OVERVIEW

Exotic temples, scenic views and traditional cultures: this Prambanan, Solo & Sukuh Temple Day Trip is a great introduction to central Java. Begin at the Hindu temples of Prambanan and continue to Solo’s Mangkunegaran Palace which is filled with artifacts and other heritage pieces. After a delicious local lunch continue east through the scenic hills to the unusual Sukuh temple whose architecture is similar to that of the Mayan ruins before returning to Jogjakarta in the late afternoon.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Depart this morning around 08:00AM for the drive to Prambanan. With your guide, explore these ancient Hindu temples at Prambanan, located 17 kilometers from Jogjakarta. Built in the 9^th century, this collection of sharp, jagged temples features three main inner shrines dedicated to the Hindu trinity: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. UNESCO named Prambanan a Heritage Site in 1991. Your guide will explain the history and symbolism of the temples as you walk around.

Note : The May 2006 Jogjakarta earthquake caused significant damage to some parts of Prambanan. The site is open again, but some temples are cordoned off and as of mid-2009 entry into most temples is not allowed.

Continue to Solo, the town once referred to as Surakarta. Upon arrival, visit Mangkunegaran Palace, a repository of classical Javanese art. Built as a palace for a 'junior' line of the royal family in the 18^th century, the splendid building has an extensive collection of 14^th century jewelry, majestic silverworks, traditional Javanese weapons and classical dancing body ornaments.

For lunch today, you'll be treated to a traditional Javanese restaurant, Pecel Solo. The fresh, tasty food is served in a charming old home filled with locals and often accompanied by live gamelan music.

This afternoon continue driving east. You'll ascend a scenic mountain road to reach the isolated 15^th century Sukuh temple. The temple is located 910m above sea level on the slopes of Mt Lawu and is surrounded by spectacular scenery. You'll stop to explore this unique temple with stone carvings of Hindu phallic symbols. Its pyramidal shape is similar in style to the Mayan temples of Central America.

After your visit, return to Jogjakarta arriving early this evening.  (L)

PRICES: Please contact us.

Our Prambanan, Solo & Sukuh Temple Day Trip Services Include:

• Transportation with driver by private air conditioned vehicle
• Service of English speaking local guide
• All entrance fees and activities as mentioned
• Meals as specified (B= Breakfast, L=Lunch, D= Dinner)
  

Our Prambanan, Solo & Sukuh Temple Day Trip Services do not Include:

• Other meals than mentioned
• Other services than mentioned
• Personal travel Insurance
• Gratuities, personal expenses, drinks, and other items.
• Other services not clearly indicated in the Package Inclusion above