Yogyakarta

Borobudur temple.

The city of Yogyakarta in the center of Java was an interesting stop on my way west. It's famous for it's two ancient temples: Borobudur (Buddhist) and Prambanan (Hinduism). They are located outside of the city, but can be easily reached by local bus. They are quite fare apart, so using a day for each is less stressful. In the city itself there are a few interesting spot like the Kraton, the sultan's palace.

One think to be careful is the Batik sellers. You will most likely meet a really friendly local, who will chat with you, advises you on what to see, sometimes telling you they have a brother/sister living in your country (they know a few words in many languages). In the end they will always take you to the "only original" Batik art gallery of the city. It's just a shop where they will try to sell you Batik art. They never were too pushy with me, so I could easily say that I wasn't interested and walk off, even when I was already in the store. It's still interesting to go in one of those shop once because they will explain to you how they make the Batik art. Just be sure before getting in that there are no entrance fee and don't follow somebody in a shady place. There are a lot of Batik shops on the main touristic street.

Borobudur

Prambanan

Prambanan

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