From Yogyakarta: Borobudur, Chicken Church & Mendut Temple

Traveling through Indonesia offers a treasure trove of cultural and spiritual sights, but few experiences are as memorable as witnessing the sunrise at Borobudur Temple. This tour, offered by Holy Royal Trans Yogyakarta, promises a combination of awe-inspiring temples, quirky landmarks, and scenic vistas—all within an 8-hour window. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone eager to see Indonesia’s iconic sights with a local guide, this tour has plenty to offer.

What truly sets this experience apart are the stunning sunrise views from Borobudur, the unexpected charm of the Chicken Church, and the serene atmosphere at Mendut Temple. Plus, the tour includes a visit to an artistic Buddhist monastery, adding a touch of spiritual tranquility. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour’s early start and length might not suit everyone, especially those with limited mobility or very tight schedules.

This tour is clearly designed for travelers who value authentic cultural sights, enjoy scenic overlooks, and appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to enhance the experience. It’s ideal for those who want a balanced mix of history, quirkiness, and beautiful landscapes—all wrapped up in a well-organized private group setting.

Good To Know

• Early morning sunrise at Borobudur offers some of the best photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere.
• The Chicken Church provides a unique photo op and panoramic views of the landscape, including Mount Merapi.
• Mendut Temple combines history with tranquil surroundings and features a giant volcanic stone Buddha statue.
• A private guide enhances the experience with local insights and flexibility in the itinerary.
• Comfortable transportation in a well-maintained air-conditioned vehicle ensures a smooth journey.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows canceling up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Morning at Borobudur: Witnessing the Sunrise

The tour begins early with a pickup from your accommodation in Yogyakarta, ensuring you beat the crowds and catch the sunrise. You’ll arrive at Borobudur, one of Indonesia’s most revered sites, in time for the first light. The guided tour here lasts about 2.5 hours, during which your guide will point out architectural details and share insights about this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The experience of watching the sun rise over Borobudur’s terraces is often described as breathtaking. Several reviews highlight the tranquil atmosphere—”Our guide Ugee was really friendly, pointed out all the landmarks and explained to us during the ride,” noted a traveler from Singapore. The early start, while tiring, rewards visitors with fewer travelers and a sense of serenity that’s hard to find during peak hours.

Scenic Break at Bukit Rhema Gereja Merpati Putih

After the temple visit, the tour includes a stop at Bukit Rhema Gereja Merpati Putih, a hilltop church shaped like a giant dove. This spot offers not only a peaceful break but also sweeping views of Borobudur and the surrounding landscape. From here, you can enjoy sights of Mount Merapi & Merbabu to the east and Mount Sumbing & Sindoro to the northwest. It’s a perfect spot for photographs, especially if you love panoramic vistas.

Guests have appreciated the opportunity to relax in this scenic spot, with one reviewer mentioning, “The views of the landscape and the mountains were spectacular, and we enjoyed a peaceful moment away from the crowds.”

The Quirky Chicken Church

Next, the tour moves to the Chicken Church, a church shaped exactly like a chicken. It’s an unexpected sight that adds a touch of humor and whimsy to your day. Located on a hilltop, it offers a chance to photograph this unusual structure against a backdrop of lush greenery and distant mountains.

From reviews, we learn that visitors enjoy the views of Borobudur and the landscape from this vantage point. The Chicken Church isn’t just a photo prop; it’s a fun, memorable stop that gives you a break from the more serious temples.

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Mendut Temple: A Serene Buddhist Sanctuary

The final temple visit is to Mendut Temple, a site known for its impressive volcanic stone Buddha statue. The temple’s calm ambiance and detailed carvings make it a peaceful end to the temple visits. Here, visitors can also explore a nearby Buddhist monastery, adding a spiritual dimension to the experience.

Reviewers have praised the temple’s serene environment and impressive architecture. “You can see a giant Buddha statue made of volcanic stone, which was fascinating,” one guest shared. The temple’s peaceful setting makes it a perfect place to reflect after the busy morning.

