures waiting to be uncovered. From natural reserves, ancient customs, to state-of-the-art technofest; everything you wish for is here, and we’ve tried them all for you.
For this special trip, we have invited the beautiful actress, Tara Basro, to come along and experience all the wonderful attractions that Magelang has to offer.
“The last time I was in Candi Borobudur is when I was just a girl, I didn’t expect that there are tonnes of fun activities to do here now,” Tara confessed. Other than its majestic facade and history filled to the brim, Borobudur also offers a variety of attractions that will only enrich your experience here.
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Tips: Take a moment to stop on the Borobudur – Ngadiharjo Street to view the expanse of rice fields with the iconic stupas of the Borobudur temple as a backdrop.
Tara says: “It’s so exciting to ride a bicycle around Borobudur and to be able to see the beautiful rice fields!”
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Tips: Request the guide to take you to the Menoreh slope to enjoy the amazing mountain
panorama!
Tara says: “I had no idea that we could ride a vintage VW here! Beautiful sceneries and crisp fresh air—how blissful!”
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Tips: Spot the incomplete Buddha statue in the museum complex that was supposed to be fitted at the top of the Borobudur Temple.
Tara says: “The museum is amazing! I learned so many new things about the Borobudur Temple that I never knew before.”
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Tips: Make sure you pay attention to the details on the screen, as the facility is equipped with a motion-sensor technology which allows you to interact with the animation using body movements.
Tara says: “This new interactive content is super fun and interesting! Definitely a must-try!”
After you’ve explored Candi Borobudur to your heart’s content, do not hesitate to venture out to Magelang. Both the district and the town itself are riddled with hidden gems that are begging to be discovered. From the history buffs, or the children of nature, to the art enthusiasts—there’s something for everyone. We guarantee you’d want to spend another night or two in Magelang.
Location: Desa Klipoh. Jalan Banjaran 1, Karanganyar, Borobudur, Magelang(4,6 km/12 minutes by car from Borobudur Temple)
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Tara says: “I’m so happy to be able to learn how to make pottery while interacting with the local residents.”
Location: Umbul Temple. Jalan Candi Umbul, Kartoharjo, Grabag, Magelang(35 km/58 minutes by car from Borobudur Temple)
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Location: Punthuk Setumbu. Jalan Borobudur Ngadiharjo KM 3, Karangrejo,Borobudur, Magelang (4.8 km/13 minutes by car from Borobudur Temple)
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Location: Ketep Pass. Jalan Blabak Boyolali KM 16, Ketep, Sawangan,Magelang (27.9 km/42 minutes by car from Borobudur Temple)
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Located within the city center, this hotel is perfect for travelling to all the tourist spots around Magelang City.
Atria Hotel
8.7/10
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Jenderal Sudirman, Magelang City
Rp 826.199
Rp 619.650
Connected to the Armada Town Square Mall, this hotel provides the ultimate convenience if you wish to shop.
Grand Artos Hotel & Convention
8.8/10
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Mayjen Bambang Soegeng, Magelang City
Rp 847.825
Rp 635.870
With its spacious rooms, private pools and breathtaking views of the Borobudur Temple and Menoreh Hill, this is one of the best resorts if you're looking for a place to pamper yourself.
Plataran Borobudur Resort and Spa
9.5/10
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Spacious rooms, private pools and breathtaking views of the Borobudur Temple and Menoreh Hill
Rp 4.704.480
Rp 4.494.045
Other than just a place to stay the night over, MesaStila offers complete relaxation and recreation amenities on top of a facility where visitors can learn more about the Javanese traditions.
MesaStila Resort & Spa
8.9/10
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Losari, Magelang District
Rp 2.632.500
Rp 2.469.708
The most common and convenient route to get to Magelang is through Yogyakarta. Almostall major airports in Indonesia have direct flights to Adisutjipto International Airport inYogyakarta which is the closest airport to Magelang.
From Adisutjipto International Airport, you have to continue by land transport – you can take the bus which costs around IDR 30,000 – IDR 133,000 depending on the bus provider, bus class type and distance travelled.
“In the past 2 years, Magelang has developed rapidly as a tourist destination. We now have so much more to offer than just the Borobudur Temple. We have developed our own identity.”
- Nuryazid, Kepala Dusun Kurahan & Ketua Pengelola Punthuk Setumbu
“There are so many heritage sites that haven’t been fully explored in Magelang. This is a place where tourists can truly learn about our ancestors’ tradition.”
- Supoyo, Head of the Pottery Craftsman Association
“Magelang has so much to offer. It has beautiful rice terraces, exciting city layout, fresh air and not to mention, one of the wonders of the world, the Borobudur Temple.”
- Apollo, Owner of Volkswagen Tour
“If you are sick of going to the hospital, come and soak in Umbul Temple. You don’t have to waste money going to the doctor.”
- Iswanto, Keeper of Umbul Temple
“The unique combination of beautiful natural landscape and abundance of historical sites makes Magelang the perfect travel destination.”
- Sudarmanto, Head of Operations of Ketep Pass