1. Home
  2. Indonesia
  3. Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta

The cultural center of Java, Yogyakarta is home to approximately half a million inhabitants. Unique to Indonesia, Yogyakarta is a special region ruled by a sultan - the result of clever diplomacy and supporting the right factions at the right times. While the city has, in recent years, seen substantial development and construction, it has managed to preserve its cultural heritage.

Traditional arts such as batik making, puppet shows, and gamelan music, which features a variety of instruments including xylophones, drums, gongs and bamboo flutes, are celebrated here, as is contemporary art. Yogyakarta has a thriving art scene, and it is home to independent film communities, musicians, as well as performance and visual artists. As a result of these efforts, as well as its proximity to the magnificent Borobudur, Yogyakarta has become the premier tourist destination in Java.

Must-see sights and activities include the Buddhist monument of Borobudur; the sumptuous, well-rehearsed Ramayana ballet, held amidst the ruins of the imposing Prambanan temple complex; and the huge, beautifully built palace of Kraton Ngayogyakarta.

Experiences

A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.

Borobudur

Explore the magnificent 9th-century temples of Borobudur, the largest Buddhist monument in the world. Borobudur was nearly reclaimed by the jungle after the people of Java abandoned Buddhism in favor of Islam in the 15th century. In the 19th century, it was uncovered by British and Dutch colonial leaders, and restored to its former glory through a series of excavations and renovations that lasted until 1973. It is the country’s most famous site and a UNESCO World Heritage-protected monument.

Elo River

Depending on the time of year, go rafting and kayaking on the Elo River; the ideal time to go is before or immediately after the end of the rainy season - when the river's waters are high, but not in danger of flooding.

Fort Vrederburg

A Dutch fort dating from the 1760s, Fort Vrederburg was used by both the first sultan of Yogyakarta, as well as Dutch colonial leaders. Located inside the kraton (Sultan's palace), the fort contains dioramas focusing on Indonesia’s struggle for independence over the centuries. Various collections of photographs, paintings, historical objects and other items on the same genre are also to be found.

Kraton Ngayogyakarta

Visit the kraton, or palace, of Yogyakarta. Built in 1755, this huge palace located at the center of a small walled city became the most powerful Javanese state under the leadership of Prince Mangkubumi, who pronounced himself sultan. The current sultan still resides in the palace, a fine example of Javanese palace architecture, and over 25,000 people live within the walls of the kraton compound.

Prambanan and the Ramayana Ballet

The Prambanan is an ancient complex of Hindu temples dating to the 9th century, and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. While reconstruction is ongoing, visitors can still visit much of this complex, which boasts a series of towering, ornate stone temples.

For four nights a week from May to October, a theater outside the park hosts performances of the Ramayana, the Hindu epic centering around the god Rama, his lover Seeta, and the faithful monkey-deity Hanuman. This performance is particularly noteworthy as it is performed by Javanese dancers, who interpret the source material in a unique, refreshing way.

Water Castle

Visit the Water Castle, also known as Taman Sari. This 18th century complex of palaces surrounded by pools and waterways was built as a retreat for the sultan and his entourage. Hidden pleasure rooms built into the design were so cherished by the sultan, that he supposedly had Taman Sari’s Portuguese architect executed so as to keep these rooms secret.

Yogyakarta City Tour

Visit the Kota Gede, which is the capital of the old Islamic Mataram Kingdom. It features excellent architectural examples of that age. Imogiri is the graveyard of royal families in the area.

Indonesia Regions

Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below.

Yogyakarta Itineraries

All Itineraries
Multi Country
Ultra Luxe
Intrepid
A Journey Into the Heart of Java

A Journey Into the Heart of Java

Duration
6 days / 5 nights
Price Per Person
From $4,100
See Itinerary
Borneo & Beyond

Borneo & Beyond

Duration
10 days / 9 nights
Price Per Person
From $6,300
See Itinerary
Temples and Dragons: Singapore to Yogyakarta in Style

Temples and Dragons: Singapore to Yogyakarta in Style

Duration
12 days / 11 nights
Price Per Person
From $19,000
See Itinerary
Around the World in Three Continents

Around the World in Three Continents | Aman Jet Expeditions | September 8–28, 2024

Date
September 8–28, 2024
Price Per Person
$194,888
See Itinerary
Around the World in Three Continents 2025

Around the World in Three Continents 2025 | Aman Jet Expeditions | September 7–27, 2025

Date
September 7–27, 2025
Price Per Person
$198,888
See Itinerary
Far-Reaching Indonesia by Private Jet

Far-Reaching Indonesia by Private Jet

Duration
14 days / 13 nights
Price Per Person
From $127,100
See Itinerary
Indonesia: Ancient Ruins to Pristine Beaches by Private Jet & Yacht

Indonesia: Ancient Ruins to Pristine Beaches by Private Jet & Yacht

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
From $60,800
See Itinerary
Jetting Through Historic Indonesia: Borobudur to Bali

Jetting Through Historic Indonesia: Borobudur to Bali

Duration
11 days / 10 nights
Price Per Person
From $9,500
See Itinerary
An Epic Indonesian Adventure

An Epic Indonesian Adventure

Duration
31 days / 30 nights
Price Per Person
From $24,400
See Itinerary
Amanjiwo
Preferred Hotel

Amanjiwo

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

In the heart of Central Java lies Amanjiwo, built from Yogya, the area’s famed local limestone. The bell-shaped rotunda of the main building echoes the nearby Borobudur, an ancient Buddhist temple and one of Indonesia’s most visited sites. The resort offers unspoiled views of this wonder, in addition to the fertile paddyfields of Kedu Plain. Indonesian and Western cuisine are served in the Dining Room, which is opulently decorated with gold-leaf murals of scenes from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, and breakfast, lunch and light snacks can also be served in the colonnaded Pool Club that extends into the rice fields. Other places for guests to unwind include the library, art gallery, spa, tennis center and outdoor infinity-edge swimming pool. Amanjiwo’s 36 suites are arranged in two crescents, which frame the main building. Each suite is topped with a traditional volcanic ash tinted roof and interiors include hand-carved coconut wood furniture, exotic Javanese textiles and antique glass paintings. Wireless broadband access is available in all public spaces and in all accommodations.

See Hotel
Hotel Tentrem Yogyakarta

Hotel Tentrem Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, Indonesia


Hotel Tentrem Yogyakarta takes its inspiration from a Javanese word that, in their culture, refers to a peaceful, tranquil, and calm state of being. This independent hotel prides itself on providing a quality experience to its guests by focusing on every detail. The property is situated just 5 minutes from downtown Yogyakarta and 20 minutes from the airport. Dining options include Kayumanis Coffee Shop for breakfast, lunch and dinner; Eboni Bar and Lounge for light fare and drinks; and The Grand Duck King for lunch and dinner. 


Mesastila

Mesastila

Yogyakarta, Indonesia

Formerly Losari Spa Retreat, Mesastila reopened as a dedicated wellness resort in November 2011. Located in 22 acres of lush coffee plantation, it is a wonderful 100-yr old property dating from colonial times. Its private villas, ranging from 80 to 135m2 in size, come equipped with LCD cable TV, CD/DVD/radio, minibar, tea/coffee facilities, WiFi, and balcony/terrace. As well as a restaurant & bar, the resort also offers an outdoor pool, 9-hole golf course, spa, table tennis, tennis, snooker and mountain bike rental.
Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta

Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, Indonesia


The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta is situated in the heart of Yogyakarta just minutes from the popular Malioboro shopping district and 15 minutes from Yogyakarta International Airport. The hotel was originally commissioned in 1918 to be built as the private residence for a wealthy Chinese merchant. Later, the building served as the Chinese consulate. Asian and European influence can be seen in each of the hotel’s 144 rooms and suites, each with its own private balcony. Amenities include a spa, swimming pool, and fitness center. Dining options include Paprika, which offers Indonesian, Chinese, and Western cuisine and the 1918’s Terrace Lounge. Vino Bar offers a wine and cocktail selection.


Plataran Borobudur

Plataran Borobudur

Yogyakarta, Indonesia


The Plataran Borobudur is a comfortable eco-friendly resort and spa located in Borobudur, an area situated in between two volcanoes in Central Java. The villas offer views of the Borobudur Temple, Mount Merapi, and the surrounding teak forests. The Plataran Borobudur is located approximately 1 ½ hours from the international airport that services Yogyakarta. Facilities include the Padma Spa Borobudur, a salon, fitness center, playground for children, and organic garden. Dining options at the resort include the Patio Lounge and Restaurant, the Stupa Lounge, and the Kastil Royal Dining Room.


Multi-Country Specialists

Indonesia Goes Well With

Why Remote Lands?

Exclusively Asia

With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.

Travelogues

An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.

Music and Dance in Indonesia

Author
Remote Lands
Venture into beautiful Indonesia to discover its very heart and soul. A country of long and fascinating history, diverse cultures and rich traditions, Indonesia’s visual arts play an integral role in day-to-day life and special occasions.
Read Article

What Others Say

Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.

New York family

New York family

We had a great experience working with Remote Lands... We would definitely work with you again and recommend you to our friends.

Cambodia, Indonesia

A Connecticut family

A Connecticut family

What can we say other than wow! Today's visit with the Prince of Bali was like stepping onto the set of a movie or going back in time to a bygone era.

Indonesia

A Couple from Virginia

A Couple from Virginia

Overall, the trip was fun and interesting and it was comforting to know that Remote Lands was behind the scenes.

Indonesia, Singapore

More Testimonials
Travel + Leisure
Financial Times
The Wall Street Journal
The New York Times
Departures magazine
Condé Nast Traveler
Press