
Discover Ngawen Temple, a 9th-century Buddhist marvel with unique winged lions, nestled in a serene Javanese village.

Must-see attractions
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Beat the heat and crowds

Beat the heat and crowds

Must-see attractions
Discover Ngawen Temple, a 9th-century Buddhist marvel with unique winged lions, nestled in a serene Javanese village.
"A historical gem with unique winged lions, offering a peaceful escape and educational insights."

Visit in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and a more serene experience.
Don't miss the distinctive winged lion statues, a rare sight on Buddhist temples.

4.7 · 358 reviews
Historical Landmark
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Main Temple
Unique winged lion statues guard the main temple, a rare architectural feature in Buddhist temples.

Discover a fascinating blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences, showcasing a unique historical and architectural fusion.

Nestled amidst local village life, Candi Ngawen offers a serene escape with lush green surroundings.
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Visit in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and a more serene experience.
Don't miss the distinctive winged lion statues, a rare sight on Buddhist temples.
Be aware that permits may be needed for photography or filming.
Parking might be on the roadside; be mindful of local arrangements.
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Visit in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and a more serene experience.
Don't miss the distinctive winged lion statues, a rare sight on Buddhist temples.
Be aware that permits may be needed for photography or filming.
Parking might be on the roadside; be mindful of local arrangements.
Great spot for kids to learn about history and ancient architecture.
Ngawen Temple is appreciated for its historical significance and unique architectural features, particularly the winged lion statues. Visitors enjoy the peaceful, less crowded atmosphere and its educational value. However, inconsistent rules regarding entry fees and photography permits, along with potential off-site permit acquisition, can be a point of confusion and inconvenience.
"I dont know exactly how visit this temple. Three times visit this place has different methode.The first time free and we could take video or photos but the last time we have to pay and must have permit if we use for pre wedding. Then the last time, It is not allowed to make video except we ask to permit. But the problem is it is not easy to have the permit because the office where we could have permit is not in the area. For me it is really nice area to understand about history. Hope in the future it is easy to visit or have documentation in this place so that we can save the memories."
Denias Susanto
"One of the lesser known Candi's from the Buddhist era. Tucked away in kampoeng Ngawen close to Magelang. I read the Wikipedia reference for a brief history. Worth a visit."
Elyaas Samsodien
"6.9 KM from Borobudur. Please be careful because the temple is under renovation."
Uncomplicated Situation
Ngawen Temple is located approximately 6.9 KM from Borobudur. You can reach it by car or motorbike, often found nestled within local village areas.
It's located in Desa Ngawen, Kecamatan Muntilan, Magelang, Central Java, often described as being in the middle of a residential area.
Many visitors use private vehicles or rent a motorbike for flexibility, as public transport options might be limited.
Signs can be inconsistent; it's helpful to use GPS or ask locals for directions once you're in the Muntilan area.
Yes, it's often visited alongside Borobudur Temple, as it's relatively close by.
Entry fees can vary. Some visitors report no ticket entry, while others mention a fee or the need for permits, especially for documentation.
The temple is generally open from around 08:00 to 17:00 WIB, but it's advisable to confirm locally.
Rules for photography can change. Some visitors have encountered restrictions and needed to obtain permits, particularly for commercial use like pre-wedding shoots.
Filming might require a permit, and access for video recording has been restricted at times. It's best to inquire on-site or beforehand.
According to some visitors, obtaining permits can be challenging as the relevant office may not be located at the temple site.
Ngawen Temple is known for its unique winged lion statues at the corners of the main temple, a distinctive feature not commonly found elsewhere.
It's a Buddhist temple from the 9th century, belonging to the Syailendra period, showcasing significant historical architecture.
Generally, Ngawen Temple is less crowded than major sites like Borobudur, offering a more peaceful visit.
The temple has undergone restoration, and some areas might still be under renovation.
'Venuvana' is the Sanskrit name meaning 'Bamboo Forest,' which is an alternative name for Ngawen Temple.
Capture the unique winged lion statues and the intricate reliefs. The serene village setting also offers picturesque opportunities.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always best to assume restrictions on drone usage at historical and religious sites unless otherwise stated.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the temple's details and atmosphere.
Photography rules can be strict. It's advisable to check on-site regulations regarding access and photography within the temple structures.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the temple and details of the reliefs. A tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions, but check if it's permitted.
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