-Jogjakarta and Borobudur temple

Located on the island of Java, the magnificent Borobudur temple is the world’s biggest Buddhist monument you must visit at least once in your lifetime. The area is surrounded by beautiful scenery of Central Java’s nature that you can only find there.

The temple sits majestically on a hilltop overlooking lush green fields and distant hills. Built between AD 780 and 840 during the reign of Syailendra dynasty, the temple’s design in Gupta architecture reflects India’s influence on the region. However, there are enough indigenous scenes and elements incorporated to make Borobudur uniquely Indonesian.

It covers a total surface area of around 2,500 m2 of Kedu Valley, the southern part of Central Java. The monument is a marvel of design, decorated with 2,672 relief panels and originally 504 Buddha statues, surrounded by green area. The architecture and stonework of this temple have no equal. It was built without using any cement or mortar. The structure is like a set of massive interlocking Lego blocks held together without any glue. It is no wonder that Borobudur is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

The temple has remained strong even through ten centuries of neglect. It was rediscovered in 1814 under the order of Sir Thomas Stanford Raffles. In the 1970s, the Indonesian Government and UNESCO worked together to restore Borobudur to its former majesty. The restoration took eight years to complete, making Borobudur one of Indonesia’s most valuable treasures. That is the reason why you will find a number of restrictions to touch or sit on the site when you visit it. The locals really want to keep the beauty of this temple as it tells the story of their history.

The temple is decorated with stone carvings in bas-relief, representing images from the life of Buddha. Commentators claim that this is the largest and most complete ensemble of Buddhist reliefs in the world, unsurpassed in artistic merit.

-Lombok

Lombok never fails to successfully charm anyone who stumbles upon its beauty. Blessed with abundant natural wonders as well as fascinating cultural heritage, Lombok provides a fantastic getaway for those who are seeking a one-of-a-kind holiday experience. On the southern coast of the island, you can find many mesmerizing beaches and hills that are perfect for winding down. A spectacular mountain stood in the middle of the island, providing a great hiking destination for explorers. The delightful cuisine of the island will leave a lasting impression.