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Borobudur is an amazing, must see 9th century Buddhist temple, located close to the town of Muntilan in Java (Indonesia). It lies 25 miles north west of Yogyagakarta and 50 miles west of Surakarta. Borobudur sits in an elevated area between 2 volcanoes and 2 rivers. This sacred site is considered as the world’s largest Buddhist temple and consists of 9 stacked platforms, of which, 6 are square, 3 are circular and the top capped with a central dome. It is decorated with over 500 Buddha statues.

Bizarrely, Borobudur was abandoned following the 14th century decline of Hinduism in Java and its conversion to Islam. The site has since been preserved through a number of renovations. The largest project was undertaken between 1975 and 1982 by the Indonesian government and UNESCO. This followed with the monument’s listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Borobudur is regarded, as the largest Buddhist temple in the world, and ranks alongside Bagan in Myanmar (Burma) and Angkor Wat in Cambodia, as one of the greatest archaeological sites found within South East Asia. The site remains very popular for pilgrimages and is the single most visited attraction in Indonesia. Unfortunately, the high density of tourists climbing Borobudur’s steps have caused major erosion to the site. However, to avoid further wear and tear, 2 main sections of Borobudur steps have been covered with a wooden structure to help protect the walkways.

For more information on this stunning landmark that can be included as part of a tour organised by Tour East, please contact us on: info@select-rep.com

Marcus from Select Representation visited Borobudur in 2018, on route to the island of Bali, to visit our 2 wonderful resorts.  Bali Mandira Beach Resort & Spa located in Legion and the Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso in Nusa Dua / Tangjung Benoa.