Gedong Songo Temples
Explore nine ancient Hindu temples scattered across Mount Ungaran, offering stunning views, hiking, and natural hot springs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Gedong Songo Temples
Best Time
Clearer views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore nine ancient Hindu temples scattered across Mount Ungaran, offering stunning views, hiking, and natural hot springs.
"A serene escape blending history, culture, and breathtaking natural beauty."
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking and inclines! Essential for exploring all nine temples.
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for cool, foggy conditions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Nine Temples
Scattered across Mount Ungaran
Explore ancient Hindu temples, each with unique architecture and historical significance.
Mount Ungaran Views
Various viewpoints
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of lush valleys and surrounding mountains.
Natural Hot Springs
Near the temple complex
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs after a day of exploring.
Sulphur Vents
On the mountain slopes
Witness unique geological features with escaping sulphuric vapor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hike
Weather-Wise Packing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking and inclines! Essential for exploring all nine temples.
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for cool, foggy conditions.
🐴 Consider Horse Riding
A fun way to cover ground, but don't feel pressured if you prefer to walk.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially during longer hikes.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
Lots of walking and inclines! Essential for exploring all nine temples.
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Be prepared for cool, foggy conditions.
🐴 Consider Horse Riding
A fun way to cover ground, but don't feel pressured if you prefer to walk.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially during longer hikes.
☀️ Go on a Clear Day
The views are spectacular when fog doesn't obscure them.
💰 Cheap Admission
Affordable entry fee for a day of exploration and stunning scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Gedong Songo for its picturesque scenery, affordable entry, and the unique blend of ancient Hindu temples and natural beauty. The hiking opportunities and the chance to see sulphuric vents are highlights, though some find the trails steep and the facilities basic. The hot springs offer a relaxing addition to the experience.
"A nice short hike that's pretty picturesque.
Parking: 4/5 plenty of parking space
Price: 5/5 pretty cheap
Toilets: 3/5 plenty and clean at the entrance, would've been 5/5 but all paid."
Sapiderman Lumpat
"Good spot to do outdoor tracking, the Temple is also magnificent, there's a hot springs if you want to take a bath"
AmzYoghurt
"Very nice and beautyful temple!
You need around 2 hours to walk around, so dont fall for the locals who want to talk you into horse riding.
The air is fresh up there and the views are stunning"
steven shinigami
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car or motorbike, taking about 1-1.5 hours. You can rent a vehicle or hire a taxi. Public transport is less direct, often requiring multiple transfers.
Yes, there is ample parking space available at the entrance of the complex.
The roads can be steep and winding, typical of mountain access. Driving carefully is advised.
Ride-sharing apps might be available for the initial part of the journey from Semarang, but availability can be limited closer to the temples. It's best to confirm beforehand.
You can walk between the temples, which offers a great hiking experience. Horse riding is also an option for covering longer distances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The temples are generally open from early morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to check the latest official hours before your visit.
The entrance fee is quite affordable, making it a budget-friendly attraction.
Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance upon arrival. Advance booking is usually not required.
There might be a separate small fee for accessing and using the hot spring facilities.
While parking is plentiful, there might be a small parking fee charged separately.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To fully explore all nine temples and enjoy the views, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to hike extensively or use the hot springs, allow more time.
You can enjoy hiking, explore natural hot springs, and admire the scenic mountain views. There are also local stalls for snacks and souvenirs.
The trails are generally well-maintained, though some can be steep and slippery, especially after rain.
Yes, children can enjoy the open spaces and the novelty of the temples. However, the hiking can be challenging for very young children.
You might encounter local flora and fauna typical of a mountain environment. The most unique natural feature is the sulphuric vapor vents.
📸 📸 Photography
Each temple offers unique architectural shots. The viewpoints overlooking the valleys and mountains provide stunning landscape photography opportunities.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the site management before flying a drone.
Mornings often offer clearer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the temples and landscapes.
Photography is generally allowed in the temple grounds, but always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the temples and expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant landscape details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Remember to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring adequate water. 🏛️ History Buffs
+2 Explore the distinct structures, learn about their historical context, and appreciate the ancient craftsmanship. +1 The site's discovery by Thomas Stanford Raffles adds another layer to its historical narrative. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Architecture
+2 These temples were discovered by Thomas Stanford Raffles in 1804 and represent a significant piece of Indonesia's rich cultural heritage. Each of the nine temples, or 'gedong,' is situated at different elevations on the slopes of Mount Ungaran, showcasing a unique architectural style that blends Indian influences with local Javanese elements. While some temples are more well-preserved than others, their historical significance and the craftsmanship involved are evident throughout the site. +1The temples are dedicated to Hindu deities, primarily Shiva and Parvati, reflecting the religious landscape of ancient Java.
The strategic placement of the temples across the mountainside suggests a spiritual connection to nature and the surrounding environment. Exploring these ancient structures offers a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to imagine the lives and beliefs of the people who built and worshipped here centuries ago. +1Beyond their historical value, the temples are also known for their mystical aura, with some visitors describing them as particularly 'magical.'
Nature and Geology
+1 The site is also geologically active, with natural hot springs and visible sulphuric vapor vents on the mountainside, a testament to the volcanic nature of the region. +1The hiking trails connecting the nine temples are a major draw for nature lovers and active travelers. These paths wind through the scenic terrain, offering opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of Central Java.
Visitors can also experience the unique sensation of the natural hot springs, which are a perfect way to relax and soothe muscles after a day of trekking.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit