Cycling the Prambanan UNESCO Temples & Plaosan from Yogyakarta
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5h
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About this experience
Experience Java's cultural landscape from a bicycle saddle on this half-day cycling adventure. Go beyond tourist buses into authentic rural Java, where UNESCO Prambanan Temple rises from verdant rice fields.
While Prambanan is known for its 9th-century Hindu temples, the surrounding area offers rural charm. Lush rice paddies, cornfields, and tobacco plantations paint the landscape, while traditional wooden houses add authenticity. Life moves at a slower pace, with agriculture and handicraft forming the local economy's backbone.
Beginning at Opak River Bridge near Sambisari Temple, cycle through rice farming areas with stops at a traditional market and small industries. Photo stop at Plaosan Temple before concluding at iconic Prambanan.
This tour maintains a relaxed pace with frequent stops for photography and cultural explanations, accessible for basic fitness levels.
Duration: ~2 hours, 10 km.
Available options
Private Tour (25-26)
Pickup included
What's included
Use of a well-maintained bicycle during the tour, complete with helmet
All applicable taxes and service charges
All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.
A half-day tour with a professional English-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We include a morning pick-up from your hotel in Yogyakarta, and a short drive will bring you to the main starting point of this great, half-day cycling experience. During a short safety briefing, your bicycle will be set for a comfortable 2.5-hour ride through the local landscape, following paths and roads where cars not always can reach. Cycling to explore is the name of the game here. The Prambanan Temple and its surroundings, Indonesia’s largest, and one of the most beautiful Hindu temple complexes in Indonesia are the star attractions. Built in the 9th century, today, after extensive restoration projects, only the three main venerable sanctuaries, and three of the slightly smaller complexes, are still standing.
2
Stop 2
With plenty of stops, your guide will tell you not only about the importance of the temple but also highlight what makes this region so unforgettable. You’ll gain a deep respect and understanding for farmers and local villagers on how they’re making a living by cultivating and traditionally irrigating the land, planting, tending and harvesting, often only done by hand. Children often play around the lands where the parents are tending to their crop that offers pleasant sceneries while you cycle around.
A stop at the Boko Temple is included, complemented with amazing views await once you reach the top of the hill where coconut trees, rice paddy fields and the green lands dominate the landscape up to the horizon.
From the moment you sit comfortably on your bike saddle until we reach the final stop where you will be brought back to your hotel, we guarantee a slightly different perspective of seeing this Hindu marvel and its scenery when touring around by car.
What's not included
Tours, inclusions of any kind and other services that are not outlined in the tour description
Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees
Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.
Single supplement charges for single travelers, where applicable
Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point
Transfers from any airport or resorts located outside the general pick-up and drop-off locations
Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)
Supplements for transfers outside the general area
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This tour is operated on a full private basis with an English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply
Not wheelchair accessible. Not stroller accessible. Not suitable for pets
No public transportation nearby
Infants must not sit on laps. Infant seats unavailable
Return transfers apply only for customers staying in downtown Yogyakarta; transfers outside these areas, including Borobudur, Prambanan regions and Yogyakarta International Airport, are excluded and subject to supplements
Light hills, unequal terrain and occasional bike carrying may be expected
A minimal degree of fitness is required
This bicycle tour is recreational and includes various stops
Pick-up time will be confirmed after reservation or the day before departure if not possible in advance
Pick-up and drop-off may not be available at private residences or non-registered accommodations; a nearby hotel may be requested
Natural elements may damage electronic equipment; customers are responsible for protecting their devices
Sunglasses, hat/cap and high SPF sunscreen are strongly recommended
Strict dress code applies at royal temples and palaces; shoulders must be covered and clothing must fall below the knees
Obscene or disrespectful clothing may result in refused entry
Correct hotel information is the customer’s responsibility; changes within 24 hours are subject to request
No-shows or accommodation changes without prior confirmation may result in cancellation charges
This tour operates only in the morning
Changes may occur due to weather or safety conditions
Flora, fauna and environmental protection principles are strictly respected
Hotel pickup usually starts 30–60 minutes before departure; exact time advised on reconfirmation
Important notes
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.
