#5 Make your way to Prambanan too
You can combine your visit to Borobudur, with Prambanan. A Hindu temple complex that dates back to the 9th century. The intricate carvings and towering spires of the temples are a testament to the skill and artistry of the ancient Javanese people.
It features thousands of carved stone reliefs and statues depicting scenes from Buddhist cosmology. Both sites are UNESCO World Heritage sites and offer a glimpse into Indonesia's fascinating history and culture.
Best places to stay
Most Borobudur visitors will stay in the cities of Yogyakarta, Solo, or Semarang but a whole host of accommodations has sprung up in the hills and forest surrounding Borobudur.
Here, travellers have the choice of first-class resorts, relaxing spas, boutique B&B and local guesthouses, giving you an excellent amount of choice.
Do note that Vesak Day (held annually on the night of the May full moon) is the most sacred da on the Buddhist calendar and accommodation near Borobudur sells out weeks, if not months in advance.
Browse the best places to stay in Borobudur.
Things to know before visiting Borobudur
Borobudur is open daily from 6am–5pm. There are licensed guides available at the entrance to the temple.
Tickets for Borobudur are priced at $25 for those 10 years and older; and $15 for students (with a valid ID card) and those aged 3-9 years. Toddlers and babies are free. There is a cheaper entry fee for Indonesian citizens and permanent residents.
Visitors can pay an additional surcharge to get into Borobudur for either sunrise or sunset. Note that these times are also very busy.
You can buy your tickets online via Borobudurpark.com. The entry fee includes a free audio guide.
The Borobudur Museum onsite hosts live gamelan performances at 9am and 3pm.
Each June/July, thousands of Buddhists from throughout Asia join a procession from Mendut temple to Borobudur to meditate in honour of the Day of Enlightenment, the biggest day on the Buddhist calendar. It's quite a sight, but expect it to be very busy.
The nearby Mendut Buddhist Monastery hosts group meditations daily at 7pm and welcomes visitors.