
Selogriyo Temple
A 9th-century Hindu temple nestled amidst stunning terraced rice fields and lush green hills, offering serene natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light on terraces

Selogriyo Temple
Best Time
Golden hour light on terraces

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 9th-century Hindu temple nestled amidst stunning terraced rice fields and lush green hills, offering serene natural beauty.
"The picturesque views of the rice terraces on the way are the main reason people visit Selogriyo temple."

🚶♀️ Walk the Terraces Wisely
The cemented path is easy, but descending into terraces can be steep & slippery, especially in rain. Moderate fitness recommended. :athletic_shoe:
☕ Coffee Break with a View
A charming coffee spot near the top offers a perfect respite to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. :coffee:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Terraced Rice Fields
Path to the temple
Breathtaking panoramic views of lush, sculpted rice paddies cascading down the hillsides. A true visual feast.

Selogriyo Temple Ruins
Hilltop
A 9th-century Hindu sanctuary offering a glimpse into ancient Javanese heritage amidst serene nature.

Mount Sumbing Views
Surrounding hills
Enjoy stunning vistas of the majestic Mount Sumbing, adding to the natural beauty of the area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Selogriyo: Plan Your Journey
Best Time for Terraced Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Terraces Wisely
The cemented path is easy, but descending into terraces can be steep & slippery, especially in rain. Moderate fitness recommended.
:athletic_shoe:☕ Coffee Break with a View
A charming coffee spot near the top offers a perfect respite to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
:coffee:🚗 Local Driver Recommended
Navigating narrow, winding roads to the ticketing point can be tricky. A local driver eases parking and navigation worries.
:car:💰 Entrance Fee
Expect around IDR 10K for domestic and IDR 50K for foreign visitors. Supports local villagers.
:moneywithwings:Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Terraces Wisely
The cemented path is easy, but descending into terraces can be steep & slippery, especially in rain. Moderate fitness recommended.
:athletic_shoe:☕ Coffee Break with a View
A charming coffee spot near the top offers a perfect respite to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
:coffee:🚗 Local Driver Recommended
Navigating narrow, winding roads to the ticketing point can be tricky. A local driver eases parking and navigation worries.
:car:💰 Entrance Fee
Expect around IDR 10K for domestic and IDR 50K for foreign visitors. Supports local villagers.
:moneywithwings:🙏 Respectful Exploration
The temple is a sacred site. Approach with reverence and be mindful of local customs.
:pray:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Selogriyo's terraced rice fields and the serene atmosphere. The walk to the temple is generally pleasant, offering stunning views. However, some find the temple itself to be under reconstruction and note the challenging terrain if venturing off the main path, along with the distance from major cities.
"The main reason why people go to Selogriyo temple is for the picturesque views of the rice terraces on the way. There is an easy cemented path from the parking area to the temple itself.
I would not recommend descending down to the terraces itself unless you are of moderate fitness, and especially not during the rainy season.
We did; and the terrain was extremely steep, slippery and challenging. Walking along the narrow steppes can be dangerous and we did slip and fall into the rice paddies a few times (fortunately, we did not fall into the rocky stream as that could be catastrophic).
Our guide did get lost on the way (we do not fault him, as the terraces are large and can be confusing). Not too sure if the well-trodden path we were supposed to walk along would be better.
Nonetheless, the walk along the cemented trail was easy and beautiful. Docking 1 star because of how far the temple is from Yogyakarta city."
Karen Liu
"We went during the monsoon season in December and are the only ones there.
Entrance Fee of 50k Rp for Foreigners
Likely used to supplement the villagers for intrusion of their farms.
Serene walk to the temple and admire the terrace Padi fields. A nice coffee place near the top and certainly recommended for a short break and to enjoy the peacefulness of the area.
Temple is recently re-built and somehow characteristic of the temples in Yogya.
The road to the ticketing point is only a one way lane and upslope which can be very dangerous during peak season. The village might want to consider improving this as they are collecting a large amount of entrance fee."
Chee Wan Lim
"This was a nice quiet walk through terraced fields towards a secluded temple in the hills. Worth the drive here and highly recommended!"
Mat Moto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Selogriyo Temple is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Yogyakarta. Many visitors opt for a private car or a guided tour to navigate the winding roads. The final approach involves a walk of approximately 1.5 km from the parking area to the temple itself.
While technically possible, visiting Selogriyo Temple from Bali would be an extremely long day trip, involving flights and significant travel time on Java. It's more practical to visit from Yogyakarta or other nearby cities in Central Java.
From the parking area or ticketing point, it's about a 1.5 km walk to reach Selogriyo Temple. This walk takes you through beautiful terraced rice fields.
Public transport directly to Selogriyo Temple is limited and can be complex. Hiring a private car or joining a tour is generally the most convenient way to reach the site.
The roads leading to the ticketing point are often winding, narrow, and uphill. Some sections are one-way, which can be challenging, especially during peak times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around IDR 10,000 for domestic visitors and IDR 50,000 for foreign visitors. This fee contributes to the local community.
