Borobudur Temple in Indonesia

This web page was a part of Indonesia project done for YourAsianVacations.com

Borobudur Temple in Indonesia is an eighth century monument, world heritage site and one of the top 50 wonders of the world (according to Hillman Wonders). Its location near Yogyakarta makes it easily accessible. The monument, rediscovered in dilapidated condition, was restored in 1970’s with assistance of the UNESCO. Located atop a hill, Borobudur Temple is neighbored by two volcanoes and rivers. Borobudur travel enables one to see this cultural asset of Indonesia.

Getting to Borobudur
Most visitors go on Borobudur trip on tour bus. Alternatively, you can hire a four-wheeled vehicle or a motorbike. Just ask your hotel management and they will do the arrangement. Getting to Borobudur Temple in Indonesia is easiest from resort of Yogyakarta for it is located just 45 minutes from the city. Best time for reaching Borobudur temple is early morning.

The Structure
Borobudur Temple in Indonesia is a multi-tiered structure. It has a pyramidal base with five concentric square terraces, the trunk of a cone with three ring-like platforms and a great stupa atop. The walls and balustrades are bedecked with fine low reliefs. Circumambulating the circular platforms are a large number of openwork stupas, each having a Buddha idol.

Cosmological Model
The colossal monument represents a Buddhist cosmological model of the universe organized around the axis of mythical Mount Meru. The pilgrims begin their ascent at the eastern gateway. Circumambulating the stupa, they move in a clockwise direction. They move through six square terraces and three circular ones. With every circle they keep on moving up the everyday world and at last achieve the nirvanic state the great stupa.

Borobudur History
Borobudur Temple in Indonesia was built between 760–830 AD, the peak of the Sailendra dynasty in central Java. The constructed was completed during the reign of King Samaratungga.

Abandonment and Rediscovery
Borobudur Temple was abandoned somewhere between 928 and 1006 AD and the reasons of its abandonment are unknown. For centuries, it lay hidden volcanic ash and jungle growth. The monument was rediscovered when Java was under British administration from 1811 to 1816. Lieutenant Governor-General Thomas Stamford Raffles is credited with the discovery of Borobudur.