Who doesn't know Prambanan Temple? Standing tall and stunning, this is the largest Hindu temple in Indonesia. Since 1991, Prambanan has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a title that highlights its significance not only for Indonesia but for the world.
With 240 temple structures spread across an area of 390 meters wide, Prambanan rises majestically along the Solo-Yogyakarta main road, Indonesia. Both local and international visitors are left in awe by its breathtaking architecture and the deep history of Prambanan.
If you're curious to learn more, here's everything you need to know about this magnificent temple complex.
History of Prambanan
According to the official site prambanan.injourneydestination.id, the exact date of construction and the ruler who commissioned Prambanan Temple remain uncertain. However, many historians believe that it was built in the mid-9th century during the reign of King Balitung Maha Sambu of the Sanjaya Dynasty.
Prambanan was dedicated to the Trimurti, the three supreme deities in Hinduism. Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver, and Shiva the Destroyer. The original temple complex was designed in a rectangular layout, consisting of three courtyards. These are Jaba (the outer courtyard), Tengahan (the middle courtyard), and Njeron (the inner courtyard).
The temple was first rediscovered in 1814 by Sir Stamford Raffles, who at the time served as the British governor of Java. Since then, Prambanan has undergone several major restorations, with the largest carried out between 1975 and 1982 under the supervision of the Indonesian government and UNESCO.
The Legend of Roro Jonggrang dan the Ramayana Reliefs
One of the most famous legends tied to Prambanan is the love story of Prince Bandung Bondowoso and Princess Roro Jonggrang, the daughter of his enemy. To win her heart, the princess demanded two impossible conditions. These are dig a deep well and build 1.000 temples in a single night.
With the help of his mystical army of spirits, Bandung Bondowoso managed to complete 999 temples. However, Roro Jonggrang sabotaged the process to prevent the last temple from being built. Furious at her betrayal, the prince cursed her, turning her into stone as the final piece that completed the thousand temples.
Inside the temple, visitors can also find exquisite reliefs depicting the Hindu epic Ramayana. The carvings tell the story of how Shinta, Rama's wife, was kidnapped by the demon king Ravana. Also, how Hanuman came to Rama's aid in the quest to rescue her.
How to Get There
Planning to explore the wonders of Prambanan? Getting there is easy with multiple routes to choose from:
- From Yogyakarta Railway Station: Take a commuter line train from Tugu Station to Brambanan Station, then continue by online taxi or local pedicab.
- By Bus from Malioboro: Hop on the Trans Jogja bus (route 1A) from Malioboro shelter, then walk a short distance to the temple.
- By Private Vehicle: Drive along the Solo-Yogyakarta highway. From Yogyakarta, you can access it via the ring road or through Laksda Adisutjipto Street. Prambanan is located at the 16 km mark, north of the road.
Special Performances: Sendratari Ramayana Prambanan
Sendratari Ramayana Prambanan is a traditional dance-drama performance without dialogue that tells the story of the Ramayana. Since 1961, this special show has been staged at an open-air theater with the majestic Prambanan Temple as its backdrop.
This magical performance brings together more than 200 professional dancers and local musicians. Creating a truly memorable and enchanting atmosphere for the audience.
Sendratari Ramayana Prambanan is usually performed every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Open-air performances are held only during the dry season (May-October). Also, during the rainy season (Januari-April and November-December), the show takes place at the indoor Trimurti Stage.
Prambanan Temple is more than just an ancient monument, it is a timeless symbol of Indonesia's cultural and spiritual identity. With its grand architecture, captivating legends, and centuries of history, Prambanan continues to amaze and inspire visitors from all over the world.
A trip to Prambanan is not only about visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But also about experiencing the harmony of art, history, and faith that has endured through generations.
