Small but mighty, Central Java is renowned for its cultural traditions, ancient temples and lush landscapes. From lofty volcanoes and cascading waterfalls to sprawling tea plantations and elaborate monuments, there’s plenty to pack into 24 hours in Central Java. If you’re worried you’ll be short on time, fear not. Our clued-up local Concierges are the ultimate insiders and can handpick the top experiences for you. With itchy feet and a passion for travel, Magali knows Indonesia better than most locals. Her love of adventure, wellness and ancient cultural practices means she’s never short of ideas. Who better to plan the perfect day? Read on for the must-see spots in Central Java…
6am
Start your day with a good old stretch at a sunrise yoga class in Magelang. Salute the sun against a backdrop of towering volcanoes and unfurling coffee plantations; an epic way to begin your day. If it’s relaxation you’re after, treat yourself to an authentic Javanese massage – this centuries-old practice often uses herbal oils infused with turmeric, ginger and lemongrass. With yoga and a massage ticked off, you’re sure to feel rejuvenated and recharged in time for your early morning hike.
8am
This morning’s hike sets off from the charming village of Seberuk, in the heart of the rice fields. Trek through the verdant hills to Sekar Langit waterfall before a refreshing swim in the cool mountain water. According to a Javanese folktale about Joko Tarub – a legendary figure from Javanese tales – heavenly nymphs once bathed in the waterfall and inspired its name, with Sekar Langit translating to ‘Flower of the Sky’.
Image by Miren Alos
11am
Reach Nirvana at Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Buddhist monument in the world, built during the reign of the Sailendra Dynasty. Ascend ten terraces past beautiful bas-reliefs depicting the life of Buddha. You’ll see the mighty Mount Merapi from the summit in the distance – a pulse-raising start to your 24 hours in Central Java.
1.30pm
Reward all that hiking with a delicious lunch at the immaculate Amanjiwo hotel, overlooking the rolling rice fields and the ancient Borobudur Temple. Don’t miss an opportunity to snap some photos of the dramatic stone temple while you’re at it. For a taste of tradition, make sure to order the nasi liwet, a delicious local speciality dish of rice and coconut, sprinkled with an array of spices.
Image by Miren Alos
3pm
With appetites satisfied, it’s time to get up close and personal with Indonesia’s most active volcano, Mount Merapi, straddling the border between Central Java and Yogyakarta. Discover the ‘Mountain of Fire’ and its extensive observatory with a local volcanologist and take your own seismic reading. Trek through the national park’s tropical forests of hardwoods, ferns and bamboo and make sure to keep an eye out for playful Javanese monkeys while you explore.
6pm
Once you’re back on flat land, enjoy a late afternoon stroll along Jalan Malioboro, Yogyakarta's main thoroughfare and home to lively stalls and boutiques (you’re sure to have set some new records for your daily step count by now). Look out for warungs (kiosks) selling a local coffee known as kopi joss, brewed with burning charcoal.
Image by Krisna Azie / Unsplash
7.30pm
Your 24 hours in Central Java wouldn’t be complete without a sunset visit to Ramayana Open Air Theatre with Prambanan Temple as a backdrop – built during the ninth century, the temple’s intricate detail is a result of its reconstruction in the 1930s following an earthquake. In this glorious setting, enjoy a dramatic dance performance featuring more than 200 performers and showcasing Javanese culture through local legend.
10pm
Round off your 24 hours in Central Java with a much-deserved dinner at Mediterranea. This fusion restaurant uses locally-sourced ingredients from farms around Yogyakarta and has a menu that beautifully blends French cuisine with fresh Javanese produce. Start with a tuna tataki or beef tartare, followed by the seared barramundi with sambal ginger, all washed down with a lychee gin and tonic. Heaven.
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by Jupiterimages/Getty Images
