Have you been to Borobudur Temple before? It is a place made for you to experience some of the most amazing sunrises and temple ruins in the world.
Borobudur rests in the heart of central Java. From Yogyakarta City, Borobudur temple is an hour’s drive.
Borobudur is recognized by the world as the biggest Buddhist monument. It was named officially in 1991 as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It was built during the 9th century by the Sailendra Dynasty. The marvel at that time had around 504 Buddha statues and 2,672 bas-relief panels in its prime.
Note that when it was boosted, there was no form of mortar or cement that was used. The massive structures were put together professionally with interlocking volcanic stones. This is the reason why the temple is known as one of the seven wonders of the world till today.
Its structure was created in Javanese-Buddhist style. This throws more light on the combination of indigenous cult worship and Buddhist tenets in the bas-reliefs.
The temple comprises of three main tiers – Kamadhatu, Rupadhatu and Arupadhatu. On Vesak day, committed people usually make a pilgrimage by beginning from the bottom. You are free to go to the top of the monument through some passages.
Around 1815, Borobudur was discovered again, it was found under mounds of ash and rock. In 1970, Indonesian government worked with UNESCO to restore the temple to its former state. The project took 8 years to actualize.
Something unusual about this temple is that, unlike other temples in Indonesia, there is no particular style of dress to wear when visiting. Though, it is expected of you to cover up your extremities as a sign of respect to the sanctuary.
With your ticket, you will be given a handy flashlight, but it will be exchanged for a souvenir at the end of the tour.
If there is no form of traffic when climbing to the top, it takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Always be patient because the passages are narrow and the heels may fall you down.
The sunrise starts by 5:26 AM or there about. Try not to get carried away with pictures. You can look around and admire the environment. The view from the top is beautiful.
Around 6 AM, the surroundings will be filled with light which will make you want to explore. The beauty of the temple will make you understand why it is well known and acknowledged by people.
Finally I want to say that, there is a measure that is put in place to protect the site. They have 72 perforated stupas and mudras that stands for the Five Dhyani Buddhas. Never mount or sit on a them.