Candi Singosari (Singosari Temple)

"Nestled in the quiet village of Candirenggo in Singosari District, Malang Regency, the Singosari Temple stands as a majestic relic of Java’s Hindu-Buddhist past, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Indonesia’s ancient history. Built in the 13th century during the reign of the Singhasari Kingdom, this temple is dedicated to King Kertanegara, the last ruler of Singhasari before the rise of the Majapahit Empire. The temple’s striking architecture, intricate carvings, and historical significance make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and travelers seeking to explore East Java’s rich heritage.

The temple’s design follows the classic East Javanese Hindu temple style, characterized by a tall, tiered structure adorned with detailed reliefs and statues. Although partially ruined, the remaining structure still showcases impressive craftsmanship, with finely carved figures of deities, mythical creatures, and floral motifs decorating its walls. One of the most notable features is the pair of giant guardian statues, known as Dwarapala, which once stood at the temple’s entrance. These massive stone figures, now housed separately nearby, exude a powerful presence and are believed to protect the sacred site from evil spirits.

Exploring the temple grounds, visitors will find a peaceful and well-maintained environment, surrounded by lush greenery that enhances the site’s mystical aura. Informational plaques provide context about the temple’s history, construction, and religious significance, making it an educational experience. The temple’s relatively compact size allows for a leisurely visit, where one can admire the ancient stonework up close and imagine the grandeur of the Singhasari Kingdom in its prime.

While not as massive as Borobudur or Prambanan, Singosari Temple holds its own charm with its serene atmosphere and deep historical roots. Its location in a quiet village adds to the authenticity, offering a more intimate and crowd-free experience compared to more famous temples. The site is easily accessible from Malang city, just a 30-minute drive away, making it a convenient stop for those touring the region’s cultural landmarks.

For those interested in archaeology and history, a visit to Singosari Temple can be combined with nearby sites like the Jago Temple or the Museum Mpu Purwa to gain a fuller understanding of East Java’s medieval kingdoms. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates ancient architecture, Singosari Temple provides a captivating journey back in time. Its quiet beauty, rich heritage, and cultural significance make it a hidden gem in Malang’s historical landscape, well worth a visit for anyone exploring East Java’s past."

I Ketut Ari Pegatariana

"the last time i visited this temple was when i was in middle school. nothing much has changed. petugasnya ramah, tempatnya bersih. from what i've seen, most of the visitors are foreigners but the signs are all in indonesian so i assume that they don't understand what it says. for those who want to visit this place but don't speak indonesian, you're not allowed to climb up the temple and touch the statues, and please take off your shoes before entering the toilet. when i was there, many foreigners were confused and ended up breaking the rules without realizing it. saran saya tolong beri papan tulisan dalam bahasa inggris agar tidak terjadi kesalahpahaman antara pengunjung dan petugas"

O!RUL8,2?

"Accidentally drove past this place and stopped in to take some photos. It has a well maintained small park, it’s not crowded and the temple is on great condition. Also, It turned out that there are more statues and structures scattered about the neighborhood outside then fenced off temple area. The people on the neighborhood were really friendly. If you’re an expat, expect to get a lot of “hello mister” and people wanting to take a photo with you."

Micheal