About Yogyakarta
Yogyakarta, known as the cultural heart of Java, is a vibrant city rich in history, art, and tradition. As the only royal city in Indonesia, it offers a unique blend of Javanese heritage, modern university life, and stunning natural surroundings, including the iconic Borobudur and Prambanan temples.
Top Attractions
Borobudur Temple
Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views.
Historical/Religious
Half-day to full day
IDR 50,000 - 250,000 depending on the view
Prambanan Temple
Prambanan is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its towering spires and beautiful architecture.
Historical/Religious
Half-day to full day
IDR 50,000 - 150,000 depending on the view
Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
The Kraton is the royal palace of the Sultan of Yogyakarta and a symbol of Javanese culture and tradition. It houses museums, batik workshops, and traditional performances.
Historical/Cultural
2-3 hours
IDR 10,000 - 25,000
Malioboro Street
Malioboro Street is the heart of Yogyakarta's shopping and cultural scene. It is lined with shops, street vendors, and traditional markets selling batik, souvenirs, and local snacks.
Shopping/Cultural
Half-day to full day
Varies depending on purchases
Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi is an active volcano near Yogyakarta, offering stunning views and adventurous activities like hiking and jeep tours.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
IDR 500,000 - 1,500,000 for jeep tours
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gudeg
A traditional Javanese dish made from young unripe jackfruit boiled for several hours with palm sugar, and coconut milk. It is served with hard-boiled egg, fried tofu and tempeh, and sometimes also with jackfruit core (nungu), and sambal.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (check for specific preparations)
Nasi Kuning
Yellow rice cooked with turmeric, served with various side dishes such as fried chicken, tempeh, tofu, and vegetables.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Soto Betawi
A rich and spicy soup made with cow or buffalo meat, coconut milk, and various herbs and spices. It is served with rice, fried tofu, and tempeh.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, vegetarian options may be available
Klepon
Sweet rice cake balls filled with palm sugar and coated with grated coconut.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking Mount Merapi
Caving in Jomblang Cave
Jeep tours
Visiting traditional markets
Exploring batik workshops
Enjoying street food
Visiting Kraton Ngayogyakarta Hadiningrat
Watching traditional dance performances
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May to September)
The dry season offers the best weather for exploring Yogyakarta's outdoor attractions and temples. The skies are clear, and rainfall is minimal.
25°C to 32°C
77°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Indonesian
- Widely spoken: Javanese, English (moderately spoken)
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Yogyakarta is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of pickpockets
Getting there
By air
- Adisucipto International Airport • 5 km from city center
By train
Tugu Yogyakarta Station, Lempuyangan Station
By bus
Giwangan Bus Terminal, Jomblang Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The Trans Jogja bus system is an affordable and efficient way to get around the city. Buses are air-conditioned and have designated stops.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Gojek, Grab
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Malioboro
Kraton
Sleman
Day trips
Borobudur Temple
40 km • Half-day to full day
Explore the largest Buddhist temple in the world and marvel at its intricate carvings and stunning sunrise views.
Prambanan Temple
17 km • Half-day to full day
Visit the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and enjoy the Ramayana Ballet performance in the evening.
Mount Merapi
30 km • Full day
Experience the thrill of exploring an active volcano with jeep tours and hiking adventures.
Festivals
Yogyakarta Cultural Festival • June to July
Sultan's Birthday Celebration • June 10-12
Malioboro Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and authentic experience of Yogyakarta's cultural and historical sites
- Try local street food and snacks, but be cautious and choose busy stalls with high turnover
- Bargain for better prices when shopping, especially in markets and street vendors
- Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious and cultural sites
- Learn a few basic phrases in Indonesian or Javanese to enhance your interaction with locals
$155
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
