Explore the best tourist destinations in Central Java, from stunning natural beauty to cultural sites rich in history, for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Central Java is one of the provinces in Indonesia that offers a variety of interesting tourist destinations, ranging from stunning natural attractions to historical sites rich in culture.
Every corner of Central Java has its own charm, providing a stunning experience for tourists. Here are 10 tourist destinations in Central Java that you must visit to enjoy the natural beauty and unique culture.
1. Dieng Plateau
Dieng is a plateau located in an active volcanic area in Central Java, precisely between Mount Sindoro and Mount Sumbing.
Known as the “land above the clouds,” Dieng offers beautiful natural scenery, including active volcanic craters such as Candradimuka, Sibanteng, and Siglagah.
Apart from the crater view, Dieng is also famous for the Dieng Temple which is a Hindu historical relic. Dieng’s height of 2,000 meters above sea level makes the temperature in this area very cool, suitable for tourists who want to enjoy the mountain nature.
2. Kudus Tower Mosque
Menara Kudus Mosque is one of the most popular religious tourism destinations in Central Java. This mosque was built in 1685 by Sunan Kudus and is famous for its architecture which combines Hindu and Islamic elements.
The 17-meter-high tower is made of red brick, and is a symbol of cultural diversity in Kudus. This mosque is also equipped with a museum that houses various historical artifacts related to the spread of Islam in Java.
With affordable entrance tickets, the Menara Kudus Mosque is a must-visit destination for tourists interested in Islamic history in Indonesia. Things to do Kudus also include exploring this iconic landmark, which offers a unique glimpse into the region’s cultural and religious heritage.
3. Mount Merapi
Mount Merapi is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and is also a popular tourist destination in Central Java. Located on the border between Yogyakarta and Central Java, Merapi offers a challenging climbing experience and extraordinary natural views.
This mountain has a famous climbing route, namely via the north side in Selo, Boyolali Regency. From the top, tourists can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area, as well as see firsthand the volcanic activity that often occurs in this area.
Climbing Mount Merapi is an adrenaline-pumping experience and provides an opportunity to see the stunning beauty of nature.
4. Borobudur
Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and is a mainstay tourist icon in Central Java. Built in the 9th century by the Syailendra Dynasty, Borobudur is famous for its reliefs depicting Buddhist teachings and its magnificent, enchanting architecture.
The temple is located in Magelang and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including Mount Merapi towering in the distance.
In addition to Borobudur, tourists can also visit Mendut Temple and Pawon Temple, which are located not far from the main site. The beauty and historical value of Borobudur make it a destination that should not be missed by tourists.
5. Prambanan Temple
Prambanan Temple is the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia, located on the border between Yogyakarta and Central Java. Built in the 9th century, the temple is dedicated to Trimurti, the three main Hindu gods: Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.
Prambanan Temple has a very beautiful architecture and is decorated with reliefs depicting stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana books.
Apart from being a cultural tourism destination, Prambanan is also a popular place to enjoy art performances, such as the Ramayana dance drama held in the temple area.
6. Karimunjawa
Karimunjawa is a group of islands located in the Java Sea and is part of Jepara Regency, Central Java. Karimunjawa National Park, consisting of 22 islands, offers extraordinary underwater views, including pristine coral reefs, mangrove forests and coastal forests.
Here, tourists can enjoy various marine activities such as snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on the quiet beach. Several rare fauna species, such as the white-breasted sea eagle and the green turtle, can also be found around these islands.
Karimunjawa is often referred to as the “Sea Paradise in Java,” making it one of the best marine tourism destinations in Indonesia.
7. Banyutowo Beach
Banyutowo Beach, located in Wonogiri, Central Java, has a uniqueness that is not found on other beaches. This beach is the estuary of a river that meets the sea, thus producing water that is not salty.
Fresh water that comes from underground flows to the beach and mixes with seawater, creating a very interesting phenomenon.
In addition to enjoying the unique scenery, visitors can also enjoy other activities such as playing in the water, taking pictures, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the beach that is rarely crowded with visitors.
8. Old Town of Semarang
Semarang Old Town is a historical area that offers the beauty of European colonial architecture. Here, tourists can see more than 50 old buildings that are still well maintained, such as the Blenduk Church, Lawang Sewu, and various other buildings that remind us of the Dutch colonial era.
Semarang Old Town not only presents the beauty of architecture, but also has a calm atmosphere and is full of historical stories. Walking along the streets of the Old Town is like walking back in time and enjoying the very strong nuances of the past.
9. Bengkawah Waterfall
Curug Bengkawah, located in Pemalang, Central Java, is one of the waterfall tours that is increasingly popular among tourists. With a height of about 15 meters, this waterfall is located at the foot of Mount Slamet and is surrounded by beautiful nature.
In addition to enjoying the beauty of the waterfall, visitors can also enjoy the adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting rides, with a route of 7 km. Curug Bengkawah provides a satisfying natural experience for anyone who wants to enjoy the freshness of the mountain nature.
10. Surakarta Hadiningrat Palace
Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat is a symbol of the glory of Javanese culture located in the city of Surakarta. Built in the 18th century, this palace is still the center of Javanese culture and history.
Inside the palace complex, visitors can see various buildings with typical Javanese architecture, as well as various collections that reflect the luxury of the Kasunanan, such as gamelan, heirlooms, and gifts from European kings.
Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat is the perfect place to learn more about Java’s rich history and culture.
Central Java has a wealth of natural and cultural tourism that is very diverse. From stunning natural beauty such as the Dieng Plateau and Karimunjawa, to historical sites such as Borobudur and Keraton Surakarta Hadiningrat, each destination in Central Java offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Tourist Attractions in Pemalang also contribute to this diverse charm, showcasing the region’s natural and cultural treasures. With all its natural beauty and history, Central Java is a destination that must be on your travel list in Indonesia.
