© istock/Em Campos
© istock/Em Campos

Central Java


Central Java is located in the heart of the island of Java, and it represents genuine Javanese historical heartland. Nestled between West and East Java, this is a must-see region of Indonesia, with its capital city Semarang....

From urban metropolises to hidden gems for adventurers, Central Java offers some of the best spots to discover in Indonesia. Known as the heart of the Javanese culture and civilization, Central Java is home to the two of the greatest Indonesian monuments – Borobudur and Prambanan. Located only 50 km from each other and dating back to the 9th century, both sanctuaries are enlisted as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple and the single most visited attraction in Indonesia. Its inspiring history, majestic architecture and spiritual importance made this stupa a popular pilgrimage site. Nothing less impressive is the Prambanan complex that consists of massive Hindu temples. Damaged by an earthquake in 2006, this spendid site was restored and reopened to visits. If you are into hiking active volcanoes, choose between Dieng Plateau and Mount Merapi, both of them offering spectacular volcanic experiences and otherworldly landscapes.