- Address: Candi, Bandungan, Semarang, Central Java 50614, Indonesia
- Opening hours: 06: 30-18: 00
In Indonesia , on the island of Java , is the ancient temple complex of Gedong Songo (Gedong Songo). These are the oldest Hindu constructions in the region, which are the forerunners of the famous shrines of Prambanan and Borobudur .
Where is the complex?
Gedong Songo is built on a moist high-mountain plateau Dieng near the village of Kandy. It is located at an altitude of 1200-1300 m above sea level among a dense coniferous forest. Above the landmark stands the mountain range Ungaran (Ungaran). In clear weather, visitors can enjoy the enchanting landscape overlooking the volcanoes of Sindoro and Sumbing.
The complex consists of 5 temples, which were erected during the early period of the reign of Mataram. This state controlled the province of Central Java from the VIII to the IX century.
Historical facts
The shrine was built by locals from volcanic stone, so it has a specific black color. The name of the complex Gedong Songo in the local language means "temple of 9 buildings". True, according to some sources, scientists suggest that there were about 100 structures.
Description of sight
Through the entire territory of the temple complex, a circular path is laid. Along it are the main attractions, and in the middle there is a small lake full of minerals. Around him, all the time fluttering bright various butterflies. The architecture of all the temples is similar to each other: the buildings are decorated with bas-reliefs in the form of figures of gods belonging to the Hindu pantheon and their guards.
Many visitors of the complex Gedong Songo note that they feel a rush of energy and a touch to something ancient and powerful. The largest temple of the complex was built in honor of the god Shiva. In front of its main entrance is a small sanctuary dedicated to the bull Mahadeva named Nandi.
Near the structure there is a descent to the gorge, where there is an equipped bath with sulphurous hot water. Here, visitors are happy to swim and relax. Also nearby are cafes of Varunga, where you can drink cooling drinks, delicious and hearty meal. Especially popular among the guests are Jamur (a dish of mushrooms) and Kelinci (the main ingredient is a rabbit).
Features of visit
Here, a pleasant climate with fresh mountain air and a cool wind prevails. Gedong Songgo runs daily from 06:30 to 18:00, but tickets are only sold until 5:00 pm. It is better to spend the entire day visiting the sights. The cost of admission is $ 3.5. In the daytime, someone who really wants to save money can go for free through the back door (there's rarely someone on duty). To do this, you will need to walk along the ladder and turn around the arch.
Early in the morning or late in the evening there is no one at the entrance, so you can go to Gedong Songo through the main entrance. If you enter the temple complex in this way, you will have a unique opportunity to meet here sunset or dawn.
How to get there?
To reach the temple complex you can:
- By bus from the town of Semarang, which goes to Jogjakarta or Surakarta . You need to leave after the settlement of Ambarovo. Then take a bus to Bandung . Here you can hire a bike or walk. The distance is about 5 km.
- By car from the nearest cities on the roads: Jl. Semarang - Surakarta, Suruh - Karanggede or Jl. Boyolali Blabak / Jl. Boyolali-Magelang. The route here is long and steep, so check the condition of your transport before the trip.