Prambanan, Hidden temple, & Ramayana Ballet perfomance

Discovering Yogyakarta’s Hidden Treasures: Prambanan, Secret Temples & the Ramayana Ballet

This detailed review looks at a popular 10-hour tour in Yogyakarta that combines the majestic Prambanan Temple, three lesser-known but equally stunning hidden temples (Plaosan, Sojiwan, and Ijo), and the captivating Ramayana Ballet performance. While I haven’t taken this exact trip, I’ve gathered insights from travelers who have, along with the tour details, to give you an honest picture of what to expect.

What really makes this tour stand out are three things: the opportunity to see less crowded, beautiful temples that are often overlooked, the chance to experience Yogyakarta’s scenic landscapes from a motorbike ride, and the chance to enjoy an authentic cultural show under the stars. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves multiple stops within a single day, which could be quite packed for some travelers.

This experience suits those who want to see multiple sites efficiently, appreciate hidden gems, and enjoy a mix of history, nature, and culture—all in one day. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a personalized, small-group adventure with knowledgeable guides.

Good To Know

• Visit three lesser-known temples (Plaosan, Sojiwan, Ijo) for a quieter, more intimate experience.
• Combine history, nature, and culture in a single day, maximizing your time in Yogyakarta.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• A scenic motorcycle ride adds adventure and local flavor to your journey.
• The Ramayana Ballet offers an enchanting cultural finale under the night sky.
• The tour is well-suited for travelers seeking authentic experiences and good value.

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An Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour is designed to hit multiple highlights in Yogyakarta efficiently, with the core focus on experiencing sacred temples and the region’s artistic traditions. The day starts with a pickup from your hotel, after which you’ll hop onto a motorbike for a 30-minute ride through the scenic outskirts of Yogyakarta. The motorcycle transfer adds a sense of adventure and makes the trip feel more personal compared to standard bus tours.

Visiting Prambanan Temple

Your journey begins at Prambanan, famed for its towering, intricate Hindu architecture. A guided tour of approximately two hours offers an in-depth look at the temple complex—its history, architecture, and the stories behind the carvings. Visitors often comment on the well-preserved details and the impressive size of the site, which dominates the landscape.

What’s special? Unlike many tourist-heavy sites, the tour guides do a good job of keeping the group engaged, sharing stories that bring the stones to life. The clarity of the explanations, combined with the ample time to explore and photograph, makes this a rewarding start.

The Hidden Temples: Plaosan, Sojiwan, and Ijo

After Prambanan, the tour takes you to three lesser-visited temples, starting with Plaosan. This site is notably more peaceful and less crowded, perfect for photos and quiet reflection. Reviewers mention it’s big and beautiful, with some even describing it as “standing alone in front of the temple without any people around,” which creates a unique, almost meditative atmosphere.

Next is Sojiwan, a Buddhist temple built around the 8th century. At around an hour’s visit, it offers a glimpse into early religious architecture and a chance to appreciate Yogyakarta’s ancient spiritual history. Its medium size and serene environment let you soak in the surroundings without feeling rushed.

Finally, the climb to Ijo Temple provides a highlight: an elevated view in the late afternoon or sunset. Located on a mountain, it offers spectacular panoramic views of Yogyakarta city below. Many travelers say it’s a perfect spot for sunset photography, with the cityscape as a dramatic backdrop.

The Scenic Journey and Cultural Evening: Ramayana Ballet

After the temple visits, you return to Prambanan for the Ramayana Ballet, staged outdoors in the evening. This traditional dance combines storytelling, dance, and music, re-telling the epic Hindu tale with elaborate costumes and skilled performers. Reviewers praise the performance’s visual spectacle and the talent of the performers.

The performance lasts about two hours, allowing you to sit back and enjoy an authentic cultural experience under the open sky. It’s often considered one of the best ways to experience Yogyakarta’s vibrant art scene after a day of sightseeing.

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The Logistics: How It All Comes Together

The entire day is scheduled to optimize your time, with pickups and drop-offs included in your Yogyakarta accommodation. The tour operates in small groups—limited to two participants—ensuring a more intimate experience and flexibility for stops or photo breaks.

Timing-wise, the day usually starts early to make the most of daylight, especially for the temple visits and sunset at Ijo. The motorcycle ride, lasting about 30 minutes each way, adds a fun, adventurous element that many travelers appreciate.

Cost-wise, the tour offers good value considering the inclusion of multiple sites, a guided experience, transportation, and a cultural show. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance without penalty also adds peace of mind.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently mention guides like Ikbal, who are described as “very safe drivers,” “knowledgeable,” and willing to accommodate special requests such as vegetarian meals or additional photo stops. Their local insights make the experience richer.

Stunning Views & Peaceful Temples: The quieter temples like Plaosan and Ijo provide perfect opportunities for memorable photos and a sense of tranquility absent in busier sites. The sunset view from Ijo Temple is a visual highlight, framing the city and sunset beautifully.

Authentic Cultural Experience: Watching the Ramayana Ballet in an open-air setting adds a magical element—combining movement, music, and storytelling. Many travelers find it a moving way to connect with Indonesian culture.

Efficiency & Variety: Covering temples, scenic views, and cultural entertainment in one day makes this a practical choice for travelers short on time, yet craving an in-depth experience.

What Could Be Better

While the tour is well-organized, the packed schedule might feel rushed for some. If you prefer to linger at each site or enjoy a slower pace, this might not be the best fit. Also, since it’s a small-group tour, the experience hinges on the guide’s ability to manage time and engagement effectively.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour excels for travelers who want a comprehensive and authentic day in Yogyakarta—covering key historical sites and hidden gems without sacrificing quality for quantity. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group intimacy, expert guides, and a mix of history, scenery, and culture. The motorcycle ride adds a fun, local touch that sets it apart from standard bus tours.

If you’re after a well-rounded, value-packed day with plenty of opportunities for photography and cultural insight, this tour is a smart choice. However, if you prefer a more leisurely exploration or want to avoid a tightly scheduled day, you might prefer to visit sites separately at your own pace.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including pickups, site visits, and the evening ballet.

Is transportation included?
Yes, your pickup and drop-off from your Yogyakarta accommodation are included, with a fun motorcycle ride to start and end the day.

What sites are visited?
You’ll visit Prambanan, Plaosan, Sojiwan, and Ijo temple, plus enjoy the Ramayana Ballet show in the evening.

How much walking is involved?
While walking is minimal, be prepared for some light climbing or exploring around the temple complexes.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is set to a schedule but small group size allows guides to be flexible with stops or photo opportunities.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with kids who enjoy history and culture should find it engaging, as long as they can handle a full day’s itinerary.

What is the best time to do this tour?
Early morning start is typical, allowing you to enjoy the temples and sunset views at Ijo.

Are meals included?
The tour price generally covers transportation, guide services, and tickets; specific meal details are not mentioned.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot with the tour provider, Borobudur Motor Bike Tour, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours beforehand.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, with the small group size and manageable schedule, families can enjoy this experience together.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-crafted blend of historical exploration, scenic beauty, and cultural entertainment. Perfect for travelers eager for an authentic, intimate look at Yogyakarta’s treasures—both famous and hidden. Whether you’re an avid history buff, a casual cultural enthusiast, or someone simply looking to see the best of Yogyakarta efficiently, this experience provides a memorable day that balances adventure, learning, and entertainment.

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