The historic and cultural heartland of Indonesia's most populous island, Central Java is an enchanting region home to fertile highland plains, ancient archeological wonders and friendly people with age-old traditions. Traversing Jogjakarta, Borobudur and Dieng Plateau, this Highlights of Central Java Indonesia tour package blends the immense cultural riches and unsurpassed natural scenery of Central Java into a dazzling five-day journey.

Beginning with Jogjakarta, often referred to as Jogja, this Indonesian tour highlights Javanese culture and arts at its finest and brightest. Discover local textile dyeing techniques at a batik workshop, watch captivating scenes from the Ramayana Hindu epic and visit the Sultan's Kraton and Taman Sari to view traditional royal architecture. A becak- local pedicab- ride to the exotic Birds Market immerses you in Jogja's laidback rhythms, while a horse cart ride through Candirejo unveils a quaint village dominated by smiling locals and smells of local cassava snacks.

Not far from Jogja lies Indonesia's most enviable collection of majestic archeological remains. Mendut and Pawon are outstanding ninth century Buddhist temples with detailed carvings. Nearby, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Borobudur is an amazingly well-preserved monument richly adorned with impressive reliefs and Buddha statues. Awake early to catch the sun rising over this historic gem - a magnificent experience sure to be one of the most memorable highlights of this Indonesia tour.

At the lofty Dieng Plateau, a walk around its crater center reveals centuries-old Hindu shrines and turquoise mineral lakes set amid a foggy valley. Further afield in Ambarawa, spend an afternoon exploring highland coffee plantations to view the harvesting process as well as to savor an aromatic cupping session. Finally, end your Indonesia tour sightseeing with a stop at Gedong Songo, an ancient Hindu complex famed for its striking views of the surrounding volcanic peaks from its high vantage point in the mountains.

After capturing the broad wealth of attractions in Central Java, complete your Indonesia tour journey with a relaxing beach sojourn in Bali or Lombok.

After arriving at the Solo or Jogjakarta Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Jogjakarta by private car. Begin your Jogja sightseeing with a becak ride to a traditional batik factory to observe the deft techniques of skilled craftsmen and you will have a chance to create your own unique piece of batik. This evening, enjoy dinner while being treated to a traditional Ramayana dance show.

Overnight in Jogjakarta.

Today, a half-day city tour introduces you to Jogjakarta's heritage architecture such as the Sultan's Palace, also known as Kraton, and Taman Sari, a water palace and garden. Next, head to the bird market to observe the popular Indonesia tradition of keeping songbirds as pets before getting a taste for local life with a horse cart ride through Candirejo village. Continue to Mendut and Pawon temples, two impressive Buddhist temples that pre-date the nearby Borobudur.

Overnight in Borobudur.

Rise early this morning for a short walk to 'Kendil Stone', the best spot to catch the sunrise over the Borobudur temple complex. After sunrise viewing, head to Borobudur and explore this massive Buddhist sanctuary with your guide before the crowds arrive. You will have the rest of the morning at leisure before the scenic two-hour drive to Wonosobo, the gateway to the Dieng Plateau.

Overnight in Wonosobo

Begin this morning at Dieng Plateau, a misty landscape with mineral lakes and eight Hindu shrines in its crater center. Set off on the two-hour drive to Ambarawa, where you will spend this afternoon touring Losari Plantation to see traditional coffee bean harvesting and sample local Robusta brews. Continue to the nearby Gedong Songo to explore this 8^th-century Hindu site on horseback before returning to Jogjakarta.

Overnight in Jogjakarta.

This last morning, enjoy last minute shopping or sightseeing before transfering to the airport for your onward flight.