Return Journey: Comfort and Convenience

After exploring Mendut, the tour concludes with a comfortable, air-conditioned ride back to Yogyakarta. The small group size and private transport ensure a personalized experience, with the flexibility to customize the final stop or departure time if needed. The overall flow of the tour tends to be smooth, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions along the way.

The Practical Side: What to Know Before You Book

Transportation & Duration: The pickup is included from your accommodation in Yogyakarta, and the entire experience lasts about 8 hours. The vehicle is described as well-maintained and air-conditioned, making the early start more comfortable.

Tour Guide: Conducted in English with a live guide, the tour provides insights and explanations, enriching your understanding of each site. The guide, often praised for friendliness and patience, can answer questions and offer local knowledge.

Group Size & Privacy: This is a private tour, ideal for couples, families, or small groups seeking personalized attention. The small group size ensures a relaxed pace and flexibility.

Cost & Value: While pricing isn’t explicitly mentioned, the tour offers good value considering transport, guide, and entry fees. The early sunrise experience at Borobudur is often regarded as a must-do and justifies the cost for many.

Cancellation & Flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option if your plans change.

Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, and alcohol or drugs are not permitted during the tour. This is primarily a cultural and spiritual experience, so be prepared to dress respectfully.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer from Singapore remarked, “Our guide Ugee was really friendly, pointed out all the landmarks and explained to us during the ride. Was very patient while we went to our activities and was flexible to send us to the locations we want to go to! Really recommend this tour.” This highlights the personalized service and attentive guiding that many find valuable.

Another traveler from Indonesia shared, “Cétait génial. Mon chauffeur/guide Bramm était super sympathique et serviable. Je recommande! 10/10,” emphasizing the warmth and helpfulness of the guides, which can make a big difference in your enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see the must-visit temples around Yogyakarta without the hassle of organizing transport. It’s ideal if you’re eager to experience Borobudur at sunrise—a rare moment of tranquility and beauty. The inclusion of the Chicken Church and Mendut Temple offers a quirky, peaceful, and deeply cultural day out.

Those wanting a private, flexible tour with a knowledgeable guide will find this package particularly attractive. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors, couples, or small groups looking to maximize their sightseeing in a manageable day.

However, if you’re not an early riser or prefer more leisurely mornings, the early start might be a challenge. Also, travelers with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at each site, although the tour’s pace is generally manageable.

The Sum Up

This private Yogyakarta tour offers a well-rounded day that balances iconic sunrise views, quirky landmarks, and peaceful temples. The early morning visit to Borobudur is a highlight, providing stunning photo opportunities and a sense of serenity rarely experienced during busier times. The Chicken Church adds a fun twist, while Mendut Temple offers a tranquil end point for your day.

Overall, it delivers excellent value through personalized guiding, comfortable transport, and flexible scheduling. It’s best suited for those wanting a culturally immersive experience with a mix of history, scenery, and a dash of humor. If you’re after a detailed, authentic, and scenic adventure from Yogyakarta, this tour checks many boxes.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes pickup from your Yogyakarta accommodation, private transportation in a well-maintained air-conditioned vehicle, a live English-speaking guide, entrance fees to Borobudur, Chicken Church, and Mendut Temple, and a Buddhist monastery visit.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, beginning early in the morning to catch the sunrise and ending with a return to your hotel.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but pregnant women are advised not to join, and those with mobility issues should consider walking distances at each site.

What should I wear?
Dress respectfully, especially at religious sites. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s some walking involved. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is also advised for outdoor parts.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, guides are often flexible and can accommodate minor adjustments or additional stops if requested.

What makes the Borobudur sunrise special?
Seeing the first light over the temple, with fewer visitors around, creates a peaceful and photogenic moment that’s hard to replicate later in the day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the vehicle is described as well-maintained and air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride, especially during the early start.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

In essence, this tour offers a balance of cultural depth, scenic beauty, and personalized service, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a meaningful day out around Yogyakarta.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby