Ijo Temple Yogyakarta
9th-century Hindu temple complex on a hilltop offering stunning panoramic views of Yogyakarta and planes landing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for sunset views
Ijo Temple Yogyakarta
Best Time
Best for sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
9th-century Hindu temple complex on a hilltop offering stunning panoramic views of Yogyakarta and planes landing.
"My fav temple. The ambience is magic. Mystic & exotic. I always come here every time I am in Yogyakarta."
🎯 Arrive for Sunset Magic
Catch the magical sunset for a rejuvenating experience. It's a must-do!
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Heavy rain can cause jams. Plan your travel time to avoid delays and ensure you reach on time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Hilltop Vistas
Gumuk Ijo Hill
Experience breathtaking, sweeping views of Yogyakarta's landscape from this elevated temple complex.
Sunset Magic
Temple grounds
Witness a truly magical sunset that rejuvenates the body and soul, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Ancient Hindu Architecture
Temple complex
Explore the well-preserved 9th-century Hindu temple ruins, a testament to ancient Javanese craftsmanship.
Airport Views
Temple grounds
Watch planes gracefully land at Adisutjipto Airport from this unique vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Temple Views
Embrace the Serenity and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive for Sunset Magic
Catch the magical sunset for a rejuvenating experience. It's a must-do!
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Heavy rain can cause jams. Plan your travel time to avoid delays and ensure you reach on time.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the temple grounds comfortably by wearing suitable footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is well worth it for the experience and the magnificent views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive for Sunset Magic
Catch the magical sunset for a rejuvenating experience. It's a must-do!
🚗 Beat the Traffic
Heavy rain can cause jams. Plan your travel time to avoid delays and ensure you reach on time.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Explore the temple grounds comfortably by wearing suitable footwear for walking on uneven terrain.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
The entrance fee is well worth it for the experience and the magnificent views.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic vistas and the ancient temple structures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Candi Ijo's magical ambiance and breathtaking panoramic views, especially during sunset. Many appreciate its well-preserved state and the serene, less crowded atmosphere compared to other major temples. Some note that the journey can be long and traffic can be an issue, and cloudy weather can obscure the sunset.
"A well preserved and beautiful temple an hour from the Jogja town center. We got here pretty late after stuck in a massive jam due to heavy rain pour. So there isn’t any sunset to view due to the cloudy dark sky. Despite of that, we enjoyed this temple as the air was crisp with mist and there was nobody else except the 2 of us! The temple still in good shape and standing tall on top of hill overlooking jogja. The view from the temple was magnificent. It would be magical if it was a clear day. I hope to visit this place again on a sunny
day!"
Ipoh Mali Leong
"My fav temple. The ambience is magic. Mystic & exotic. I always come here every time I am in Yogyakarta.
Enjoy sunset here to rejuvenate your body & soul.
Don't missed this temple."
Elizabeth Tanzania
"Beautiful and quiet temple, the parking area is available. Near Brexit cliff"
Asdani Kindarto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ijo Temple is located about an hour's drive from Yogyakarta city. You can hire a taxi, rent a motorbike, or join a guided tour. Some visitors opt for cycling tours that include Ijo Temple. 
Yes, there is a designated parking area available at Ijo Temple, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car or motorbike.
Solo travelers often find hiring a motorbike or joining a group tour to be convenient and cost-effective ways to reach Ijo Temple.
Absolutely! Ijo Temple is a popular destination for day trips from Yogyakarta, often combined with other nearby attractions.
While direct public transport might be limited, some local buses may pass near the area, but hiring private transport or joining a tour is generally more straightforward.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Ijo Temple is very affordable, typically around RP 20,000, making it a great value for the experience and views.
Ijo Temple is generally open from morning until sunset. It's best to check the latest hours closer to your visit, especially if you plan to catch the sunset.
No, advance booking is typically not required for Ijo Temple. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but the standard entrance fee is already very reasonable.
The entrance fee grants you access to the temple complex and its grounds, allowing you to explore the ruins and enjoy the panoramic views.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are from the elevated terraces offering panoramic views of the landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset. Capture the temple ruins against the sky.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or temple management before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
Golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful lighting for photography, creating a magical ambiance.
Yes, Ijo Temple offers a unique vantage point to photograph planes as they approach Adisutjipto Airport.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always respectful to avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are ongoing religious activities.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
Ijo Temple is known for its magical, mystic, and exotic ambiance. It offers a serene and quiet experience, especially compared to more famous temples.
While not as common as at larger sites, you might find local guides available, or you can hire one in Yogyakarta city to accompany you.
Basic amenities like restrooms are usually available. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks as options might be limited.
The temple is situated on a hill with terraces, which may involve some walking and uneven surfaces. Visitors with mobility issues should assess the terrain.
Candi Ijo literally translates to 'Green Temple,' likely due to the greenish hue of the stones used in its construction or the surrounding lush vegetation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more engaging for kids, you can turn it into a treasure hunt for interesting stone carvings or talk about the history of ancient temples in Indonesia. The sight of planes landing at the nearby airport can also be a fun distraction for children. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking around the site.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at potentially higher prices near the attraction. Many travelers find that the experience of witnessing the sunset and the panoramic views is priceless and far outweighs any minor costs.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Explore the intricate details of the 9th-century Hindu temple architecture for close-up shots that tell a story. To ensure the best photographic results, aim for clear weather days and consider visiting on weekdays to have more freedom to compose your shots without large crowds. Remember to be mindful of the site's sanctity and any local regulations, especially concerning drone usage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Candi Ijo: A Serene Escape
The strategic location of Candi Ijo grants it a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding farmlands, villages, and even the distant Adisutjipto Airport. This elevated position makes it an ideal spot to witness the changing colors of the sky, especially during sunrise and sunset. Many visitors describe the ambiance as magical, mystic, and exotic, offering a sense of rejuvenation for the body and soul. The relative quietness of the site, especially on weekdays, allows for a more contemplative visit, where one can appreciate the historical remnants without the hustle and bustle of larger tourist crowds.
For those seeking a less crowded yet equally captivating temple experience in Yogyakarta, Candi Ijo is a highly recommended destination. Its well-preserved ruins, coupled with its stunning natural setting, make it a memorable stop for history buffs, photographers, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape. The affordable entrance fee further enhances its appeal, making it an accessible gem for all travelers.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at Candi Ijo
Beyond the grand landscapes, take time to focus on the intricate details of the 9th-century Hindu temple architecture. The stone carvings, though weathered by time, still tell stories of a rich past. Experiment with different angles and compositions to highlight the textures and patterns of the ancient structures.
Remember to be respectful of the site and any ongoing activities. While drone photography might offer unique aerial perspectives, it's crucial to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions beforehand to avoid any disruptions. To make the most of your photography session, consider visiting on a clear day to maximize visibility and the vibrancy of the colors. Weekdays generally offer fewer crowds, allowing you more freedom to set up your shots without feeling rushed. Don't forget to capture the serene atmosphere that makes Candi Ijo so special – the quiet moments, the gentle breeze, and the feeling of stepping back in time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit