
Sewu Temple Prambanan
Discover Candi Sewu, Indonesia's second-largest Buddhist temple complex, a sprawling 8th-century marvel near Prambanan.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Sewu Temple Prambanan
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Candi Sewu, Indonesia's second-largest Buddhist temple complex, a sprawling 8th-century marvel near Prambanan.
"It's included in your Prambanan ticket but much less crowded than the Prambanan temple."

🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Easily travel between Prambanan and Candi Sewu, or explore the vast complex.
🚶♂️ Walk the Grounds
Discover hidden corners and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this expansive site.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Thousand Temples
Main Complex
Marvel at the sheer scale of Candi Sewu, meaning 'a thousand temples,' a testament to its historical significance.

Ancient Buddhist Architecture
Various Stupas and Shrines
Admire the intricate details and enduring beauty of this 8th-century Mahayana Buddhist temple complex.

Tranquil Greenery
Surrounding Grounds
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere amidst lush greenery, offering a serene escape from the bustling tourist paths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Candi Sewu
Explore Beyond Prambanan
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Easily travel between Prambanan and Candi Sewu, or explore the vast complex.
🚶♂️ Walk the Grounds
Discover hidden corners and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this expansive site.
📸 Capture the Scale
The vastness of Candi Sewu is best captured with wide-angle shots.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The Indonesian sun can be intense; carry plenty of water.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Rent a Bicycle
Easily travel between Prambanan and Candi Sewu, or explore the vast complex.
🚶♂️ Walk the Grounds
Discover hidden corners and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this expansive site.
📸 Capture the Scale
The vastness of Candi Sewu is best captured with wide-angle shots.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The Indonesian sun can be intense; carry plenty of water.
🎟️ Included Ticket
Your Prambanan ticket often includes access to Candi Sewu.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Candi Sewu to be an impressive and historically significant Buddhist temple complex, often described as a hidden gem compared to the more crowded Prambanan. Its expansive grounds and accessible structures offer a unique and peaceful exploration of ancient Javanese history. While some restoration work may be visible, the overall experience is highly rewarding for those seeking a deeper understanding of the region's past.
"Not as impressive as the nearby Prambanan but still really awesome place to witness. It's included in your Prambanan ticket but much less crowded than the Prambanan temple. You can climb all the monument and enter rooms at will. As of September 2025 there's quite a few structures that are undergoing restoration so you may see construction materials."
Bobby C
"Visited Candi Sewu with the family as part of our must-do temple trip during the school holidays.
It was our first time doing a temple tour in Central Java — we started with Borobudur, then headed to Candi Sewu, which is in the same complex as Prambanan.
The temple complex is fascinating, full of historical vibes and legendary stories. It was such a great experience exploring Candi Sewu, especially seeing the ancient reliefs and realizing why it’s called “Sewu” (meaning “a thousand”) — there are so many temples there!
Taking kids to historical sites like this is a fun way for them to learn about Indonesia’s rich culture and compare what they see with what they learn in school books.
Must visit sites of temples in central java with plenty of greenery around the complex.
🅿️ Plenty parking spots
🚻 Clean and have several toilets around"
Sparkly Freeze
"One of the two that you can't miss when visiting Prambanan temple complex. It's a mixed temple of both Buddhist n Hindu influences. A bit far from its peers as it's located at the right back of the complex but quiet at time during the day. As the entrance ticket covers this one, you are recommended to visit all, at least this candi."
Lyda Hak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Candi Sewu is located about 900 meters north of the main Prambanan temple complex. You can easily walk there, rent a bicycle for a small fee, or take a short taxi ride. Many visitors choose to rent a bicycle to explore both sites efficiently.
Yes, typically your entrance ticket for the Prambanan temple complex also grants you access to Candi Sewu. It's recommended to visit both to fully appreciate the historical significance of the area.
From Yogyakarta city, you can take a public bus (like TransJogja) or hire a taxi or private car. Many tours also include transportation to both Prambanan and Candi Sewu.
Yes, there are plenty of parking spots available at Candi Sewu, making it convenient for those arriving by private vehicle or rented motorbike.
Candi Sewu is located about 35 km southeast of Borobudur Temple. It's common for visitors to combine visits to both, though it requires significant travel time between them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no. Your admission ticket for the Prambanan temple complex usually covers entry to Candi Sewu as well. Always confirm at the ticket counter.
Candi Sewu typically follows the same opening hours as the Prambanan temple complex, usually from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check the official Prambanan website for the most current hours.
The entrance fee is usually bundled with the Prambanan ticket. If you are only visiting Candi Sewu, there might be a separate, smaller fee, but this is less common.
Unlike Prambanan, visitors can often climb and enter many of the structures at Candi Sewu, offering a more interactive experience. However, some areas might be restricted due to ongoing restoration.
Discounts are usually tied to the Prambanan ticket package. Look for combined tickets or consider visiting during promotional periods if available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. Weekdays are also less crowded than weekends.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore Candi Sewu thoroughly, especially if you plan to rent a bicycle and cover the entire complex.
While official guided tours might be more focused on Prambanan, local guides can often be hired at the site to provide insights into Candi Sewu's history and significance.
Dress modestly and comfortably, covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious site. Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Yes, Candi Sewu has clean toilets and several rest areas scattered around the complex, making it comfortable for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The main temple structures, the long corridors of smaller stupas, and the surrounding greenery offer excellent photo opportunities. The scale of the complex is impressive.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and religious sites in Indonesia. It's best to check with local authorities or the site management before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best light, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the ancient stones.
Photography is generally allowed inside the accessible temple structures, but always be respectful and avoid using flash if it might damage ancient artifacts.
Many visitors capture the long, symmetrical lines of the smaller stupas leading to the main temple, or wide shots showcasing the entire complex against the sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting bicycles to make the journey from Prambanan and exploring the complex more fun for everyone. It's a great way to teach children about Indonesia's rich cultural heritage and compare historical sites with what they learn in school. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and dress them in comfortable clothing and shoes.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to save money on purchasing them at the site. While there might be opportunities to hire local guides, consider doing some research beforehand to learn about the history and significance of Candi Sewu to enhance your visit without extra cost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Candi Sewu
Unlike the towering, intricately carved structures of Prambanan, Candi Sewu presents a more sprawling and perhaps more intimate experience. Visitors can often climb and explore many of its structures, offering a unique perspective on ancient Buddhist architecture and layout. The complex's name, 'a thousand temples,' reflects the numerous smaller shrines that once surrounded the central sanctuary, though many have since been lost to time or are undergoing restoration.
The proximity of Candi Sewu to Prambanan is significant, suggesting a period of religious coexistence or perhaps a deliberate placement to showcase the influence of both Buddhism and Hinduism in ancient Java. Exploring Candi Sewu provides a deeper understanding of Indonesia's rich cultural tapestry and its historical connections to major world religions.
Navigating the Complex: Getting Around Candi Sewu
Bicycles can typically be rented near the entrance of the Prambanan complex or at designated points within the Candi Sewu area. The paths are generally well-maintained, winding through grassy areas and connecting the various temple structures. This makes exploring the 'thousand temples' a delightful and unhurried experience.
For those who prefer not to walk or cycle, local transport options like trishaws or small carts might be available, though less common than bicycle rentals. The key is to allow ample time to soak in the atmosphere and appreciate the scale of this ancient Buddhist marvel.





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