Selogriyo Temple is often visited for sunrise and sunset, suggesting it's accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally for specific timings, especially if planning for dawn or dusk.
Advance booking is generally not required for Selogriyo Temple. Tickets can usually be purchased upon arrival at the ticketing point.
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography and can be less crowded. The golden hour light on the rice terraces is particularly stunning.
Yes, you can visit during the rainy season, but be aware that the paths, especially those descending into the rice terraces, can become very slippery and challenging.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are the panoramic views of the terraced rice fields, especially during sunrise or sunset. The temple ruins themselves also offer a picturesque backdrop.
While the main cemented path is easy, venturing down into the terraces for photos can be challenging due to steep and slippery terrain, particularly after rain.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive rice terraces and landscapes. A drone can offer unique aerial perspectives, but always check local regulations.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or your tour guide before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the sacred nature of the temple and the local community's privacy. Avoid intrusive photography.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The path from the parking area to the temple is a well-maintained cemented path, making it relatively easy. However, descending into the rice terraces themselves can be steep, slippery, and challenging.
The main cemented path to the temple is accessible. However, exploring the rice terraces or uneven terrain around the temple might be difficult for those with significant mobility challenges.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main path. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the tropical climate.
:athletic_shoe:Restroom facilities are usually available near the parking area or ticketing point. It's always a good idea to use them before starting your walk.
The locals are generally friendly and welcoming. Engaging respectfully can lead to pleasant interactions, like being offered help with directions or even access to facilities.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
There is a nice coffee place located near the top, offering a place to rest and enjoy the views. For more extensive dining options, you'll need to look in nearby towns or back towards Magelang or Yogyakarta.
Yes, bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea, especially for the walk. Remember to dispose of any trash responsibly to keep the area clean.
While specific offerings can vary, you might find local snacks and beverages at the coffee spot or small stalls near the entrance. Trying local coffee is often recommended.
It's advisable to have a meal before or after your visit, as dining options directly at the temple are limited. Enjoying a meal in Magelang or Yogyakarta offers more variety.
Options at the small coffee spot might be limited. If you have specific dietary needs, it's best to dine in larger towns where more choices are available.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and plenty of water for the walk, as dining options are limited. The relatively short walk and the stunning scenery can make for an engaging experience for younger visitors, offering a break from more crowded tourist attractions.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
The surrounding hills also offer opportunities for further exploration, with views of Mount Sumbing adding to the natural appeal. It's a chance to connect with the rural landscape of Java and enjoy its serene beauty.
📸 Photographers
Bring your wide-angle lenses to capture the expansive vistas. While the temple ruins offer a historical element, the true photographic stars are the natural landscapes. Be mindful of the terrain if you plan to get creative with angles within the terraces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Rice Terraces
Navigating these terraces requires caution. While the main path to the temple is cemented and easy to traverse, descending into the terraces themselves can be steep, slippery, and challenging, particularly during the rainy season. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear and assess their fitness level before venturing off the main path.
These terraces are not just beautiful; they are the lifeblood of the local community. The agricultural rhythm dictates the landscape's appearance throughout the year, offering a dynamic and ever-changing backdrop for visitors.
A Glimpse into Ancient History
Its location on a hill, surrounded by natural beauty, suggests a deliberate choice for spiritual contemplation and connection with the environment. The temple's serene setting enhances its historical aura, inviting visitors to imagine life centuries ago.
While the temple itself is a point of interest, its recent reconstruction means it might not possess the ancient grandeur of fully preserved sites. However, its historical context and the surrounding natural beauty make it a worthwhile destination for those interested in Javanese heritage.
The Journey to Selogriyo
Many visitors find it beneficial to hire a local driver who is accustomed to these roads. This not only ensures safer travel but also alleviates concerns about parking, which can be limited. The drive itself offers glimpses of rural Javanese life and increasingly scenic landscapes as you climb higher.
The final leg of the journey is a 1.5 km walk from the parking area to the temple. This walk is generally pleasant, following a cemented path that meanders through the stunning rice terraces. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and prepare for the tranquility of the temple site.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit