Exploring Yogyakarta on a Budget: A Backpacker’s Adventure
Welcome to Yogyakarta, a vibrant city in Indonesia that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure. If you’re a backpacker who loves to explore new places on a budget, then Yogyakarta should be at the top of your travel list. With its affordable accommodations, delicious street food, and numerous attractions, this city has everything you need for an unforgettable adventure. In this blog post, we will provide you with detailed information on the history and culture of the tourist spots, preparation for your journey, activities to do at each destination, money-saving tips, transportation options, alternative attractions, recommended dining spots, accommodation options, and tips for family vacations. Let’s dive in!
Destination 1: Borobudur Temple
As a backpacker in Yogyakarta, your journey should start with a visit to the iconic Borobudur Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only famous for its stunning architecture but also its rich history. Built in the 9th century, Borobudur Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and attracts millions of visitors each year.
History and Culture: Borobudur Temple was built during the reign of the Sailendra Dynasty and served as a place of worship for Buddhists. The temple consists of nine stacked platforms adorned with intricate relief panels that depict various aspects of Buddhist teachings. Exploring these panels will give you a deeper understanding of Buddhism and its influence on Indonesian culture.
Preparation: Before visiting Borobudur Temple, make sure to wear comfortable clothing as you’ll need to climb steep stairs to reach the top. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as the temple complex can get hot and crowded. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views from the top!
Activities: Once you arrive at Borobudur Temple, take your time to explore each level and admire the intricate carvings. Climb to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. You can also join a sunrise or sunset tour for a more magical experience.
Tips: To save money, visit Borobudur Temple during weekdays when the entrance fee is lower. Avoid weekends and public holidays when it gets crowded. Additionally, hiring a local guide will enhance your experience by providing insightful information about the temple’s history and symbolism.
Getting There: From Yogyakarta’s Adisucipto International Airport, you can take a taxi or a Grab car to Borobudur Temple. The journey takes approximately 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Borobudur Temple is during the dry season, which falls between April and October. The weather is pleasant, and you’ll have a better chance of catching a clear sunrise or sunset.
Local Language: The local language in Yogyakarta is Javanese, but most people in the tourism industry speak English. However, learning a few basic Javanese phrases such as “thank you” (matur nuwun) and “hello” (halo) will always be appreciated by the locals.
Facilities: Borobudur Temple offers basic facilities such as clean toilets, food stalls, and souvenir shops. You can also find local vendors selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs outside the temple complex.
Further Adventure: If you’re up for more adventure, consider exploring the nearby Mendut Temple and Pawon Temple. These temples are often visited in combination with Borobudur and provide a deeper insight into the region’s history and religious significance.
Safety Tips: While visiting Borobudur Temple, be cautious of your belongings and avoid displaying expensive items. It’s also important to follow the rules and regulations set by the temple management to ensure the preservation of this cultural treasure.
Local Tips: For a more immersive experience, try wearing traditional Javanese attire called “kebaya” or “batik” when visiting Borobudur Temple. Locals will appreciate your efforts to embrace their culture.
Transportation: In Yogyakarta, you can easily get around using public transportation such as TransJogja buses or traditional modes like becak (trishaws) and ojek (motorcycle taxis). These options are not only affordable but also allow you to experience the local way of getting around.
Alternative Attractions: If you’re looking for alternative attractions in Yogyakarta, consider visiting Prambanan Temple, Sultan’s Palace (Kraton), or exploring the underground tunnels of Goa Jomblang. These sites offer unique experiences that showcase different aspects of Yogyakarta’s history and culture.
Recommended Dining Spots: After a day of exploring, satisfy your taste buds at local eateries that offer delicious and affordable Javanese cuisine. Some recommended dining spots include Gudeg Yu Djum, Warung Handayani, and Bakmi Pak Pele.
Accommodation: Yogyakarta offers a wide range of budget-friendly accommodations such as guesthouses, homestays, and backpacker hostels. Some popular options include Losmen Setia Kawan, EDU Hostel, and Ostic House.
Shopping and Souvenirs: Don’t forget to buy some souvenirs to remember your trip to Yogyakarta. Malioboro Street is a popular shopping destination where you can find traditional handicrafts, batik clothes, and local delicacies. Bargaining is common in this area, so make sure to negotiate for the best price!
Family Vacation Tips: If you’re traveling with family, consider visiting attractions such as Taman Pintar Science Park or De Mata Trick Eye Museum. These places offer interactive and educational experiences that will entertain both children and adults.
Estimated Budget: For a one-week trip to Yogyakarta as a backpacker, you can expect to spend around $300-$400 for accommodation, food, transportation, and entrance fees to major attractions. This estimate may vary depending on your preferences and spending habits.
Itinerary for 1 Week:
- Day 1: Arrival at Yogyakarta, explore Malioboro Street
- Day 2: Visit Borobudur Temple
- Day 3: Explore Prambanan Temple and Sultan’s Palace
- Day 4: Visit Mendut Temple and Pawon Temple
- Day 5: Explore Goa Jomblang
- Day 6: Visit Taman Sari Water Castle and Alun-Alun Kidul
- Day 7: Explore local markets and depart from Yogyakarta
Itinerary for 10 Days:
- Day 1-2: Same as the 1-week itinerary
- Day 3: Visit Merapi Volcano and take a lava tour
- Day 4: Explore Timang Beach and ride the gondola
- Day 5: Visit Kalibiru National Park and enjoy the scenic views
- Day 6-9: Free days for further exploration or relaxation
- Day 10: Depart from Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta is a treasure trove of history, culture, and adventure that can be explored without breaking the bank. With careful planning, a sense of adventure, and an open mind, you can have an incredible backpacking experience in this enchanting city. So pack your bags, grab your map, and get ready to embark on a budget-friendly adventure in Yogyakarta!