10 Historical Temples in Magelang that Combine Culture and Natural Beauty

10 Historical Temples in Magelang that Combine Culture and Natural Beauty

Discover the natural beauty and historical stories contained in various historic temples in Magelang, a place that unites culture and natural beauty.

Magelang, a city located in the center of Java Island, is home to several historical temples that reflect the glory of the past.

The temples in this area are not only historical sites, but also offer extraordinary natural panoramas, making it a tourist destination that combines cultural adventure and natural beauty.

For lovers of history, culture and nature, Magelang is a must-visit. Here are 10 historic temples in Magelang that are worth including on your travel list.

1. Mendut Temple

Mendut Temple, located just 3 km from Borobudur Temple on Jalan Mayor Kusen, Magelang, is one of the most famous temples in the area. Built in the 8th century, the temple is rectangular in shape measuring 10 x 10 meters and about 13.3 meters high.

The Magelang Temple is known for its reliefs depicting Buddhist teachings, which are the main attraction for visitors. In addition, Mendut Temple also has a large stupa at its peak, making it an important symbol in Buddhism.

This temple not only functions as a place of worship but also as a cultural site that has deep spiritual meaning.

2. Pawon Temple

Pawon Temple is located about 1.75 km from Borobudur Temple, and is estimated to have been built in the 8th to 9th century AD. This temple is believed to be the place where the ashes of King Indra of the Syailendra Dynasty are stored.

Pawon Temple has a simpler structure compared to Borobudur Temple, but still radiates high spiritual value.

As the gateway to Borobudur Temple, Pawon Temple connects the physical world with the spiritual world in Buddhist teachings, making it a very important place in the religious tradition.

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3. Umbul Temple

Candi Umbul is located in Grabag District, about 9.6 km from Borobudur Temple. What distinguishes Candi Umbul from other temples is the presence of a hot spring which is the main tourist attraction.

The hot springs here have two different pool sizes, and the hot water that comes out from the bottom of the pool provides a refreshing, relaxing sensation.

The name “Umbul” itself comes from the word “mumbul,” which refers to hot water that rises to the surface. Candi Umbul offers a place to rest while enjoying the natural beauty and soothing hot water.

4. Selogriyo Temple

Selogriyo Temple is located on the hillside of Candisari Village, Windusari District. Estimated to have been built in the 8th century by the Sanjaya Dynasty, this temple has quite challenging access.

The path to this temple is narrow and rocky, providing an interesting light trekking experience. In 1998, this temple was damaged by a landslide, but was reconstructed properly in 2005.

Selogriyo Temple now offers stunning natural views and is an ideal place for those who want to enjoy a spiritual atmosphere while adventuring.

5. Gunung Sari Temple

Gunung Sari Temple is located on the slopes of Mount Sumbing, about 35 km from Magelang City. Built in the 9th century, this Hindu temple is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva.

This temple offers a very charming natural view, with cool air and green expanses around the location.

Gunung Sari Temple is a perfect place to enjoy the peace and beauty of nature while exploring the Hindu history contained in the architecture of this temple. There is no entrance fee to visit this temple, making it a very affordable option for tourists.

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6. Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple, located about 15 km from the center of Magelang City, is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built in the 8th to 9th centuries by King Samaratungga of the Syailendra Dynasty, this temple has a stunning layered stupa structure.

The reliefs at Borobudur Temple depict Buddhist teachings and life at that time, making it one of the greatest works of architectural art in the world.

Borobudur Temple is also famous for its stunning sunrise views, making it a very popular tourist destination. The entrance ticket is IDR 50,000 for domestic tourists and IDR 375,000 for foreign tourists.

7. Ngawen Temple

Ngawen Temple, located about 16 km from Magelang City, is a Buddhist temple complex consisting of five small temples located on a terraced punden.

This temple is unique because of the presence of lion statues in the four corners of the temple, giving a different feel compared to other temples in Magelang.

Ngawen Temple also has reliefs depicting the lives of people during the Syailendra Dynasty. This temple does not charge an entrance fee, making it a very affordable place to visit.

8. Lumbung Temple

Lumbung Temple is located in Tlatar Hamlet, Krogowanan Village, Sawangan District, approximately 25 km from Magelang City. This temple is part of a larger temple complex together with Asu Temple and Pendem Temple.

Despite its smaller size, Lumbung Temple has very beautiful reliefs and charming architecture. Built during the Syailendra Dynasty, this temple functions as a place of Buddhist worship. Lumbung Temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and is suitable for those who want to enjoy peace while contemplating.

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9. Asu Sengi Temple

Asu Sengi Temple, located in Candi Pos Hamlet, Sengi Village, Dukun District, about 24 km from Magelang City, is a Hindu temple that was rediscovered after being buried by Mount Merapi’s lava.

The name “Asu” which means “dog” in Javanese, refers to a statue resembling a dog near this temple. This temple is large in size and remains standing strong even though it is buried under lava.

The atmosphere around the temple is very cool and beautiful, and offers a very stunning view of Mount Merapi.

10. Pendem Temple

Pendem Temple is located in Tlatar Hamlet, Krogowanan Village, Sawangan District, approximately 27 km from Magelang City. This temple is mostly still buried underground, giving a mysterious impression to visitors.

With a smaller form, Pendem Temple has beautiful carvings even though many parts of the temple are still buried. This temple is believed to have been a place of worship for Hindus in ancient times.

Located close to Lumbung Temple and Asu Temple, Pendem Temple is part of a temple complex that is interesting to explore. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out Things to do Magelang for more fascinating attractions in the area!

Magelang is a city that offers the perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the grandeur of Borobudur Temple to the natural beauty around Gunung Sari Temple, each temple in Magelang has a rich story and offers a unique experience for visitors.

So, if you want to enjoy the charm of Indonesian history while enjoying the beauty of nature, make sure to visit these 10 historical temples in Magelang.