Overview
Yogyakarta is situated almost exactly halfway along the length of Java, in an area considered by the Javanese to be the heartland of the country. It’s home to some of the island's most spectacular scenery and oldest traditions. On this extension, you’ll be immersed in the cultural capital of Java, with many influences from Hindu and Buddhist traditions to Dutch colonial designs. Enjoy a sunrise visit to the world’s largest Buddhist monument, take a music lesson or batik dyeing class, and you even have the option for a Jeep excursion. This extension can be taken either before or after your main trip.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive / Yogyakarta
Upon arrival at Yogyakatra Airport, a 1.5-hour transfer brings you to your hotel in Yogyakarta, with the remainder of the day at your leisure. The hotel is ideally situated right downtown so you can get out and explore or choose to relax in your room. Lunch and dinner are on your own. Overnight at The Phoenix Yogyakarta…B
Arrive / Yogyakarta - Day 1
The Phoenix Hotel
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Days 1 to 4 (4 nights)
The lovely Phoenix Hotel was originally built in 1918 as a hotel, then functioned as a private residence until 1951, and later became a colonial landmark in the heart of Yogyakarta. The historic building is a lovely blend of charming Asian and European influences that feel as if you are taking a step back in time. Guestrooms have beautiful wall hangings and private balconies that overlook the courtyard or city. There is a nice pool in the courtyard, and if you have time, savor a glass of wine in their wine bar or head to their terrace lounge where a pianist entertains guests every evening.
Day 2
Yogyakarta / Borobudur Temple Tour / Optional Jeep Excursion
Set out before sunrise for a visit to the Borobudur Temple, the world’s largest Buddhist monument with 2,672 relief panels and originally 504 Buddha statues. "Rediscovered" in 1815, Borobudur has been excavated and returned to its (almost) original glory. The stone relief panels offer a clear glimpse into Buddhist belief and Javanese life 1,000 years ago. It is a magnificent experience to see the sun slowly rise and brighten the whole area. Please note that Borobudur Temple is closed on Mondays.
After returning to the hotel for breakfast, you have the option to head out on a Jeep excursion to discover the northern region of Yogyakarta. You’ll explore the foot of Mount Merapi in an area called Kaliadem, enjoying the winding roads near past lava flows along the way. You will also see the local houses, many of which were destroyed and rebuilt after the massive volcano eruption of 2010. The Jeep tour will take about 1.5 hours, led by an experienced driver. Return to the hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel…B
Yogyakarta / Borobudur Temple Tour / Optional Jeep Excursion - Day 2
The Phoenix Hotel
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Days 1 to 4 (4 nights)
The lovely Phoenix Hotel was originally built in 1918 as a hotel, then functioned as a private residence until 1951, and later became a colonial landmark in the heart of Yogyakarta. The historic building is a lovely blend of charming Asian and European influences that feel as if you are taking a step back in time. Guestrooms have beautiful wall hangings and private balconies that overlook the courtyard or city. There is a nice pool in the courtyard, and if you have time, savor a glass of wine in their wine bar or head to their terrace lounge where a pianist entertains guests every evening.
Day 3
Yogyakarta / Kota Gede / Gamelan Music
Kota Gede, once the seat of the mighty Mataram Empire, is a small city brimming with impressive architecture. During a walking tour, you’ll visit Kota Gede’s market and a mosque believed to be built by Sultan Agung with the help of Buddhists and Hindus who lived in the area. You can see both Hindu and Buddhist details in the architecture. Afterward, learn about traditional Indonesian Gamelan music, created by integrating sounds of gong, kenong, and other musical instruments. You can even try your hand at learning how to play these traditional instruments. Return to the hotel and enjoy the afternoon free at your leisure. Overnight at hotel…B
Yogyakarta / Kota Gede / Gamelan Music - Day 3
The Phoenix Hotel
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Days 1 to 4 (4 nights)
The lovely Phoenix Hotel was originally built in 1918 as a hotel, then functioned as a private residence until 1951, and later became a colonial landmark in the heart of Yogyakarta. The historic building is a lovely blend of charming Asian and European influences that feel as if you are taking a step back in time. Guestrooms have beautiful wall hangings and private balconies that overlook the courtyard or city. There is a nice pool in the courtyard, and if you have time, savor a glass of wine in their wine bar or head to their terrace lounge where a pianist entertains guests every evening.
Day 4
Yogyakarta By Car / Batik Demonstration / Prambanan Temple
Buckle up for a tour of Yogyakarta by car. Your first stop will be the Keraton Palace complex in the city's old quarter, which was once the palace of the sultans. You’ll also visit the Taman Sari Water Palace, a former royal garden with tranquil pools. Batik is a centuries-old Javanese craft that produces beautiful colored designs on textiles by dyeing them, and you’ll have a firsthand experience learning how these textiles are made. Each region has its own unique patterns linked to its cultural heritage. In the late afternoon, you’ll visit Prambanan Temple. Decorated with reliefs illustrating the Ramayana Hindu epic of the three great deities Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, this 8th century temple consists of three main buildings and is surrounded by more than 200 small temples. Return to the hotel for the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight at hotel…B
Please note: Both Keraton Palace and Prambanan Temple are closed on Mondays.
Yogyakarta By Car / Batik Demonstration / Prambanan Temple - Day 4
The Phoenix Hotel
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Days 1 to 4 (4 nights)
The lovely Phoenix Hotel was originally built in 1918 as a hotel, then functioned as a private residence until 1951, and later became a colonial landmark in the heart of Yogyakarta. The historic building is a lovely blend of charming Asian and European influences that feel as if you are taking a step back in time. Guestrooms have beautiful wall hangings and private balconies that overlook the courtyard or city. There is a nice pool in the courtyard, and if you have time, savor a glass of wine in their wine bar or head to their terrace lounge where a pianist entertains guests every evening.
Day 5
Depart
After breakfast, transfer to the Yogyakatra Airport for departure.
