2013 - Java, Indonesia (Part 3 - Yogjakarta & Prambanan)
Another magnificent set of temples in Yogjakarta
Thursday 18 July 2013 - Thursday 18 July 2013
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2013 Java
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Thursday 18 July
Today was a trip out to the Prambanan Temple complex. This is very close to the city and can be reached on a 1A bus for the vast sum of 3000 Rupiah (30 cents). It is quite expensive to get in (171000 R / $19). It is totally different from the Borobudur temple as it is a Hindu temple and it thus sharp edges, pointy bits and very detailed carvings. It is being restored back to its former glory due to centuries of erosion and earthquakes. For a major site, it was not too crowded at all and it easy to find a quite place for contemplation. Sarongs are required to be worn as it is a working temple and in order to enter the central section hard hats are necessary due to it being a bit fragile in places.
A panoramic view of the complex.
The lintel over one of the many doorways.
The main shrines dedicated to Shiva.
Detail on the shrines.
Detail on the main shrine.
The courtyard and outer shrines.
Hard hats required for the main shrine.
One of the outer shrines.
A workman restoring the complex.
Prambanan Temple
Looking towards Prambanan Temple from the north.
800 metres to the north is a Buddhist temple Candi Sewu. This is currently in many piles waiting to be restored. The central section and the gate guardians have already been restored. There was hardly anyone there and so could wander around taking it all in.
Candi Sewu.
The reconstructed gate guardian at Candi Sewu.
An outer shrine.
The main part of Candi Sewu.
Detail on Candi Sewu.
Candi Sewu.
A rather bad selfie at Candi Sewu. Although, is it classed as a selfie if the camera is 10 metres away balanced rather precariously on a pile of rubble?
Back to city, lunch on Maliboro Road and a relaxing afternoon.
Dinner was interesting. A little way down the road from the hotel was a small restaurant that looked as though it was a little old lady's front room. It had only two tables and a small menu written on a blackboard on the wall. Dinner (rice, vegetables peanut sauce) was very nice but the customary fried egg was stone cold. When she asked me why I did not eat it, she did not understand what the problem was. But for 17000 rupiah ($2) it was good value.
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