Amidst the serene hills and dewy morning air, stands majestically a cultural and spiritual relic that dates back to the 8th century: Borobudur Temple.
Located in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia, Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world-an ancient architectural masterpiece that is still a center of pilgrimage, contemplation, and awe for travelers from all over the world.
Getting to know Borobudur Temple
If one were to ask, “Is there one place in Southeast Asia that is most recommended to visit?” then Borobudur Temple should be the answer.
Built during the Sailendra Dynasty around 800 AD, it is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. The building features a mandala style that reflects the concept of the universe in Buddhism, and functions as a place of worship as well as a spiritual pilgrimage destination.
Not only awe-inspiring in terms of architecture and spirituality, Borobudur also holds appeal in terms of the experiences offered to visitors. Every step stepped, every relief read, seems to take us on a journey towards enlightenment - from the world of lust to the highest level of wisdom.
Temple Structure and Philosophy
The temple structure is box-shaped with four entrances, and the center point is circular. There are two main parts: the world realm divided into three zones on the outside, and the nirvana realm at the center.
The zones consist of:
- Kamadhatu, with 160 reliefs depicting the worldly life that humans are living.
- Rupadhatu, the transitional zone from worldly life, containing 328 Buddha statues and 1,300 reliefs including the stories of Gandawyuha, Lalitawistara, Jataka, and Awadana.
- Arupadhatu, the highest zone symbolizing the realm of nirvana, the place of highest spiritual attainment.
Atmosphere and Experience
No wonder many domestic and foreign tourists come to this place. Some of them come not just to take pictures, but to feel the silence and the spiritual energy that flows slowly.
The best time to visit is early morning, when the sky begins to glow and the sunlight appears behind the stupas-a moment that is often considered sacred by visitors.
From the top of the temple, you can also see a panoramic view of the fortified mountains and Mount Merapi towering above, like a living painting.
Local Life and Neighborhood Destinations
However, Borobudur is not just about the temple, the warm and traditional life of the Javanese people is also part of the unforgettable experience. Here, Seasians can also take batik classes, watch dance performances, and taste Magelang specialties such as sego megono, senerek soup, and getuk.
Seasians can also explore Yogyakarta, a student city just an hour away from Borobudur. There, Javanese cultural values are still very much present-from the active Palace, the iconic Malioboro Street, to the many art galleries and museums.
For anyone thirsty for a cultural and historical experience, Yogyakarta and Borobudur are an irreplaceable combination.
Closing
Borobudur is not just a place to visit, but a life lesson carved into every piece of volcanic rock. It is where we are invited to understand the meaning of perseverance, feel the close relationship between humans and the universe, and realize the importance of preserving our shared heritage.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern life, Borobudur offers an opportunity to pause, gaze into silence, and contemplate meaning. Here, we don't just look, but truly soak in every second that passes.
For anyone stepping into Southeast Asia for the first time, this experience can be a gateway to a more in-depth journey-whether exploring the surrounding landscape, or delving into one's own inner space.
Seasians, interested in experiencing it for yourself?
Source:
- https://borobudur.injourneydestination.id/sejarah/
- https://bafageh.com/blogs/Menjelajahi-Keindahan-Candi-Borobudur-Pesona-Sejarah-dan-Budaya-di-Tengah-Jawa-Tengah
- https://perizinan.jogjakota.go.id/web/detail/74/yogyakarta,_kota_istimewa_dengan_sejuta_kenangan_dan_keunikan
